Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

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Photo of Stella Xin Fan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Stella Xin Fan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19125  (Online Only)
Hi there, Life is an ever-changing and often challenging journey, it’s not uncommon to find yourself feeling confused, frustrated, and stuck. It takes strength and courage to engage in self-exploration and personal growth and therapy can help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with 10 years of clinical experience. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families in different settings including schools, outpatient clinics, and private practice.
Hi there, Life is an ever-changing and often challenging journey, it’s not uncommon to find yourself feeling confused, frustrated, and stuck. It takes strength and courage to engage in self-exploration and personal growth and therapy can help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with 10 years of clinical experience. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families in different settings including schools, outpatient clinics, and private practice.
(215) 515-2640 View (215) 515-2640
Photo of Lisa Vinnacombe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Lisa Vinnacombe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, MLSP, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Have you been feeling “burnt out” and can’t figure out how to deal with the anxiety and lack of motivation? Are you in a relationship that feels unsatisfying or one sided and results in a sense of feeling stuck in a cycle that repeats itself? Have you experienced a sad loss or other emotionally painful experience that still hurts even though you feel like you should be "over it?" I hear many people who make the decision to come to therapy say “I should have done this a long time ago". If you can relate to any of the questions above, or are curious about how therapy can help you, I encourage you to reach out for a consult!
Have you been feeling “burnt out” and can’t figure out how to deal with the anxiety and lack of motivation? Are you in a relationship that feels unsatisfying or one sided and results in a sense of feeling stuck in a cycle that repeats itself? Have you experienced a sad loss or other emotionally painful experience that still hurts even though you feel like you should be "over it?" I hear many people who make the decision to come to therapy say “I should have done this a long time ago". If you can relate to any of the questions above, or are curious about how therapy can help you, I encourage you to reach out for a consult!
(610) 228-0742 View (610) 228-0742
Photo of Robin Reese, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Robin Reese
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147  (Online Only)
It’s natural to experience unhelpful patterns or symptoms when we've experienced trauma and adverse childhood experiences. We feel off balance, chronically stressed, anxious, or depressed. I prefer to view these symptoms as inner parts who need our attention and care. When these inner parts are healed, they feel less compelled to ruminate, obsess, or depress. That means there is more space for the qualities you want to have in your life, such as creativity, joy, confidence, clarity, peace, and presence.
It’s natural to experience unhelpful patterns or symptoms when we've experienced trauma and adverse childhood experiences. We feel off balance, chronically stressed, anxious, or depressed. I prefer to view these symptoms as inner parts who need our attention and care. When these inner parts are healed, they feel less compelled to ruminate, obsess, or depress. That means there is more space for the qualities you want to have in your life, such as creativity, joy, confidence, clarity, peace, and presence.
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Photo of Anita Devine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Anita Devine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
You are more than the painful experiences you have endured. You may feel triggered in everyday situations or feel alone and isolated. You may struggle with perfectionism, anxiety, or guilt. However, you have a sense of your life purpose — and long to live your life more authentically. You are ready for relief. You're ready to love who you truly are and face your future with a sense of hope. In our work together, you will gain a deeper respect for what makes you unique. Through connecting with your core, authentic self, you can experience greater ease, freedom, and self-acceptance.
You are more than the painful experiences you have endured. You may feel triggered in everyday situations or feel alone and isolated. You may struggle with perfectionism, anxiety, or guilt. However, you have a sense of your life purpose — and long to live your life more authentically. You are ready for relief. You're ready to love who you truly are and face your future with a sense of hope. In our work together, you will gain a deeper respect for what makes you unique. Through connecting with your core, authentic self, you can experience greater ease, freedom, and self-acceptance.
(215) 461-3925 View (215) 461-3925
Photo of Brooke Bailer, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Brooke Bailer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Using science-backed treatments, I help my clients overcome challenges related to disordered eating, depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts and being stuck. Taking a cognitive-behavioral approach, I prioritize collaboration - working with my patients to better understand what is getting in the way and how to move forward. My goal is to help you build a toolbox so that you leave our sessions feeling confident in your abilities to tackle anything that arises. I have been told by clients that I have a warm, non-judgmental style that provides a sense of safety and ease as we explore sensitive topics, emotions and behaviors.
