Therapists in Shelburne, VT

Photo of Sawyer LeCompte, Counselor in Shelburne, VT
Sawyer LeCompte
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Shelburne, VT 05482
I create a trusting, safe, and fulfilling bond with each client. From there, I follow your lead as we establish goals tailored to your challenges while slowly making strides towards a happier, more fulfilling, and healthier lifestyle. If you are someone that is interested in making changes for the better, while in a casual environment, then we are a good match!
I create a trusting, safe, and fulfilling bond with each client. From there, I follow your lead as we establish goals tailored to your challenges while slowly making strides towards a happier, more fulfilling, and healthier lifestyle. If you are someone that is interested in making changes for the better, while in a casual environment, then we are a good match!
(802) 613-0154 View (802) 613-0154
Photo of Barbara Boutsikaris, Counselor in Shelburne, VT
Barbara Boutsikaris
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shelburne, VT 05482
Waitlist for new clients
For over three decades I have counseled individuals, couples and families. I love my work. I am a Vermont Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Supervisor, Consultant, Adjunct Professor, Keynote/Workshop Presenter and Non-Denominational Minister. Informed by Family Systems Theory, Relational Life Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I will stay curious and interested in your work, give you my undivided attention, communicate understanding, witness your feelings, challenge your stressful beliefs, provide direction and support, and believe in your ability to think and act in new ways.
For over three decades I have counseled individuals, couples and families. I love my work. I am a Vermont Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Supervisor, Consultant, Adjunct Professor, Keynote/Workshop Presenter and Non-Denominational Minister. Informed by Family Systems Theory, Relational Life Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I will stay curious and interested in your work, give you my undivided attention, communicate understanding, witness your feelings, challenge your stressful beliefs, provide direction and support, and believe in your ability to think and act in new ways.
(802) 490-3890 View (802) 490-3890
Photo of Rebecca Boedges, Counselor in Shelburne, VT
Rebecca Boedges
Counselor, MA, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Shelburne, VT 05482  (Online Only)
Feeling stuck? Wondering how you got to where you are in life? Relationship issues? Overwhelmed? Sad? Wanting to make a change but don't know where to begin? These are often the concerns my clients bring into therapy. Through our work together, we find the way forward; no issue is too big or too small. Counseling can help and contrary to popular belief, it can be fun and healing at the same time!
Feeling stuck? Wondering how you got to where you are in life? Relationship issues? Overwhelmed? Sad? Wanting to make a change but don't know where to begin? These are often the concerns my clients bring into therapy. Through our work together, we find the way forward; no issue is too big or too small. Counseling can help and contrary to popular belief, it can be fun and healing at the same time!
(802) 239-4814 View (802) 239-4814
Photo of Alan Rawls, Registered Psychotherapist in Shelburne, VT
Alan Rawls
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shelburne, VT 05482
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals, couples, and families who wish for some kind of change in their lives. Common therapeutic goals for the people I work with include, a desire for increased closeness with family and friends, the ability to experience feelings more clearly, a stronger sense of self-worth, and more effective communication within families. People often wish to develop the ability to tolerate individual and collective pain, without doing themselves and each other harm. Most are seeking compassion and understanding. My commitment is to offering that compassion, and to supporting people in achieving their own understanding.
I work with individuals, couples, and families who wish for some kind of change in their lives. Common therapeutic goals for the people I work with include, a desire for increased closeness with family and friends, the ability to experience feelings more clearly, a stronger sense of self-worth, and more effective communication within families. People often wish to develop the ability to tolerate individual and collective pain, without doing themselves and each other harm. Most are seeking compassion and understanding. My commitment is to offering that compassion, and to supporting people in achieving their own understanding.
(802) 327-7732 View (802) 327-7732
Photo of Jack Wildwood, Pre-Licensed Professional in Shelburne, VT
Jack Wildwood
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shelburne, VT 05482
Individuals of all gender, sexual, and racial identities are welcome at my practice! I believe in the importance of providing a safe and affirming space for individuals to feel curious about and explore themselves, their experiences, and their relationships. I also hope to encourage folks to feel curious about what they are currently holding onto that no longer serves them. I always hope to act as a fellow traveler with folks on their journeys to find and create meaning. I also believe in the importance of empowerment and a positive therapeutic relationship.
