Therapists in Harrisburg, PA

Photo of Chris Schwab, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harrisburg, PA
Chris Schwab
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Chris Schwab is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2013. He has a Masters in Divinity and a Masters in Social Work. Chris offers a strengths-based perspective in counselling. He is open to working with people of all faiths. In his free time, Chris enjoys swimming and reading.
Chris Schwab is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2013. He has a Masters in Divinity and a Masters in Social Work. Chris offers a strengths-based perspective in counselling. He is open to working with people of all faiths. In his free time, Chris enjoys swimming and reading.
(717) 820-7850 View (717) 820-7850
Photo of Relationship Consultants in Harrisburg, PA
Relationship Consultants
MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17109  (Online Only)
As an agency we have been supporting people via online sessions, with everything that falls “outside the box”. If you are encountering relationship problems, you may have found that it is easier to procrastinate rather than to seek the relationship advice and tools that you need. You may have even been waiting to seek consulting or coaching services for years. Meanwhile your relationship difficulties have only been getting worse. Our consulting services are designed to help you communicate better and make sustainable changes that will benefit you and your family throughout your lives to come back to loving one another.
As an agency we have been supporting people via online sessions, with everything that falls “outside the box”. If you are encountering relationship problems, you may have found that it is easier to procrastinate rather than to seek the relationship advice and tools that you need. You may have even been waiting to seek consulting or coaching services for years. Meanwhile your relationship difficulties have only been getting worse. Our consulting services are designed to help you communicate better and make sustainable changes that will benefit you and your family throughout your lives to come back to loving one another.
(223) 215-5426 View (223) 215-5426
Photo of Butch Romanoski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harrisburg, PA
Butch Romanoski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Are you having problems with your child or teen? Is it difficult to communicate with them and do you worry about the choices they are making? Together, we can work on bettering the relationship you have and improve the quality of your or your child's life. My experience in many clinical arenas ranging from residential facilities to outpatient settings will help us meet these goals. My theoretical style is eclectic but I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral techniques to treat many issues.
Are you having problems with your child or teen? Is it difficult to communicate with them and do you worry about the choices they are making? Together, we can work on bettering the relationship you have and improve the quality of your or your child's life. My experience in many clinical arenas ranging from residential facilities to outpatient settings will help us meet these goals. My theoretical style is eclectic but I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral techniques to treat many issues.
(717) 712-6553 View (717) 712-6553
Photo of Multicultural Counseling and Consulting LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harrisburg, PA
Multicultural Counseling and Consulting LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Hi this is Dhan! When you need a therapist, you need someone who can listen to you wholly. I believe in meeting a person-in-place approach and building a rapport from there. I help to manage your stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and others. Sometimes, you may be looking for someone to offer you choices, clarify issues or provide guidance to lead you on your way. I’m here to provide you with a safe space and listen to you non-judgmentally. I have extensive experience working with clients of different backgrounds.
Hi this is Dhan! When you need a therapist, you need someone who can listen to you wholly. I believe in meeting a person-in-place approach and building a rapport from there. I help to manage your stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and others. Sometimes, you may be looking for someone to offer you choices, clarify issues or provide guidance to lead you on your way. I’m here to provide you with a safe space and listen to you non-judgmentally. I have extensive experience working with clients of different backgrounds.
(717) 864-6689 View (717) 864-6689
Photo of Jessica Hendrix, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harrisburg, PA
Jessica Hendrix
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Jessica is a Licensed Professional Counselor who earned her Master of Science degree in Community Counseling from Columbus State University in Georgia. Jessica works with adults who are experiencing problems with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns, and adjustment problems. She uses an eclectic style that includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Her therapy focus is to aid her clients in recognizing and addressing unhelpful thinking styles so that they may find more effective means for working through problems.
Jessica is a Licensed Professional Counselor who earned her Master of Science degree in Community Counseling from Columbus State University in Georgia. Jessica works with adults who are experiencing problems with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns, and adjustment problems. She uses an eclectic style that includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Her therapy focus is to aid her clients in recognizing and addressing unhelpful thinking styles so that they may find more effective means for working through problems.
