Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

View neighborhoods in Brooklyn
Photo of Ashley N Leeds, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Ashley N Leeds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I am attuned to the stressors of adolescents and young adults in these uncertain and frightening times. I am aware of what goes on in schools, at work, in the community and at home, and I can assist folks in unpacking trauma, establishing health patterns, and creating positive relationships with the self and with others. Many don't know exactly what brings them to therapy, but something doesn't feel right and they want to know why or make changes. Change is inevitable, and so very scary, particularly for young people. Folks want to feel heard, seen, and like they matter and that their struggles are real and valid.
I am attuned to the stressors of adolescents and young adults in these uncertain and frightening times. I am aware of what goes on in schools, at work, in the community and at home, and I can assist folks in unpacking trauma, establishing health patterns, and creating positive relationships with the self and with others. Many don't know exactly what brings them to therapy, but something doesn't feel right and they want to know why or make changes. Change is inevitable, and so very scary, particularly for young people. Folks want to feel heard, seen, and like they matter and that their struggles are real and valid.
(646) 798-2394 View (646) 798-2394
Photo of Jia Yi Shao in Brooklyn, NY
Jia Yi Shao
MHC-LP, MA, EdM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11249
Embracing the Tao, or the Way, taught me the healing power that comes from navigating life's continuous flow with grace and fluidity. By collaboratively healing and opening the channel between the mind and feeling world, we will work together to prepare your whole being for this transformative journey. I'm Shao, a bilingual therapist with an international and multicultural background. I am passionate about helping you work through any blockages that may prevent you from experiencing freedom, ease, and deeper meaning in your life. Together, we can celebrate your courage as you choose your own unique path.
Embracing the Tao, or the Way, taught me the healing power that comes from navigating life's continuous flow with grace and fluidity. By collaboratively healing and opening the channel between the mind and feeling world, we will work together to prepare your whole being for this transformative journey. I'm Shao, a bilingual therapist with an international and multicultural background. I am passionate about helping you work through any blockages that may prevent you from experiencing freedom, ease, and deeper meaning in your life. Together, we can celebrate your courage as you choose your own unique path.
(347) 801-0951 View (347) 801-0951
Photo of Eric Stone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Eric Stone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Eric has 18 years experience combining Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Positive Psychology to young adults and artists in the performing and literary arts. He specializes in the "stuck points" that hinder growth and development. His goal is to guide you through your areas of pain, help you overcome feelings of unworthiness, shame, jealousy, artistic blockages, anxiety, and thrive during times of uncertainty and doubt. Eric appreciates and understands the unique challenges and subtle emotional intricacies of the mind/soul of the artist. Eric works from a collaborative, strengths-based, empowerment modality.
Eric has 18 years experience combining Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Positive Psychology to young adults and artists in the performing and literary arts. He specializes in the "stuck points" that hinder growth and development. His goal is to guide you through your areas of pain, help you overcome feelings of unworthiness, shame, jealousy, artistic blockages, anxiety, and thrive during times of uncertainty and doubt. Eric appreciates and understands the unique challenges and subtle emotional intricacies of the mind/soul of the artist. Eric works from a collaborative, strengths-based, empowerment modality.
(917) 920-6818 View (917) 920-6818
Photo of Cora Goldfarb, Licensed Psychoanalyst in Brooklyn, NY
Cora Goldfarb
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LCAT, LP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11242
Through both my psychoanalytic training and my training as a creative arts therapist, I treat each person as an individual and we come up with a treatment plan together. My patients are often dealing with depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, identity formation, trauma, and attachment issues. My view of therapy is a collaborative process where we work together to help you increase your self-esteem, have a greater understanding of yourself, and be able to have healthy and long-lasting friendships and romantic relationships.
Through both my psychoanalytic training and my training as a creative arts therapist, I treat each person as an individual and we come up with a treatment plan together. My patients are often dealing with depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, identity formation, trauma, and attachment issues. My view of therapy is a collaborative process where we work together to help you increase your self-esteem, have a greater understanding of yourself, and be able to have healthy and long-lasting friendships and romantic relationships.
(347) 875-6765 View (347) 875-6765
Photo of Alissa Koloff, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Alissa Koloff
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11209  (Online Only)
If you feel stuck, lonely, powerless, or just curious and motivated for change, there might be no better time than now to feel seen, heard and challenged to grow. Together, we will work to unpack past hurt, cope with present day worries or challenges, and cultivate future success in your personal and professional lives.
If you feel stuck, lonely, powerless, or just curious and motivated for change, there might be no better time than now to feel seen, heard and challenged to grow. Together, we will work to unpack past hurt, cope with present day worries or challenges, and cultivate future success in your personal and professional lives.
