Therapists in Bethlehem, PA

Photo of Jacquelyn Otto, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethlehem, PA
Jacquelyn Otto
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, CAADC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethlehem, PA 18018
I am a licensed professional counselor, who is passionate in helping others reach their treatment goals through therapeutic interventions and working on setting specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely treatment objectives. I strongly support person-centered treatment and maintaining a safe and holistic therapeutic environment, while also focusing on the strengths of the individual.
I am a licensed professional counselor, who is passionate in helping others reach their treatment goals through therapeutic interventions and working on setting specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely treatment objectives. I strongly support person-centered treatment and maintaining a safe and holistic therapeutic environment, while also focusing on the strengths of the individual.
(484) 778-4185 View (484) 778-4185
Photo of Jennifer Bruno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethlehem, PA
Jennifer Bruno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Welcome, my name is Jennifer. Have you found yourself feeling fatigued, stressed and/or overwhelmed? Are you feeling conflicted and/or confused? Struggling with adapting to a recent change or making some tough but necessary decisions? Do you sometimes feel lost, alone, rejected, betrayed or brokenhearted? Find yourself stuck in the past, trapped in the present or worried about the future? If you answered yes to any of the questions listed above, there is hope. I believe change is possible through self awareness, education and consistent application of skills learned.
Welcome, my name is Jennifer. Have you found yourself feeling fatigued, stressed and/or overwhelmed? Are you feeling conflicted and/or confused? Struggling with adapting to a recent change or making some tough but necessary decisions? Do you sometimes feel lost, alone, rejected, betrayed or brokenhearted? Find yourself stuck in the past, trapped in the present or worried about the future? If you answered yes to any of the questions listed above, there is hope. I believe change is possible through self awareness, education and consistent application of skills learned.
(610) 557-3546 View (610) 557-3546
Photo of Julie Colter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethlehem, PA
Julie Colter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LSW
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Hi, and welcome! Whether you are reaching out to find support in dealing with stress, anxiety, life transitions, or difficult relationships, I am here to help! I can offer a supportive, & non-judgmental space for us to explore the current presenting issues, and work through the root cause of more complex issues. Much of my work is defined by assisting clients in experiencing positive change in their lives, in whatever form that may look like. My goal in working with you is to assist in your healing journey, and provide the resources and tools needed to be your authentic self, and foster change.
Hi, and welcome! Whether you are reaching out to find support in dealing with stress, anxiety, life transitions, or difficult relationships, I am here to help! I can offer a supportive, & non-judgmental space for us to explore the current presenting issues, and work through the root cause of more complex issues. Much of my work is defined by assisting clients in experiencing positive change in their lives, in whatever form that may look like. My goal in working with you is to assist in your healing journey, and provide the resources and tools needed to be your authentic self, and foster change.
(484) 673-6622 View (484) 673-6622
Photo of Jackie L Gower, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethlehem, PA
Jackie L Gower
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethlehem, PA 18018  (Online Only)
Sometimes life can seem overwhelming. My goal is to listen, understand and assist you on your journey through life. Together we will decide your direction ... creating boundaries, building bridges, and experiencing all life has to offer, while laying to rest negative and painful habits.
Sometimes life can seem overwhelming. My goal is to listen, understand and assist you on your journey through life. Together we will decide your direction ... creating boundaries, building bridges, and experiencing all life has to offer, while laying to rest negative and painful habits.
(484) 602-2292 View (484) 602-2292
Photo of Yamilca Rosado Ziegler, Pre-Licensed Professional in Bethlehem, PA
Yamilca Rosado Ziegler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MACC
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Feeling lost, anxious, discouraged, or just looking for a change? You have found the right place. I strive to create a welcoming environment where individuals feel that they can be and explore their true selves. As a client, you should expect to have a collaborative relationship where you can find support and encouragement and experience individual growth. As humans, we are all similar and different in many ways, and I believe anyone can achieve mental wellness if given the right tools and provided a space where they feel heard.
Feeling lost, anxious, discouraged, or just looking for a change? You have found the right place. I strive to create a welcoming environment where individuals feel that they can be and explore their true selves. As a client, you should expect to have a collaborative relationship where you can find support and encouragement and experience individual growth. As humans, we are all similar and different in many ways, and I believe anyone can achieve mental wellness if given the right tools and provided a space where they feel heard.