(717) 922-4988 View (717) 922-4988
Photo of Diane Edmond Therapy and LPC Supervsion, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisburg, PA
Diane Edmond Therapy and LPC Supervsion
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder? Are you coping with the aftermath of trauma, abuse or effects of active military experience? Are you or a family member using drugs or alcohol to self-medicate? My clinical experience includes over 25 years in the field working in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient substance abuse, outpatient mental health , and working with children in foster care. I have an eclectic approach with a emphasis on cognitive therapy. I have an advanced certification in addictions and extensive work with trauma including EMDR.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder? Are you coping with the aftermath of trauma, abuse or effects of active military experience? Are you or a family member using drugs or alcohol to self-medicate? My clinical experience includes over 25 years in the field working in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient substance abuse, outpatient mental health , and working with children in foster care. I have an eclectic approach with a emphasis on cognitive therapy. I have an advanced certification in addictions and extensive work with trauma including EMDR.
(717) 454-2377 View (717) 454-2377
Photo of Daniel Abel, Pre-Licensed Professional in Harrisburg, PA
Daniel Abel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17110
There are moments in life when things can feel overwhelming. Whether you're dealing with issues at home, struggling with depression, hating your job, facing relationship problems, feeling anxious, or battling an addiction, know that you're not alone. I am here to provide support in whatever way I can.
There are moments in life when things can feel overwhelming. Whether you're dealing with issues at home, struggling with depression, hating your job, facing relationship problems, feeling anxious, or battling an addiction, know that you're not alone. I am here to provide support in whatever way I can.
(717) 537-9093 View (717) 537-9093
Photo of Charlene Nunez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harrisburg, PA
Charlene Nunez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Charlene is a dynamic and compassionate bilingual therapist dedicated to empowering individuals and families to achieve their fullest potential. Born and raised in the multicultural setting of NYC and holding a Masters in Social Work, Charlene is passionate about providing inclusive and accessible mental health services to diverse communities. Her lived experience and multicultural background enable her to understand and connect with clients of all ages and backgrounds in a genuine and relatable manner. Charlene believes in the importance of creating a safe and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and valued.
Charlene is a dynamic and compassionate bilingual therapist dedicated to empowering individuals and families to achieve their fullest potential. Born and raised in the multicultural setting of NYC and holding a Masters in Social Work, Charlene is passionate about providing inclusive and accessible mental health services to diverse communities. Her lived experience and multicultural background enable her to understand and connect with clients of all ages and backgrounds in a genuine and relatable manner. Charlene believes in the importance of creating a safe and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and valued.
(717) 384-2469 View (717) 384-2469
Photo of Valarie Bielicki, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisburg, PA
Valarie Bielicki
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17110  (Online Only)
Therapy can be scary, but so is remaining exactly the same. If you are looking to reach your goals, improve your relationships, or just have an overall better quality of life, I want to help. My goal is to create a comfortable, safe, and supportive environment where you can work at your own pace to achieve what you want out of therapy and out of life.
Therapy can be scary, but so is remaining exactly the same. If you are looking to reach your goals, improve your relationships, or just have an overall better quality of life, I want to help. My goal is to create a comfortable, safe, and supportive environment where you can work at your own pace to achieve what you want out of therapy and out of life.
(717) 229-9409 View (717) 229-9409
Photo of Amy E Dows, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisburg, PA
Amy E Dows
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MCC, DMin
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17109  (Online Only)
My goal in therapy is to provide an atmosphere of safety and trust where individuals feel free to express themselves without judgment. I see clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, trauma, and grief and loss. I use a person-centered approach to therapy focusing on client strengths and psychological resilience. I am also an ordained pastor in the United Church of Christ and include spirituality and religious concerns as requested.
My goal in therapy is to provide an atmosphere of safety and trust where individuals feel free to express themselves without judgment. I see clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, trauma, and grief and loss. I use a person-centered approach to therapy focusing on client strengths and psychological resilience. I am also an ordained pastor in the United Church of Christ and include spirituality and religious concerns as requested.
(717) 912-4123 View (717) 912-4123
Photo of Ingrid Krecko, Psychologist in Harrisburg, PA
Ingrid Krecko
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Welcome to my page! Whether you're totally new to therapy and starting this process for the first time, or a self-exploration veteran who has decided to try something new, beginning with a new therapist can be both exciting and intimidating. I am here for you! My primary focuses of treatment include anxiety and depressive disorders; relationship distress, parent training, and exploration of gender, sexuality, culture, and other aspects of identity. I work with each client to help them gain the rich, fulfilling, and meaningful life that we all want.