(347) 252-9904 View (347) 252-9904
Photo of Elaine G. Dolan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Elaine G. Dolan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11209
Therapy is an opportunity for you to work on developing how "you want the next chapter of your life to read". I have over twenty years of experience in working with people to help them work through many different issues in their lives, both from their past and/or their present. It is very important to understand the stress that a person is experiencing and develop positive skills to decrease and manage the stress. I work with individuals to create a positive plan to master these skills.
Therapy is an opportunity for you to work on developing how "you want the next chapter of your life to read". I have over twenty years of experience in working with people to help them work through many different issues in their lives, both from their past and/or their present. It is very important to understand the stress that a person is experiencing and develop positive skills to decrease and manage the stress. I work with individuals to create a positive plan to master these skills.
(718) 305-4837 View (718) 305-4837
Photo of Michelle Blanco - Jamron Counseling, Mental Health Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Michelle Blanco - Jamron Counseling
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11221
My passion has always been helping individuals and families through challenging times. I offer a safe space for participants to express themselves, explore concerns and learn new ways to cope with stressors. I love to look for everyone’s strengths and incorporate that in healing. I'm an ally to LGBTQ+ community and I am sensitive to neurodiversity. I offer session in both English and Spanish to children, adults, families and couples. Ofrezco sesiones en español.
My passion has always been helping individuals and families through challenging times. I offer a safe space for participants to express themselves, explore concerns and learn new ways to cope with stressors. I love to look for everyone’s strengths and incorporate that in healing. I'm an ally to LGBTQ+ community and I am sensitive to neurodiversity. I offer session in both English and Spanish to children, adults, families and couples. Ofrezco sesiones en español.
(929) 207-6048 View (929) 207-6048
Photo of Sanjana Pawath @ Connect To Growth, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brooklyn, NY
Sanjana Pawath @ Connect To Growth
Pre-Licensed Professional, MCH-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
As a passionate advocate for emotional well-being and resilience, my journey as a mental health therapist is not merely a career choice but a profound commitment to fostering healing, understanding and empowerment. I enjoy working with a large spectrum of patients and I strongly believe one of the bravest things you can do is to choose to make a change in your life. I am here to help individuals, couples, international students, and families coming from a multicultural background to feel the connection with themselves and resonate who they are underneath life’s transition.
As a passionate advocate for emotional well-being and resilience, my journey as a mental health therapist is not merely a career choice but a profound commitment to fostering healing, understanding and empowerment. I enjoy working with a large spectrum of patients and I strongly believe one of the bravest things you can do is to choose to make a change in your life. I am here to help individuals, couples, international students, and families coming from a multicultural background to feel the connection with themselves and resonate who they are underneath life’s transition.
(929) 335-9341 View (929) 335-9341
Photo of Eve Udesky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Eve Udesky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Stress, sadness, grief, disappointment and self-doubt: as humans we all face these painful experiences. But when the feelings become too big to manage, disruptive to relationships and daily life, you don’t have to struggle with them on your own. Maybe you’ve tried to ignore or suppress uncomfortable thoughts, but that can actually make things worse, leading to anxiety and depression. I aim to help clients build the capacity to explore, tolerate and navigate distress, and to learn to move through difficult moments with more ease. We can’t make negative emotions disappear, but we can work together to lessen their impact on your life.
Stress, sadness, grief, disappointment and self-doubt: as humans we all face these painful experiences. But when the feelings become too big to manage, disruptive to relationships and daily life, you don’t have to struggle with them on your own. Maybe you’ve tried to ignore or suppress uncomfortable thoughts, but that can actually make things worse, leading to anxiety and depression. I aim to help clients build the capacity to explore, tolerate and navigate distress, and to learn to move through difficult moments with more ease. We can’t make negative emotions disappear, but we can work together to lessen their impact on your life.
(646) 462-4333 View (646) 462-4333
Photo of Sefedin S. Rakipi, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Sefedin S. Rakipi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I work with clients who suffer from range of emotional problems, including difficulties with anger management, depression, anxiety, interpersonal, and family issues. I work with couples, families, children, and adult individuals. I use individual, group, and family therapy as treatment modalities. I view psychotherapy as a process whereby a client is assisted to explore, understand, and constructs his/her past experiences in more realistic and positive ways to help strengthen one's self-esteem. This process is achieved by creating a working environment of trust, acceptance and non judgment that fosters self-acceptance and emotional growth.
