Therapists in Arlington, MA

Photo of Leslie Wright, Psychologist in Arlington, MA
Leslie Wright
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
I am a clinical psychologist with over ten years of experience treating PTSD, depression, anxiety, addictive behaviors, post-traumatic growth and resilience, and coping with grief. I enjoy delivering evidence-based treatments for a variety of concerns and tailoring the approach to the individual’s needs using a flexible, validating, and client-centered approach. I have expertise in many modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Trauma-focused treatments, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I create a therapeutic space that is both supportive and challenging with warmth and empathy.
I am a clinical psychologist with over ten years of experience treating PTSD, depression, anxiety, addictive behaviors, post-traumatic growth and resilience, and coping with grief. I enjoy delivering evidence-based treatments for a variety of concerns and tailoring the approach to the individual’s needs using a flexible, validating, and client-centered approach. I have expertise in many modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Trauma-focused treatments, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I create a therapeutic space that is both supportive and challenging with warmth and empathy.
(617) 977-4770 View (617) 977-4770
Photo of Sarahbean Falo, Counselor in Arlington, MA
Sarahbean Falo
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02476
Not accepting new clients
Are you navigating the pressures of parenthood? Is your child having big feelings and you’re not sure how to respond? Hello! I am Sarahbean Falo. I specialize in working with parents with young children, who are navigating the multidimensional challenges of caregiving and being in relationship with your child. I am here to help you and your child navigate the difficulties in your lives. Children and their mamas, parents, primary caregivers: All genders, colors, shapes and sizes welcome.
Are you navigating the pressures of parenthood? Is your child having big feelings and you’re not sure how to respond? Hello! I am Sarahbean Falo. I specialize in working with parents with young children, who are navigating the multidimensional challenges of caregiving and being in relationship with your child. I am here to help you and your child navigate the difficulties in your lives. Children and their mamas, parents, primary caregivers: All genders, colors, shapes and sizes welcome.
(857) 227-9507 View (857) 227-9507
Photo of Pardis Parsa, Counselor in Arlington, MA
Pardis Parsa
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02476  (Online Only)
I invite you to “get curious” about yourself and what has contributed to your current challenges. Curiosity is essential to finding meaning and connection with others and ourselves. I will work with you to open up to uncertainty and learn to coexist with your uncomfortable thoughts and feelings in order to strengthen your relationship with yourself and others. You are not a problem to be fixed; you are a whole, complex, and amazing person. I look forward to helping you to open up to your innate gifts.
I invite you to “get curious” about yourself and what has contributed to your current challenges. Curiosity is essential to finding meaning and connection with others and ourselves. I will work with you to open up to uncertainty and learn to coexist with your uncomfortable thoughts and feelings in order to strengthen your relationship with yourself and others. You are not a problem to be fixed; you are a whole, complex, and amazing person. I look forward to helping you to open up to your innate gifts.
(978) 490-1348 View (978) 490-1348
Photo of Nora Otero, Counselor in Arlington, MA
Nora Otero
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02474  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am not taking new clients at this time. Often times people face challenges that prevent them from having fulfilled lives. Old coping skills appear failing and emotional distress disrupts balance. Entering therapy at a time of vulnerability can be difficult, but it can also bring healing and growth. I think that progress and change happen when collaboration, safety, trust, and empathy are present in therapy; these principles guide my work and support any treatment approaches that may be appropriate to take.
I am not taking new clients at this time. Often times people face challenges that prevent them from having fulfilled lives. Old coping skills appear failing and emotional distress disrupts balance. Entering therapy at a time of vulnerability can be difficult, but it can also bring healing and growth. I think that progress and change happen when collaboration, safety, trust, and empathy are present in therapy; these principles guide my work and support any treatment approaches that may be appropriate to take.
(781) 348-6093 View (781) 348-6093
Photo of Dr Alex MacNeil, LLC, Psychologist in Arlington, MA
Dr Alex MacNeil, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02476
Not accepting new clients
Dr Alex MacNeil, LLC is a private practice based out of Arlington, MA that aims to help individuals and families foster healthy behaviors and relationships. Dr. MacNeil works with youth ages 7-18 as well as adults. He engages in both individual and family therapy, depending on the client’s needs. Dr. MacNeil focuses on helping clients facing stress and anxiety, mild depression and life-adjustment issues. His treatment aims to help clients foster positive behaviors relationships within families, schools, and workplaces. He conducts therapy either in-person or via telehealth.
Dr Alex MacNeil, LLC is a private practice based out of Arlington, MA that aims to help individuals and families foster healthy behaviors and relationships. Dr. MacNeil works with youth ages 7-18 as well as adults. He engages in both individual and family therapy, depending on the client’s needs. Dr. MacNeil focuses on helping clients facing stress and anxiety, mild depression and life-adjustment issues. His treatment aims to help clients foster positive behaviors relationships within families, schools, and workplaces. He conducts therapy either in-person or via telehealth.
