Therapists in Delaware

View cities and counties in Delaware
Photo of Rosemarie Brennan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Delaware
Rosemarie Brennan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milford, DE 19963  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Psychotherapist with deep interest, experience and clinical training in helping adults identify and work through the underlying issues that produce symptoms, such as depression and anxiety. Examples of issues and related help include: Gently navigating through stages of grief and loss and difficult life transitions; developing skills to effectively balance family and work; providing support to parents of teens and emerging adults; providing support to caregivers; providing education on maintaining a sense of self in relationships; exploring career/job change; and exploring the impact of adoption on the adult adoptee.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Psychotherapist with deep interest, experience and clinical training in helping adults identify and work through the underlying issues that produce symptoms, such as depression and anxiety. Examples of issues and related help include: Gently navigating through stages of grief and loss and difficult life transitions; developing skills to effectively balance family and work; providing support to parents of teens and emerging adults; providing support to caregivers; providing education on maintaining a sense of self in relationships; exploring career/job change; and exploring the impact of adoption on the adult adoptee.
(267) 592-3032 View (267) 592-3032
Photo of Milestones Consultants, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Delaware
Milestones Consultants
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LMSW, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seaford, DE 19973  (Online Only)
Milestones’ clients are usually the helpers. They are the people who provide for everyone else in their families, at church and at work and never make themselves a priority. Our clients struggle in silence yet always state “I’m Fine” or “I’m Good”. The ones who minimize their own thoughts and feelings because they don't want to be a burden to others. We are here for you! Whether at home in your comfy chair or in your car during a lunch break, Milestones’ offers telehealth counseling (video or phone) which makes counseling convenient and confidential. Now you just have to make the call.
Milestones’ clients are usually the helpers. They are the people who provide for everyone else in their families, at church and at work and never make themselves a priority. Our clients struggle in silence yet always state “I’m Fine” or “I’m Good”. The ones who minimize their own thoughts and feelings because they don't want to be a burden to others. We are here for you! Whether at home in your comfy chair or in your car during a lunch break, Milestones’ offers telehealth counseling (video or phone) which makes counseling convenient and confidential. Now you just have to make the call.
(301) 273-1441 View (301) 273-1441
Photo of Lisa Noland, Pre-Licensed Professional in Delaware
Lisa Noland
Pre-Licensed Professional, NCC, CADC, ICGC-I
Verified Verified
Seaford, DE 19973
Welcome and thank you for considering me to walk with you on your journey for wellness, healing, and self-discovery. I am a National Certified Counselor currently working towards full licensure. I graduated from Wilmington University in 2021 with a master's in clinical mental health counseling. While working in the field of addiction, I have earned certificates in problem gambling and alcohol & drug counseling.
Welcome and thank you for considering me to walk with you on your journey for wellness, healing, and self-discovery. I am a National Certified Counselor currently working towards full licensure. I graduated from Wilmington University in 2021 with a master's in clinical mental health counseling. While working in the field of addiction, I have earned certificates in problem gambling and alcohol & drug counseling.
(302) 572-2547 View (302) 572-2547
Photo of Nicole Sult, Counselor in Delaware
Nicole Sult
Counselor, LPCMH, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19804
Nicole is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Delaware native who specializes in individual, couples, and family therapy. Nicole believes in a multi disciplinary approach to clinical counseling to optimize positive outcomes, guiding her clients to explore their mental, physical, and spiritual needs. Nicole is classically trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and combines this with a client centered approach. Nicole quickly identifies your goals and collaboratively works with you to figure out how to get you there. A key component to this is to build an authentic and compassionate relationship with her clients.
Nicole is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Delaware native who specializes in individual, couples, and family therapy. Nicole believes in a multi disciplinary approach to clinical counseling to optimize positive outcomes, guiding her clients to explore their mental, physical, and spiritual needs. Nicole is classically trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and combines this with a client centered approach. Nicole quickly identifies your goals and collaboratively works with you to figure out how to get you there. A key component to this is to build an authentic and compassionate relationship with her clients.
