Photo of Jonathan P Levin, Counselor in 01060, MA
Jonathan P Levin
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
Not accepting new clients
I AM NOT ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS CURRENTLY Everyone comes to therapy for different reasons. It may be difficulties with friends, or with family, or not being able to get things done at work, or feeling depressed or immobilized with anxiety. I work with people to identify whatever it is that's getting in the way, and to develop strategies, skills, and resources that will get you to the point where you're no longer limited by those obstacles.
I AM NOT ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS CURRENTLY Everyone comes to therapy for different reasons. It may be difficulties with friends, or with family, or not being able to get things done at work, or feeling depressed or immobilized with anxiety. I work with people to identify whatever it is that's getting in the way, and to develop strategies, skills, and resources that will get you to the point where you're no longer limited by those obstacles.
(413) 628-1084 View (413) 628-1084
Photo of Mendel Mok, Counselor in 01060, MA
Mendel Mok
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northampton, MA 01060  (Online Only)
In treatment we will work together to create a therapeutic environment that supports personal growth, self fulfillment and healing. I believe strongly in client autonomy and see my role as a supportive professional who will collaborate with you to develop a working relationship that promotes the safe and respectful exploration of your unique life challenges.
In treatment we will work together to create a therapeutic environment that supports personal growth, self fulfillment and healing. I believe strongly in client autonomy and see my role as a supportive professional who will collaborate with you to develop a working relationship that promotes the safe and respectful exploration of your unique life challenges.
(413) 359-6082 View (413) 359-6082
Photo of Angelica Baez-Vazquez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01060, MA
Angelica Baez-Vazquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northampton, MA 01060  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Finding a therapist is hard, but finding one you connect with can be even harder. Whether you are looking for additional coping strategies to add to your tool box, currently on the brink of a crisis, or maybe you don't know your “why” but feel as though you need to talk with someone, I would love to sit and listen. My name is Angelica. I am warm, non-judgemental and my approach to therapy is simple, come as you are. Showing up can be hard at times but it allows us the opportunity to build a rapport, reflect together, identify and when necessary confront behaviors that are contributing to our stressors.
Finding a therapist is hard, but finding one you connect with can be even harder. Whether you are looking for additional coping strategies to add to your tool box, currently on the brink of a crisis, or maybe you don't know your “why” but feel as though you need to talk with someone, I would love to sit and listen. My name is Angelica. I am warm, non-judgemental and my approach to therapy is simple, come as you are. Showing up can be hard at times but it allows us the opportunity to build a rapport, reflect together, identify and when necessary confront behaviors that are contributing to our stressors.
(413) 343-4031 View (413) 343-4031
Photo of Ethan Suniewick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01060, MA
Ethan Suniewick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Northampton, MA 01060  (Online Only)
After many conversations with friends, family, coworkers, and sometimes complete strangers, I often hear "Wow! I've never shared that with anyone before!" I will bring this open, non-judgmental, and accepting part of myself to all of our work together. Whatever issue you are asking for help with, I am here to join with you and support your efforts to make positive changes, to find clarity, and to move forward with understanding and self-love.
After many conversations with friends, family, coworkers, and sometimes complete strangers, I often hear "Wow! I've never shared that with anyone before!" I will bring this open, non-judgmental, and accepting part of myself to all of our work together. Whatever issue you are asking for help with, I am here to join with you and support your efforts to make positive changes, to find clarity, and to move forward with understanding and self-love.
(413) 798-8892 View (413) 798-8892
Photo of Celia Mackinnon, Marriage & Family Therapist in 01060, MA
Celia Mackinnon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
Waitlist for new clients
Thank you for considering my profile. I am licensed both as a Mental Health Counseler and a Marriage and Family Therapist. A guiding belief in my work is an unconditional regard for the individual value of each person. I have a variety of training (Pyschodynamic, cognitive behavioral, relational EFT, EMDR etc.)and use an ecelectic approach. I have been working with children and their families in a varity of settings, for almost 30 years. I have extensive experience working with a variety of diagnosis. I also have a bachelor degree in working with Young Children with Special Needs.
Thank you for considering my profile. I am licensed both as a Mental Health Counseler and a Marriage and Family Therapist. A guiding belief in my work is an unconditional regard for the individual value of each person. I have a variety of training (Pyschodynamic, cognitive behavioral, relational EFT, EMDR etc.)and use an ecelectic approach. I have been working with children and their families in a varity of settings, for almost 30 years. I have extensive experience working with a variety of diagnosis. I also have a bachelor degree in working with Young Children with Special Needs.
(413) 758-1973 View (413) 758-1973
Photo of Rachel Marston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01060, MA
Rachel Marston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060  (Online Only)
With empathy, deep listening and grounded humor, I help many people to overcome the difficulties they face. I begin with profound respect for how people have learned to cope. I work with people to continue their healing path in a way that makes sense for them by pulling on my understanding of Somatic Experiencing, trauma, psychodynamic, spirituality and play therapy frameworks. We will work together to understand the roots of your difficulties and your strengths, so we can know how to release you from what blocks you.