Using science-backed treatments, I help my clients overcome challenges related to disordered eating, depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts and being stuck. Taking a cognitive-behavioral approach, I prioritize collaboration - working with my patients to better understand what is getting in the way and how to move forward. My goal is to help you build a toolbox so that you leave our sessions feeling confident in your abilities to tackle anything that arises. I have been told by clients that I have a warm, non-judgmental style that provides a sense of safety and ease as we explore sensitive topics, emotions and behaviors.
(267) 609-8819 View (267) 609-8819
Photo of Kameil Nicholson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Kameil Nicholson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
Seeking focus and clarity? Feeling stressed, anxious or forgetting? I specialize in helping adults who grapple with these daily challenges making it difficult to navigate life. If you are motivated and resilient, yet, facing persistent challenges in relationships, school or work, I am here for you. I can be your guiding hand to help you. Allow me to support you in your commitment to making positive changes in your life to enhance your productivity, satisfaction and personal wellness.
Seeking focus and clarity? Feeling stressed, anxious or forgetting? I specialize in helping adults who grapple with these daily challenges making it difficult to navigate life. If you are motivated and resilient, yet, facing persistent challenges in relationships, school or work, I am here for you. I can be your guiding hand to help you. Allow me to support you in your commitment to making positive changes in your life to enhance your productivity, satisfaction and personal wellness.
(267) 282-0462 View (267) 282-0462
Photo of Kathryn Nevin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Kathryn Nevin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19124  (Online Only)
Greetings, I'm Kathryn Nevin, LCSW, CCTP. It's wonderful to see you seeking support and making strides to connect here! I'm here to assist with various challenges like anxiety, depression, anger, grief and loss, self-harm, and personality disorders. My focus lies particularly in trauma therapy. In our first session, I'll tailor our approach to suit your needs and optimize outcomes.
Greetings, I'm Kathryn Nevin, LCSW, CCTP. It's wonderful to see you seeking support and making strides to connect here! I'm here to assist with various challenges like anxiety, depression, anger, grief and loss, self-harm, and personality disorders. My focus lies particularly in trauma therapy. In our first session, I'll tailor our approach to suit your needs and optimize outcomes.
(267) 494-0354 View (267) 494-0354
Photo of Cory Strubert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Cory Strubert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Cory! Do you feel unmotivated, uninspired, and stuck in the routine of life or your relationship? Are you searching for who you are at your core and learning to live a life aligned with that? Are you struggling with anxiety, burnout, depression, or stress, which gets in the way of you moving forward? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience working with families, individuals, and couples. My belief is that we all have struggles throughout our lives, and with the right support, we all have the strength within us to overcome these obstacles.
Hi, I'm Cory! Do you feel unmotivated, uninspired, and stuck in the routine of life or your relationship? Are you searching for who you are at your core and learning to live a life aligned with that? Are you struggling with anxiety, burnout, depression, or stress, which gets in the way of you moving forward? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience working with families, individuals, and couples. My belief is that we all have struggles throughout our lives, and with the right support, we all have the strength within us to overcome these obstacles.
(484) 948-1479 View (484) 948-1479
Photo of Kimberly L Garcia (Formerly Holtsclaw), Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Kimberly L Garcia (Formerly Holtsclaw)
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, ACS, NBCC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106
I work with adults, utilizing a psychodynamic and behavioral approach and offering support for a variety of challenges and mental health disorders. I am an advocate for personal development through improved communication skills, goal planning and physical and emotional health. I believe that an ability to take pride in your personality and appearance improves decision-making, relationships and workplace skills.
I work with adults, utilizing a psychodynamic and behavioral approach and offering support for a variety of challenges and mental health disorders. I am an advocate for personal development through improved communication skills, goal planning and physical and emotional health. I believe that an ability to take pride in your personality and appearance improves decision-making, relationships and workplace skills.
(215) 486-0255 View (215) 486-0255
Photo of Jesse Braff, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Jesse Braff
Pre-Licensed Professional, Jesse, Braff, MS
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125  (Online Only)
I welcome and work with individuals who are looking for support as they navigate challenges in their lives. I create a space free of judgement so that individuals can honestly and openly explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I hope to achieve this through compassion, active listening, and specific therapeutic techniques.
I welcome and work with individuals who are looking for support as they navigate challenges in their lives. I create a space free of judgement so that individuals can honestly and openly explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I hope to achieve this through compassion, active listening, and specific therapeutic techniques.
(215) 977-4351 View (215) 977-4351
Photo of Dr. John Howe, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Dr. John Howe
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