(302) 865-7285 View (302) 865-7285
Photo of Chelsey M Bayles, Licensed Professional Counselor in Delaware
Chelsey M Bayles
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCMH, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19808  (Online Only)
Accepting clients for Telehealth services only at this time with day and evening availability. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Delaware and Pennsylvania, my hope is to help each person learn the tools of healing and recovery on their personal journey of wellness. Although it can be anxiety producing to give therapy a try, my goal is to create a safe and positive environment where clients can thrive, grow, and build their toolkit for effective and healthy coping. My hope is that we can work collaboratively to highlight your strengths, and equip you to move forward towards your goals.
Accepting clients for Telehealth services only at this time with day and evening availability. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Delaware and Pennsylvania, my hope is to help each person learn the tools of healing and recovery on their personal journey of wellness. Although it can be anxiety producing to give therapy a try, my goal is to create a safe and positive environment where clients can thrive, grow, and build their toolkit for effective and healthy coping. My hope is that we can work collaboratively to highlight your strengths, and equip you to move forward towards your goals.
(302) 865-7369 View (302) 865-7369
Photo of Kate Wisor, Pre-Licensed Professional in Delaware
Kate Wisor
Pre-Licensed Professional, LACMH
Verified Verified
Hockessin, DE 19707
Kate Wisor is a Licensed Associate Counselor of Mental Health.  She received her Bachelor’s in German Studies and Psychology from Connecticut College. Kate started her career working for a German Corporate Bank in Manhattan but soon realized that her passion was helping others.  She returned to school and received her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Immaculata University.  She loves the beach, nature, and spending time with her family and two bulldogs.
Kate Wisor is a Licensed Associate Counselor of Mental Health.  She received her Bachelor’s in German Studies and Psychology from Connecticut College. Kate started her career working for a German Corporate Bank in Manhattan but soon realized that her passion was helping others.  She returned to school and received her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Immaculata University.  She loves the beach, nature, and spending time with her family and two bulldogs.
(302) 924-4230 x100 View (302) 924-4230 x100
Photo of Seaside Healing LLC, Counselor in Delaware
Seaside Healing LLC
Counselor, LCP
Verified Verified
Lewes, DE 19958
Life can be challenging and overwhelming, however, we are all capable of growth, change, and learning from our experiences. I am a Licensed Therapist in Delaware and Maryland with over 25 years of experience. Providing counseling for children, teens, adults, and families dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, ADHD, and other life issues. I also have many years of experience helping individual and families who are dealing with terminal illness and end of life transitions.
Life can be challenging and overwhelming, however, we are all capable of growth, change, and learning from our experiences. I am a Licensed Therapist in Delaware and Maryland with over 25 years of experience. Providing counseling for children, teens, adults, and families dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, ADHD, and other life issues. I also have many years of experience helping individual and families who are dealing with terminal illness and end of life transitions.
(302) 291-4456 View (302) 291-4456
Photo of Kathy Madden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware
Kathy Madden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lewes, DE 19958
Healing from the inside out. Connecting with your soul and spirit for long term change. Finding mission and purpose. I have been providing counseling (therapy) for more than 20 years. I am licensed in Delaware and Pennsylvania. We work together to incorporate specific tools that assist individuals during the journey of change, transition, and mission and purpose in life. These techniques and tools become resources to reduce anxiety and symptoms of depression. We work together to move from the overwhelming feelings of being stuck in the same old cycles to new strategies and long term life change. Quality of life is the goal.
Healing from the inside out. Connecting with your soul and spirit for long term change. Finding mission and purpose. I have been providing counseling (therapy) for more than 20 years. I am licensed in Delaware and Pennsylvania. We work together to incorporate specific tools that assist individuals during the journey of change, transition, and mission and purpose in life. These techniques and tools become resources to reduce anxiety and symptoms of depression. We work together to move from the overwhelming feelings of being stuck in the same old cycles to new strategies and long term life change. Quality of life is the goal.