Individuals of all gender, sexual, and racial identities are welcome at my practice! I believe in the importance of providing a safe and affirming space for individuals to feel curious about and explore themselves, their experiences, and their relationships. I also hope to encourage folks to feel curious about what they are currently holding onto that no longer serves them. I always hope to act as a fellow traveler with folks on their journeys to find and create meaning. I also believe in the importance of empowerment and a positive therapeutic relationship.
(833) 444-7088 View (833) 444-7088
Photo of Erica Sacco, Pre-Licensed Professional in Shelburne, VT
Erica Sacco
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Shelburne, VT 05482
Hello and welcome to Erica Sacco Counseling, LLC. I am a pre-licensed psychotherapist, offering in-office and telehealth sessions to clients in the Chittenden County area. I have a passion for helping others to develop new skills and perspectives to become confident, happy, and empowered individuals. I believe the root source of any change comes from feeling inspired, secure and confident in yourself, your relationships and your surroundings. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions in order to foster personal growth and healing.
Hello and welcome to Erica Sacco Counseling, LLC. I am a pre-licensed psychotherapist, offering in-office and telehealth sessions to clients in the Chittenden County area. I have a passion for helping others to develop new skills and perspectives to become confident, happy, and empowered individuals. I believe the root source of any change comes from feeling inspired, secure and confident in yourself, your relationships and your surroundings. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions in order to foster personal growth and healing.
(802) 432-2677 View (802) 432-2677
Photo of Sarah Yzkanin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Shelburne, VT
Sarah Yzkanin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shelburne, VT 05482  (Online Only)
I believe that change happens with hope, expectation and motivation; hope that things can improve, expectation that therapy can help and the motivation to do things differently. Like the moonflower that blooms in the darkness, at Moonflower Counseling LLC, I believe that people can emerge and blossom from dark times. My sessions are offered solely online to provide you with the opportunity to engage in therapy wherever is comfortable, private and convenient for you. I work to identify what matters most to my clients and to create a positive, warm, unassuming and caring clinical environment for clients to thrive best in.
I believe that change happens with hope, expectation and motivation; hope that things can improve, expectation that therapy can help and the motivation to do things differently. Like the moonflower that blooms in the darkness, at Moonflower Counseling LLC, I believe that people can emerge and blossom from dark times. My sessions are offered solely online to provide you with the opportunity to engage in therapy wherever is comfortable, private and convenient for you. I work to identify what matters most to my clients and to create a positive, warm, unassuming and caring clinical environment for clients to thrive best in.
(802) 625-6586 View (802) 625-6586
Photo of Gillian Clay Ehrich, Registered Psychotherapist in Shelburne, VT
Gillian Clay Ehrich
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CHT
Verified Verified
Shelburne, VT 05482
My therapy practice is a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to lean in toward themselves and make contact with what is present at this time in their lives. I use tools from body-centered psychotherapy, life coaching, meditation, and mindfulness to enhance self- awareness, self-compassion, forgiveness, and healing. I believe that we each hold within a map of our own journey along with answers to our questions and inquiries. I view my role as a therapist to be a mirror, reflecting back your wisdom. I offer tools that help build confidence and resilience as you begin to navigate your life from a place of deep inner knowing.
My therapy practice is a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to lean in toward themselves and make contact with what is present at this time in their lives. I use tools from body-centered psychotherapy, life coaching, meditation, and mindfulness to enhance self- awareness, self-compassion, forgiveness, and healing. I believe that we each hold within a map of our own journey along with answers to our questions and inquiries. I view my role as a therapist to be a mirror, reflecting back your wisdom. I offer tools that help build confidence and resilience as you begin to navigate your life from a place of deep inner knowing.