(484) 562-4799 View (484) 562-4799
Photo of Ashley Bass, Pre-Licensed Professional in Bethlehem, PA
Ashley Bass
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Emotions can often seem overwhelming, but they serve a purpose in pointing to what needs our attention. There tends to be parts of ourselves that we don’t understand or want to suppress, which causes stress and misalignment. I love guiding people through more deeply understanding themselves, having more compassion and acceptance for their emotions and experiences, and encouraging new perspectives by testing outdated beliefs, in order to experience more joy and fulfillment.
Emotions can often seem overwhelming, but they serve a purpose in pointing to what needs our attention. There tends to be parts of ourselves that we don’t understand or want to suppress, which causes stress and misalignment. I love guiding people through more deeply understanding themselves, having more compassion and acceptance for their emotions and experiences, and encouraging new perspectives by testing outdated beliefs, in order to experience more joy and fulfillment.
(484) 971-7561 View (484) 971-7561
Photo of Center for Integrated Behavioral Health, Psychologist in Bethlehem, PA
Center for Integrated Behavioral Health
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Center for Integrated Behavioral Health is a private group practice of Psychologists, Postdoctoral Residents, and Professional Counselors with advanced specialization & training in Cognitive & Dialectical Behavior Therapy for adolescents & adults. We are the only comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy Center in the greater Lehigh Valley region. We specialize in research supported treatments for anxiety & mood concerns, disordered eating, post-traumatic stress & those who struggle with problems related to emotion dysregulation such as self injury, chronic suicidality, substance us & relationship difficulties.
Center for Integrated Behavioral Health is a private group practice of Psychologists, Postdoctoral Residents, and Professional Counselors with advanced specialization & training in Cognitive & Dialectical Behavior Therapy for adolescents & adults. We are the only comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy Center in the greater Lehigh Valley region. We specialize in research supported treatments for anxiety & mood concerns, disordered eating, post-traumatic stress & those who struggle with problems related to emotion dysregulation such as self injury, chronic suicidality, substance us & relationship difficulties.
(484) 604-2265 View (484) 604-2265
Photo of Sara Struckmann, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethlehem, PA
Sara Struckmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethlehem, PA 18018
I work well with mood problems, anxiety, substance use problems and trauma. I also enjoy helping clients who are struggling with low self-esteem, codependent relationships, and those uncertain about their purpose or direction in life. If you're feeling lost, therapy can help you to find a sense of meaning.
I work well with mood problems, anxiety, substance use problems and trauma. I also enjoy helping clients who are struggling with low self-esteem, codependent relationships, and those uncertain about their purpose or direction in life. If you're feeling lost, therapy can help you to find a sense of meaning.
(610) 320-2366 View (610) 320-2366
Photo of P. Myria Bailey Whitcomb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethlehem, PA
P. Myria Bailey Whitcomb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18017
Today, the world is moving very fast, often not allowing individuals time to do self-care, self-reflection, or personal/family needs assessments. I can help you slow the pace down and focus on your individual or group needs. For others, the world is unrecognizable, adjusting has become complex, and adaptation has proven complicated. My role is to help you find yourself and your strengths amid life, emotional, psychological, relational, spiritual, and physical challenges.
Today, the world is moving very fast, often not allowing individuals time to do self-care, self-reflection, or personal/family needs assessments. I can help you slow the pace down and focus on your individual or group needs. For others, the world is unrecognizable, adjusting has become complex, and adaptation has proven complicated. My role is to help you find yourself and your strengths amid life, emotional, psychological, relational, spiritual, and physical challenges.
(215) 607-8698 View (215) 607-8698
Photo of Dr. Briana Luppino, Psychologist in Bethlehem, PA
Dr. Briana Luppino
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethlehem, PA 18015  (Online Only)
Do you feel like your relationships are not meeting your needs? Worry about being worthy of love and care? Feel like you need to keep up a façade to be accepted? Do you find yourself feeling pulled to meet others expectations of you? Many high-achievers can feel they have to wear a mask to get the support and connection they’re looking for. But what if I told you there was a way to feel more confident in who you are, show up genuinely in your relationships with others, and live in line with your values? If you're hoping to learn about yourself, increase confidence, and build meaningful relationships, you're in the right place.
Do you feel like your relationships are not meeting your needs? Worry about being worthy of love and care? Feel like you need to keep up a façade to be accepted? Do you find yourself feeling pulled to meet others expectations of you? Many high-achievers can feel they have to wear a mask to get the support and connection they’re looking for. But what if I told you there was a way to feel more confident in who you are, show up genuinely in your relationships with others, and live in line with your values? If you're hoping to learn about yourself, increase confidence, and build meaningful relationships, you're in the right place.