(339) 217-6754 View (339) 217-6754
Photo of Rona Sandberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arlington, MA
Rona Sandberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02476
Welcome! With over 25 years of experience working with people of all ages as a trauma and grief therapist, I have helped individuals and families learn to cope with a wide range of issues including partner loss, anxiety, depression, family conflict, complex trauma and sexual assault. I provide parent guidance and coaching for caregivers who have children with challenging behaviors and special needs. I have expertise with foster, kinship and adoptive families. I offer therapy to tweens, teens and young adults who may need support with life transitions and relationships. My work with clients is always collaborative and strength-based.
Welcome! With over 25 years of experience working with people of all ages as a trauma and grief therapist, I have helped individuals and families learn to cope with a wide range of issues including partner loss, anxiety, depression, family conflict, complex trauma and sexual assault. I provide parent guidance and coaching for caregivers who have children with challenging behaviors and special needs. I have expertise with foster, kinship and adoptive families. I offer therapy to tweens, teens and young adults who may need support with life transitions and relationships. My work with clients is always collaborative and strength-based.
(339) 500-6997 View (339) 500-6997
Photo of Boston Center for Couples and Sexuality in Arlington, MA
Boston Center for Couples and Sexuality
PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
At Boston Center for Couples and Sexuality, we recognize that while all humans struggle with one issue or another, at one time or another, it can be difficult to seek help and support. Expectations that you might have of yourself or expectations that you think or KNOW others have of you can really weigh you down when life gets busy. Sometimes you know exactly what you need help with, and other times, things just don't feel right and you just aren't sure what kind of help you need. Our clinicians will listen, ask good questions, and look at problems with you to figure out how to get you back on the path where you want to be. We work with individuals and committed couples, as well as those practicing consensual non-monagamy. While communication skills and sexuality issues are a significant part of our clientele, we also work with many patients with depression, anxiety, or grief as their presenting complaint.
At Boston Center for Couples and Sexuality, we recognize that while all humans struggle with one issue or another, at one time or another, it can be difficult to seek help and support. Expectations that you might have of yourself or expectations that you think or KNOW others have of you can really weigh you down when life gets busy. Sometimes you know exactly what you need help with, and other times, things just don't feel right and you just aren't sure what kind of help you need. Our clinicians will listen, ask good questions, and look at problems with you to figure out how to get you back on the path where you want to be. We work with individuals and committed couples, as well as those practicing consensual non-monagamy. While communication skills and sexuality issues are a significant part of our clientele, we also work with many patients with depression, anxiety, or grief as their presenting complaint.
(781) 539-9219 View (781) 539-9219
Photo of Alison Shaw in Arlington, MA
Alison Shaw
RN, LMT, CBHS
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474  (Online Only)
Do you want to go beyond the limits of conventional psychotherapy to heal the deepest roots of your emotional struggles? I'd love to help. In my practice, I bring together somatic (body -centered), trauma and energy based therapies in a unique model that creates more effective healing than talk therapy alone. This integrative approach helps you uncover & release the deep unconscious lifelong "Bodymind Patterns" that live in the psyche AND body & can perpetuate unhappiness and keep you stuck or returning over & over to the same struggles, anxiety, shame, depression, unfulfilling relationships, low self esteem disconnection and pain.
Do you want to go beyond the limits of conventional psychotherapy to heal the deepest roots of your emotional struggles? I'd love to help. In my practice, I bring together somatic (body -centered), trauma and energy based therapies in a unique model that creates more effective healing than talk therapy alone. This integrative approach helps you uncover & release the deep unconscious lifelong "Bodymind Patterns" that live in the psyche AND body & can perpetuate unhappiness and keep you stuck or returning over & over to the same struggles, anxiety, shame, depression, unfulfilling relationships, low self esteem disconnection and pain.
(781) 754-7175 View (781) 754-7175
Photo of Teri R. Freeman, Counselor in Arlington, MA
Teri R. Freeman
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02476
Not accepting new clients
I am engaged, focused,interactive,compassionate,direct, supportive, & value humor. In working with your awareness, I focus attention on ways to enhance the quality of your life through cognitive & behavioral changes as well as insight to change outmoded behaviors & patterns which may no longer serve you. Creating safety through good rapport & support of your feelings is paramount. I have trained extensively in trauma treatment hypnosis,mindfulness, somatic therapy, systems.With couples, I am passionate about helping you learn effective ways to listen well to each other, express yourselves & live fulfilling & intimate lives together.