(302) 284-6075 View (302) 284-6075
Photo of Reese Hawk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware
Reese Hawk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newark, DE 19713
Reese Hawk, LCSW Reese Hawk is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland. He graduated from Pennsylvania State University with a degree in Psychology and from Widener University with a Masters in Social Work. Reese offers empathy and understanding to his clients as he believes those are the best ways to assist someone with their needs. He also uses DBT, cognitive behavioral therapy, and strengths perspective as primary tools to identify and empower clients.
Reese Hawk, LCSW Reese Hawk is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland. He graduated from Pennsylvania State University with a degree in Psychology and from Widener University with a Masters in Social Work. Reese offers empathy and understanding to his clients as he believes those are the best ways to assist someone with their needs. He also uses DBT, cognitive behavioral therapy, and strengths perspective as primary tools to identify and empower clients.
(302) 303-8135 View (302) 303-8135
Photo of Walter Homsey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware
Walter Homsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hockessin, DE 19707  (Online Only)
Transitions4Life,LLC is a telehealth and mobile therapy private practice. This unique life coaching practice, with husband and wife Mr. Walter Homsey and Lakeeya Homsey, offers support for working professionals. At Transitions4life, LLC, we specialize in conducting individual (21+) and couples teletherapy and/or coaching sessions with clients who are experiencing varied mental health and life transition concerns. We also assist those who are clinical professionals or work in high stress careers to better manage their life stressors, promote self care, and reduce the effects of burnout.
Transitions4Life,LLC is a telehealth and mobile therapy private practice. This unique life coaching practice, with husband and wife Mr. Walter Homsey and Lakeeya Homsey, offers support for working professionals. At Transitions4life, LLC, we specialize in conducting individual (21+) and couples teletherapy and/or coaching sessions with clients who are experiencing varied mental health and life transition concerns. We also assist those who are clinical professionals or work in high stress careers to better manage their life stressors, promote self care, and reduce the effects of burnout.
(302) 786-0832 View (302) 786-0832
Photo of Counseling WorX - Peter Zerphy, LPCMH, CAADC, Counselor in Delaware
Counseling WorX - Peter Zerphy, LPCMH, CAADC
Counselor, LPCMH, CAADC
Verified Verified
Greenwood, DE 19950  (Online Only)
You’re getting ready to make changes and share personal stuff. Having the right person helping is super important. Maybe memories of past mistakes or trauma have you feeling down. Worries about the future occupy your thoughts. Maybe you don’t feel settled and can’t stop thinking. Habits like isolating, acting like you're ok, using substances, or avoiding talking about things have taken over. Maybe you’re beating yourself up for procrastinating. Is it hard to stop doing the things you don’t’ want to do and start doing the things you want to do? Feeling stuck? Not sure how to start? I can help sort things out and get on track.
You’re getting ready to make changes and share personal stuff. Having the right person helping is super important. Maybe memories of past mistakes or trauma have you feeling down. Worries about the future occupy your thoughts. Maybe you don’t feel settled and can’t stop thinking. Habits like isolating, acting like you're ok, using substances, or avoiding talking about things have taken over. Maybe you’re beating yourself up for procrastinating. Is it hard to stop doing the things you don’t’ want to do and start doing the things you want to do? Feeling stuck? Not sure how to start? I can help sort things out and get on track.
(302) 280-1591 View (302) 280-1591
Photo of Susan Bennett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Delaware
Susan Bennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPCMH, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seaford, DE 19973
Waitlist for new clients
"No one signs up to be unhappy or to live an unfulfilled life". I provide mental health counseling to individuals dealing with a variety of mild to severe mental health issues/disorders in an outpatient setting. I am a certified trauma therapist and have provided counseling services related to trauma disorders which include post-traumatic stress disorder, childhood abuse, neglect and sexual trauma. I also regularly work with common difficulties such as depression, stress, and anxiety disorders.
