Therapists in West Side, Stamford, CT

Photo of Rebecca Martorella, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Martorella
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about helping adults navigate life transitions and manage stress and anger to improve their relationships. I have experience in the field of domestic violence, assisting men, women, and couples in recognizing unhealthy relationship patterns and improving emotional regulation and communication to build stronger relationships. My prior experience in the business world provides me with a strong understanding of the stressors that many adults and couples juggle in both corporate and home environments.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about helping adults navigate life transitions and manage stress and anger to improve their relationships. I have experience in the field of domestic violence, assisting men, women, and couples in recognizing unhealthy relationship patterns and improving emotional regulation and communication to build stronger relationships. My prior experience in the business world provides me with a strong understanding of the stressors that many adults and couples juggle in both corporate and home environments.
(475) 251-4807 View (475) 251-4807
Photo of Beth O'Donnell - Beth O'Donnell, Ph.D. LLC, PhD, Psychologist
Beth O'Donnell, Ph.D. LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
West Side, Stamford, CT 06902
Do you feel "stuck" or "lost?" I am a seasoned clinical psychologist, experienced in work with adults, couples, adolescents, and families. I love my work! I find it so rewarding to help people turn life's challenges into opportunities for growth and change. My style is warm, comforting, and empathetic. Trained in multiple therapeutic approaches (cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, family systems, Gottman couples' work), I work in a flexible manner that best suits you. Together, we will clarify your goals and make a plan for change. When necessary, I explore underlying issues, to enhance insight and make new directions possible.
Do you feel "stuck" or "lost?" I am a seasoned clinical psychologist, experienced in work with adults, couples, adolescents, and families. I love my work! I find it so rewarding to help people turn life's challenges into opportunities for growth and change. My style is warm, comforting, and empathetic. Trained in multiple therapeutic approaches (cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, family systems, Gottman couples' work), I work in a flexible manner that best suits you. Together, we will clarify your goals and make a plan for change. When necessary, I explore underlying issues, to enhance insight and make new directions possible.
(475) 255-0539 View (475) 255-0539
Photo of Robin Ordan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Ordan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Side, Stamford, CT 06902
I am committed to, and passionate about, working with the complex issues of Families, Couples and Individuals as we walk through the process of change together. I have expanded into Coaching Executives and Small Businesses. facilitating effective communication and relationship dynamics for companies is quite similar to working with families. I have a vast amount of experience working with Children, Adolescents, and their families as they struggle with the challenges of coping with Divorce, Parent/Child Conflict, Trauma, Grief, as well as the natural challenges of each of the developmental stages of childhood. Located on the Border of Old Greenwich
I am committed to, and passionate about, working with the complex issues of Families, Couples and Individuals as we walk through the process of change together. I have expanded into Coaching Executives and Small Businesses. facilitating effective communication and relationship dynamics for companies is quite similar to working with families. I have a vast amount of experience working with Children, Adolescents, and their families as they struggle with the challenges of coping with Divorce, Parent/Child Conflict, Trauma, Grief, as well as the natural challenges of each of the developmental stages of childhood. Located on the Border of Old Greenwich
(203) 244-7705 View (203) 244-7705
Photo of Diana Tumminia, LCSW-R, MARI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Tumminia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, MARI
Verified Verified
Online Only
Whether you are stuck in cycles of anxiety/depression, seeking perinatal care from a knowledgeable specialist, are navigating challenges of living with a mood disorder, chronic illness, or grief, experiencing road bumps along your path to motherhood (pregnancy, postpartum difficulties, or infertility) - support is now available, as you choose to prioritise expanding your self-awareness, taking initiative to do the work to heal. In treatment, you can expect warmth and support of a professional who will be by your side, week-by-week, supporting you every step along your way to achieve transformative healing for your body and mind.
Whether you are stuck in cycles of anxiety/depression, seeking perinatal care from a knowledgeable specialist, are navigating challenges of living with a mood disorder, chronic illness, or grief, experiencing road bumps along your path to motherhood (pregnancy, postpartum difficulties, or infertility) - support is now available, as you choose to prioritise expanding your self-awareness, taking initiative to do the work to heal. In treatment, you can expect warmth and support of a professional who will be by your side, week-by-week, supporting you every step along your way to achieve transformative healing for your body and mind.
(475) 251-8486 View (475) 251-8486
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Stamford
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
West Side, Stamford, CT 06902
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(475) 258-7891 View (475) 258-7891
Photo of Kate Vivanco, EdM, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Vivanco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdM, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Side, Stamford, CT 06902
