Therapists in New York, NY

View neighborhoods in New York
Photo of Janet C Waterhouse, PhD, Psychologist
Janet C Waterhouse
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
I am a warm and engaged psychologist. My collaborative work is grounded in an understanding of the shaping forces of relationships, affect, and experience. I offer a safe space, where we will understand and explore your challenges – discovering ways to enhance your life.
I am a warm and engaged psychologist. My collaborative work is grounded in an understanding of the shaping forces of relationships, affect, and experience. I offer a safe space, where we will understand and explore your challenges – discovering ways to enhance your life.
(917) 239-7792 View (917) 239-7792
Photo of Rebeca Gonzalez Scherman, PsyD, Psychologist
Rebeca Gonzalez Scherman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
If you've found yourself in a relationship that feels too difficult or confusing to handle alone, contact me to see if I can help you. I am a Clinical Psychologist with a decade of experience helping people break through limiting thought patterns and behaviors that keep them dissatisfied with their lives.
If you've found yourself in a relationship that feels too difficult or confusing to handle alone, contact me to see if I can help you. I am a Clinical Psychologist with a decade of experience helping people break through limiting thought patterns and behaviors that keep them dissatisfied with their lives.
(646) 363-6126 View (646) 363-6126
Photo of Angela Katrichis, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Katrichis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10023  (Online Only)
When people are feeling overwhelmed, unhappy or stuck, therapy can provide the support for gaining the insight and tools to promote change and overall wellbeing. I want to help you lead the life you want. I strive to help people define what that looks like for them and partner with them in navigating how this can be realized.
When people are feeling overwhelmed, unhappy or stuck, therapy can provide the support for gaining the insight and tools to promote change and overall wellbeing. I want to help you lead the life you want. I strive to help people define what that looks like for them and partner with them in navigating how this can be realized.
(347) 744-9862 View (347) 744-9862
Photo of Lorena Strunk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lorena Strunk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in psychoanalysis. I work with adolescents, and adults. I work with patients closely and accompany them through the work of self-reflection, inner exploration, and change. My work with patients is diverse, addressing issues like compulsive behaviors, feeling stuck and fatigued, emotional numbness, panic attacks, mood swings, inability to process intense emotions. I especially like working with young adults working to have a voice and identity; with young women feeling the pressure to conform to traditional roles, and adults in search of fulfillment.
I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in psychoanalysis. I work with adolescents, and adults. I work with patients closely and accompany them through the work of self-reflection, inner exploration, and change. My work with patients is diverse, addressing issues like compulsive behaviors, feeling stuck and fatigued, emotional numbness, panic attacks, mood swings, inability to process intense emotions. I especially like working with young adults working to have a voice and identity; with young women feeling the pressure to conform to traditional roles, and adults in search of fulfillment.
(631) 259-4834 View (631) 259-4834
Photo of Lauren Joy Wichterman, LCSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Joy Wichterman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10012  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling to balance work, parenting/pregnancy, and staying connected to your partner? You are not alone. I work with clients to see where they can make positive changes in their lives and relieve stress. I also specialize in maternal mental health (postpartum anxiety and depression), and adolescent mental health. I come from a mindfulness-based perspective, and have a strengths-based and Buddhist orientation. I believe that my clients - with the right support - can make meaningful changes that will improve their overall well-being and enhance their relationships.
Are you struggling to balance work, parenting/pregnancy, and staying connected to your partner? You are not alone. I work with clients to see where they can make positive changes in their lives and relieve stress. I also specialize in maternal mental health (postpartum anxiety and depression), and adolescent mental health. I come from a mindfulness-based perspective, and have a strengths-based and Buddhist orientation. I believe that my clients - with the right support - can make meaningful changes that will improve their overall well-being and enhance their relationships.
(646) 825-6609 View (646) 825-6609
Photo of Dr. Laurel Steinberg - Dr. Laurel Steinberg, PhD, PROF, Counselor
Dr. Laurel Steinberg
Counselor, PhD, PROF
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017
Do you feel anxious, "less-than" or need help w/ relationships (or finding one), w/ sex, or work stress? Is now your time to live a more elegant life? Are you fearful that your relationship is in trouble or are you trying to recover from infidelity, seek improved intimacy, want to stop arguing (My TED Talk is about this!) or desire to enhance communication? Have health anxiety or want to prevent migraine? (I'm 27+ years migraine free!) If your answer is "Yes!" then I'd LOVE to help. I will help you to examine the thoughts, feelings and behaviors contributing to discomfort and teach you simple tools to secure SUCCESS!
