Therapists in Portsmouth, NH

Photo of Tracy Hutch, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Tracy Hutch
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Does anxiety, depression, fear or anger get in the way of you having the type of life that you want? Do you find yourself wanting to move forward in your life, but your not sure what steps to take. It would be my pleasure to help you to make positive changes in your life that will lead to you feeling more fulfilled.
Does anxiety, depression, fear or anger get in the way of you having the type of life that you want? Do you find yourself wanting to move forward in your life, but your not sure what steps to take. It would be my pleasure to help you to make positive changes in your life that will lead to you feeling more fulfilled.
(603) 697-7279 View (603) 697-7279
Photo of Catherine Watters, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portsmouth, NH
Catherine Watters
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Connection has been found to be the biggest determinant of social, emotional and physical health and well-being. I believe that we are experts of our own lived experiences and seek to connect with clients to help them identify the link between challenging experiences, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and offer strategies to better cope with those situations. My training has centered on a strengths-based, empowering approach with the guiding principles of my practice being one of empathy, compassion, kindness, and respect.
Connection has been found to be the biggest determinant of social, emotional and physical health and well-being. I believe that we are experts of our own lived experiences and seek to connect with clients to help them identify the link between challenging experiences, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and offer strategies to better cope with those situations. My training has centered on a strengths-based, empowering approach with the guiding principles of my practice being one of empathy, compassion, kindness, and respect.
(833) 987-6897 View (833) 987-6897
Photo of Tracie Warner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Tracie Warner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
My practice is currently full, but I'm happy to provide approximate wait time on openings. I have deep appreciation for the strength it takes to reach out for support when life becomes overwhelming, stressful or we find ourselves stuck. Recognizing that we might be in need of support can be difficult, I see it as a bold and courageous endeavor that can lead to a happier and more enriched life. I utilize an eclectic approach in my practice to support my clients with managing a variety of mental health issues, to assist in finding symptom relief, to work towards achieving improved relationships and overall increased life satisfaction.
My practice is currently full, but I'm happy to provide approximate wait time on openings. I have deep appreciation for the strength it takes to reach out for support when life becomes overwhelming, stressful or we find ourselves stuck. Recognizing that we might be in need of support can be difficult, I see it as a bold and courageous endeavor that can lead to a happier and more enriched life. I utilize an eclectic approach in my practice to support my clients with managing a variety of mental health issues, to assist in finding symptom relief, to work towards achieving improved relationships and overall increased life satisfaction.
(603) 392-7907 View (603) 392-7907
Photo of Sheila Jenkins, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Sheila Jenkins
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, MLADC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03802
I provide counseling to individuals on a variety of issues including depression/anxiety,anger management, substance abuse, addiction, compulsive behaviors,and stress management. Counseling sessions are tailored to your goals: either short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing ongoing personal growth. If you are looking for ways to gain a better understanding of yourself, change old behavior patterns, learn new ways to cope with stress then counseling can help you. What you can expect from counseling is compassion, and understanding, new perspectives on negative feelings and behaviors, and strategies for creating positive changes in your life.
I provide counseling to individuals on a variety of issues including depression/anxiety,anger management, substance abuse, addiction, compulsive behaviors,and stress management. Counseling sessions are tailored to your goals: either short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing ongoing personal growth. If you are looking for ways to gain a better understanding of yourself, change old behavior patterns, learn new ways to cope with stress then counseling can help you. What you can expect from counseling is compassion, and understanding, new perspectives on negative feelings and behaviors, and strategies for creating positive changes in your life.
(603) 244-3939 View (603) 244-3939
Photo of Andrea Kelley Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Andrea Kelley Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
If you are here, it’s likely because you are in some state of struggle. Perhaps you are considering therapy for the first time and you are uncertain what to expect. Or maybe you are returning to therapy with a different purpose or goal. In either case, it’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed, uncomfortable, stuck or even defeated. However distressing your struggle may be, I suspect there is also a sense of hope… a feeling or wish that things could be better. That hope is part of your innate human drive to get to a better place even when faced with enormous adversity.
If you are here, it’s likely because you are in some state of struggle. Perhaps you are considering therapy for the first time and you are uncertain what to expect. Or maybe you are returning to therapy with a different purpose or goal. In either case, it’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed, uncomfortable, stuck or even defeated. However distressing your struggle may be, I suspect there is also a sense of hope… a feeling or wish that things could be better. That hope is part of your innate human drive to get to a better place even when faced with enormous adversity.
