Therapists in Newtown, PA

Photo of Eleni Pappas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Newtown, PA
Eleni Pappas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
Determining that you need counseling, is not an easy decision. No matter what that final thing is that makes you come to counseling, you will find support. The goal is to help you identify the problem, come up with solutions, and move on with your life. Clients that are depressed, anxious, struggling with life skills, lack organization or focus, peer relationship struggles, and many more issues, will work to create a plan to make better life choices, be more mindful, and build happiness into their lives.
Determining that you need counseling, is not an easy decision. No matter what that final thing is that makes you come to counseling, you will find support. The goal is to help you identify the problem, come up with solutions, and move on with your life. Clients that are depressed, anxious, struggling with life skills, lack organization or focus, peer relationship struggles, and many more issues, will work to create a plan to make better life choices, be more mindful, and build happiness into their lives.
(267) 753-0879 View (267) 753-0879
Photo of Sara Segal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Newtown, PA
Sara Segal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
Choosing a therapist to work with you or your family can be an overwhelming process. I strive to create a warm and supportive environment where my clients feel safe and able to share their thoughts and feelings. I believe that everyone is capable of evolving in a positive way to make improvements in their daily life and relationships. Working collaboratively with my clients I provide the skills and techniques for personal growth and healthy relationships. My services include: family counseling, relationship counseling, child/adolescent therapy, and parenting support.
Choosing a therapist to work with you or your family can be an overwhelming process. I strive to create a warm and supportive environment where my clients feel safe and able to share their thoughts and feelings. I believe that everyone is capable of evolving in a positive way to make improvements in their daily life and relationships. Working collaboratively with my clients I provide the skills and techniques for personal growth and healthy relationships. My services include: family counseling, relationship counseling, child/adolescent therapy, and parenting support.
(267) 756-2417 View (267) 756-2417
Photo of Mindy Schwartz in Newtown, PA
Mindy Schwartz
ACC, BS
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
I provide coaching services to teens, young adults, and their families, struggling with ADHD and executive function deficits. Challenges include, but are not limited to organization, time-management, planning, study skills, and social skills. During the coaching process, we pinpoint both short-term and long-term goals, and uncover underlying issues that are getting in the way. Together, we work on developing tools, skills and strategies for clients to reach their goals and lead a more fulfilling life.
I provide coaching services to teens, young adults, and their families, struggling with ADHD and executive function deficits. Challenges include, but are not limited to organization, time-management, planning, study skills, and social skills. During the coaching process, we pinpoint both short-term and long-term goals, and uncover underlying issues that are getting in the way. Together, we work on developing tools, skills and strategies for clients to reach their goals and lead a more fulfilling life.
(267) 627-8213 View (267) 627-8213
Photo of Rebecca J Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newtown, PA
Rebecca J Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, CCDP-D
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
Sometimes life throws us curve balls, and sometimes life feels like one big curve ball. No matter what the situation or circumstances may be, having a trusted person to listen and validate, with unconditional positive regard, can bring comfort, and ultimately cure. I work particularly well with individuals who may have had previous experience with therapy that felt too “cookie cutter”. I do not presume that there is a one formula approach that fits all, and I will validate your unique life experience throughout our work together. Above all, I provide therapy of depth, insight and focus on relationships.
Sometimes life throws us curve balls, and sometimes life feels like one big curve ball. No matter what the situation or circumstances may be, having a trusted person to listen and validate, with unconditional positive regard, can bring comfort, and ultimately cure. I work particularly well with individuals who may have had previous experience with therapy that felt too “cookie cutter”. I do not presume that there is a one formula approach that fits all, and I will validate your unique life experience throughout our work together. Above all, I provide therapy of depth, insight and focus on relationships.
(267) 214-6303 View (267) 214-6303
Photo of Bucks Recovery Center, Psychologist in Newtown, PA
Bucks Recovery Center
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
Bucks Recovery Center, a branch of Bucks Support Services, has two locations in Bucks County, PA (Newtown & Buckingham). We are a supportive space for clients in ongoing recovery from substance use, alcoholism, and addiction, featuring: individual, family and group psychotherapy; community-based support groups; and educational outreach. The therapists at Bucks Recovery Center use a "Harm Reduction" model and can support many modalities of recovery treatment.
Bucks Recovery Center, a branch of Bucks Support Services, has two locations in Bucks County, PA (Newtown & Buckingham). We are a supportive space for clients in ongoing recovery from substance use, alcoholism, and addiction, featuring: individual, family and group psychotherapy; community-based support groups; and educational outreach. The therapists at Bucks Recovery Center use a "Harm Reduction" model and can support many modalities of recovery treatment.