(484) 559-1839 View (484) 559-1839
Photo of Kimberly A Woodling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethlehem, PA
Kimberly A Woodling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18017
Kimberly Woodling is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who utilizes insight and emotion-oriented approaches to assist patients experiencing various psychological and social challenges. Kim believes that breakthroughs and enhancements to overall relational, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive functioning will occur as a person increases their self-awareness, and acquaints themselves with their full range emotions, contradictory feelings, interpersonal patterns, and defenses. She helps her patients scratch beneath their surface to explore unmet expectations, and unproductive patterns of behavior that keep them stuck and unsatisfied. Kim views the therapeutic process as a personal "journey" and places a strong emphasis on developing a trusting relationship with her patients, which she deems as vital to growth and symptom reduction. Kim believes in every person’s ability to live successful, fulfilling lives. Her sessions are laid back, relaxed, and she can assist patients in finding the humor or silver lining in difficult situations. She is passionate about empowering individuals, and helping them recognize their own strengths and abilities to cope with stress and challenges.
Kimberly Woodling is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who utilizes insight and emotion-oriented approaches to assist patients experiencing various psychological and social challenges. Kim believes that breakthroughs and enhancements to overall relational, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive functioning will occur as a person increases their self-awareness, and acquaints themselves with their full range emotions, contradictory feelings, interpersonal patterns, and defenses. She helps her patients scratch beneath their surface to explore unmet expectations, and unproductive patterns of behavior that keep them stuck and unsatisfied. Kim views the therapeutic process as a personal "journey" and places a strong emphasis on developing a trusting relationship with her patients, which she deems as vital to growth and symptom reduction. Kim believes in every person’s ability to live successful, fulfilling lives. Her sessions are laid back, relaxed, and she can assist patients in finding the humor or silver lining in difficult situations. She is passionate about empowering individuals, and helping them recognize their own strengths and abilities to cope with stress and challenges.
(484) 866-8099 View (484) 866-8099
Photo of Kayla Schubert-Wirth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethlehem, PA
Kayla Schubert-Wirth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethlehem, PA 18018
I know how infuriating it can be to find a therapist you can connect with, as I have personally fired 6 out of 7 of my own therapists. It’s important to note that I’m not your “typical therapist” (I dye my hair bright colors, will curse with you during sessions, and actively compete in powerlifting).
I know how infuriating it can be to find a therapist you can connect with, as I have personally fired 6 out of 7 of my own therapists. It’s important to note that I’m not your “typical therapist” (I dye my hair bright colors, will curse with you during sessions, and actively compete in powerlifting).
(484) 930-1006 View (484) 930-1006
Photo of Ulanda R. Davis, Pastoral Counselor in Bethlehem, PA
Ulanda R. Davis
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, ND, CpastC, CPCT, HHSC
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Hi. I'm Dr. Ulanda Davis. I offer Professional and Pastoral Counseling and Coaching and Naturopathic Care. I have helped many people over the last 20 years or so to develop healthy habits, relationships, and spirituality. Having support that you can to trust and relate to is very important to your success. I am genuinely sensitive to these needs and concerns without judgment. I'll work with you and be a support throughout the journey to wholeness. I offer a holistic approach to mental, emotional and physical wellness.
Hi. I'm Dr. Ulanda Davis. I offer Professional and Pastoral Counseling and Coaching and Naturopathic Care. I have helped many people over the last 20 years or so to develop healthy habits, relationships, and spirituality. Having support that you can to trust and relate to is very important to your success. I am genuinely sensitive to these needs and concerns without judgment. I'll work with you and be a support throughout the journey to wholeness. I offer a holistic approach to mental, emotional and physical wellness.
(484) 626-5024 View (484) 626-5024
Photo of Luisa Moreno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethlehem, PA
Luisa Moreno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18020  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in holistic health and energy healing.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in holistic health and energy healing.
(484) 616-5199 View (484) 616-5199
Photo of Carolynn Holmes Search, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethlehem, PA
Carolynn Holmes Search
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MDiv, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18017
My therapeutic approach is grounded in the belief that each human person has an innate wholeness and the resilience to heal. This is why my approach is client-centered, relational and holistic, encompassing body, mind and spirit. By meeting you where you are in your life, with compassionate psychotherapeutic care and deep listening, I work together with you on your goals and assist you in experiencing improved feelings of well-being and deeper meaning in life.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in the belief that each human person has an innate wholeness and the resilience to heal. This is why my approach is client-centered, relational and holistic, encompassing body, mind and spirit. By meeting you where you are in your life, with compassionate psychotherapeutic care and deep listening, I work together with you on your goals and assist you in experiencing improved feelings of well-being and deeper meaning in life.
