Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

View neighborhoods in Brooklyn
Photo of Clotilde Simons, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Clotilde Simons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, M-CASAC, CAMS-1
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11210  (Online Only)
Free Consultation! *Accepting new clients* We all face challenges at varies times in our life that are distressing to deal with alone. Are you struggling with rollercoaster emotions? Are you experiencing relationship concerns (couples, family, friends, co-workers), feeling anxious, uncertain, confused, sad and/or grieving a loss? First and foremost congratulations on taking your first step towards recovery. I encourage you to reach out. Let's talk. You will feel heard and understood.
Free Consultation! *Accepting new clients* We all face challenges at varies times in our life that are distressing to deal with alone. Are you struggling with rollercoaster emotions? Are you experiencing relationship concerns (couples, family, friends, co-workers), feeling anxious, uncertain, confused, sad and/or grieving a loss? First and foremost congratulations on taking your first step towards recovery. I encourage you to reach out. Let's talk. You will feel heard and understood.
(929) 203-4839 View (929) 203-4839
Photo of Judy N Schneier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Judy N Schneier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I work with couples, individuals, teens and kids. My 25 years of experience and many forms of training allow me to work with a range of issues. Increased awareness of thoughts and emotions allow us to examine patterns and behaviors causing distress and frustration. Finding new understanding and perspective creates new possibilities in relationships and our capacity to meet life challenges. This is a deeply personal journey and finding the right therapist to offer safety, courage, support and insight is a key part of the process. My approach is psychoanalytically grounded. My couples work is based in Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I work with couples, individuals, teens and kids. My 25 years of experience and many forms of training allow me to work with a range of issues. Increased awareness of thoughts and emotions allow us to examine patterns and behaviors causing distress and frustration. Finding new understanding and perspective creates new possibilities in relationships and our capacity to meet life challenges. This is a deeply personal journey and finding the right therapist to offer safety, courage, support and insight is a key part of the process. My approach is psychoanalytically grounded. My couples work is based in Emotionally Focused Therapy.
(646) 846-4772 View (646) 846-4772
Photo of Mark O'Connell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Mark O'Connell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, MFA
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11218
Therapy is an opportunity to be seen and heard, to heal and grow, and to discover your full range of self. I provide a safe, supportive space for you to identify what you want in your life and in relationships, and what's getting in the way of it. Many of my clients face challenges with partners, careers, and/or families of origin. I work with a lot actors and artists, professionals seeking a change, individual adults, adolescents, couples, and members of the LGBTQ+ communities. I also offer clinical supervision for therapists seeking mentoring, consultation, or clinical support.
Therapy is an opportunity to be seen and heard, to heal and grow, and to discover your full range of self. I provide a safe, supportive space for you to identify what you want in your life and in relationships, and what's getting in the way of it. Many of my clients face challenges with partners, careers, and/or families of origin. I work with a lot actors and artists, professionals seeking a change, individual adults, adolescents, couples, and members of the LGBTQ+ communities. I also offer clinical supervision for therapists seeking mentoring, consultation, or clinical support.
(646) 553-6431 View (646) 553-6431
Photo of Nathalee Hollinshead, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Nathalee Hollinshead
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11234  (Online Only)
I am a licensed therapist (LCSW) with a profound respect for the profession. My passion and commitment lies in patients realizing their potential. Serving clients through therapy is at the heart of what I do. I bring 20 years of experience both in direct practice and in leadership roles across the New York City area. I am proud to leverage my years of experience to inspire, motivate and impact clients to live independent and fulfilling lives. At the core of my practice, I seek to demonstrate care, empathy and compassion- essential to you developing insight and the avenues for personal growth.
I am a licensed therapist (LCSW) with a profound respect for the profession. My passion and commitment lies in patients realizing their potential. Serving clients through therapy is at the heart of what I do. I bring 20 years of experience both in direct practice and in leadership roles across the New York City area. I am proud to leverage my years of experience to inspire, motivate and impact clients to live independent and fulfilling lives. At the core of my practice, I seek to demonstrate care, empathy and compassion- essential to you developing insight and the avenues for personal growth.
(718) 865-2512 View (718) 865-2512
Photo of Christie Gerou, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Christie Gerou
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11242  (Online Only)
Searching for a therapist that actually converses with you? My therapeutic collaborative approach proves to be a more fulfilling & beneficial process for clients. You don't have to feel alone or stuck anymore. I provide expertise, guidance and non-judgmental support. So that you can have a safe, nurturing & empowering therapy experience.