Welcome to my page! Whether you're totally new to therapy and starting this process for the first time, or a self-exploration veteran who has decided to try something new, beginning with a new therapist can be both exciting and intimidating. I am here for you! My primary focuses of treatment include anxiety and depressive disorders; relationship distress, parent training, and exploration of gender, sexuality, culture, and other aspects of identity. I work with each client to help them gain the rich, fulfilling, and meaningful life that we all want.
(717) 537-0953 View (717) 537-0953
Photo of Jyssica Seebeck, Psychologist in Harrisburg, PA
Jyssica Seebeck
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Dr. Seebeck is a pediatric neuropsychologist and licensed psychologist in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Washington D.C. She is trained in outpatient hospital clinics, autism centers, community health centers, private practice, and primary care behavioral health. She has extensive experience assessing and treating children, adolescents and young adults with autism, ADHD, intellectual developmental disorder, learning disorders, complex medical conditions, mild to severe traumatic brain injury, seizures and epilepsy, brain tumors, cancer, and other medical or neurodevelopmental conditions affecting cognition.
Dr. Seebeck is a pediatric neuropsychologist and licensed psychologist in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Washington D.C. She is trained in outpatient hospital clinics, autism centers, community health centers, private practice, and primary care behavioral health. She has extensive experience assessing and treating children, adolescents and young adults with autism, ADHD, intellectual developmental disorder, learning disorders, complex medical conditions, mild to severe traumatic brain injury, seizures and epilepsy, brain tumors, cancer, and other medical or neurodevelopmental conditions affecting cognition.
(717) 493-6240 View (717) 493-6240
Photo of Denise Verchimak, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisburg, PA
Denise Verchimak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Hello! My name is Denise Verchimak and I look forward to working with you! Life can pull us down and sometimes we need a little help to re-balance and get back on track. I believe in creating a safe place for you to share your experiences. In sessions with clients, I use a warm, encouraging model of counseling that allows you to share your deepest thoughts and concerns. I have great respect for my clients and am constantly in awe of how much people are balancing in life or how much they are dealing with emotionally. I would like to help you on your journey!
Hello! My name is Denise Verchimak and I look forward to working with you! Life can pull us down and sometimes we need a little help to re-balance and get back on track. I believe in creating a safe place for you to share your experiences. In sessions with clients, I use a warm, encouraging model of counseling that allows you to share your deepest thoughts and concerns. I have great respect for my clients and am constantly in awe of how much people are balancing in life or how much they are dealing with emotionally. I would like to help you on your journey!
(717) 535-8097 View (717) 535-8097
Photo of Ed Stuber, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisburg, PA
Ed Stuber
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ICAADC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17109  (Online Only)
Finding a kink-friendly therapist isn't easy; WE KNOW! Understanding the complexities of your lifestyle is not for the faint of heart. You can't tell just anyone that you love wearing/holding a collar, dressing as another gender, or the sweet smell of a woman's shoes. Or, can you? Being different is not a novel concept; being understood is. Some days, it's difficult to understand yourself, so how could a therapist possibly begin to wade through it all? The complexity only deepens when you can't even discuss these issues with your own partner. The desperation builds. The isolation intensifies. Your online search yields little success
Finding a kink-friendly therapist isn't easy; WE KNOW! Understanding the complexities of your lifestyle is not for the faint of heart. You can't tell just anyone that you love wearing/holding a collar, dressing as another gender, or the sweet smell of a woman's shoes. Or, can you? Being different is not a novel concept; being understood is. Some days, it's difficult to understand yourself, so how could a therapist possibly begin to wade through it all? The complexity only deepens when you can't even discuss these issues with your own partner. The desperation builds. The isolation intensifies. Your online search yields little success
(717) 788-5433 View (717) 788-5433
Photo of Kyle Newkam, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisburg, PA
Kyle Newkam
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17102
Not accepting new clients
Availability: None at this time. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I am a believer that counseling is a place where an individual can work to understand themselves (developing self-awareness) and manage themselves (managing mind-body and true self). My job is to help you in your journey of personal growth. Every person has unique and valuable skills within them. Our goal in therapy is to find what you want to change, what those unique skills are, and to work toward your goals. Often times people come to therapy because they feel disconnected and struggling. Our therapy will be a place for rejuvenation.