(833) 442-4896 View (833) 442-4896
Photo of Marieke Kat, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Marieke Kat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
Throughout our lives we are strengthened, not defined, by our experiences. Some experiences are welcomed and enjoyed and others are challenging and even devastating at times. The work for all of us in this life is to learn how to cope with and grow from our experiences while empowering ourselves and others to create more positive ones. We can do this by staying mindful and connected to the strength and stability within us. I believe we have an innate need and ability to connect and feel a sense of unconditional acceptance and this is what therapy can offer.
Throughout our lives we are strengthened, not defined, by our experiences. Some experiences are welcomed and enjoyed and others are challenging and even devastating at times. The work for all of us in this life is to learn how to cope with and grow from our experiences while empowering ourselves and others to create more positive ones. We can do this by staying mindful and connected to the strength and stability within us. I believe we have an innate need and ability to connect and feel a sense of unconditional acceptance and this is what therapy can offer.
(617) 903-8017 View (617) 903-8017
Photo of Seth Wizwer, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Seth Wizwer
Counselor, LCMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
I find that a client is best served when they are listened to, validated, but also challenged to make positive change. That is why I take a cognitive behavioral approach to the counseling I do. Whether the client is a child or adult we all have the ability to learn from the past and make different choices for the future.
I find that a client is best served when they are listened to, validated, but also challenged to make positive change. That is why I take a cognitive behavioral approach to the counseling I do. Whether the client is a child or adult we all have the ability to learn from the past and make different choices for the future.
(603) 244-3370 View (603) 244-3370
Photo of Kelly L Fournier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Kelly L Fournier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
No one person is immune to the trials and tribulations of life ; sometimes a quiet space to explore the ups and downs presented throughout our lifespan can prove helpful in decreasing stress and any unsettled feelings as a result of being overwhelmed - by utilizing therapeutic intervention to address concerns associated with maladaptive coping & overall mental health - the goal is to guide you in living your best life possible!
No one person is immune to the trials and tribulations of life ; sometimes a quiet space to explore the ups and downs presented throughout our lifespan can prove helpful in decreasing stress and any unsettled feelings as a result of being overwhelmed - by utilizing therapeutic intervention to address concerns associated with maladaptive coping & overall mental health - the goal is to guide you in living your best life possible!
(603) 319-4545 View (603) 319-4545
Photo of Melissa Tarbox, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portsmouth, NH
Melissa Tarbox
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Not accepting new clients
Maya Angelou said, “do the best you can until you know better and when you know better, do better.” It's never too late to meet your authentic self & do better. Healing requires surrender, & when we let go of the familiar we make room for something greater. As a Marriage & Family Therapist, I provide a safe & secure space for everyone to peel back layers & explore their inner world so they can heal. I provide insight toward better ways of being human that are in alignment with the true self. We are all unique & deeply gifted human beings, & I strive to empower every person I work with to discover their true unlimited potential.
Maya Angelou said, “do the best you can until you know better and when you know better, do better.” It's never too late to meet your authentic self & do better. Healing requires surrender, & when we let go of the familiar we make room for something greater. As a Marriage & Family Therapist, I provide a safe & secure space for everyone to peel back layers & explore their inner world so they can heal. I provide insight toward better ways of being human that are in alignment with the true self. We are all unique & deeply gifted human beings, & I strive to empower every person I work with to discover their true unlimited potential.
(603) 945-5481 View (603) 945-5481
Photo of Dean Ludington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Dean Ludington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
TRUST Peer reviewed articles published in recent years regarding and quantifying the importance of trust between a client and his or her mental health clinician indicate that the professional’s education or credentials have less to do with positive therapeutic outcomes than trust between the client and clinician. Finding a clinician you might trust can be a time consuming proposition. However, a relatively quick and totally free phone call may give you an initial indication of whether the professional on the other end of the phone may be suited to help you with the present difficult situation at hand.
TRUST Peer reviewed articles published in recent years regarding and quantifying the importance of trust between a client and his or her mental health clinician indicate that the professional’s education or credentials have less to do with positive therapeutic outcomes than trust between the client and clinician. Finding a clinician you might trust can be a time consuming proposition. However, a relatively quick and totally free phone call may give you an initial indication of whether the professional on the other end of the phone may be suited to help you with the present difficult situation at hand.
(603) 541-7811 View (603) 541-7811
Photo of Christopher W Griffith, Psychologist in Portsmouth, NH
Christopher W Griffith
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
I view psychotherapy as a collaboration aimed at fostering greater self understanding while working toward personal change and symptom reduction. I strive to help my patients reach greater fulfillment in their lives by fostering understanding of the interpersonal patterns and unresolved personal, life and/or relationship issues that contribute to the challenges they face.
