Therapists in Madison, CT

Photo of Adrienne G Smaller, Psychologist
Adrienne G Smaller
Psychologist
Madison, CT 06443
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice in Madison, CT for over 25 years. I am on the faculty of The Yale Child Study Center where I supervise psychologists in training. I work with children and their families, adolescents, and adults. I have experience with a broad range of issues including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, social skills, and learning issues.
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice in Madison, CT for over 25 years. I am on the faculty of The Yale Child Study Center where I supervise psychologists in training. I work with children and their families, adolescents, and adults. I have experience with a broad range of issues including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, social skills, and learning issues.
(203) 633-0234 View (203) 633-0234
Photo of Vincent Samuolis - Vincent Samuolis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
Vincent Samuolis, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
1 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
Are you ready to to take the first step on your journey toward self improvement and achieving your personal goals? Twenty-four years as a school social worker has given me comprehensive experience with children, adolescents, parents, and families challenged by as difficult behavior, emotional disturbance, ADHD, and ineffective parenting. Two years experience as a clinician for a psychiatric hospital provided me intensive knowledge and compassion for adults with mental illness and dually diagnoses. Five years experience as a substance abuse counselor for a state agency provided a thorough understanding of addiction and recovery.
Are you ready to to take the first step on your journey toward self improvement and achieving your personal goals? Twenty-four years as a school social worker has given me comprehensive experience with children, adolescents, parents, and families challenged by as difficult behavior, emotional disturbance, ADHD, and ineffective parenting. Two years experience as a clinician for a psychiatric hospital provided me intensive knowledge and compassion for adults with mental illness and dually diagnoses. Five years experience as a substance abuse counselor for a state agency provided a thorough understanding of addiction and recovery.
(203) 654-3602 View (203) 654-3602
Photo of Robert M Flynn Jr., Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Robert M Flynn Jr.
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
1 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
I specialize in Evidence Based Treatments for exploring substance use, anxiety, depression, anger management, increasing athletic performance and attention deficit disorder (ADD).
I specialize in Evidence Based Treatments for exploring substance use, anxiety, depression, anger management, increasing athletic performance and attention deficit disorder (ADD).
(860) 846-4015 View (860) 846-4015
Photo of Nicole Eastwood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Nicole Eastwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
1 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
I adjust to my clients, meeting them where they are when they begin while pushing them forward and onto accomplishing their goals. I balance tenderness with truth and believe strongly that the therapeutic relationship is a key factor in success. I believe it’s my objective to work myself out of a job. I believe in teaching and empowering clients to be able to confront their patterns of behavior and tolerate distressing events in their lives to move closer to their goals.
I adjust to my clients, meeting them where they are when they begin while pushing them forward and onto accomplishing their goals. I balance tenderness with truth and believe strongly that the therapeutic relationship is a key factor in success. I believe it’s my objective to work myself out of a job. I believe in teaching and empowering clients to be able to confront their patterns of behavior and tolerate distressing events in their lives to move closer to their goals.
(833) 590-0971 View (833) 590-0971
Photo of Laura Jarvis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Laura Jarvis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Madison, CT 06443
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious or exhausted? I understand the unique challenges that come with each phase and season of life. You might be feeling alone, like no one would understand. It is hard, when on the outside it looks wonderful and yet you are crumbling inside or being less than kind to yourself. Teens are facing anxiety, academic pressure, mood swings. Couples may be stuck, distant or recovering from betrayal. Families struggle with conflict, communication, tension, or disconnection. You may just want to keep going along, yet you can no longer ignore your struggles and not truly feeling well.
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious or exhausted? I understand the unique challenges that come with each phase and season of life. You might be feeling alone, like no one would understand. It is hard, when on the outside it looks wonderful and yet you are crumbling inside or being less than kind to yourself. Teens are facing anxiety, academic pressure, mood swings. Couples may be stuck, distant or recovering from betrayal. Families struggle with conflict, communication, tension, or disconnection. You may just want to keep going along, yet you can no longer ignore your struggles and not truly feeling well.
(860) 454-6203 View (860) 454-6203
Photo of Ryan Shook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ryan Shook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
Now accepting new clients. Are you feeling misunderstood, worried, stressed, down, angry, upset, disconnected? Are relationships feeling challenging? Stuck dwelling on the past? Finding yourself repeating unhealthy habits? Having trouble navigating life’s twists and turns? If any of this rings true, you’re not alone. If you find that emotions are becoming hard to manage and you need a professional to work with, I’m glad that you are taking the first step with seeking therapy. I specialize in working with men's issues, LGBTQ+, anxiety, trauma, depression, family issues and adjustment issues.