(267) 382-4157 View (267) 382-4157
Photo of Irene Marie Erckert, Psychologist in Newtown, PA
Irene Marie Erckert
Psychologist, PhD, CEDS
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
Life presents us with challenges at every phase, and sometimes collaboration with a trained professional helps to weather the storms of life and promote growth and happiness. In my work with children, teens, and adults, I strive to create a safe accepting environment, so my clients can openly express their throughts and feelings and explore their concerns. My treatment is comprehensive in nature and carefully designed to promote self-awareness and address the unique needs of each individual.
Life presents us with challenges at every phase, and sometimes collaboration with a trained professional helps to weather the storms of life and promote growth and happiness. In my work with children, teens, and adults, I strive to create a safe accepting environment, so my clients can openly express their throughts and feelings and explore their concerns. My treatment is comprehensive in nature and carefully designed to promote self-awareness and address the unique needs of each individual.
(215) 874-6726 View (215) 874-6726
Photo of Barbara Nelson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Newtown, PA
Barbara Nelson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd, LBS, BCBA
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
I work with young children and their families to address behavioral challenges. Children diagnosied with ASD, OCD, ODD, ADHD, anxiety, depression in addition to neurotypical children engaging in problem behaviors.
I work with young children and their families to address behavioral challenges. Children diagnosied with ASD, OCD, ODD, ADHD, anxiety, depression in addition to neurotypical children engaging in problem behaviors.
(267) 762-2130 View (267) 762-2130
Photo of Steven Marc Gursky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newtown, PA
Steven Marc Gursky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
All persons are unique and valuable deserving of respect and dignity. I have worked with all age groups in many settings (including Jewish Community Centers, Wraparound, prison, outpatient therapy) with individuals, families and with groups. My Masters degree is in Social Work and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both PA and NJ. I am EMDR trained (a therapy which has proven to be very successful with single incident trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). EMDR is currently being used for a variety of concerns including Anxiety, Depression and pain ailments such as Fibromyalgia and Migraine Headaches.
All persons are unique and valuable deserving of respect and dignity. I have worked with all age groups in many settings (including Jewish Community Centers, Wraparound, prison, outpatient therapy) with individuals, families and with groups. My Masters degree is in Social Work and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both PA and NJ. I am EMDR trained (a therapy which has proven to be very successful with single incident trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). EMDR is currently being used for a variety of concerns including Anxiety, Depression and pain ailments such as Fibromyalgia and Migraine Headaches.
(215) 995-1123 View (215) 995-1123
Photo of Dr. Irina Thorne, Psychologist in Newtown, PA
Dr. Irina Thorne
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940  (Online Only)
Navigating mental health is challenging, and beginning the journey of therapy takes courage and strength. I am here with empathy, expertise, and effective tools to help you toward your goals. I invite you to reach out so that we can discuss your unique needs and how cognitive-behavioral therapy can be tailored to support them.
Navigating mental health is challenging, and beginning the journey of therapy takes courage and strength. I am here with empathy, expertise, and effective tools to help you toward your goals. I invite you to reach out so that we can discuss your unique needs and how cognitive-behavioral therapy can be tailored to support them.
(856) 485-8375 View (856) 485-8375
Photo of Meghan Devine, Psychologist in Newtown, PA
Meghan Devine
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
As a licensed/certified school psychologist and BCBA, I specialize in comprehensive evaluations (psychoeducational, ADHD, Autism, gifted, learning disabilities, FBAs, etc.) & psychotherapy. Assessments are thorough and provide detailed recommendations. My approach to therapy is flexible and individualized, focused on building coping skills, solution-oriented & evidence-based. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other therapies rooted in understanding the connection of behavior and thoughts/feelings while working towards change. A collaborative, respectful relationship with clients is the foundation for success.
As a licensed/certified school psychologist and BCBA, I specialize in comprehensive evaluations (psychoeducational, ADHD, Autism, gifted, learning disabilities, FBAs, etc.) & psychotherapy. Assessments are thorough and provide detailed recommendations. My approach to therapy is flexible and individualized, focused on building coping skills, solution-oriented & evidence-based. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other therapies rooted in understanding the connection of behavior and thoughts/feelings while working towards change. A collaborative, respectful relationship with clients is the foundation for success.
(215) 867-6945 View (215) 867-6945
Photo of Erin Ullman- Counseling for Anxiety & Depression, Licensed Professional Counselor in Newtown, PA
Erin Ullman- Counseling for Anxiety & Depression
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression? Struggling to find relief and fulfillment, but feeling lost on how to achieve it? If these emotions resonate with you, know that you're not alone. Whether you're grappling with constant worry, self-doubt, fatigue, feelings of hopelessness, or low self-esteem, I'm here to support you. Through compassionate and personalized guidance, you will learn how to navigate these challenges toward a life that aligns with your values and aspirations. Together, we'll explore the root causes of your symptoms, and take positive action to address them, leading to relief, empowerment, and fulfillment.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression? Struggling to find relief and fulfillment, but feeling lost on how to achieve it? If these emotions resonate with you, know that you're not alone. Whether you're grappling with constant worry, self-doubt, fatigue, feelings of hopelessness, or low self-esteem, I'm here to support you. Through compassionate and personalized guidance, you will learn how to navigate these challenges toward a life that aligns with your values and aspirations. Together, we'll explore the root causes of your symptoms, and take positive action to address them, leading to relief, empowerment, and fulfillment.