Searching for a therapist that actually converses with you? My therapeutic collaborative approach proves to be a more fulfilling & beneficial process for clients. You don't have to feel alone or stuck anymore. I provide expertise, guidance and non-judgmental support. So that you can have a safe, nurturing & empowering therapy experience.
View
Photo of Jennifer Crook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Jennifer Crook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11242
It is a courageous move to seek help. I tailor my approach to meet the needs of the individual or couple. I have experience with a diverse set of clients and a variety of interventions. From a non-judgmental stance, using a holistic and client-centered approach I aim to explore patterns of thought or behavior that cause pain, shame, stress, anxiety and sadness. I assist in in exploring the roots of internalized negative messages, and to develop techniques to combat those negative beliefs; to enhance self-esteem and self-worth, build strong relationships, establish boundaries and clear hurdles that feel insurmountable.
It is a courageous move to seek help. I tailor my approach to meet the needs of the individual or couple. I have experience with a diverse set of clients and a variety of interventions. From a non-judgmental stance, using a holistic and client-centered approach I aim to explore patterns of thought or behavior that cause pain, shame, stress, anxiety and sadness. I assist in in exploring the roots of internalized negative messages, and to develop techniques to combat those negative beliefs; to enhance self-esteem and self-worth, build strong relationships, establish boundaries and clear hurdles that feel insurmountable.
(347) 378-9640 View (347) 378-9640
Photo of Eddie Rosenstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Eddie Rosenstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11230
Supportive therapy helps with a wide range of challenges including relationship issues, anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, trauma, self esteem and transitions. My goal is to help clients get unstuck, to help them feel happier, more successful and more connected to loved ones.
Supportive therapy helps with a wide range of challenges including relationship issues, anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, trauma, self esteem and transitions. My goal is to help clients get unstuck, to help them feel happier, more successful and more connected to loved ones.
(929) 205-9460 View (929) 205-9460
Photo of Laura Levitt, Licensed Master Social Worker in Brooklyn, NY
Laura Levitt
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11222
Sometimes, life just feels hard. I'm here to help you heal and find clarity when life feels difficult, confusing, or draining. As a therapist, I bring warmth, understanding and humor to my relationship with each client. I often receive feedback that I am easy to open up to and provide a calming presence. Whether you are feeling stuck, hoping for support as you explore your LGBTQA+ identity, working through the ups and downs of young adult life, or healing from trauma, I am here to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for growth.
Sometimes, life just feels hard. I'm here to help you heal and find clarity when life feels difficult, confusing, or draining. As a therapist, I bring warmth, understanding and humor to my relationship with each client. I often receive feedback that I am easy to open up to and provide a calming presence. Whether you are feeling stuck, hoping for support as you explore your LGBTQA+ identity, working through the ups and downs of young adult life, or healing from trauma, I am here to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for growth.
(347) 727-1783 View (347) 727-1783
Photo of Meghan Graniello, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Meghan Graniello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11226  (Online Only)
I am a New York-based psychotherapist providing consultation as well as short- and long-term therapy to individuals, couples, and families. My clients often reach out when experiencing difficult life transitions, emotional upheaval, feelings of "stuckness," parenting concerns, relationship conflict, or loss. My practice is affirming and inclusive of clients of all backgrounds, identities, and family structures.
I am a New York-based psychotherapist providing consultation as well as short- and long-term therapy to individuals, couples, and families. My clients often reach out when experiencing difficult life transitions, emotional upheaval, feelings of "stuckness," parenting concerns, relationship conflict, or loss. My practice is affirming and inclusive of clients of all backgrounds, identities, and family structures.
(718) 550-6775 View (718) 550-6775
Photo of Erika Biesemeier Rado, Creative Arts Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Erika Biesemeier Rado
Creative Arts Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215  (Online Only)
Beginning a therapy journey can feel overwhelming, but ultimately the goal is to help you feel better and acquire more adaptive coping skills to lead a more fulfilling life. This process is unique to each individual. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or are a parent looking for extra support for your child, your needs and issues will be discussed with empathy and care. Together, we will build attainable goals to help you express yourself in empowering, healing and transformative ways.
Beginning a therapy journey can feel overwhelming, but ultimately the goal is to help you feel better and acquire more adaptive coping skills to lead a more fulfilling life. This process is unique to each individual. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or are a parent looking for extra support for your child, your needs and issues will be discussed with empathy and care. Together, we will build attainable goals to help you express yourself in empowering, healing and transformative ways.
(646) 904-5453 View (646) 904-5453
Photo of Ariel Rogoff Flavin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Ariel Rogoff Flavin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242
The decision to begin therapy is often filled with emotions and questions. There are many routes a therapeutic process can take in moving toward healing, processing painful issues, and working toward positive change. Each person enters therapy with specific individual challenges and hopes for treatment. I work from a perspective of respect for my clients and utilize an eclectic treatment approach based on your individual needs. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment that will enable us to work collaboratively and objectively toward those goals.