With empathy, deep listening and grounded humor, I help many people to overcome the difficulties they face. I begin with profound respect for how people have learned to cope. I work with people to continue their healing path in a way that makes sense for them by pulling on my understanding of Somatic Experiencing, trauma, psychodynamic, spirituality and play therapy frameworks. We will work together to understand the roots of your difficulties and your strengths, so we can know how to release you from what blocks you.
(413) 314-3819 View (413) 314-3819
Photo of Adele (Addie) Liechty Kogan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01060, MA
Adele (Addie) Liechty Kogan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
I see clients virtually in California and Florida and in person in western Ma. People enter my therapy practice for all sorts of reasons. You may be at an impasse or a crossroads due to the loss of a relationship, a big life decision or general anxiety that you can no longer bear on your own. You may be suffering from the wounds of homophobia, transphobia, racism, white supremacy and patriarchy, on top of other traumas and early childhood wounds. Regardless, I seek to offer a safe space for you to access a deeper understanding of yourself and your underlying needs and motives, as well as a personal sense of freedom and empowerment.
I see clients virtually in California and Florida and in person in western Ma. People enter my therapy practice for all sorts of reasons. You may be at an impasse or a crossroads due to the loss of a relationship, a big life decision or general anxiety that you can no longer bear on your own. You may be suffering from the wounds of homophobia, transphobia, racism, white supremacy and patriarchy, on top of other traumas and early childhood wounds. Regardless, I seek to offer a safe space for you to access a deeper understanding of yourself and your underlying needs and motives, as well as a personal sense of freedom and empowerment.
(413) 207-0583 View (413) 207-0583
Photo of Sherene Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01060, MA
Sherene Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northampton, MA 01060
Living with an LGBTQAIP and/or erotically diverse identity can often bring extra challenges along with experiences of resiliency and strength. As a queer-identified, polyamorous and gender fluid therapist, I value creating a safe space where multiple aspects of identity are welcome and opportunities for healing are abundant.
Living with an LGBTQAIP and/or erotically diverse identity can often bring extra challenges along with experiences of resiliency and strength. As a queer-identified, polyamorous and gender fluid therapist, I value creating a safe space where multiple aspects of identity are welcome and opportunities for healing are abundant.
(413) 359-6329 View (413) 359-6329
Photo of Katy DeLorenzo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01060, MA
Katy DeLorenzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northampton, MA 01060
We are all born into life with a story. Sometimes we're the sad kiddo, sometimes the quiet one, the perfect one, the silly one, the list goes on and on. Often these stories stick with us and become our paths but they don't have to define us. Sometimes life just takes its toll. The stress of work, loss, parenthood, health, loneliness, relationships, identity or even making day to day choices can add up and leave us feeling stuck. I've worked with individuals and couples to help amplify what's working and change patterns that are no longer serving them. Let me help get you unstuck. I'm also available for clinical supervision.
We are all born into life with a story. Sometimes we're the sad kiddo, sometimes the quiet one, the perfect one, the silly one, the list goes on and on. Often these stories stick with us and become our paths but they don't have to define us. Sometimes life just takes its toll. The stress of work, loss, parenthood, health, loneliness, relationships, identity or even making day to day choices can add up and leave us feeling stuck. I've worked with individuals and couples to help amplify what's working and change patterns that are no longer serving them. Let me help get you unstuck. I'm also available for clinical supervision.
(857) 342-4377 View (857) 342-4377
Photo of Amy Gray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01060, MA
Amy Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individual adults and teens. My areas of specialization include anxiety, complex trauma/PTSD, depression, LGBTQIA+, grief/loss and neurodiversity. Therapy can help us to understand the experiences that have shaped us and empower us to make changes and move forward in our lives with much more clarity and purpose. I work intentionally to provide a safe, nonjudgemental space to support clients on their journey of self-discovery, growth and healing.
I work with individual adults and teens. My areas of specialization include anxiety, complex trauma/PTSD, depression, LGBTQIA+, grief/loss and neurodiversity. Therapy can help us to understand the experiences that have shaped us and empower us to make changes and move forward in our lives with much more clarity and purpose. I work intentionally to provide a safe, nonjudgemental space to support clients on their journey of self-discovery, growth and healing.
(413) 372-8559 View (413) 372-8559
Photo of Janice Ragland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01060, MA
Janice Ragland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
Not accepting new clients
I have diverse experience working with many clients, including adults (aged 18-82) and children (aged 7-18) and with disorders including: PTSD, anxiety, bipolar, depression, dual diagnosis, OCD, eating and personality disorders. I have over 40 years' experience teaching mindfulness and often use it in my work, and in combination with CBT. I provide individual, couples, family and group therapy, and often collaborate with psychiatrists or nurse practitioners on medication management issues.