I view psychotherapy as a collaboration aimed at fostering greater self understanding while working toward personal change and symptom reduction. I strive to help my patients reach greater fulfillment in their lives by fostering understanding of the interpersonal patterns and unresolved personal, life and/or relationship issues that contribute to the challenges they face.
(603) 294-1703 View (603) 294-1703
Photo of Michelle Houle, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Michelle Houle
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MLADC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
I'm so glad that you took the step to find a therapist to help you in your struggles! Life can be hectic and overwhelming and when you're struggling with issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, separation/divorce, substances, issues with your children, the overwhelming feelings can feel like too much. I'm here to help you in dealing with these struggles. You don't have to continue to carry these issues alone.
I'm so glad that you took the step to find a therapist to help you in your struggles! Life can be hectic and overwhelming and when you're struggling with issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, separation/divorce, substances, issues with your children, the overwhelming feelings can feel like too much. I'm here to help you in dealing with these struggles. You don't have to continue to carry these issues alone.
(508) 928-4190 View (508) 928-4190
Photo of Tara Bianchi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Tara Bianchi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Have you been feeling overwhelmed and under-appreciated, whether in personal relationships or at work? Do you feel emotionally exhausted often? Do you find yourself overthinking and ruminating, especially at night or in the morning? Have you been the 'go-to person' for everyone and now you struggle with prioritizing your own needs first? Have you struggled with relationships which leave you feeling hopeless? Do you find yourself unable to complete a task, or concentrate on tasks at hand because your distracted by your thoughts or other tasks?
Have you been feeling overwhelmed and under-appreciated, whether in personal relationships or at work? Do you feel emotionally exhausted often? Do you find yourself overthinking and ruminating, especially at night or in the morning? Have you been the 'go-to person' for everyone and now you struggle with prioritizing your own needs first? Have you struggled with relationships which leave you feeling hopeless? Do you find yourself unable to complete a task, or concentrate on tasks at hand because your distracted by your thoughts or other tasks?
(855) 835-8660 View (855) 835-8660
Photo of Nicole Bates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Nicole Bates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
Are you going through a significant life transition or dealing with loss? Maybe you are questioning your choices and consider yourself an "overthinker". Have you found yourself not participating in activities you used to enjoy? It feels like things are going well, but you are not feeling content. These are common issues rhe individuals I work with. I want to support you in reaching your goals and increasing your ability to handle the stressors in your life. You are able to make the necessary changes and find success, allow me to help you discover and tap into your potential to create the life you want.
Are you going through a significant life transition or dealing with loss? Maybe you are questioning your choices and consider yourself an "overthinker". Have you found yourself not participating in activities you used to enjoy? It feels like things are going well, but you are not feeling content. These are common issues rhe individuals I work with. I want to support you in reaching your goals and increasing your ability to handle the stressors in your life. You are able to make the necessary changes and find success, allow me to help you discover and tap into your potential to create the life you want.
(603) 847-7156 View (603) 847-7156
Photo of Teresa Johnson, Psychologist in Portsmouth, NH
Teresa Johnson
Psychologist, PhD, CST, ABS, BCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a path toward more fulfillment personally and in your relationships? Engaging in a rich and meaningful life requires knowing ourselves deeply and acting on intentional choices guided by our core values, feelings, and desires. Our relationships can become more intimate as we develop both clarity about our needs and courage to be vulnerable with those we trust to meet us on this level. I love supporting women in deepening the capacity for presence, emotional intimacy, and pleasure through mindfulness, self-compassion, and self-acceptance.
Are you looking for a path toward more fulfillment personally and in your relationships? Engaging in a rich and meaningful life requires knowing ourselves deeply and acting on intentional choices guided by our core values, feelings, and desires. Our relationships can become more intimate as we develop both clarity about our needs and courage to be vulnerable with those we trust to meet us on this level. I love supporting women in deepening the capacity for presence, emotional intimacy, and pleasure through mindfulness, self-compassion, and self-acceptance.
(603) 865-1934 View (603) 865-1934
Photo of Avantika K. Waleryszak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Avantika K. Waleryszak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Not accepting new clients
You have the right to be seen and recognized in your grief and not judged. You deserve to have a safe space to share your innermost thoughts and feelings with a trusted partner. You are capable of deep healing, with the ability to live a life that is congruent with your integrity and values. You deserve a break, with time to breathe and deeply care for yourself. Your life, your thoughts and your feelings matter. Whatever challenges you are confronting right now, please know that there is a safe space to explore, learn and grow.