The decision to begin therapy is often filled with emotions and questions. There are many routes a therapeutic process can take in moving toward healing, processing painful issues, and working toward positive change. Each person enters therapy with specific individual challenges and hopes for treatment. I work from a perspective of respect for my clients and utilize an eclectic treatment approach based on your individual needs. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment that will enable us to work collaboratively and objectively toward those goals.
(646) 759-2990 View (646) 759-2990
Photo of Naethra Sreekrishna, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Naethra Sreekrishna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11209  (Online Only)
Are you an immigrant or child of immigrants stuck in painful relationships over clashing expectations and feeling unseen? Are you the “high achiever” or “caretaker” but have to hide parts of yourself and can’t shake the underlying fear that something isn’t right? Are you curious about how intergenerational experiences influence your identities, decisions, and struggles? You may have sought relief from the conflict, anxiety, and shame but not in the healthiest ways. You may finally be considering therapy to stop avoiding, stop suffering, and start healing. You’ve come to the right place.
Are you an immigrant or child of immigrants stuck in painful relationships over clashing expectations and feeling unseen? Are you the “high achiever” or “caretaker” but have to hide parts of yourself and can’t shake the underlying fear that something isn’t right? Are you curious about how intergenerational experiences influence your identities, decisions, and struggles? You may have sought relief from the conflict, anxiety, and shame but not in the healthiest ways. You may finally be considering therapy to stop avoiding, stop suffering, and start healing. You’ve come to the right place.
(646) 681-2779 View (646) 681-2779
Photo of Stephania Cajuste, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Stephania Cajuste
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11226  (Online Only)
You want an affirming, honest and collaborative therapist. You deserve to connect with the therapist that is right for you.
You want an affirming, honest and collaborative therapist. You deserve to connect with the therapist that is right for you.
(718) 971-2189 View (718) 971-2189
Photo of Marie Vernet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Marie Vernet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11236  (Online Only)
Life can be challenging. There are situations when you may feel stressed, unable to see a way out , question your strength, or struggle with coping skills. While it can be difficult to seek support, deciding to look for support and accept help is a step toward hope, healing and strength. I will provide an environment that welcomes you and assist with working towards managing stress and general life challenges. You may be uncertain about receiving therapy, despite acknowledging therapy could be helpful. Be that as it may, I am here to assist you to discuss and explore options that are right for you and meet you where you are.
Life can be challenging. There are situations when you may feel stressed, unable to see a way out , question your strength, or struggle with coping skills. While it can be difficult to seek support, deciding to look for support and accept help is a step toward hope, healing and strength. I will provide an environment that welcomes you and assist with working towards managing stress and general life challenges. You may be uncertain about receiving therapy, despite acknowledging therapy could be helpful. Be that as it may, I am here to assist you to discuss and explore options that are right for you and meet you where you are.
(718) 550-7763 View (718) 550-7763
Photo of Siena Shundi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Siena Shundi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11217
Relationships are essential to living, giving us opportunity to grow, heal, and learn. Psychotherapy is a transformative relationship of self investment where you can honestly reflect upon your innermost needs and feelings. It's a process where ultimately you can improve upon your decision making, communication, relationships, and work towards an optimum quality of life. In my practice I provide relief and effective problem solving for the stressors encountered in the fast-paced, urban life of NYC. I help individuals reduce distress while enhancing their inner strengths and assist couples improve intimacy and communication.
Relationships are essential to living, giving us opportunity to grow, heal, and learn. Psychotherapy is a transformative relationship of self investment where you can honestly reflect upon your innermost needs and feelings. It's a process where ultimately you can improve upon your decision making, communication, relationships, and work towards an optimum quality of life. In my practice I provide relief and effective problem solving for the stressors encountered in the fast-paced, urban life of NYC. I help individuals reduce distress while enhancing their inner strengths and assist couples improve intimacy and communication.
(347) 609-7569 View (347) 609-7569
Photo of Andrea Dogostiano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Andrea Dogostiano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11226  (Online Only)
There are times when life can overwhelm us. The daily grind of tending to mundane things like cooking and cleaning, working to pay bills, interpersonal relationships, childcare and more, can cause us stress. Breakups, difficulty finding the right partner, struggles around sexuality and intimacy, loss of a job or loved one, birth of child or difficulty birthing a child can impact us emotionally in ways we don’t realize. Though we may not have control over everything that happens in life, we can equip ourselves with the tools to tackle what comes our way.