(802) 247-7985 View (802) 247-7985
Photo of Kate Longmaid, Psychologist in Shelburne, VT
Kate Longmaid
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Shelburne, VT 05482  (Online Only)
As a doctoral-level psychologist, certified creativity coach, and visual artist, I bring a unique blend of skills and over 25 years of experience helping individuals create more vibrant and fulfilling lives. By cultivating awareness and getting to know ourselves deeply, we are freed up to live the life we choose rather than being held hostage to depression, anxiety, fear, and old patterns that no longer serve us. Working from an integrative, collaborative orientation, I support clients in translating insight into action to make positive changes in their lives and relationships.
As a doctoral-level psychologist, certified creativity coach, and visual artist, I bring a unique blend of skills and over 25 years of experience helping individuals create more vibrant and fulfilling lives. By cultivating awareness and getting to know ourselves deeply, we are freed up to live the life we choose rather than being held hostage to depression, anxiety, fear, and old patterns that no longer serve us. Working from an integrative, collaborative orientation, I support clients in translating insight into action to make positive changes in their lives and relationships.
(802) 222-0020 View (802) 222-0020
Photo of Amanda Spencer Counseling And Clinical Supervision, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shelburne, VT
Amanda Spencer Counseling And Clinical Supervision
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Shelburne, VT 05482  (Online Only)
My style is collaborative and compassionate; My clients tell me that I am comfortable to be with, and easy to talk to. I work with children and adults to help them prioritize their values, identify and integrate feelings/emotions, support positive self-concept, reduce stress and worry, and work towards the client's personal, academic, relationship, wellbeing, and social-emotional goals. My work is eclectic and grounded in theory - including, Humanistic (“Whole Child’, "Whole Self"), and Psycho-dynamic (with attention to the interpersonal relationship of client and therapist as a model for meaning-making and self-reflection.).
My style is collaborative and compassionate; My clients tell me that I am comfortable to be with, and easy to talk to. I work with children and adults to help them prioritize their values, identify and integrate feelings/emotions, support positive self-concept, reduce stress and worry, and work towards the client's personal, academic, relationship, wellbeing, and social-emotional goals. My work is eclectic and grounded in theory - including, Humanistic (“Whole Child’, "Whole Self"), and Psycho-dynamic (with attention to the interpersonal relationship of client and therapist as a model for meaning-making and self-reflection.).
(802) 424-8263 View (802) 424-8263
Photo of Michael C. Hunter, Counselor in Shelburne, VT
Michael C. Hunter
Counselor, LCMHC, LADC
Verified Verified
Shelburne, VT 05482
Adolescence and young adulthood is a difficult time of transformation and change for both young people and their families. The process of identity formation and separation/individuation from the family system can sometimes involve conflict and relational strain for all members of the family. Acting out behaviors, both externally (aggression, disrespect, substance use) and internally (withdrawal, isolation, self harm) can be unhealthy ways of expressing that individuality. Increased rigidity, control and consequence sometimes makes things worse. It's a complicated time with complicated solutions that are different for everyone.
Adolescence and young adulthood is a difficult time of transformation and change for both young people and their families. The process of identity formation and separation/individuation from the family system can sometimes involve conflict and relational strain for all members of the family. Acting out behaviors, both externally (aggression, disrespect, substance use) and internally (withdrawal, isolation, self harm) can be unhealthy ways of expressing that individuality. Increased rigidity, control and consequence sometimes makes things worse. It's a complicated time with complicated solutions that are different for everyone.
(802) 500-7081 View (802) 500-7081
Photo of Kristen Johnson Calcagni, Counselor in Shelburne, VT
Kristen Johnson Calcagni
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Shelburne, VT 05482
Hello and welcome to Kristen Johnson Counseling and Consulting, LLC. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor offering in-office sessions for vaccinated individuals and telehealth visits. I believe that relationships are at the heart of therapeutic growth. I strive to create an environment that is warm, accepting and safe so that honest reflection, insight and change can occur. Through our relationship you will explore your thoughts and emotions, gain further self-awareness and develop strategies to move through your world with greater ease.
Hello and welcome to Kristen Johnson Counseling and Consulting, LLC. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor offering in-office sessions for vaccinated individuals and telehealth visits. I believe that relationships are at the heart of therapeutic growth. I strive to create an environment that is warm, accepting and safe so that honest reflection, insight and change can occur. Through our relationship you will explore your thoughts and emotions, gain further self-awareness and develop strategies to move through your world with greater ease.