Now accepting new clients. Are you feeling misunderstood, worried, stressed, down, angry, upset, disconnected? Are relationships feeling challenging? Stuck dwelling on the past? Finding yourself repeating unhealthy habits? Having trouble navigating life’s twists and turns? If any of this rings true, you’re not alone. If you find that emotions are becoming hard to manage and you need a professional to work with, I’m glad that you are taking the first step with seeking therapy. I specialize in working with men's issues, LGBTQ+, anxiety, trauma, depression, family issues and adjustment issues.
(475) 405-2736 View (475) 405-2736
Photo of Jessica Shultis, Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPCA
Jessica Shultis
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPCA
1 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
Are you experiencing a major life transition such as starting college, entering the workforce, moving, going through family changes, or just trying to navigate life as a whole? These moments can be overwhelming and taxing, and you don't have to go through them alone. My background includes a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Albertus Magnus College and experience working with a wide range of individuals, including young children in preschool settings and college students throughout my undergraduate studies at Eastern Connecticut State University.
Are you experiencing a major life transition such as starting college, entering the workforce, moving, going through family changes, or just trying to navigate life as a whole? These moments can be overwhelming and taxing, and you don't have to go through them alone. My background includes a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Albertus Magnus College and experience working with a wide range of individuals, including young children in preschool settings and college students throughout my undergraduate studies at Eastern Connecticut State University.
(475) 405-1988 View (475) 405-1988
Recovery Services of Connecticut
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madison, CT 06443
Recovery Services of Connecticut (RSCT) (www-dot-recoveryservicesCT-dot-com) in Madison, CT offers daytime and evening Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), group and individual therapy, counseling for families, interventions, as well as, advocacy for court, probation and the DMV. Call RSCT at 203.421.6242
Recovery Services of Connecticut (RSCT) (www-dot-recoveryservicesCT-dot-com) in Madison, CT offers daytime and evening Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), group and individual therapy, counseling for families, interventions, as well as, advocacy for court, probation and the DMV. Call RSCT at 203.421.6242
(860) 962-6363 View (860) 962-6363
Photo of Bill Cox, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Bill Cox
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
Hello! I am Bill Cox, a licensed marriage and family therapist dedicated to helping individuals, couples and families explore their inner worlds and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships. My approach is built on the belief that healing is both an internal and a relational process—one that invites us to become more attuned to ourselves and the world around us. My commitment is to meet you where you are without judgment, creating a safe and compassionate space for self-exploration, connection, and transformation.
Hello! I am Bill Cox, a licensed marriage and family therapist dedicated to helping individuals, couples and families explore their inner worlds and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships. My approach is built on the belief that healing is both an internal and a relational process—one that invites us to become more attuned to ourselves and the world around us. My commitment is to meet you where you are without judgment, creating a safe and compassionate space for self-exploration, connection, and transformation.
(860) 851-4258 View (860) 851-4258
Photo of Debbie DelVecchio, Licensed Professional Counselor, MAAT, ATR, LPC
Debbie DelVecchio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAAT, ATR, LPC
1 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
Life can feel overwhelming at times, and despite our best efforts, it can seem like nothing truly changes, or if it does, the change doesn't last. This ongoing struggle can make it easy to lose hope and feel stuck. When you're caught in this cycle, it's important to try a new approach. Instead of withdrawing or repeating the same patterns, reaching out for support can make a big difference. You don't have to go through this alone; you have the ability to heal and transform your life. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Art Therapist, I offer a supportive space where you can express yourself, explore your feelings, and
Life can feel overwhelming at times, and despite our best efforts, it can seem like nothing truly changes, or if it does, the change doesn't last. This ongoing struggle can make it easy to lose hope and feel stuck. When you're caught in this cycle, it's important to try a new approach. Instead of withdrawing or repeating the same patterns, reaching out for support can make a big difference. You don't have to go through this alone; you have the ability to heal and transform your life. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Art Therapist, I offer a supportive space where you can express yourself, explore your feelings, and
(203) 587-4303 View (203) 587-4303
Photo of Christine Dauser, Psychologist, PsyD
Christine Dauser
Psychologist, PsyD
Madison, CT 06443
Good therapy happens when you and your therapist work collaboratively to achieve your goals, you feel truly heard and understood and your therapist has the knowledge and experience to help you identify the obstacles to achieving your goals. I am passionate about the work I do with children, adolescents and adults and feel fortunate to enjoy going in each day. I've been told by many, I have a warm, caring style and frequently use humor in sessions. I help people understand the connection between their thoughts feelings and behaviors and ways in which they can make changes to find relief from the stressors they experience.
Good therapy happens when you and your therapist work collaboratively to achieve your goals, you feel truly heard and understood and your therapist has the knowledge and experience to help you identify the obstacles to achieving your goals. I am passionate about the work I do with children, adolescents and adults and feel fortunate to enjoy going in each day. I've been told by many, I have a warm, caring style and frequently use humor in sessions. I help people understand the connection between their thoughts feelings and behaviors and ways in which they can make changes to find relief from the stressors they experience.