I am engaged, focused,interactive,compassionate,direct, supportive, & value humor. In working with your awareness, I focus attention on ways to enhance the quality of your life through cognitive & behavioral changes as well as insight to change outmoded behaviors & patterns which may no longer serve you. Creating safety through good rapport & support of your feelings is paramount. I have trained extensively in trauma treatment hypnosis,mindfulness, somatic therapy, systems.With couples, I am passionate about helping you learn effective ways to listen well to each other, express yourselves & live fulfilling & intimate lives together.
(781) 369-5575 View (781) 369-5575
Photo of Heidi A Berke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arlington, MA
Heidi A Berke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02474
Not accepting new clients
You'll find that life improves when you feel more self accepting, more responsive and less reactive. I work in a collaborative, compassionate and pragmatic way to help you get the results you want. Together we create positive change in a warm, friendly and safe environment.
You'll find that life improves when you feel more self accepting, more responsive and less reactive. I work in a collaborative, compassionate and pragmatic way to help you get the results you want. Together we create positive change in a warm, friendly and safe environment.
(617) 997-0366 View (617) 997-0366
Photo of Liz Lawrence, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arlington, MA
Liz Lawrence
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LICSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy is a process of working together to help you experience new ways of generating hope and inspiration for your life. As we understand the dilemmas you face, I'll help you see how you can use your creative abilities to develop new choices for meeting them and explore new paths toward change. In my work with individuals, couples and families I offer a framework for keeping track of important ideas, meaningful life stories and useful directions. I integrate ideas from family systems and narrative therapies and phase-oriented trauma recovery.
Therapy is a process of working together to help you experience new ways of generating hope and inspiration for your life. As we understand the dilemmas you face, I'll help you see how you can use your creative abilities to develop new choices for meeting them and explore new paths toward change. In my work with individuals, couples and families I offer a framework for keeping track of important ideas, meaningful life stories and useful directions. I integrate ideas from family systems and narrative therapies and phase-oriented trauma recovery.
(617) 379-2721 View (617) 379-2721
Photo of Eileen English, Counselor in Arlington, MA
Eileen English
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02476  (Online Only)
I have several decades of experience providing therapy to people from many walks of life. My overall goal is to provide you with the opportunity to be heard, so that you can move forward with more joy and less pain. You may feel fragmented and want to heal, or out of sorts and want to sort it out. Perhaps you want to achieve a sense of wellness and well-being. It is my honor to build trust at your pace, so that we can walk together in partnership on this journey. We will work to allow your strengths, your sorrows and your joys to build toward inner wholeness with courage, self compassion and clarity.
I have several decades of experience providing therapy to people from many walks of life. My overall goal is to provide you with the opportunity to be heard, so that you can move forward with more joy and less pain. You may feel fragmented and want to heal, or out of sorts and want to sort it out. Perhaps you want to achieve a sense of wellness and well-being. It is my honor to build trust at your pace, so that we can walk together in partnership on this journey. We will work to allow your strengths, your sorrows and your joys to build toward inner wholeness with courage, self compassion and clarity.
(617) 870-0860 View (617) 870-0860
Photo of Chelsea Levy, Psychologist in Arlington, MA
Chelsea Levy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
I am a licensed psychologist providing adult psychotherapy, couples therapy, sex therapy and family therapy. I approach therapy from a relational perspective, and enjoy working collaboratively with clients and their strengths to create change. I am particularly interested in working with clients around family of origin issues, relationship issues, trauma, sexual relationships and sexuality. I work with couples on communication, strengthening relational dynamics and sexual or intimacy concerns. I also work as a sex therapist and am open to working whether you come as a couple or as an individual.
I am a licensed psychologist providing adult psychotherapy, couples therapy, sex therapy and family therapy. I approach therapy from a relational perspective, and enjoy working collaboratively with clients and their strengths to create change. I am particularly interested in working with clients around family of origin issues, relationship issues, trauma, sexual relationships and sexuality. I work with couples on communication, strengthening relational dynamics and sexual or intimacy concerns. I also work as a sex therapist and am open to working whether you come as a couple or as an individual.
(781) 350-9375 View (781) 350-9375
Photo of Nicholas Taylor, Psychologist in Arlington, MA
Nicholas Taylor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the evidence-based treatment of anxiety spectrum, mood, and behavioral disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. I have extensive experience helping individuals, families, and parents manage symptoms of social anxiety, panic disorder, agoraphobia, phobias, generalized anxiety, tics, misophonia, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I received my MA and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Suffolk University and completed my post-doctoral fellowship at McLean Hospital, a Harvard Medical School affiliate.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the evidence-based treatment of anxiety spectrum, mood, and behavioral disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. I have extensive experience helping individuals, families, and parents manage symptoms of social anxiety, panic disorder, agoraphobia, phobias, generalized anxiety, tics, misophonia, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I received my MA and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Suffolk University and completed my post-doctoral fellowship at McLean Hospital, a Harvard Medical School affiliate.