Availability: None at this time. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I am a believer that counseling is a place where an individual can work to understand themselves (developing self-awareness) and manage themselves (managing mind-body and true self). My job is to help you in your journey of personal growth. Every person has unique and valuable skills within them. Our goal in therapy is to find what you want to change, what those unique skills are, and to work toward your goals. Often times people come to therapy because they feel disconnected and struggling. Our therapy will be a place for rejuvenation.
(717) 384-2418 View (717) 384-2418
Photo of Cognitive Behavior Institute, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harrisburg, PA
Cognitive Behavior Institute
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
(717) 539-5807 View (717) 539-5807
Photo of Corey Burton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisburg, PA
Corey Burton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17102
Waitlist for new clients
Have you experienced changes in your life? Has these changes caused you to feel stuck or under pressure? There is resiliency in all of our stories, but it can leave us feeling unheard and misunderstood. We all have a unique journey. Learning to navigate these changes and understand your resiliency. Learning to use your strength to survive as a skill to live life to the fullest. It would be my pleasure to walk with you on your journey of growth. This starts with assurance of a judgement free environment and acceptance. We all need a space to be heard and seen.
Have you experienced changes in your life? Has these changes caused you to feel stuck or under pressure? There is resiliency in all of our stories, but it can leave us feeling unheard and misunderstood. We all have a unique journey. Learning to navigate these changes and understand your resiliency. Learning to use your strength to survive as a skill to live life to the fullest. It would be my pleasure to walk with you on your journey of growth. This starts with assurance of a judgement free environment and acceptance. We all need a space to be heard and seen.
(223) 217-2336 View (223) 217-2336
Photo of Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harrisburg, PA
Jewish Family Service of Greater Harrisburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Now more than ever, we know how important it is to reach out for help if you need it. If you are going through a difficult time and feel overwhelmed or simply want to make improvements, why not take the first steps to sit down and talk to someone? Our capable, nonjudgmental clinicians offer therapy services for all stages of life. Mynd Works has 3 full time therapists, and 2 part time therapists. Please visit our website to view their profiles.
Now more than ever, we know how important it is to reach out for help if you need it. If you are going through a difficult time and feel overwhelmed or simply want to make improvements, why not take the first steps to sit down and talk to someone? Our capable, nonjudgmental clinicians offer therapy services for all stages of life. Mynd Works has 3 full time therapists, and 2 part time therapists. Please visit our website to view their profiles.
(717) 233-1681 View (717) 233-1681
Photo of Katie Henson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Harrisburg, PA
Katie Henson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17102
The work I do is unique to each individual. Your life story is your own and finding a place to feel empowered, validated, challenged, and grown in healthy and supportive ways is waiting for you. By utilizing numerous modalities, approaches, techniques, and skills, I am able to offer you a place to reconnect with or discover your worth and value. I typically see individuals ages 16 and over as well as couples.
The work I do is unique to each individual. Your life story is your own and finding a place to feel empowered, validated, challenged, and grown in healthy and supportive ways is waiting for you. By utilizing numerous modalities, approaches, techniques, and skills, I am able to offer you a place to reconnect with or discover your worth and value. I typically see individuals ages 16 and over as well as couples.
(223) 332-4590 View (223) 332-4590
Photo of Gabby Chisholm (Telehealth) - Please Email, Licensed Professional Counselor in Harrisburg, PA
Gabby Chisholm (Telehealth) - Please Email
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17104  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Gabby! I'm a licensed and national board-certified counselor that has 12 years of experience in the human services field. I’ve previously provided individual, family/marital and group counseling in schools, communities, community agencies, residential homes/treatment centers, a juvenile shelter/detention center and an outpatient substance abuse treatment facility. My work with a variety of populations across settings has helped me to build skills working with many populations, but I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and other life issues in adults. I currently own and operate Total Wellness, a private practice.
Hi, I’m Gabby! I'm a licensed and national board-certified counselor that has 12 years of experience in the human services field. I’ve previously provided individual, family/marital and group counseling in schools, communities, community agencies, residential homes/treatment centers, a juvenile shelter/detention center and an outpatient substance abuse treatment facility. My work with a variety of populations across settings has helped me to build skills working with many populations, but I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and other life issues in adults. I currently own and operate Total Wellness, a private practice.
(717) 537-9326 View (717) 537-9326

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Harrisburg, PA

300+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Harrisburg, PA who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Self Esteem
69% Coping Skills
68% Relationship Issues
64% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Highmark
74% Optum
71% Aetna

How Therapists in Harrisburg, PA see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
24% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Harrisburg?

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.