Are you engaging in persistent, compulsive or disruptive actions that bring little satisfaction and damage how you relate to others at home, at work or in social settings? Disturbances of the inner self can interfere with joy, love, and satisfaction in living. Frustration, anger, sorrow and loss, disappointment become repetitious and even predictable. If so, it is time to do something to relieve these ineffective experiences in living. I am a licensed psychologist with 35 years experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, sexual and relationship issues, and the effects of personality disorders.
Are you engaging in persistent, compulsive or disruptive actions that bring little satisfaction and damage how you relate to others at home, at work or in social settings? Disturbances of the inner self can interfere with joy, love, and satisfaction in living. Frustration, anger, sorrow and loss, disappointment become repetitious and even predictable. If so, it is time to do something to relieve these ineffective experiences in living. I am a licensed psychologist with 35 years experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, sexual and relationship issues, and the effects of personality disorders.
(215) 565-0317 View (215) 565-0317
Photo of Emma Chambers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Emma Chambers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Finding a therapist, especially during periods of stress, can be extremely overwhelming. Yet, the connection, the solutions, and the relief that you can access in therapy is priceless. If you’re feeling stuck and don’t know which direction to go in, or if you’re searching for ways to save your relationship, I may be the right fit for you! I have spent the last five years as a trauma therapist for the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, providing thousands of hours of psychotherapy.
Finding a therapist, especially during periods of stress, can be extremely overwhelming. Yet, the connection, the solutions, and the relief that you can access in therapy is priceless. If you’re feeling stuck and don’t know which direction to go in, or if you’re searching for ways to save your relationship, I may be the right fit for you! I have spent the last five years as a trauma therapist for the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, providing thousands of hours of psychotherapy.
(484) 604-2821 View (484) 604-2821
Photo of Jean Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Jean Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
As a therapist I meet you where you are in life and join with you for a time on your journey to self-improvement. On this journey, it is so important to feel heard. Therapy is about being heard and empowering you to use your voice to be the person you want to be and to lead the life you want to lead. I listen deeply as we work together to identify and meet your therapeutic goals. I believe the environment is a part of the whole person that impacts one’s emotional, mental and physical well-being and needs to be considered in therapy. I invite your feedback regarding what is working and not working for you in our therapy sessions.
As a therapist I meet you where you are in life and join with you for a time on your journey to self-improvement. On this journey, it is so important to feel heard. Therapy is about being heard and empowering you to use your voice to be the person you want to be and to lead the life you want to lead. I listen deeply as we work together to identify and meet your therapeutic goals. I believe the environment is a part of the whole person that impacts one’s emotional, mental and physical well-being and needs to be considered in therapy. I invite your feedback regarding what is working and not working for you in our therapy sessions.
(610) 609-2958 View (610) 609-2958
Photo of Juliana Collins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Juliana Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
My therapy focuses solely on your wants and needs. My job is not to tell you what to do, but rather to walk alongside you on your journey while identifying patterns, asking questions or offering insight along the way. I am committed to developing a trusting, authentic, and transparent relationship with each individual that I work with so that you feel comfortable being open. Reaching out for support is difficult, and I am here to be present throughout your process. My treatment emphasizes strengths and person-centered approaches, believing in the resilience and individuality of each client, that you are your own expert.
My therapy focuses solely on your wants and needs. My job is not to tell you what to do, but rather to walk alongside you on your journey while identifying patterns, asking questions or offering insight along the way. I am committed to developing a trusting, authentic, and transparent relationship with each individual that I work with so that you feel comfortable being open. Reaching out for support is difficult, and I am here to be present throughout your process. My treatment emphasizes strengths and person-centered approaches, believing in the resilience and individuality of each client, that you are your own expert.
(267) 930-2840 View (267) 930-2840
Photo of Old City Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Old City Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Old City Counseling provides mental health services to children and adults. Conveniently located in the heart of Philadelphia's most historic district, we pride ourselves in delivering comprehensive and compassionate care to members of our community. We offer counseling services via various modalities and look forward to helping you evolve.
Old City Counseling provides mental health services to children and adults. Conveniently located in the heart of Philadelphia's most historic district, we pride ourselves in delivering comprehensive and compassionate care to members of our community. We offer counseling services via various modalities and look forward to helping you evolve.
(267) 263-7494 View (267) 263-7494
Photo of Brian J Lundberg, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Brian J Lundberg
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA MFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