Do you feel anxious, "less-than" or need help w/ relationships (or finding one), w/ sex, or work stress? Is now your time to live a more elegant life? Are you fearful that your relationship is in trouble or are you trying to recover from infidelity, seek improved intimacy, want to stop arguing (My TED Talk is about this!) or desire to enhance communication? Have health anxiety or want to prevent migraine? (I'm 27+ years migraine free!) If your answer is "Yes!" then I'd LOVE to help. I will help you to examine the thoughts, feelings and behaviors contributing to discomfort and teach you simple tools to secure SUCCESS!
(646) 600-8271 View (646) 600-8271
Photo of Ricardo Bermudez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ricardo Bermudez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10025  (Online Only)
Ricardo Bermudez, LCSW. I listen to people to get a sense of what their needs are. We work collaboratively to develop goals to support the therapeutic process. I work with a variety of people. It depends on the need for therapy and if I have the skills to support the issue. I am open-minded and do not judge anyone for their life circumstances. Listening is the most useful skill for a therapist. This is a safe space for you to talk and have someone hear you. This is a collaborative process, and you are in the driver's seat.
Ricardo Bermudez, LCSW. I listen to people to get a sense of what their needs are. We work collaboratively to develop goals to support the therapeutic process. I work with a variety of people. It depends on the need for therapy and if I have the skills to support the issue. I am open-minded and do not judge anyone for their life circumstances. Listening is the most useful skill for a therapist. This is a safe space for you to talk and have someone hear you. This is a collaborative process, and you are in the driver's seat.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Courtenay Smith, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtenay Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10021  (Online Only)
If you’re lost, disconnected, pondering big questions, or trying to recover from these “unprecedented times,” you’re in good company. Together, we can create the change you seek. I offer a nonjudgmental, supportive space to face doubt and fear, say the unsayable, and do the uncomfortable (but fulfilling) work of growing emotionally and spiritually. We will collaborate to increase self awareness, clarify goals, redirect unhealthy patterns, and discover new possibilities and perspectives. I’m a former health journalist who listens with curiosity, asks key questions, and helps you find the authentic story you're meant to live.
If you’re lost, disconnected, pondering big questions, or trying to recover from these “unprecedented times,” you’re in good company. Together, we can create the change you seek. I offer a nonjudgmental, supportive space to face doubt and fear, say the unsayable, and do the uncomfortable (but fulfilling) work of growing emotionally and spiritually. We will collaborate to increase self awareness, clarify goals, redirect unhealthy patterns, and discover new possibilities and perspectives. I’m a former health journalist who listens with curiosity, asks key questions, and helps you find the authentic story you're meant to live.
(646) 760-1582 View (646) 760-1582
Photo of Geraldine (Geri) Charles, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Geraldine (Geri) Charles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
I'm Geri Charles, an LMSW specializing in therapy for queer individuals and creatives. With a background in Psychology and Social Work, I provide a warm, non judgemental, and empathetic space for clients to explore their identities, relationships, and creative challenges. Utilizing somatic and evidence-based modalities, I assist clients in navigating through challenges and understanding the root of their feelings and behaviors . If you're seeking support in navigating your journey of self-discovery, I'm here to help.
I'm Geri Charles, an LMSW specializing in therapy for queer individuals and creatives. With a background in Psychology and Social Work, I provide a warm, non judgemental, and empathetic space for clients to explore their identities, relationships, and creative challenges. Utilizing somatic and evidence-based modalities, I assist clients in navigating through challenges and understanding the root of their feelings and behaviors . If you're seeking support in navigating your journey of self-discovery, I'm here to help.
(646) 718-1406 View (646) 718-1406
Photo of Valerie Paige Kowalski, LMSW, REBT, DBT, CBT
Valerie Paige Kowalski
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, REBT, DBT, CBT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
New York, NY 10006
People often reach out with a range of concerns, including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, addiction, eating disorders, career concerns, and the challenges of navigating life transitions. Whatever the specific issue, clients often share a common goal: to gain a deeper understanding of the issues they’re struggling with, to challenge and replace patterns of thought and behavior that are not serving them, and to learn helpful coping skills to manage stressors in healthy and productive ways. Ultimately, my clients frequently aspire to cultivate a life of fulfillment, authenticity, and peace.
People often reach out with a range of concerns, including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, addiction, eating disorders, career concerns, and the challenges of navigating life transitions. Whatever the specific issue, clients often share a common goal: to gain a deeper understanding of the issues they’re struggling with, to challenge and replace patterns of thought and behavior that are not serving them, and to learn helpful coping skills to manage stressors in healthy and productive ways. Ultimately, my clients frequently aspire to cultivate a life of fulfillment, authenticity, and peace.