"No one signs up to be unhappy or to live an unfulfilled life". I provide mental health counseling to individuals dealing with a variety of mild to severe mental health issues/disorders in an outpatient setting. I am a certified trauma therapist and have provided counseling services related to trauma disorders which include post-traumatic stress disorder, childhood abuse, neglect and sexual trauma. I also regularly work with common difficulties such as depression, stress, and anxiety disorders.
(302) 273-1283 View (302) 273-1283
Photo of Tia Jones Medine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware
Tia Jones Medine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CFSW
Verified Verified
New Castle, DE 19720  (Online Only)
Living life while dealing with mental health issues can be very stressful. With my services, you will not have to work through those problems alone. We will work together to create a healing journey that includes the necessary steps to emotional wellness for you. I feel that all situations are unique and will do my best to provide you with the guidance and feedback that is best suited for you. (Licensed in PA and DE).
Living life while dealing with mental health issues can be very stressful. With my services, you will not have to work through those problems alone. We will work together to create a healing journey that includes the necessary steps to emotional wellness for you. I feel that all situations are unique and will do my best to provide you with the guidance and feedback that is best suited for you. (Licensed in PA and DE).
(302) 240-8196 View (302) 240-8196
Photo of Keri Will-del Tufo LPCMH, Licensed Professional Counselor in Delaware
Keri Will-del Tufo LPCMH
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPCMH
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19810
Not accepting new clients
NOT TAKING NEW CLIENTS RIGHT NOW. Self-compassion is where healing begins. How we treat ourselves and what we say to ourselves is vital to healing the things that aren’t working in our lives. My goal, as a therapist, is to be your guide as you remove blocks and recognize your own strengths. I integrate Mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approaches, which help people to grasp their potential and increase their own power. Mindfulness gives us the space to look at things that might be interfering with our ability to see our strengths and CBT allows us to use those insights to change the way we talk to ourselves.
NOT TAKING NEW CLIENTS RIGHT NOW. Self-compassion is where healing begins. How we treat ourselves and what we say to ourselves is vital to healing the things that aren’t working in our lives. My goal, as a therapist, is to be your guide as you remove blocks and recognize your own strengths. I integrate Mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approaches, which help people to grasp their potential and increase their own power. Mindfulness gives us the space to look at things that might be interfering with our ability to see our strengths and CBT allows us to use those insights to change the way we talk to ourselves.
(302) 455-8684 View (302) 455-8684
Photo of Renee Evans, Licensed Professional Counselor in Delaware
Renee Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH, NCC
Verified Verified
Milford, DE 19963
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! My name is Renee Evans and I am a licensed professional counselor. I provide counseling for children, teens, in-betweens and adults here at State of Mind Counseling Services, LLC. For the longest time I have had a penchant for anything relating to psychology and mental health. Having the opportunity to utilize my knowledge and eagerness for helping others has been an absolute dream. I live to help others truly understand their odds and ends, and use that information to gain a higher sense of self. Of course, having a few laughs along the way.
Hi! My name is Renee Evans and I am a licensed professional counselor. I provide counseling for children, teens, in-betweens and adults here at State of Mind Counseling Services, LLC. For the longest time I have had a penchant for anything relating to psychology and mental health. Having the opportunity to utilize my knowledge and eagerness for helping others has been an absolute dream. I live to help others truly understand their odds and ends, and use that information to gain a higher sense of self. Of course, having a few laughs along the way.
(302) 359-3734 View (302) 359-3734
Photo of Lauren Mancini, Counselor in Delaware
Lauren Mancini
Counselor, LPC, LPCMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19809
Welcome! There are several reasons that you may have come across this site at this time in your life. Often, it is due to recent or prolonged experiences of conflict, stress or psychological suffering that have prompted urges to seek help. The therapy process can be helpful in diverse ways such as gaining new insights or awareness, experimenting with new behaviors/approaches to problems, improving communication, changing your relationship with past upsetting memories and experiences, or learning skills how to cope—however, symptom relief is always the primary goal.