(203) 930-1761 View (203) 930-1761
Photo of W. Dean Pfeifer - Coastal Counseling Associates, LLC, Psychologist, PhD, LCSW
Coastal Counseling Associates, LLC
Psychologist, PhD, LCSW
Madison, CT 06443
Our combined 30 years experience of interacting with people in a variety of settings has repeatedly demonstrated to us the resilience and growth that all people are capable of. At Coastal Counseling Associates we assist people in accessing those characteristics that are within them so they can cope with the difficulties life may have presented as well as preparing them to employ the psychological resources they posses to combat future difficulties. Our diversity allows us to match clients with staff resulting in strong, lasting therapeutic relationships across a broad expanse of behavioral health concerns for families, individuals, couples and children.
Our combined 30 years experience of interacting with people in a variety of settings has repeatedly demonstrated to us the resilience and growth that all people are capable of. At Coastal Counseling Associates we assist people in accessing those characteristics that are within them so they can cope with the difficulties life may have presented as well as preparing them to employ the psychological resources they posses to combat future difficulties. Our diversity allows us to match clients with staff resulting in strong, lasting therapeutic relationships across a broad expanse of behavioral health concerns for families, individuals, couples and children.
(203) 409-8317 View (203) 409-8317
Photo of Daniel Mirandi, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Daniel Mirandi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
2 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
For the last 12 years I've enjoyed working in the non-profit sector helping people from various backgrounds. My therapy style is non-judgmental and relaxed in which I try to meet people where they are at. I help people address a number of concerns ranging from enhancing their self-esteem and coping skills to treating Trauma, Anxiety, Grief, and severe Depression. I'm experienced with helping adults communicate with other generations within their family and gaining healthier relationships. Over the years I've also fostered skills designed for helping men and women address a variety of challenges.
For the last 12 years I've enjoyed working in the non-profit sector helping people from various backgrounds. My therapy style is non-judgmental and relaxed in which I try to meet people where they are at. I help people address a number of concerns ranging from enhancing their self-esteem and coping skills to treating Trauma, Anxiety, Grief, and severe Depression. I'm experienced with helping adults communicate with other generations within their family and gaining healthier relationships. Over the years I've also fostered skills designed for helping men and women address a variety of challenges.
(203) 490-0345 View (203) 490-0345
Photo of Grace Harrington, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Grace Harrington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Welcome! I'm Grace, a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Connecticut! I would like you to take a moment to acknowledge you've taken the first step towards bettering your mental health because, let's be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or both, all at the same time. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and/or self-care. I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life.
Welcome! I'm Grace, a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Connecticut! I would like you to take a moment to acknowledge you've taken the first step towards bettering your mental health because, let's be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or both, all at the same time. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, and/or self-care. I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life.
(475) 251-4389 View (475) 251-4389
Photo of Beth Breck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Beth Breck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Madison, CT 06443
Are you looking for an experienced therapist? I work with a range of issues. Behavioral problems, work/ family balance, grief, marital/ relationship issues, family therapy, parent-child, infidelity, sexual issues, alcohol/ drug abuse, domestic violence, depression, anxiety/ panic, emotional/ mental disorders, financial difficulties, life transitions, loss, PTSD, anger management and issues within judicial systems. Acknowledge the problem...Experience the solution. I love my work and problem solving with clients. My work strives to achieve a healthy lifestyle for my clients. I help clients achieve their behavioral goals within the brief compass of six to ten sessions.
Are you looking for an experienced therapist? I work with a range of issues. Behavioral problems, work/ family balance, grief, marital/ relationship issues, family therapy, parent-child, infidelity, sexual issues, alcohol/ drug abuse, domestic violence, depression, anxiety/ panic, emotional/ mental disorders, financial difficulties, life transitions, loss, PTSD, anger management and issues within judicial systems. Acknowledge the problem...Experience the solution. I love my work and problem solving with clients. My work strives to achieve a healthy lifestyle for my clients. I help clients achieve their behavioral goals within the brief compass of six to ten sessions.
(475) 224-4670 View (475) 224-4670
Photo of Jane Andersen, Psychologist, PsyD
Jane Andersen
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
My primary aim is to offer an authentic space to form a relationship and explore patterns that may be occurring in your life. We'll work together to grow an open-minded curiosity about your experience and build insight in the process. Part of our work will involve leveraging this insight into new, more effective ways of managing distress. I particularly enjoy working with clients who are seeking to learn more about themselves and would like some assistance processing difficult emotions, events, and/or relationships.