(929) 309-1342 View (929) 309-1342
Photo of Suzanne L Silver, LMSW, Healer, Yoga, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne L Silver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, Healer, Yoga
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10065
Do you sometimes feel like you're able to rationalize things intellectually but still feel emotionally unstable? Do you feel depressed? Anxious? Hopeless? I offer solid practical guidance and dynamic tools to assist you in obtaining your personal goals and happiness. As an Ordained Minister of The School of the Healing Arts, I have an eclectic approach rooted in Psychodynamic, Experiential, Problem Solving and Short Term Models as well as CBT and Object Relations. All this, coupled with optional Hands on Healing approach is a powerful combination enabling me to work with patients on all levels of their being: Mentally, Emotionally, Physically, Spiritually.
Do you sometimes feel like you're able to rationalize things intellectually but still feel emotionally unstable? Do you feel depressed? Anxious? Hopeless? I offer solid practical guidance and dynamic tools to assist you in obtaining your personal goals and happiness. As an Ordained Minister of The School of the Healing Arts, I have an eclectic approach rooted in Psychodynamic, Experiential, Problem Solving and Short Term Models as well as CBT and Object Relations. All this, coupled with optional Hands on Healing approach is a powerful combination enabling me to work with patients on all levels of their being: Mentally, Emotionally, Physically, Spiritually.
(917) 725-2169 View (917) 725-2169
Photo of Rose Lugtu, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rose Lugtu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
Our social world can be an overwhelming, stressful place that leaves parts of ourselves unseen and unheard. I believe in creating a holding space, a place of openness and compassion, where you can dare to be yourself. In psychotherapy, we come together to better understand how elements of your internal and external worlds are interacting (or not interacting). Sometimes what has long been unseen and unheard can transform into awareness. Together, we can look at whatever emerges to find new ways of understanding your experiences. With care and support, small steps forward, however subtle, can yield transformation.
Our social world can be an overwhelming, stressful place that leaves parts of ourselves unseen and unheard. I believe in creating a holding space, a place of openness and compassion, where you can dare to be yourself. In psychotherapy, we come together to better understand how elements of your internal and external worlds are interacting (or not interacting). Sometimes what has long been unseen and unheard can transform into awareness. Together, we can look at whatever emerges to find new ways of understanding your experiences. With care and support, small steps forward, however subtle, can yield transformation.
(332) 895-1736 View (332) 895-1736
Photo of Eva Dillon, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eva Dillon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10017
Relationships and sex are not easy to talk about, so I create a safe, non-judgmental place for these rich and intimate conversations. I see clients who are struggling with intimacy issues, sexual dysfunction or pain, discrepant desire, Out of Control Sexual Behavior, concerns about dating, or navigating non-traditional relationships. I offer a sex-positive, collaborative approach and I have a special interest in eroticism and enhancing sexual experiences. I am an LGBTQ- and kink- affirmative clinician. My passion and training have been focused on helping people to connect with each other to create satisfying relationships.
Relationships and sex are not easy to talk about, so I create a safe, non-judgmental place for these rich and intimate conversations. I see clients who are struggling with intimacy issues, sexual dysfunction or pain, discrepant desire, Out of Control Sexual Behavior, concerns about dating, or navigating non-traditional relationships. I offer a sex-positive, collaborative approach and I have a special interest in eroticism and enhancing sexual experiences. I am an LGBTQ- and kink- affirmative clinician. My passion and training have been focused on helping people to connect with each other to create satisfying relationships.
(917) 806-3905 View (917) 806-3905
Photo of Barry Herbach, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barry Herbach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
As a licensed psychotherapist with more than 25 years of experience, I have helped countless individuals overcome deep-seated emotional issues that have prevented them from achieving their personal and professional goals. My approach involves using a short-term directive modality that quickly gets to the heart of the problem, allowing my clients to start seeing positive results sooner rather than later.
As a licensed psychotherapist with more than 25 years of experience, I have helped countless individuals overcome deep-seated emotional issues that have prevented them from achieving their personal and professional goals. My approach involves using a short-term directive modality that quickly gets to the heart of the problem, allowing my clients to start seeing positive results sooner rather than later.
(646) 453-5305 View (646) 453-5305
Photo of Teshera Russell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teshera Russell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
As a compassionate and empathetic therapist, I seek to understand the unique struggles you may face as you heal from the wounds of the past, enhance your emotional well-being and cultivate a fulfilling life in the present. Utilizing a psychodynamic and trauma-informed approach, I specialize in providing a safe and supportive space where you can explore your emotions, process your traumas, and gain a deeper understanding of yourself. . I am here to provide guidance, support, and a non-judgmental space for your personal growth.
As a compassionate and empathetic therapist, I seek to understand the unique struggles you may face as you heal from the wounds of the past, enhance your emotional well-being and cultivate a fulfilling life in the present. Utilizing a psychodynamic and trauma-informed approach, I specialize in providing a safe and supportive space where you can explore your emotions, process your traumas, and gain a deeper understanding of yourself. . I am here to provide guidance, support, and a non-judgmental space for your personal growth.