(267) 440-6837 View (267) 440-6837
Photo of Christine J. Markow, Pre-Licensed Professional in Newtown, PA
Christine J. Markow
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PhD, CBTcert, Covid19
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
With 23 years of clinical experience in pediatric and adult clinical medical psychology, I value addressing psychological wellness through a comprehensive systems approach. My therapeutic training is based in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).I believe each client plays an active role in their customized treatment to address their concerns, expand insight and achieve desired goals. I have specialized training in anxiety and depressive disorders, cyber bullying, chronic pain, stress, eating disorders, transitions associated with divorce, GI disorders & behavioral modification. For more information go to www.drchristinemarkow.com
With 23 years of clinical experience in pediatric and adult clinical medical psychology, I value addressing psychological wellness through a comprehensive systems approach. My therapeutic training is based in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).I believe each client plays an active role in their customized treatment to address their concerns, expand insight and achieve desired goals. I have specialized training in anxiety and depressive disorders, cyber bullying, chronic pain, stress, eating disorders, transitions associated with divorce, GI disorders & behavioral modification. For more information go to www.drchristinemarkow.com
(215) 867-8928 View (215) 867-8928
Photo of Lauren Dattilo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Newtown, PA
Lauren Dattilo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, IFC
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
Supervision availability: grads seeking licensure for LPC! & NOW Accepting: Couples! Do you want to make a change? Do you want to have a different life/relationship than the one you have now? It starts with you and I can help you get there. My strengths are working with clients to get through relationship issues. Including but not limited to: break-ups, divorce, separation, complex situations and co-parenting. Healing & growth are at the forefront of our time together as we focus on the whole person. I believe we are all trying to fill 3 buckets in life: health, wealth & relationships. Let's fill them all up!
Supervision availability: grads seeking licensure for LPC! & NOW Accepting: Couples! Do you want to make a change? Do you want to have a different life/relationship than the one you have now? It starts with you and I can help you get there. My strengths are working with clients to get through relationship issues. Including but not limited to: break-ups, divorce, separation, complex situations and co-parenting. Healing & growth are at the forefront of our time together as we focus on the whole person. I believe we are all trying to fill 3 buckets in life: health, wealth & relationships. Let's fill them all up!
(267) 715-9320 View (267) 715-9320
Photo of Amanda Lynn Newsham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Newtown, PA
Amanda Lynn Newsham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
You deserve to live your best life, not just survive it. Starting therapy is the first step in that direction.
You deserve to live your best life, not just survive it. Starting therapy is the first step in that direction.
(215) 608-4747 View (215) 608-4747
Photo of Stacy Rosen, Psychologist in Newtown, PA
Stacy Rosen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940  (Online Only)
Is anxiety interfering with your ability to be happy or live your life to the fullest? Are you looking to reduce stress, be less fearful, or learn ways to stop your mind from racing with intrusive thoughts? Maybe your mood has been depressed or “off” and, despite your best efforts, you can’t seem to get back on track. I treat these and other issues that may be impacting your mental and/or physical well-being. My personal objective is to help you develop the tools you need in order to cope with problem areas in your life.
Is anxiety interfering with your ability to be happy or live your life to the fullest? Are you looking to reduce stress, be less fearful, or learn ways to stop your mind from racing with intrusive thoughts? Maybe your mood has been depressed or “off” and, despite your best efforts, you can’t seem to get back on track. I treat these and other issues that may be impacting your mental and/or physical well-being. My personal objective is to help you develop the tools you need in order to cope with problem areas in your life.
(267) 662-1542 View (267) 662-1542
Photo of Amy L Spector-Crane, Licensed Professional Counselor in Newtown, PA
Amy L Spector-Crane
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NBCC, CCJP, ICGC-1
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
My ideal client is a teen or adult (age 13 or above) with general mental health issues like anxiety/depression, self esteem issues, anger management issues, or grief issues, who wish to have assistance in improving their lives and overall functioning. I have certifications to treat drug and alcohol issues, gambling issues in addition to the other areas of mental health. I assist with difficult challenges in their lives, including anxiety from poor social relationships with family or friends, or anxiety issues managing the school expectations. I believe the relationship between client/therapist is vital. I accept most insurances.