(617) 744-7928 View (617) 744-7928
Photo of Katie Strickland, Psychologist in Arlington, MA
Katie Strickland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02474
An increasing amount of people are experiencing stress, anxiety, and other uncomfortable emotions regarding the current state of our world. Now more than ever, it is especially important to take care of our emotional health as well as our physical. There are many different approaches to therapy and it is not “one size fits all.” As a therapist with extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I integrate this theory with other evidence-based treatments to address a wide range of issues. Most importantly, I focus on building a strong therapeutic bond with each of my clients through curiosity, understanding, and compassion.
An increasing amount of people are experiencing stress, anxiety, and other uncomfortable emotions regarding the current state of our world. Now more than ever, it is especially important to take care of our emotional health as well as our physical. There are many different approaches to therapy and it is not “one size fits all.” As a therapist with extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I integrate this theory with other evidence-based treatments to address a wide range of issues. Most importantly, I focus on building a strong therapeutic bond with each of my clients through curiosity, understanding, and compassion.
(339) 220-5653 View (339) 220-5653
Photo of Katherine L. Alson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arlington, MA
Katherine L. Alson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02476  (Online Only)
*NOW ACCEPTING ONLINE CLIENTS IN DAYTIME HOURS* Are you unhappy w/ your relationship? Are you engaged married or in a committed relationship? Does it feel like you & your partner speak different languages, or are having the same arguments over again? Want to feel more connected? I provide pre-marital, marital, & relationship counseling to engaged, married, or dating couples to help build solid, positive connections for the future. I work with you - individually, or as a couple - to anticipate the bumps in the road, & help to have successful, loving relationships. I also work w/ Grief & Loss, Life Transitions, & Sandwich Generation.
*NOW ACCEPTING ONLINE CLIENTS IN DAYTIME HOURS* Are you unhappy w/ your relationship? Are you engaged married or in a committed relationship? Does it feel like you & your partner speak different languages, or are having the same arguments over again? Want to feel more connected? I provide pre-marital, marital, & relationship counseling to engaged, married, or dating couples to help build solid, positive connections for the future. I work with you - individually, or as a couple - to anticipate the bumps in the road, & help to have successful, loving relationships. I also work w/ Grief & Loss, Life Transitions, & Sandwich Generation.
(339) 707-7067 View (339) 707-7067
Photo of Kirsten Shih, Counselor in Arlington, MA
Kirsten Shih
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02476  (Online Only)
I meet with folks, especially young adults and young parents, to explore identities, figure out who they are, and deal with challenges in their day-to-day ennvironment.
I meet with folks, especially young adults and young parents, to explore identities, figure out who they are, and deal with challenges in their day-to-day ennvironment.
(339) 345-3269 View (339) 345-3269
Photo of Jordan Crawford, Counselor in Arlington, MA
Jordan Crawford
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02476  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Clinician and Expressive Art Therapist who enjoys art, music, writing and traveling. I have experience working in a wide array of clinical settings including crisis, inpatient, private practice and community mental health.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Clinician and Expressive Art Therapist who enjoys art, music, writing and traveling. I have experience working in a wide array of clinical settings including crisis, inpatient, private practice and community mental health.
View
Photo of Karen Capraro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arlington, MA
Karen Capraro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02476
Waitlist for new clients
I've worked in inpatient psychiatry, outpatient clinics, and school counseling and specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, eating issues, stress, relationships, ADHD, parenting and women's issues. I use a strengths-based, collaborative approach with clients and their families in assessment and treatment planning and utilize many treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused, and mindfulness-based techniques.
I've worked in inpatient psychiatry, outpatient clinics, and school counseling and specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, eating issues, stress, relationships, ADHD, parenting and women's issues. I use a strengths-based, collaborative approach with clients and their families in assessment and treatment planning and utilize many treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused, and mindfulness-based techniques.
(781) 859-0501 View (781) 859-0501
Marlene H Kenney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MA
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
I enjoy working with adolescents, teenagers and adults who have trauma histories and traumatic loss. I believe that with every trauma comes opportunity for spiritual, emotional and relational growth. As a Social Worker and family systems therapist, I work with clients to address depression, anxiety, and trauma, from a wholistic and systemic perspective.
I enjoy working with adolescents, teenagers and adults who have trauma histories and traumatic loss. I believe that with every trauma comes opportunity for spiritual, emotional and relational growth. As a Social Worker and family systems therapist, I work with clients to address depression, anxiety, and trauma, from a wholistic and systemic perspective.
(781) 460-6860 View (781) 460-6860

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Arlington, MA

400+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Arlington, MA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
67% Coping Skills
66% Trauma and PTSD
64% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% BlueCross and BlueShield
51% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
50% Optum

How Therapists in Arlington, MA see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
16% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Arlington?

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.