I believe that it is necessary to interact with clients as feeling, thinking, and embodied beings; therapy must address each person holistically and relationally in all aspects: emotional, cognitive, and behavioral. Therapy can help us make sense of our selves, our world, our relationships, our personal stories and the paths we take - other words, how to live life as our best, fulfilling selves. A former high school and university teacher, I have a passion for working with adolescents & young adults. I also have a keen interest in working on men's issues, helping men and those close to them to live more in-touch and connected lives.
I believe that it is necessary to interact with clients as feeling, thinking, and embodied beings; therapy must address each person holistically and relationally in all aspects: emotional, cognitive, and behavioral. Therapy can help us make sense of our selves, our world, our relationships, our personal stories and the paths we take - other words, how to live life as our best, fulfilling selves. A former high school and university teacher, I have a passion for working with adolescents & young adults. I also have a keen interest in working on men's issues, helping men and those close to them to live more in-touch and connected lives.
(267) 930-2078 View (267) 930-2078
Photo of Sara Gaarn-Larsen, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Sara Gaarn-Larsen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Hi! I'm Sara, a sex and relationship therapist in the Philadelphia area. I offer individual, relationship, and sex therapy that helps clients strengthen their relationships with their loved ones and themselves. I specialize in addressing anxiety related to insecure attachment and its impact on relational conflict and self-esteem. Working with clients to foster self-love and build emotional safety in their relationships is an important part of this process. As an LGBTQ+ affirming, sex positive, poly-friendly, and kink aware therapist, I welcome and provide a safe space for all identities and relationship styles.
Hi! I'm Sara, a sex and relationship therapist in the Philadelphia area. I offer individual, relationship, and sex therapy that helps clients strengthen their relationships with their loved ones and themselves. I specialize in addressing anxiety related to insecure attachment and its impact on relational conflict and self-esteem. Working with clients to foster self-love and build emotional safety in their relationships is an important part of this process. As an LGBTQ+ affirming, sex positive, poly-friendly, and kink aware therapist, I welcome and provide a safe space for all identities and relationship styles.
(484) 669-8283 View (484) 669-8283
Photo of Lawrence D. Blum in Philadelphia, PA
Lawrence D. Blum
MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Before consulting a professional, most people have already addressed their difficulties as well as they can – but they can only deal with what they know. What they typically need help with is the parts of their struggles they are not aware of. The treatments that help most to bring hidden matters to light, and under conscious control, are based on psychoanalytic principles. As a psychoanalyst and psychiatrist, I try to understand people from multiple points of view. I work with my patients to help them get as clear and comprehensive a picture as possible.
Before consulting a professional, most people have already addressed their difficulties as well as they can – but they can only deal with what they know. What they typically need help with is the parts of their struggles they are not aware of. The treatments that help most to bring hidden matters to light, and under conscious control, are based on psychoanalytic principles. As a psychoanalyst and psychiatrist, I try to understand people from multiple points of view. I work with my patients to help them get as clear and comprehensive a picture as possible.
(215) 995-1203 View (215) 995-1203
Photo of Alex Eliff, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Alex Eliff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I have supported clients with an array of presenting issues. My work primarily focuses on children and families but I have provided individual and group therapy for adults.
I have supported clients with an array of presenting issues. My work primarily focuses on children and families but I have provided individual and group therapy for adults.
Photo of Erica Hochanadel in Philadelphia, PA
Erica Hochanadel
LSW, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Hello! My name is Erica Hochanadel (she/her/hers). To build a trusting and authentic therapeutic relationship, I feel it is helpful to share more about myself and how I orient in the world. I am a queer, non monogamous, cisgender, able bodied, parent, white human sexuality professional. I enjoy binge reading fantasy books, being outdoors, doing hot yoga, babbling with my baby, and spending time with loved ones. I specialize in working with clients regarding their sexuality and relationships. A unique clinical niche of mine is working with clients at the intersection of queerness, neurodiversity, and ethical nonmonogamy.
Hello! My name is Erica Hochanadel (she/her/hers). To build a trusting and authentic therapeutic relationship, I feel it is helpful to share more about myself and how I orient in the world. I am a queer, non monogamous, cisgender, able bodied, parent, white human sexuality professional. I enjoy binge reading fantasy books, being outdoors, doing hot yoga, babbling with my baby, and spending time with loved ones. I specialize in working with clients regarding their sexuality and relationships. A unique clinical niche of mine is working with clients at the intersection of queerness, neurodiversity, and ethical nonmonogamy.
(484) 549-9264 View (484) 549-9264

See more therapy options for Philadelphia

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

3,000+

Average cost per session

$143

Therapists in Philadelphia, PA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
74% Self Esteem
71% Relationship Issues
69% Trauma and PTSD
64% Coping Skills
60% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Aetna
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
65% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Philadelphia, PA see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
20% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Philadelphia?

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.