(802) 242-8310 View (802) 242-8310
Photo of Rae Anne Barry, Psychologist in Shelburne, VT
Rae Anne Barry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Shelburne, VT 05482
Waitlist for new clients
I work with a person to identify their concerns , to help them solve their presenting difficulty's. People are often surprised that they can solve a problem much more quickly than they expected. I tailor my approach to the needs of the individual.
I work with a person to identify their concerns , to help them solve their presenting difficulty's. People are often surprised that they can solve a problem much more quickly than they expected. I tailor my approach to the needs of the individual.
(802) 526-6130 View (802) 526-6130
Photo of Kerri Macon, Pre-Licensed Professional in Shelburne, VT
Kerri Macon
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CMHC
Verified Verified
Shelburne, VT 05482  (Online Only)
There are times in our lives when our repetitive and unexamined emotional experiences can cloud our ability to see our lives with clarity. Through a supportive and strong counseling relationship, we can gain valuable insights into our hearts and minds to make meaningful changes in our actions, thoughts, and behaviors. Through these changes, we can relieve suffering within ourselves and in our relationships and uncover the untapped joy in life. If you are suffering, I invite you to reach out. I would be honored to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to support your journey through the challenges you face.
There are times in our lives when our repetitive and unexamined emotional experiences can cloud our ability to see our lives with clarity. Through a supportive and strong counseling relationship, we can gain valuable insights into our hearts and minds to make meaningful changes in our actions, thoughts, and behaviors. Through these changes, we can relieve suffering within ourselves and in our relationships and uncover the untapped joy in life. If you are suffering, I invite you to reach out. I would be honored to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to support your journey through the challenges you face.
(802) 402-4892 View (802) 402-4892
Photo of Ashley Holmes, Counselor in Shelburne, VT
Ashley Holmes
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Shelburne, VT 05482  (Online Only)
We all arrive on this Earth with a plan. Sometimes the plan gets muddled, confusing and scary. Sometimes our labeling of these experiences as “bad” can create stagnation in growth and deny us the insight that we need to stretch into our higher versions of self. When we become aware of this, choice in growth is present. Growth is constant and never ending, especially during challenging times/barriers. However, we only grow when we embrace and feel curious about the uncomfortability. Making space for curiosity allows for integration of wisdom brought by the lessons in our suffering.
We all arrive on this Earth with a plan. Sometimes the plan gets muddled, confusing and scary. Sometimes our labeling of these experiences as “bad” can create stagnation in growth and deny us the insight that we need to stretch into our higher versions of self. When we become aware of this, choice in growth is present. Growth is constant and never ending, especially during challenging times/barriers. However, we only grow when we embrace and feel curious about the uncomfortability. Making space for curiosity allows for integration of wisdom brought by the lessons in our suffering.
(802) 200-2531 View (802) 200-2531
Photo of Matt Tucker, Pre-Licensed Professional in Shelburne, VT
Matt Tucker
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Shelburne, VT 05482
Everyone has their own path in life and their own meanings to make from their experiences. I believe therapy is a place to uncover your inherent capacity for healing and explore what is authentic and meaningful for you. Together, we will explore your patterns of relationship with others and create new ways of being. Through the therapeutic relationship, you get to explore all parts of yourself and find your agency as a human in this world. For couples, we will work on communicating honestly and explore the defenses and dynamics that impact your ability to work together.
Everyone has their own path in life and their own meanings to make from their experiences. I believe therapy is a place to uncover your inherent capacity for healing and explore what is authentic and meaningful for you. Together, we will explore your patterns of relationship with others and create new ways of being. Through the therapeutic relationship, you get to explore all parts of yourself and find your agency as a human in this world. For couples, we will work on communicating honestly and explore the defenses and dynamics that impact your ability to work together.