I have diverse experience working with many clients, including adults (aged 18-82) and children (aged 7-18) and with disorders including: PTSD, anxiety, bipolar, depression, dual diagnosis, OCD, eating and personality disorders. I have over 40 years' experience teaching mindfulness and often use it in my work, and in combination with CBT. I provide individual, couples, family and group therapy, and often collaborate with psychiatrists or nurse practitioners on medication management issues.
(413) 341-6771 View (413) 341-6771
Photo of Dean Colpack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01060, MA
Dean Colpack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
Not accepting new clients
Clients and myself are on a journey, to explore and notice the things that bubble up, the things that stay stuck beneath, the parts of themselves that enter the therapy room: the grieving parts, the sad and scared parts, the joyful ones. I work with clients who are seeking for meaning and understanding in their responses to the relationships in their lives: those with family, with partners, with spirituality, with creativity, with work and life's purpose, and beyond.
Clients and myself are on a journey, to explore and notice the things that bubble up, the things that stay stuck beneath, the parts of themselves that enter the therapy room: the grieving parts, the sad and scared parts, the joyful ones. I work with clients who are seeking for meaning and understanding in their responses to the relationships in their lives: those with family, with partners, with spirituality, with creativity, with work and life's purpose, and beyond.
(413) 308-6945 View (413) 308-6945
Photo of Barbara Bolibok, PhD, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01060, MA
Barbara Bolibok, PhD, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
I am a clinical social worker and a psychoanalyst. I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy to individuals who wish to gain insight into themselves and who want to transform painful emotional patterns that block them from living full lives. It has been my experience that people are naturally curious about themselves and given a safe and supportive environment will engage in a process that can lead to change. In our work together you may want to focus on a specific problem in your current life in short term psychodynamic therapy, or you may wish to engage in more exploratory psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I also offer psychoanalysis.
I am a clinical social worker and a psychoanalyst. I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy to individuals who wish to gain insight into themselves and who want to transform painful emotional patterns that block them from living full lives. It has been my experience that people are naturally curious about themselves and given a safe and supportive environment will engage in a process that can lead to change. In our work together you may want to focus on a specific problem in your current life in short term psychodynamic therapy, or you may wish to engage in more exploratory psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I also offer psychoanalysis.
(413) 349-6515 View (413) 349-6515
Photo of Kimberly Jeffers/Wellness Within, LLC, Counselor in 01060, MA
Kimberly Jeffers/Wellness Within, LLC
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060
Whether you're facing big life decisions, healing from complex trauma, navigating difficult relationships, or looking for healthier ways to cope with life’s daily stressors, you do not have to continue this journey alone. Are you looking for support with balancing the many roles that are so important to you? With navigating work, motherhood, family responsibilities and relationships? The day to day is overwhelming enough, when something unexpected comes up it's even harder. Everyone has to deal with stressors and unpleasant happenings, and no one should have to just push through it and figure it out alone.
Whether you're facing big life decisions, healing from complex trauma, navigating difficult relationships, or looking for healthier ways to cope with life’s daily stressors, you do not have to continue this journey alone. Are you looking for support with balancing the many roles that are so important to you? With navigating work, motherhood, family responsibilities and relationships? The day to day is overwhelming enough, when something unexpected comes up it's even harder. Everyone has to deal with stressors and unpleasant happenings, and no one should have to just push through it and figure it out alone.
(413) 384-3638 View (413) 384-3638
Photo of John Griffin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01060, MA
John Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060  (Online Only)
Specializing in the treatment of ADHD, my practice emphasizes the development of strategies to improve overall executive functioning, as well as developing understanding of the impact that ADHD has on our attention, impulsivity, self-esteem, procrastination, and motivation. I also work with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, and trauma, with treatment aiming to help clients identify the barriers keeping them from their goals and designing interventions that promote a more positive sense of self.
Specializing in the treatment of ADHD, my practice emphasizes the development of strategies to improve overall executive functioning, as well as developing understanding of the impact that ADHD has on our attention, impulsivity, self-esteem, procrastination, and motivation. I also work with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, and trauma, with treatment aiming to help clients identify the barriers keeping them from their goals and designing interventions that promote a more positive sense of self.
(413) 216-6248 View (413) 216-6248
Photo of Jeremy Axelrad, Psychologist in 01060, MA
Jeremy Axelrad
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
You make sense. Each part of you is here for an important reason and has a role to play in your continued growth. However, if you are seeking therapy, it might seem like just the opposite is true. Anxiety, depression, and behaviors that feel out of control can make our lives seem painfully small, disconnected, overwhelming, or incomplete. Whether long-term or sudden, these difficulties often involve a sense of stuckness; at such times we might tell ourselves that we are flawed, or that this is just the way life is. And yet, even as we are struggling, something in us knows that another way is possible.