(646) 791-1655 View (646) 791-1655
Photo of Sara Swain, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Swain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stressed or tired? Having difficulties completing tasks that were once easy? Do you find yourself turning to food, shopping, alcohol, etc. to feel better? Are you questioning whether to stay in your current relationship or wish to get your relationship back to what it used to be? Therapy is a collaborative relationship and making the right connection is crucial to your development and growth.Together, we can build a trusting, safe environment, which empowers you to take risks and make positive changes
Are you feeling stressed or tired? Having difficulties completing tasks that were once easy? Do you find yourself turning to food, shopping, alcohol, etc. to feel better? Are you questioning whether to stay in your current relationship or wish to get your relationship back to what it used to be? Therapy is a collaborative relationship and making the right connection is crucial to your development and growth.Together, we can build a trusting, safe environment, which empowers you to take risks and make positive changes
(929) 238-8928 View (929) 238-8928
Photo of Kate Curtis, LMHC, CASAC, LPC, Counselor
Kate Curtis
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
Are you having difficulty coping with life stressors or transitions? Are you struggling with overwhelming worry or sadness? Are you feeling stuck in frustrating relationship patterns, or engaging in self-defeating behaviors? I am here to help you address and overcome barriers to achieving greater emotional well-being. Together we will explore these challenges, understand your unique needs, and develop your personal goals towards lasting change and fulfillment.
Are you having difficulty coping with life stressors or transitions? Are you struggling with overwhelming worry or sadness? Are you feeling stuck in frustrating relationship patterns, or engaging in self-defeating behaviors? I am here to help you address and overcome barriers to achieving greater emotional well-being. Together we will explore these challenges, understand your unique needs, and develop your personal goals towards lasting change and fulfillment.
(917) 746-8612 View (917) 746-8612
Photo of Rachel Karnovsky, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Rachel Karnovsky
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
I work to help individuals face challenges such as depression, anxiety, identity formation, difficulty forming and maintaining meaningful relationships, and life transitions. I work with a diverse range of individuals varied in age, sex, gender, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds. As a relationally-oriented psychotherapist, I work collaboratively to create a secure therapeutic relationship. I strive to help my patients cultivate greater self-acceptance and compassion for themselves.
I work to help individuals face challenges such as depression, anxiety, identity formation, difficulty forming and maintaining meaningful relationships, and life transitions. I work with a diverse range of individuals varied in age, sex, gender, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds. As a relationally-oriented psychotherapist, I work collaboratively to create a secure therapeutic relationship. I strive to help my patients cultivate greater self-acceptance and compassion for themselves.
(917) 525-5902 View (917) 525-5902
Photo of Rachel Goldman, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10075  (Online Only)
Effective psychotherapy alleviates suffering, builds stronger personal and professional relationships and helps you achieve your goals and expand your capacity to live a fulfilling life. Through our work you will gain a deeper and more meaningful understanding of yourself and how you engage with others. Together we will explore what has led to the establishment of your relational patterns. Therapy works through collaboration; we work together to understand your experiences, memories and relationships in order to create change. I believe people are stronger, happier and more successful when they are connected to those around them.
Effective psychotherapy alleviates suffering, builds stronger personal and professional relationships and helps you achieve your goals and expand your capacity to live a fulfilling life. Through our work you will gain a deeper and more meaningful understanding of yourself and how you engage with others. Together we will explore what has led to the establishment of your relational patterns. Therapy works through collaboration; we work together to understand your experiences, memories and relationships in order to create change. I believe people are stronger, happier and more successful when they are connected to those around them.
(646) 386-2148 View (646) 386-2148
Photo of Allyson Hentel-Koplin, PhD, ABSNP, Psychologist
Allyson Hentel-Koplin
Psychologist, PhD, ABSNP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
My patients present with issues including anxiety, attentional difficulties, depression, as well developmental, academic, and social concerns. Working with my patients to navigate the ups and downs of life is the core of my practice. I work collaboratively with my patients and their families to understand presenting issues and find ways to efficiently and effectively address symptoms and bring about positive change. Through therapy and neuropsychological assessment, I help my patients develop greater coping strategies, resiliency, and overall improved emotional well-being.
My patients present with issues including anxiety, attentional difficulties, depression, as well developmental, academic, and social concerns. Working with my patients to navigate the ups and downs of life is the core of my practice. I work collaboratively with my patients and their families to understand presenting issues and find ways to efficiently and effectively address symptoms and bring about positive change. Through therapy and neuropsychological assessment, I help my patients develop greater coping strategies, resiliency, and overall improved emotional well-being.
(646) 783-1066 View (646) 783-1066
1
...

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in New York, NY

3,000+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in New York, NY who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
84% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
67% Trauma and PTSD
66% Stress
64% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
62% Cigna and Evernorth
60% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in New York, NY see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in New York?

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.