Are you an adult or teen wondering about psychotherapy? Do you have the sense that things could be better? We all have moments of feeling stuck in our lives, meaning that we are not progressing forward in an area of our life. We can feel stuck in our personal growth, in our relationships, in our parenting or in our professional lives. We can also feel bogged down in emotional states such as anxiety, depressed mood or lack of optimism. Together we can work to get you "unstuck" and feeling better about the direction of your life and your relationships.
Are you an adult or teen wondering about psychotherapy? Do you have the sense that things could be better? We all have moments of feeling stuck in our lives, meaning that we are not progressing forward in an area of our life. We can feel stuck in our personal growth, in our relationships, in our parenting or in our professional lives. We can also feel bogged down in emotional states such as anxiety, depressed mood or lack of optimism. Together we can work to get you "unstuck" and feeling better about the direction of your life and your relationships.
(203) 318-4905 View (203) 318-4905
Photo of Pamela English, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela English
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
West Side, Stamford, CT 06902
I am Pamela English, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensed in the state of Connecticut with 10 years of experience in the mental health profession. I have provided therapy for children and teens dealing with grief and loss, as well as case management and therapeutic services for single adult women living in a homeless shelter. I also have experience counseling older adults in a nursing home. Throughout my career, I have worked extensively with adults and clients in crisis, as well as with teens and families.
I am Pamela English, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensed in the state of Connecticut with 10 years of experience in the mental health profession. I have provided therapy for children and teens dealing with grief and loss, as well as case management and therapeutic services for single adult women living in a homeless shelter. I also have experience counseling older adults in a nursing home. Throughout my career, I have worked extensively with adults and clients in crisis, as well as with teens and families.
(203) 654-3407 View (203) 654-3407
Photo of John E Hicka, MSW, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John E Hicka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
West Side, Stamford, CT 06902
Are you suffering from addiction to alcohol, drugs, food, gambling, sex...? I am committed to working with individuals and families affected by the overwhelming consequences of active addiction. My vast experience will assist you in recovering from the hopelessness that you may feel. I will offer you concrete treatment modalities in order to become more productive and reduce relapses.
Are you suffering from addiction to alcohol, drugs, food, gambling, sex...? I am committed to working with individuals and families affected by the overwhelming consequences of active addiction. My vast experience will assist you in recovering from the hopelessness that you may feel. I will offer you concrete treatment modalities in order to become more productive and reduce relapses.
(203) 318-4649 View (203) 318-4649
Photo of Kollettia Kelly, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kollettia Kelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
West Side, Stamford, CT 06902
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. I have several years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families with varying diagnoses. Whether you are experiencing chronic feelings of anxiety, unhappiness, or just feeling stuck, I can help guide you to get your life back on track. I empower my clients to see their strength and work towards their goals and desires. I offer a safe, confidential space to work collaboratively to process challenging issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. I have several years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families with varying diagnoses. Whether you are experiencing chronic feelings of anxiety, unhappiness, or just feeling stuck, I can help guide you to get your life back on track. I empower my clients to see their strength and work towards their goals and desires. I offer a safe, confidential space to work collaboratively to process challenging issues.
(475) 267-5657 View (475) 267-5657
Photo of Inna Dobkin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Inna Dobkin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I believe therapy should be a highly collaborative process wherein you and I forge a safe, trusting relationship and work together to define what’s ultimately important to you. Much of what I do is focused on helping you to cultivate a curiosity about, and understanding of, your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs and how these impact your experience of the world around you. This greater sense of self-awareness will allow you to begin to challenge inaccurate beliefs and cultivate more productive ways of navigating difficulties.
I believe therapy should be a highly collaborative process wherein you and I forge a safe, trusting relationship and work together to define what’s ultimately important to you. Much of what I do is focused on helping you to cultivate a curiosity about, and understanding of, your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs and how these impact your experience of the world around you. This greater sense of self-awareness will allow you to begin to challenge inaccurate beliefs and cultivate more productive ways of navigating difficulties.
(475) 244-7187 View (475) 244-7187
Photo of Lesly Nathalia Fajardo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lesly Nathalia Fajardo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Side, Stamford, CT 06902