(610) 546-2497 View (610) 546-2497
Photo of Nicole Venskytis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethlehem, PA
Nicole Venskytis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethlehem, PA 18018  (Online Only)
Overwhelmed or life got you down? Relationship struggles? My goal is to help you as you go through the stressors of life and we can generate solutions together. Sometimes we can even find some humor in it all. I strive to find creative ways to approach our work together. I specialize in working with clients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, complex PTSD, ADHD, and families of addiction. I utilize modalities of client-centered, family systems, trauma-informed care, solution-focused, CBT, strengths-based, multicultural perspectives, and existential and spiritual approaches to form a holistic approach.
Overwhelmed or life got you down? Relationship struggles? My goal is to help you as you go through the stressors of life and we can generate solutions together. Sometimes we can even find some humor in it all. I strive to find creative ways to approach our work together. I specialize in working with clients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, complex PTSD, ADHD, and families of addiction. I utilize modalities of client-centered, family systems, trauma-informed care, solution-focused, CBT, strengths-based, multicultural perspectives, and existential and spiritual approaches to form a holistic approach.
(610) 546-2794 View (610) 546-2794
Photo of William James Dougherty, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bethlehem, PA
William James Dougherty
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC, CCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethlehem, PA 18017
As noted by the award-winning nationally and regionally recognized correspondent, television and radio host Jim Masters (of PBS and Close-Up Talk Radio), "effective therapy requires a combination of compassion, skill set and education level, as well as a safe environment in order for clients to share their feelings", and "nowhere is that more true" than with Bill Dougherty. Furthermore, Jim points out that Dougherty "provides a client-centered approach....and I love when I hear that phrase, client-centered ....its all about you, its not one size fits all, it's tailored to you..."
As noted by the award-winning nationally and regionally recognized correspondent, television and radio host Jim Masters (of PBS and Close-Up Talk Radio), "effective therapy requires a combination of compassion, skill set and education level, as well as a safe environment in order for clients to share their feelings", and "nowhere is that more true" than with Bill Dougherty. Furthermore, Jim points out that Dougherty "provides a client-centered approach....and I love when I hear that phrase, client-centered ....its all about you, its not one size fits all, it's tailored to you..."
(610) 810-2847 View (610) 810-2847
Photo of Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethlehem, PA
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18015
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(484) 559-8309 x1 View (484) 559-8309 x1
Photo of Philip John Pellegrino, Psychologist in Bethlehem, PA
Philip John Pellegrino
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Do you imagine yourself living a more effective life? Does it feel that no matter how hard you try you keep getting stuck in the same patterns and routine? Are you struggling with overcoming a traumatic event or feeling sad all the time? Is anxiety or substance abuse getting in the way of your life? Have you tried to solve these problems on your own and realized you need help from someone else? The good news is that Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has a tremendous track record in helping all of these concerns.
Do you imagine yourself living a more effective life? Does it feel that no matter how hard you try you keep getting stuck in the same patterns and routine? Are you struggling with overcoming a traumatic event or feeling sad all the time? Is anxiety or substance abuse getting in the way of your life? Have you tried to solve these problems on your own and realized you need help from someone else? The good news is that Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has a tremendous track record in helping all of these concerns.
(610) 595-4349 View (610) 595-4349
Photo of Melissa Vega in Bethlehem, PA
Melissa Vega
MA
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Hello, my name is Melissa Vega. I am passionate about allowing everyone to show up and share space with me however they are, right now. I believe that no one, inherently wants to engage in negative things and I think that we are all working with the tools that we have and the experiences that life has given and taught us. I am a master’s level therapist with over 20 + year’s experience in various settings within the mental health field. I like working with pre-teens, teens and adults. I am also a mom of three kids, so I understand that parenting and relationships comes with all sorts of barriers for both you and your children.
Hello, my name is Melissa Vega. I am passionate about allowing everyone to show up and share space with me however they are, right now. I believe that no one, inherently wants to engage in negative things and I think that we are all working with the tools that we have and the experiences that life has given and taught us. I am a master’s level therapist with over 20 + year’s experience in various settings within the mental health field. I like working with pre-teens, teens and adults. I am also a mom of three kids, so I understand that parenting and relationships comes with all sorts of barriers for both you and your children.
(484) 276-1504 View (484) 276-1504

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bethlehem, PA

300+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Bethlehem, PA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
91% Depression
75% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
71% Coping Skills
68% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Highmark
75% Aetna
70% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Bethlehem, PA see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bethlehem?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.

Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.