I work with clients who suffer from range of emotional problems, including difficulties with anger management, depression, anxiety, interpersonal, and family issues. I work with couples, families, children, and adult individuals. I use individual, group, and family therapy as treatment modalities. I view psychotherapy as a process whereby a client is assisted to explore, understand, and constructs his/her past experiences in more realistic and positive ways to help strengthen one's self-esteem. This process is achieved by creating a working environment of trust, acceptance and non judgment that fosters self-acceptance and emotional growth.
(718) 612-7807 View (718) 612-7807
Photo of Fort Greene Therapy, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Fort Greene Therapy
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11216  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I know that making the decision to seek a therapist is often a difficult one so I make sure that you have a safe, comforting, and professional place to discuss intimate details of your life with a trained therapist. I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy, rather I see it as collaborative; you and I will work together to help you achieve more peace and happiness in your life.
I know that making the decision to seek a therapist is often a difficult one so I make sure that you have a safe, comforting, and professional place to discuss intimate details of your life with a trained therapist. I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy, rather I see it as collaborative; you and I will work together to help you achieve more peace and happiness in your life.
View
Photo of Zhanna Berman in Brooklyn, NY
Zhanna Berman
PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
I am a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in both Advanced Family Health (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP-BC), originally from NJ and have over 6 years of extensive experience in multiple inpatient and outpatient facilities. I am passionate about whole-body wellness and preventative care. I listen to and greatly value what you have to say; after all, you are the expert about yourself. Simply put, I care! I believe that this approach is key to your trust in me, to work together to get you the life that you want and deserve.
I am a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in both Advanced Family Health (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health (PMHNP-BC), originally from NJ and have over 6 years of extensive experience in multiple inpatient and outpatient facilities. I am passionate about whole-body wellness and preventative care. I listen to and greatly value what you have to say; after all, you are the expert about yourself. Simply put, I care! I believe that this approach is key to your trust in me, to work together to get you the life that you want and deserve.
(347) 754-3548 View (347) 754-3548
Photo of Heidi Schaul-Yoder, Licensed Psychoanalyst in Brooklyn, NY
Heidi Schaul-Yoder
Licensed Psychoanalyst, MM, LP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11222
Are you feeling like no matter how hard you try, there always seems to be something holding you back from your most joyful, peaceful and authentic life? I believe that your pain and struggle isn’t a problem to be solved, but actually contains within it the exact wisdom you need to reach your highest potential. As your therapist, I’m interested in helping you access that wisdom - in gently getting to the root of what has been missing for you on the level of mind, body, and spirit. I firmly believe that we’re all wired to heal, and that it is entirely possible to resolve the core wounds and patterns that are holding you back.
Are you feeling like no matter how hard you try, there always seems to be something holding you back from your most joyful, peaceful and authentic life? I believe that your pain and struggle isn’t a problem to be solved, but actually contains within it the exact wisdom you need to reach your highest potential. As your therapist, I’m interested in helping you access that wisdom - in gently getting to the root of what has been missing for you on the level of mind, body, and spirit. I firmly believe that we’re all wired to heal, and that it is entirely possible to resolve the core wounds and patterns that are holding you back.
(914) 529-6584 View (914) 529-6584
Photo of Jenny Goldberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Jenny Goldberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11218  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a clinical social worker working with adults. I view therapy as a collaborative process where together we can create new possibilities for the way you see yourself and the way you live. I’m interested in exploring how larger cultural and social systems have dominated the stories we tell about ourselves and how we can challenge those together so that you can feel more empowered in your life. I'm open to working on a short-term or long-term basis, whatever works best for you.
I am a clinical social worker working with adults. I view therapy as a collaborative process where together we can create new possibilities for the way you see yourself and the way you live. I’m interested in exploring how larger cultural and social systems have dominated the stories we tell about ourselves and how we can challenge those together so that you can feel more empowered in your life. I'm open to working on a short-term or long-term basis, whatever works best for you.
(929) 368-5429 View (929) 368-5429
Photo of Kristen Duffy, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brooklyn, NY
Kristen Duffy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
I am a dedicated mental health counselor who strives to create a safe space for people who seek mental health support. My expertise is with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, stress, and improving self-esteem and body-image concerns. I understand how important healthy communication and connection are for navigating the daily challenges in life. My goal is to motivate others and provide the support necessary to empower the people that I meet with. Together we will develop effective strategies to overcome life’s obstacles.
I am a dedicated mental health counselor who strives to create a safe space for people who seek mental health support. My expertise is with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, stress, and improving self-esteem and body-image concerns. I understand how important healthy communication and connection are for navigating the daily challenges in life. My goal is to motivate others and provide the support necessary to empower the people that I meet with. Together we will develop effective strategies to overcome life’s obstacles.