(802) 242-8784 View (802) 242-8784
Photo of Lisa Myers Analyst and Art Therapist, Counselor in Shelburne, VT
Lisa Myers Analyst and Art Therapist
Counselor, MPS, LCAT, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shelburne, VT 05482
I have limited openings for new patients, clinical supervision and parent consults. My training and experience as an art therapist and in psychoanalysis forms the premise of my work. It is deep work where we will explore together the meaning of your symptoms and attempt to understand and resolve them so that you are able to live more freely and with intention. I can help you gain new insights into the unconscious parts of the disturbances in your life that prove to be irresolvable without psychotherapy.
I have limited openings for new patients, clinical supervision and parent consults. My training and experience as an art therapist and in psychoanalysis forms the premise of my work. It is deep work where we will explore together the meaning of your symptoms and attempt to understand and resolve them so that you are able to live more freely and with intention. I can help you gain new insights into the unconscious parts of the disturbances in your life that prove to be irresolvable without psychotherapy.
(802) 448-1146 View (802) 448-1146
Photo of Chelsea Ann Hoy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shelburne, VT
Chelsea Ann Hoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MTS, LICSW
Verified Verified
Shelburne, VT 05482
I believe in working with clients to develop a treatment plan specific to their needs. I take the client-therapist relationship seriously and seek to help one find solace to the best of my ability. I also take using evidence based methods of intervention seriously. I use psycho-education so as to empower clients to take charge of their growth. I cherish creativity in the process of discerning self-care interventions that work for clients, as well.
I believe in working with clients to develop a treatment plan specific to their needs. I take the client-therapist relationship seriously and seek to help one find solace to the best of my ability. I also take using evidence based methods of intervention seriously. I use psycho-education so as to empower clients to take charge of their growth. I cherish creativity in the process of discerning self-care interventions that work for clients, as well.
(802) 255-8385 View (802) 255-8385
Photo of Megan C Holleran, Counselor in Shelburne, VT
Megan C Holleran
Counselor, LCMHC, LADC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Shelburne, VT 05482  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
You feel stuck and you are so tired of being in this place. You want the negative thoughts and feelings to go away but don’t know how. I offer a safe and compassionate space where you can explore and change habits that no longer serve you as well as accept what cannot be changed. You will gain a deeper understanding of yourself, including your strengths, patterns and ways to achieve your goals. I will provide the motivation, knowledge and skills, as we work in partnership to address your needs.
You feel stuck and you are so tired of being in this place. You want the negative thoughts and feelings to go away but don’t know how. I offer a safe and compassionate space where you can explore and change habits that no longer serve you as well as accept what cannot be changed. You will gain a deeper understanding of yourself, including your strengths, patterns and ways to achieve your goals. I will provide the motivation, knowledge and skills, as we work in partnership to address your needs.
(802) 456-4291 View (802) 456-4291
Photo of Jessica M Donnelly, Psychologist in Shelburne, VT
Jessica M Donnelly
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Shelburne, VT 05482  (Online Only)
My therapy practice hopes to provide a healing and supportive space for you. Within this space, we can look at what is happening in your life. Life sometimes presents many challenges. Counseling is a great way to gain self awareness, promoting growth and support to navigate life as a human being. Through self growth we are able to learn acceptance about ourselves and the situations around us. Or make changes to things we want to be different. Understanding our own humanity provides a helpful perspective. My hope is to support you to experience your own life in the way that you are wanting to.
My therapy practice hopes to provide a healing and supportive space for you. Within this space, we can look at what is happening in your life. Life sometimes presents many challenges. Counseling is a great way to gain self awareness, promoting growth and support to navigate life as a human being. Through self growth we are able to learn acceptance about ourselves and the situations around us. Or make changes to things we want to be different. Understanding our own humanity provides a helpful perspective. My hope is to support you to experience your own life in the way that you are wanting to.
(802) 735-2275 View (802) 735-2275

See more therapy options for Shelburne

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Shelburne, VT

60+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in Shelburne, VT who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
90% Relationship Issues
87% Depression
78% Self Esteem
75% Grief
67% Stress
64% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% BlueCross and BlueShield
69% Medicaid
58% MVP Health Care

How Therapists in Shelburne, VT see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
27% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Shelburne?

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.