You have the right to be seen and recognized in your grief and not judged. You deserve to have a safe space to share your innermost thoughts and feelings with a trusted partner. You are capable of deep healing, with the ability to live a life that is congruent with your integrity and values. You deserve a break, with time to breathe and deeply care for yourself. Your life, your thoughts and your feelings matter. Whatever challenges you are confronting right now, please know that there is a safe space to explore, learn and grow.
(855) 622-5505 View (855) 622-5505
Photo of Rebecca L Richards, Psychologist in Portsmouth, NH
Rebecca L Richards
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Dr. Rebecca L. Richards is a Psychologist in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2015. Dr. Richards specializes in adult and geriatric neuropsychology. She completed undergraduate training in psychology at Plymouth State University and went on to earn graduate degrees, a Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Psychology (PsyD), in clinical psychology from Antioch University New England. She completed specialty training in neuropsychology during her clinical internship at Dartmouth Medical School, followed by a two-year postdoctoral residency at the VA Maine Healthcare System.
Dr. Rebecca L. Richards is a Psychologist in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2015. Dr. Richards specializes in adult and geriatric neuropsychology. She completed undergraduate training in psychology at Plymouth State University and went on to earn graduate degrees, a Master of Science (MS) and Doctor of Psychology (PsyD), in clinical psychology from Antioch University New England. She completed specialty training in neuropsychology during her clinical internship at Dartmouth Medical School, followed by a two-year postdoctoral residency at the VA Maine Healthcare System.
(603) 803-6519 View (603) 803-6519
Photo of Gi (Jeanette) Indoccio, Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Gi (Jeanette) Indoccio
Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Waitlist for new clients
Gi Indoccio is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2002. She earned her Master’s Degree in Counseling and Applied Psychology from Antioch University and her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Marketing from Plymouth State University and a Board-Certified Life Coach with the NBCC. Utilizing an integrative holistic approach, Gi’s mission is to create a safe, nurturing atmosphere and environment where clients can begin to heal from the inside out by cultivating and strengthening their self-esteem, and personal growth.
Gi Indoccio is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2002. She earned her Master’s Degree in Counseling and Applied Psychology from Antioch University and her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Marketing from Plymouth State University and a Board-Certified Life Coach with the NBCC. Utilizing an integrative holistic approach, Gi’s mission is to create a safe, nurturing atmosphere and environment where clients can begin to heal from the inside out by cultivating and strengthening their self-esteem, and personal growth.
(603) 945-2909 View (603) 945-2909
Photo of Jennifer Gaudreau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Jennifer Gaudreau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Jennifer Gaudreau is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in New Hampshire. She currently works with adults aged 27-64 seeking individual therapy for a variety of issues including life transitions, anxiety, relationship struggles, grief and loss. Jennifer obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from St. Mary’s College of Maryland in 1986 and a Master’s in Social work from University of Maryland, Baltimore in 1988. She obtained her independent clinical license in Maryland in 1990 and in New Hampshire in 1997.
Jennifer Gaudreau is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in New Hampshire. She currently works with adults aged 27-64 seeking individual therapy for a variety of issues including life transitions, anxiety, relationship struggles, grief and loss. Jennifer obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from St. Mary’s College of Maryland in 1986 and a Master’s in Social work from University of Maryland, Baltimore in 1988. She obtained her independent clinical license in Maryland in 1990 and in New Hampshire in 1997.
(603) 691-3767 View (603) 691-3767
Photo of Valerie Enders, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Valerie Enders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
I work with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, interpersonal problems, and major life transitions. I draw from 3 decades of psychodynamic psychoanalytic, and couples training to improve your quality of life. An important goal of psychotherapy is to support people in becoming the best possible version of themselves. I'm mindful of your formative history while staying in the present, using our different kind of conversation to explore feelings and behavior patterns and come to understand how life events impact on current experience.
I work with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, interpersonal problems, and major life transitions. I draw from 3 decades of psychodynamic psychoanalytic, and couples training to improve your quality of life. An important goal of psychotherapy is to support people in becoming the best possible version of themselves. I'm mindful of your formative history while staying in the present, using our different kind of conversation to explore feelings and behavior patterns and come to understand how life events impact on current experience.
(603) 506-5581 View (603) 506-5581

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portsmouth, NH

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Portsmouth, NH who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
85% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
68% Coping Skills
64% Stress
62% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

64% BlueCross and BlueShield
59% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
58% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Portsmouth, NH see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portsmouth?

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.