There are times when life can overwhelm us. The daily grind of tending to mundane things like cooking and cleaning, working to pay bills, interpersonal relationships, childcare and more, can cause us stress. Breakups, difficulty finding the right partner, struggles around sexuality and intimacy, loss of a job or loved one, birth of child or difficulty birthing a child can impact us emotionally in ways we don’t realize. Though we may not have control over everything that happens in life, we can equip ourselves with the tools to tackle what comes our way.
(646) 849-3239 View (646) 849-3239
Photo of Hannah Evans, Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Hannah Evans
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Whether you’re looking to tackle unwanted and unhelpful behaviors or striving to work through a traumatic experience - your wellbeing and healing is my number one priority. Clients working with me can expect a compassionate, nonjudgmental and encouraging environment to effectively communicate stressors and dive deeper into the root of emotional patterns. I believe in empowering clients to take ownership of their emotions, to speak about challenging life experiences, and identify healthy coping behaviors to lead a positive life.
Whether you’re looking to tackle unwanted and unhelpful behaviors or striving to work through a traumatic experience - your wellbeing and healing is my number one priority. Clients working with me can expect a compassionate, nonjudgmental and encouraging environment to effectively communicate stressors and dive deeper into the root of emotional patterns. I believe in empowering clients to take ownership of their emotions, to speak about challenging life experiences, and identify healthy coping behaviors to lead a positive life.
(917) 451-7251 View (917) 451-7251
Photo of Tomasina Beckford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Tomasina Beckford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11209
Hello, I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 30 years of experience. I work with adults, adolescents, children, families, and couples. I prefer to use an eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each client. I have been trained in a variety of modalities, so I can be flexible and use what works best for each individual. I pride myself on providing a warm and compassionate setting where my clients can feel comfortable and welcome. I respect each individual's strengths, beliefs, and support systems, drawing from these to help the client achieve their goals.
Hello, I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 30 years of experience. I work with adults, adolescents, children, families, and couples. I prefer to use an eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each client. I have been trained in a variety of modalities, so I can be flexible and use what works best for each individual. I pride myself on providing a warm and compassionate setting where my clients can feel comfortable and welcome. I respect each individual's strengths, beliefs, and support systems, drawing from these to help the client achieve their goals.
(929) 348-2688 View (929) 348-2688
Photo of Bianca Calizaire in Brooklyn, NY
Bianca Calizaire
MS, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11221  (Online Only)
As a first-generation immigrant daughter, I witnessed the profound impact of gender roles on my life. It influenced how I approached relationships and made me acutely aware of the glass ceiling faced by women, particularly those of Black or Brown heritage. This realization spurred me to challenge stereotypes, break barriers, and address intergenerational trauma. My purpose is to empower individuals from diverse backgrounds to break free from unhealthy thought patterns by promoting choice, humility, and self-acceptance. These principles define my unique approach to making a difference.
As a first-generation immigrant daughter, I witnessed the profound impact of gender roles on my life. It influenced how I approached relationships and made me acutely aware of the glass ceiling faced by women, particularly those of Black or Brown heritage. This realization spurred me to challenge stereotypes, break barriers, and address intergenerational trauma. My purpose is to empower individuals from diverse backgrounds to break free from unhealthy thought patterns by promoting choice, humility, and self-acceptance. These principles define my unique approach to making a difference.
View
Photo of Taylor Mackewicz, Mental Health Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Taylor Mackewicz
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11238
It can be challenging to go through the stages of therapy, but the goal is that you leave the session exhaling with a smile that you took a step towards supporting yourself, that you made yourself a priority, and are on your way to tackling life’s stressors. We can work together to face the struggles that brought you to therapy and find solutions that help you feel inspired and empowered. I have spent much time doing crisis intervention and trauma therapy work. I am also passionate about working with grief/bereavement clients and have recently developed an interest in working with self-esteem building in client sessions.
It can be challenging to go through the stages of therapy, but the goal is that you leave the session exhaling with a smile that you took a step towards supporting yourself, that you made yourself a priority, and are on your way to tackling life’s stressors. We can work together to face the struggles that brought you to therapy and find solutions that help you feel inspired and empowered. I have spent much time doing crisis intervention and trauma therapy work. I am also passionate about working with grief/bereavement clients and have recently developed an interest in working with self-esteem building in client sessions.
(347) 202-1162 View (347) 202-1162

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

3,000+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Brooklyn, NY who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
77% Self Esteem
71% Trauma and PTSD
69% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
66% Cigna and Evernorth
65% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Brooklyn, NY see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
19% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Brooklyn?

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.