My ideal client is a teen or adult (age 13 or above) with general mental health issues like anxiety/depression, self esteem issues, anger management issues, or grief issues, who wish to have assistance in improving their lives and overall functioning. I have certifications to treat drug and alcohol issues, gambling issues in addition to the other areas of mental health. I assist with difficult challenges in their lives, including anxiety from poor social relationships with family or friends, or anxiety issues managing the school expectations. I believe the relationship between client/therapist is vital. I accept most insurances.
(267) 627-6512 View (267) 627-6512
Photo of Kaitlyn Vanderlaan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newtown, PA
Kaitlyn Vanderlaan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
Are you struggling with body image, your relationship to food, or an eating disorder? Are you feeling overwhelmed by grief, anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts? I can help. I strive to build a trusting relationship with everyone I work with that allows for space to talk through difficult life experiences. I will never label behavior or coping skills as bad or maladaptive. Instead, we will identify the ways these things have helped you cope & survive, and explore if there are other coping skills that will help you in a different way. We will work together to identify your strengths, heal emotional wounds, and express emotions.
Are you struggling with body image, your relationship to food, or an eating disorder? Are you feeling overwhelmed by grief, anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts? I can help. I strive to build a trusting relationship with everyone I work with that allows for space to talk through difficult life experiences. I will never label behavior or coping skills as bad or maladaptive. Instead, we will identify the ways these things have helped you cope & survive, and explore if there are other coping skills that will help you in a different way. We will work together to identify your strengths, heal emotional wounds, and express emotions.
(215) 584-4335 View (215) 584-4335
Photo of Shira Collings, Licensed Professional Counselor in Newtown, PA
Shira Collings
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
Hi! My name is Shira Collings (she/they). I am a feminist, neurodiversity affirming, LGBTQ+ affirming, fat affirming, and disability justice aligned therapist. I am passionate about supporting people in living a life that is aligned with their true values, and healing from both external and internalized oppression that may be impacting their well-being. I strive to create a space in which clients can express their full, authentic selves and share their stories without shame or judgment.
Hi! My name is Shira Collings (she/they). I am a feminist, neurodiversity affirming, LGBTQ+ affirming, fat affirming, and disability justice aligned therapist. I am passionate about supporting people in living a life that is aligned with their true values, and healing from both external and internalized oppression that may be impacting their well-being. I strive to create a space in which clients can express their full, authentic selves and share their stories without shame or judgment.
(267) 435-3543 View (267) 435-3543
Photo of Lisa Simon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Newtown, PA
Lisa Simon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940  (Online Only)
Welcome to Therapy For Success. Lisa is the owner of TFS and is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in therapy for all Eating Disorders including ; Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa and Binge Eating Disorder and disordered eating and food and weight disorders. TFS has several wonderful clinicians on staff to meet the needs of our clients. Lisa and her staff have counseled individuals in the most intense hospital inpatient and outpatient settings and helped them accomplish recovery free from the addiction of food. TFS offers individual, family and group counseling to address specific needs of each client.
Welcome to Therapy For Success. Lisa is the owner of TFS and is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in therapy for all Eating Disorders including ; Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa and Binge Eating Disorder and disordered eating and food and weight disorders. TFS has several wonderful clinicians on staff to meet the needs of our clients. Lisa and her staff have counseled individuals in the most intense hospital inpatient and outpatient settings and helped them accomplish recovery free from the addiction of food. TFS offers individual, family and group counseling to address specific needs of each client.
(215) 995-3010 View (215) 995-3010
Photo of Dr. Jeffrey A. Fine Associates, P.C., Psychologist in Newtown, PA
Dr. Jeffrey A. Fine Associates, P.C.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
We are a private clinical psychology practice serving Bucks County for over 25 years. Our staff of experienced and caring professionals is highly skilled in offering individualized assistance in response to your needs. Some seek psychotherapy because they have felt depressed, anxious or angry for a long time. Others may need help navigating short-term problems such as divorce, empty nest, or grieving a loss. Children may display symptoms of separation or school related anxiety, peer conflict or oppositional behavior. When issues such as these begin to interfere at home, school, or the workplace, it may be time to consider individual, family, or couples therapy.
We are a private clinical psychology practice serving Bucks County for over 25 years. Our staff of experienced and caring professionals is highly skilled in offering individualized assistance in response to your needs. Some seek psychotherapy because they have felt depressed, anxious or angry for a long time. Others may need help navigating short-term problems such as divorce, empty nest, or grieving a loss. Children may display symptoms of separation or school related anxiety, peer conflict or oppositional behavior. When issues such as these begin to interfere at home, school, or the workplace, it may be time to consider individual, family, or couples therapy.
(215) 860-1144 View (215) 860-1144

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Newtown, PA

300+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Newtown, PA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
77% Self Esteem
70% Coping Skills
65% Trauma and PTSD
65% Stress

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield
66% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Newtown, PA see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Newtown?

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.