You make sense. Each part of you is here for an important reason and has a role to play in your continued growth. However, if you are seeking therapy, it might seem like just the opposite is true. Anxiety, depression, and behaviors that feel out of control can make our lives seem painfully small, disconnected, overwhelming, or incomplete. Whether long-term or sudden, these difficulties often involve a sense of stuckness; at such times we might tell ourselves that we are flawed, or that this is just the way life is. And yet, even as we are struggling, something in us knows that another way is possible.
(413) 359-6377 View (413) 359-6377
Photo of Jane H Katz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01060, MA
Jane H Katz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northampton, MA 01060
I believe that we are works in progress, having endless possibilities for the direction of our growth. I support clients in finding the potential for growth in challenges, to use creativity and flexibility to work productively with difficulty. I assist clients in developing clarity to identify options and expand the vision of themselves and the world. I encourage them to identify interests and pursue creative activities that help regenerate energy. I promote clients identifying both their strengths and long-held beliefs that limit growth. Developing increased awareness and positive action supports healing and the manifestation of life goals.
I believe that we are works in progress, having endless possibilities for the direction of our growth. I support clients in finding the potential for growth in challenges, to use creativity and flexibility to work productively with difficulty. I assist clients in developing clarity to identify options and expand the vision of themselves and the world. I encourage them to identify interests and pursue creative activities that help regenerate energy. I promote clients identifying both their strengths and long-held beliefs that limit growth. Developing increased awareness and positive action supports healing and the manifestation of life goals.
(413) 357-1764 View (413) 357-1764
Photo of Rebecca Kreshak-Hayden, Counselor in 01060, MA
Rebecca Kreshak-Hayden
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northampton, MA 01060
Are you seeking a nurturing environment where you can find solace amidst life's transitions and challenges? Look no further. I value co-creating welcoming and safe spaces where clients can explore their innermost selves and navigate their unique paths to healing. At Wellness Within, we honor the holistic nature of healing, recognizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. My approach is grounded in empathy, compassion, and a commitment to meeting clients where they are on their healing journeys.
Are you seeking a nurturing environment where you can find solace amidst life's transitions and challenges? Look no further. I value co-creating welcoming and safe spaces where clients can explore their innermost selves and navigate their unique paths to healing. At Wellness Within, we honor the holistic nature of healing, recognizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. My approach is grounded in empathy, compassion, and a commitment to meeting clients where they are on their healing journeys.
(413) 339-3322 View (413) 339-3322
Photo of Bren Palla, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01060, MA
Bren Palla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060  (Online Only)
We can all become stuck, overwhelmed, hopeless, or just feel we’re not living our best lives for many different reasons. Additionally, the current unrest in society around us can shake a sense of security or predictability we may have held about what our futures hold. These may cause disruptions in sleep and appetite and encourage negative thoughts and moods to grow and persist. Whatever your struggles, I ensure professional care that is collaborative, respectful, and that has your best interests at heart.
We can all become stuck, overwhelmed, hopeless, or just feel we’re not living our best lives for many different reasons. Additionally, the current unrest in society around us can shake a sense of security or predictability we may have held about what our futures hold. These may cause disruptions in sleep and appetite and encourage negative thoughts and moods to grow and persist. Whatever your struggles, I ensure professional care that is collaborative, respectful, and that has your best interests at heart.
(413) 207-9135 View (413) 207-9135
Photo of Perry Carter, Counselor in 01060, MA
Perry Carter
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Northampton, MA 01060  (Online Only)
Feeling depressed, anxious, or stuck? Life presents challenges, and there are many reasons to seek help. I provide a comfortable, non-judgmental environment in which we can work together to transform your difficulties into avenues for personal growth. Things don't change, people do, as a result of conscious choices. My approach to treatment is flexible, compassionate, and tailored to what you're seeking from therapy. I take a strengths-based approach, using solution-focused strategies to help you find the clarity to realize your full potential. You can change your life if you're ready to change your habits!
Feeling depressed, anxious, or stuck? Life presents challenges, and there are many reasons to seek help. I provide a comfortable, non-judgmental environment in which we can work together to transform your difficulties into avenues for personal growth. Things don't change, people do, as a result of conscious choices. My approach to treatment is flexible, compassionate, and tailored to what you're seeking from therapy. I take a strengths-based approach, using solution-focused strategies to help you find the clarity to realize your full potential. You can change your life if you're ready to change your habits!
(413) 315-4804 View (413) 315-4804

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 01060

500+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 01060 who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
87% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
73% Trauma and PTSD
72% Self Esteem
66% Grief
64% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% BlueCross and BlueShield
46% Optum
45% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 01060 see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
22% Male
5% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 01060?

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.