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I am dedicated to supporting adults who are navigating through anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and domestic violence. My approach is client-centered, strength-based and evidence-based, ensuring that each individual's unique needs and experiences are at the forefront of our work together. My goal is to provide a safe and trauma-informed space where clients can process their emotions, recognize patterns and behaviors, and make empowered decisions for their future.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I am dedicated to supporting adults who are navigating through anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief and domestic violence. My approach is client-centered, strength-based and evidence-based, ensuring that each individual's unique needs and experiences are at the forefront of our work together. My goal is to provide a safe and trauma-informed space where clients can process their emotions, recognize patterns and behaviors, and make empowered decisions for their future.
(475) 290-6250 View (475) 290-6250
Photo of Stacey Zanoni, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacey Zanoni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I understand the decision to begin therapy can be challenging. I create a safe environment for patients to feel comfortable discussing a range of topics- from romantic relationships, setting boundaries with loved ones, managing anxiety, career moves and so much more. If you are feeling stuck please know you are not alone and we can navigate it together. I use a range of treatment modalities tailored to each individual patient so that you can walk away with tangible coping skills. New patients will need to complete intake forms prior to first appointment. Appointments are within regular business hours Mon-Thurs.
I understand the decision to begin therapy can be challenging. I create a safe environment for patients to feel comfortable discussing a range of topics- from romantic relationships, setting boundaries with loved ones, managing anxiety, career moves and so much more. If you are feeling stuck please know you are not alone and we can navigate it together. I use a range of treatment modalities tailored to each individual patient so that you can walk away with tangible coping skills. New patients will need to complete intake forms prior to first appointment. Appointments are within regular business hours Mon-Thurs.
(959) 265-0763 View (959) 265-0763
Photo of Pamela English, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela English
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
West Side, Stamford, CT 06902
She has provided therapy for children and teens dealing with grief and loss. She has also provided case management and therapeutic services for single adult women living in a homeless shelter. She also provided counseling for older adults in a nursing home. Pamela can provide multicultural counseling for people with a variety of racial and socioeconomic backgrounds. She has also worked closely with many members of the LGBT community, providing counseling and case management when those services may not otherwise be available to them.
She has provided therapy for children and teens dealing with grief and loss. She has also provided case management and therapeutic services for single adult women living in a homeless shelter. She also provided counseling for older adults in a nursing home. Pamela can provide multicultural counseling for people with a variety of racial and socioeconomic backgrounds. She has also worked closely with many members of the LGBT community, providing counseling and case management when those services may not otherwise be available to them.
(203) 872-5542 View (203) 872-5542
Photo of Elayne Smithgreen - Elayne Smith, LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elayne Smith, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Side, Stamford, CT 06902
I specialize in relationships and all aspects of connecting to self and important others. I know the power of relationships as a source of great joy and the roots of your deepest pain. Whatever your relationship struggles, I’m here to help. I work with relationships across the life span, including going back to childhood experiences and how relationships have shaped you, love relationships, sex, parenting, empty nesting, identity, purpose, and the impact of life and losses along the way. I am skilled in going deep and getting to the origins of your struggles so you can organize, heal, grow, and create the lasting change you seek.
I specialize in relationships and all aspects of connecting to self and important others. I know the power of relationships as a source of great joy and the roots of your deepest pain. Whatever your relationship struggles, I’m here to help. I work with relationships across the life span, including going back to childhood experiences and how relationships have shaped you, love relationships, sex, parenting, empty nesting, identity, purpose, and the impact of life and losses along the way. I am skilled in going deep and getting to the origins of your struggles so you can organize, heal, grow, and create the lasting change you seek.
(571) 556-9093 View (571) 556-9093
Photo of Travata Stewart, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Travata Stewart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience in mental and behavioral health, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and transitions. My person-centered and strengths-based approach creates a safe and therapeutic space for you to find breakthroughs, even during overwhelming experiences. I believe that through a collaborative and empathetic process, we can work together to cultivate resilience, enhance self-awareness, and build confidence.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience in mental and behavioral health, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and transitions. My person-centered and strengths-based approach creates a safe and therapeutic space for you to find breakthroughs, even during overwhelming experiences. I believe that through a collaborative and empathetic process, we can work together to cultivate resilience, enhance self-awareness, and build confidence.
(475) 258-7676 View (475) 258-7676