Welcome! There are several reasons that you may have come across this site at this time in your life. Often, it is due to recent or prolonged experiences of conflict, stress or psychological suffering that have prompted urges to seek help. The therapy process can be helpful in diverse ways such as gaining new insights or awareness, experimenting with new behaviors/approaches to problems, improving communication, changing your relationship with past upsetting memories and experiences, or learning skills how to cope—however, symptom relief is always the primary goal.
(302) 251-2968 View (302) 251-2968
Photo of Armina N. Domingue, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware
Armina N. Domingue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Dover, DE 19901
Do you often feel weighed down by feelings of anxiety? If you find it difficult to make friends and experience loneliness regularly, as a result, come talk to me. Do you feel like you spend more time taking care of others than yourself? As a child did you experienced the painful effects of abuse, neglect, and trauma? Do you feel sad or feel that you have no energy or enough oomph? Do you want to feel better and learn new ways to manage your emotions effectively? Do you desire to learn how to be more consistent with your mood? Do you believe that you could be happier? Are you ready to live better?
Do you often feel weighed down by feelings of anxiety? If you find it difficult to make friends and experience loneliness regularly, as a result, come talk to me. Do you feel like you spend more time taking care of others than yourself? As a child did you experienced the painful effects of abuse, neglect, and trauma? Do you feel sad or feel that you have no energy or enough oomph? Do you want to feel better and learn new ways to manage your emotions effectively? Do you desire to learn how to be more consistent with your mood? Do you believe that you could be happier? Are you ready to live better?
(302) 240-9149 View (302) 240-9149
Photo of Katherine Dubois, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware
Katherine Dubois
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newark, DE 19711
I take an empathetic, strengths based approach in utilizing my expertise to allow you to process your concerns and empower will you develop an effective plan to address these concerns and achieve your treatment goals. I am experienced in working with with anxiety, mood related disorders, life adjustments, relationship concerns, academic/job stressors, and trauma. I enjoy working with student athletes and additionally have several years of direct clinical experience in an acute health care hospital setting supporting individuals and their families with acute and chronic medical concerns.
I take an empathetic, strengths based approach in utilizing my expertise to allow you to process your concerns and empower will you develop an effective plan to address these concerns and achieve your treatment goals. I am experienced in working with with anxiety, mood related disorders, life adjustments, relationship concerns, academic/job stressors, and trauma. I enjoy working with student athletes and additionally have several years of direct clinical experience in an acute health care hospital setting supporting individuals and their families with acute and chronic medical concerns.
(302) 587-8244 View (302) 587-8244
Photo of Miles Leon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware
Miles Leon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newark, DE 19713
Miles Leon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Delaware who has been practicing since 2001. Miles offers clients help through CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, and Solution Focus Therapy. Outside of work, Miles enjoys running and hiking.
Miles Leon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Delaware who has been practicing since 2001. Miles offers clients help through CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, and Solution Focus Therapy. Outside of work, Miles enjoys running and hiking.
(302) 209-9291 View (302) 209-9291
Photo of Matthew W Yoder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Delaware
Matthew W Yoder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newark, DE 19713  (Online Only)
I simply love to listen and help others. I especially enjoy working with the reluctant client or the client who has had bad experiences with therapists in the past. I have a way of connecting with those clients like no one else can.
I simply love to listen and help others. I especially enjoy working with the reluctant client or the client who has had bad experiences with therapists in the past. I have a way of connecting with those clients like no one else can.
(302) 303-3127 View (302) 303-3127

How does your Therapist compare?

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Delaware who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
87% Depression
71% Self Esteem
69% Relationship Issues
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Coping Skills
62% Grief

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% BlueCross and BlueShield
74% Aetna
70% Highmark

How Therapists in Delaware see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Delaware?

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.