(914) 483-3097 View (914) 483-3097
Eve Blake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11238
When you look for a therapist, you want someone you trust. Trust is the most important aspect of a good client/therapist match. It's a good idea to come in for a few sessions and get a feeling for the therapist, and I welcome you to do so. After you feel comfortable,you can start identifying the blocks that prevent you from living the best life you can live. I've helped people with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, histories of abuse, grief and loss, and people who've been hospitalized to break through their feelings of shame.
When you look for a therapist, you want someone you trust. Trust is the most important aspect of a good client/therapist match. It's a good idea to come in for a few sessions and get a feeling for the therapist, and I welcome you to do so. After you feel comfortable,you can start identifying the blocks that prevent you from living the best life you can live. I've helped people with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, histories of abuse, grief and loss, and people who've been hospitalized to break through their feelings of shame.
(516) 272-4686 View (516) 272-4686
Photo of Melanie R. Nevis, Creative Arts Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Melanie R. Nevis
Creative Arts Therapist, MA, LCAT, ACC
Not Verified Not Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11238  (Online Only)
Welcome! I know that finding the right therapist or coach can feel confusing or overwhelming. I offer a safe and supportive environment for you to explore your challenges and move towards fully embracing yourself and living the life you desire. My approach brings together Gestalt, Mind-Body Somatic approaches, and over 30 years of therapeutic work with children and adults. I have a passion and expertise for helping HIGHLY SENSITIVE PEOPLE understand and embrace both the gifts and challenges of their heightened receptivity, that can lead to overwhelm, overstimulation, and other challenges.
Welcome! I know that finding the right therapist or coach can feel confusing or overwhelming. I offer a safe and supportive environment for you to explore your challenges and move towards fully embracing yourself and living the life you desire. My approach brings together Gestalt, Mind-Body Somatic approaches, and over 30 years of therapeutic work with children and adults. I have a passion and expertise for helping HIGHLY SENSITIVE PEOPLE understand and embrace both the gifts and challenges of their heightened receptivity, that can lead to overwhelm, overstimulation, and other challenges.
(347) 407-8692 View (347) 407-8692
Photo of Stephenie Perez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Stephenie Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
I have five years of experience providing psychotherapy to the underserved population. My therapy style is strength and motivation focused. I believe that there is no hierarchy in therapy. We are just two beings coming together to work out a difficulty in your life. I am here to guide and provide you with insight and tools you need and sometimes didn’t know you had, to work through whatever it is you are struggling with.
I have five years of experience providing psychotherapy to the underserved population. My therapy style is strength and motivation focused. I believe that there is no hierarchy in therapy. We are just two beings coming together to work out a difficulty in your life. I am here to guide and provide you with insight and tools you need and sometimes didn’t know you had, to work through whatever it is you are struggling with.
(646) 762-0415 View (646) 762-0415
Photo of Moneke Williams, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brooklyn, NY
Moneke Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11212  (Online Only)
With an infusion of humor and genuine warmth, I offer care that is direct, person-centered, and liberatory. By fostering a collaborative, empowering, anti-oppressive atmosphere, I actively support you as you navigate life's challenges while also celebrating your unique strengths. I encourage open communication, foster active self-discovery, and facilitate goal-setting to empower you on your personal journey toward growth, resilience, and overall well-being.
With an infusion of humor and genuine warmth, I offer care that is direct, person-centered, and liberatory. By fostering a collaborative, empowering, anti-oppressive atmosphere, I actively support you as you navigate life's challenges while also celebrating your unique strengths. I encourage open communication, foster active self-discovery, and facilitate goal-setting to empower you on your personal journey toward growth, resilience, and overall well-being.
(929) 295-5703 View (929) 295-5703
Photo of Catherine M Portacio, Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Catherine M Portacio
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11234  (Online Only)
Hey there! I am happy to see you've made it. Making the choice in addressing your mental health is the first step to showing up for yourself. I'm sure there have been times where you haven't been able to show up for yourself. Maybe you've been finding yourself feeling too stressed, too worried, too tired, "too" much of many things to feel connected to yourself, to your relationships, or to your work. Whatever you are feeling "too much of", I am prepared to meet you where you're at, accompanied by kindness and warmth.
Hey there! I am happy to see you've made it. Making the choice in addressing your mental health is the first step to showing up for yourself. I'm sure there have been times where you haven't been able to show up for yourself. Maybe you've been finding yourself feeling too stressed, too worried, too tired, "too" much of many things to feel connected to yourself, to your relationships, or to your work. Whatever you are feeling "too much of", I am prepared to meet you where you're at, accompanied by kindness and warmth.
(347) 621-6066 View (347) 621-6066

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

82% Aetna
65% 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.