My primary aim is to offer an authentic space to form a relationship and explore patterns that may be occurring in your life. We'll work together to grow an open-minded curiosity about your experience and build insight in the process. Part of our work will involve leveraging this insight into new, more effective ways of managing distress. I particularly enjoy working with clients who are seeking to learn more about themselves and would like some assistance processing difficult emotions, events, and/or relationships.
(860) 743-0567 View (860) 743-0567
Photo of Jessica Bessette, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jessica Bessette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Madison, CT 06443
Jessica is a licensed clinical social worker who completed her education at Southern Connecticut State University in 2016. She has worked with the entire lifespan from children to older adults. Her experiences with both outpatient and inpatient settings have given her a broad perspective of the challenges that people deal with and what can help people to live more productive lives. She uses a strengths-based and humanistic approach in her work with others. She has grown to work in both individual and group settings and has a love for building relationships with clients and utilizing the relationship to guide the work.
Jessica is a licensed clinical social worker who completed her education at Southern Connecticut State University in 2016. She has worked with the entire lifespan from children to older adults. Her experiences with both outpatient and inpatient settings have given her a broad perspective of the challenges that people deal with and what can help people to live more productive lives. She uses a strengths-based and humanistic approach in her work with others. She has grown to work in both individual and group settings and has a love for building relationships with clients and utilizing the relationship to guide the work.
(203) 453-2999 View (203) 453-2999
Photo of Leslie Hunt Palumbo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Leslie Hunt Palumbo, LCSW, MSW
Leslie Hunt Palumbo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Leslie Hunt Palumbo, LCSW, MSW
Madison, CT 06443
Life is full of change and the unexpected. Have you been blindsided by one of the many curveballs life can throw at you? Realigning after a huge change- be it the loss of a loved one, separation/divorce, job change, health shift, or even college graduation- can be a challenging process. I love to help people adjust, grow, and transform though these shifts, seeing the forest through the trees to come to a fuller, more centered perspective on all that life still has to offer. Finding our way back to peace and the restoration of joy can feel overwhelming and we could all use some support in this process.
Life is full of change and the unexpected. Have you been blindsided by one of the many curveballs life can throw at you? Realigning after a huge change- be it the loss of a loved one, separation/divorce, job change, health shift, or even college graduation- can be a challenging process. I love to help people adjust, grow, and transform though these shifts, seeing the forest through the trees to come to a fuller, more centered perspective on all that life still has to offer. Finding our way back to peace and the restoration of joy can feel overwhelming and we could all use some support in this process.
(203) 896-8844 View (203) 896-8844
Photo of Christine Silva, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Christine Silva
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling to make progress on your own? Do you desire to live in more peace, less worry and more stability? I'd love to help you reach your personal and relational goals! My approach to therapy is to provide clients a collaborative, therapeutic space. I seek to give clients the opportunity and support they need to pursue the changes and healing they are hoping for in their relationship with themselves and others. My main areas of expertise are supporting clients in life transitions such as: prenatal & postpartum support, parenting, marriage and adjusting to life after loss. As well as eating disorder recovery.
Are you struggling to make progress on your own? Do you desire to live in more peace, less worry and more stability? I'd love to help you reach your personal and relational goals! My approach to therapy is to provide clients a collaborative, therapeutic space. I seek to give clients the opportunity and support they need to pursue the changes and healing they are hoping for in their relationship with themselves and others. My main areas of expertise are supporting clients in life transitions such as: prenatal & postpartum support, parenting, marriage and adjusting to life after loss. As well as eating disorder recovery.
(203) 516-4219 View (203) 516-4219
Photo of Joanna Karp, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Joanna Karp
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
As a certified Emotionally Focused Couples therapist and a marriage and family therapist, I have over 20 years of experience in the field of psychology. My training includes HFI Body-Centered Psychotherapy, Voice Dialogue (parts work) with Drs. Hal and Sidra Stone, EMDR (levels one and two), advanced certification in Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP), mindfulness-based meditation, and advanced training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. I enjoy working with couples and individual adults.
As a certified Emotionally Focused Couples therapist and a marriage and family therapist, I have over 20 years of experience in the field of psychology. My training includes HFI Body-Centered Psychotherapy, Voice Dialogue (parts work) with Drs. Hal and Sidra Stone, EMDR (levels one and two), advanced certification in Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP), mindfulness-based meditation, and advanced training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. I enjoy working with couples and individual adults.
(860) 607-1915 View (860) 607-1915

See more therapy options for Madison

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Madison, CT

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Madison, CT who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
80% Self Esteem
74% Coping Skills
68% Life Transitions
66% Stress

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

66% Aetna
64% Anthem
59% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Madison, CT see their clients

81% In Person and Online
19% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Madison?

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.