Photo of Chelsea Van Dyck, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsea Van Dyck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you wondering what therapeutic modality would best suit you or your loved one? Interested in understanding which level care would be most effective at this time? Coastline Counseling offers comprehensive assessment services accompanied with valuable psychoeducation as an initial step to receiving the most clinically appropriate services for you or your loved one. Services are individualized and focus on clients’ presenting needs while utilizing the corresponding clinically appropriate treatment modalities.
Are you wondering what therapeutic modality would best suit you or your loved one? Interested in understanding which level care would be most effective at this time? Coastline Counseling offers comprehensive assessment services accompanied with valuable psychoeducation as an initial step to receiving the most clinically appropriate services for you or your loved one. Services are individualized and focus on clients’ presenting needs while utilizing the corresponding clinically appropriate treatment modalities.
(203) 349-6956 View (203) 349-6956
Photo of Bobby Harrison-Kato - Nova Lux Counseling, PLLC, MD, PhD, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nova Lux Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MD, PhD, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
West Side, Stamford, CT 06902
Nova Lux Counseling works with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from traditional therapy from depression and grief counseling to parenting support, couples counseling and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, we offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of the clients' individual needs.
Nova Lux Counseling works with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from traditional therapy from depression and grief counseling to parenting support, couples counseling and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, we offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of the clients' individual needs.
(203) 802-6184 View (203) 802-6184
Photo of Paul Gaunya, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul Gaunya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Immediate openings available! Are you struggling with anxiety that makes daily life feel overwhelming? Perhaps you're carrying the weight of traumatic experiences, or someone struggling with depression that makes it hard to find joy or purpose. You might look fine on the outside while fighting inner battles, wondering if anyone truly understands. Whether you're dealing with panic attacks, haunting memories, grief or the fog of depression, you deserve more than just coping skills. Get support from someone who understands your unique challenges and uses proven techniques to help you rebuild a sense of safety, purpose, and connection.
Immediate openings available! Are you struggling with anxiety that makes daily life feel overwhelming? Perhaps you're carrying the weight of traumatic experiences, or someone struggling with depression that makes it hard to find joy or purpose. You might look fine on the outside while fighting inner battles, wondering if anyone truly understands. Whether you're dealing with panic attacks, haunting memories, grief or the fog of depression, you deserve more than just coping skills. Get support from someone who understands your unique challenges and uses proven techniques to help you rebuild a sense of safety, purpose, and connection.
(857) 971-8381 View (857) 971-8381
Photo of Alex Shvartsman, LADC, CCDPD, BCPC, ASAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Alex Shvartsman
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC, CCDPD, BCPC, ASAP
Verified Verified
West Side, Stamford, CT 06902
It is my goal to assist you achieve a higher level of wellness and success in all relevant aspects of your life. I use practical approach for result oriented therapy. Together, we will achieve positive in your life outcomes for both present and future.
It is my goal to assist you achieve a higher level of wellness and success in all relevant aspects of your life. I use practical approach for result oriented therapy. Together, we will achieve positive in your life outcomes for both present and future.
(203) 743-4112 x1 View (203) 743-4112 x1
Photo of Donna Dyer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donna Dyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Side, Stamford, CT 06902
Have you wondered if Dialectical Behavioral Therapy can be helpful to you? I offer a phone consultation to answer any questions you may have and will be by your side to navigate the process during these challenging times. I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults to more effectively regulate emotions, reduce problematic behavior and enhance problem-solving skills. I provide a time-limited, goal-directed, and structured treatment to help clients work through their challenges and learn to become their own therapist. Clients often see a reduction of symptoms early on in treatment.
Have you wondered if Dialectical Behavioral Therapy can be helpful to you? I offer a phone consultation to answer any questions you may have and will be by your side to navigate the process during these challenging times. I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults to more effectively regulate emotions, reduce problematic behavior and enhance problem-solving skills. I provide a time-limited, goal-directed, and structured treatment to help clients work through their challenges and learn to become their own therapist. Clients often see a reduction of symptoms early on in treatment.
(203) 457-6524 View (203) 457-6524
1

See more therapy options for West Side, Stamford

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in West Side, Stamford, CT

20+

Average cost per session

$151

Therapists in West Side, Stamford, CT who prioritize treating:

95% Depression
95% Anxiety
86% Grief
76% Coping Skills
76% Stress
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
72% Aetna
72% Oxford

How Therapists in West Side, Stamford, CT see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

71% Female
29% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in West Side, Stamford?

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.