Therapists in Brandon, FL

Photo of Jennifer Keovongsa, Counselor in Brandon, FL
Jennifer Keovongsa
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to DBT Counseling Specialties, LLC. I provide DBT and general counseling services. I believe in adopting evidence-based treatments to enrich my clients' lives. I am intensively trained in DBT. Our slogan is Hope is on the Horizon, it is because I believe that each individual client has a unique story to share, each client has unique goals, along with unique challenges, and I want to work just as hard as you, right beside you, to help you realize your greatest potential.
Welcome to DBT Counseling Specialties, LLC. I provide DBT and general counseling services. I believe in adopting evidence-based treatments to enrich my clients' lives. I am intensively trained in DBT. Our slogan is Hope is on the Horizon, it is because I believe that each individual client has a unique story to share, each client has unique goals, along with unique challenges, and I want to work just as hard as you, right beside you, to help you realize your greatest potential.
(813) 519-4576 View (813) 519-4576
Photo of Tampa Bay Ctr for Cognitive Behavior Therapy Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brandon, FL
Tampa Bay Ctr for Cognitive Behavior Therapy Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33511
Thank you for your interest; I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Qualified Supervisor who has 30 years of experience working with the most seriously ill children, teens, adults and families in hospital, residential and Community Mental Health Center outpatient settings. I founded TBCforCBT in order to provide you with high quality, exceptional evidence-based treatment. The therapists and student interns on our team are dedicated to continued training in DBT, and other proven methods of treatment that will help you with your recovery much more effectively and quickly than typical counseling approaches. Call/write and let us help!
Thank you for your interest; I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Qualified Supervisor who has 30 years of experience working with the most seriously ill children, teens, adults and families in hospital, residential and Community Mental Health Center outpatient settings. I founded TBCforCBT in order to provide you with high quality, exceptional evidence-based treatment. The therapists and student interns on our team are dedicated to continued training in DBT, and other proven methods of treatment that will help you with your recovery much more effectively and quickly than typical counseling approaches. Call/write and let us help!
(813) 704-0946 View (813) 704-0946
Photo of Lisa Bettcher - Wake Haven Therapy Services Llc, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brandon, FL
Lisa Bettcher - Wake Haven Therapy Services Llc
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33511  (Online Only)
It's that STUCK feeling-Trapped in a painful cycle and you just can’t seem to break free. Just getting through the day can be a struggle. I will tell you- The way you’re feeling right now is NOT permanent. Change IS possible. You just need the right support and guidance to make it happen. These pains arise when we become consumed by the stresses of our lives and we lose touch with our own Selves and needs. We become disconnected, working on autopilot. I’ll help you get to the root of the problem so you can create lasting change in how you experience life.
It's that STUCK feeling-Trapped in a painful cycle and you just can’t seem to break free. Just getting through the day can be a struggle. I will tell you- The way you’re feeling right now is NOT permanent. Change IS possible. You just need the right support and guidance to make it happen. These pains arise when we become consumed by the stresses of our lives and we lose touch with our own Selves and needs. We become disconnected, working on autopilot. I’ll help you get to the root of the problem so you can create lasting change in how you experience life.
(813) 733-8512 View (813) 733-8512
Photo of The Empowerment Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brandon, FL
The Empowerment Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511
I work to support you as you embark on the journey toward restoration of balance and peace. Whether a couple facing marital challenges, a blended family seeking to come together, or an individual facing major life transition, I work with you to provide the needed support and encouragement to assist in reaching your desired goal. If you're feeling overwhelmed and unable to move beyond your situation, contact us at The Empowerment Group. Help is available.
I work to support you as you embark on the journey toward restoration of balance and peace. Whether a couple facing marital challenges, a blended family seeking to come together, or an individual facing major life transition, I work with you to provide the needed support and encouragement to assist in reaching your desired goal. If you're feeling overwhelmed and unable to move beyond your situation, contact us at The Empowerment Group. Help is available.
(813) 796-6746 View (813) 796-6746
Photo of Alexis Trunzo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brandon, FL
Alexis Trunzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33511  (Online Only)
Starting 3/1/24 Immediate Openings Available. So, you have decided to start therapy. Maybe it was because a friend or loved one encouraged you. Maybe a healthcare provider recommended it. Or maybe you came to the conclusion yourself. Now what?
Starting 3/1/24 Immediate Openings Available. So, you have decided to start therapy. Maybe it was because a friend or loved one encouraged you. Maybe a healthcare provider recommended it. Or maybe you came to the conclusion yourself. Now what?
(813) 856-2945 View (813) 856-2945
Photo of Gretchen Sanchez, Counselor in Brandon, FL
Gretchen Sanchez
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33511
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. The most important component of my practice is to provide a straightforward, honest, and nonjudgmental experience that supports and encourages your personal growth. Researchers agree that building empathy in a therapeutic relationship is the best indicator for change and learning. My specialty is helping individuals find new ways of managing highly emotional and difficult transitions in order to gain insight that enables progress. Improvement can be expected in the following areas: relationships ,co-dependency, career concerns, anxiety, depression, trauma or abuse, chemical or alcohol dependency, parenting, self-esteem, self-destructive behaviors, and feelings of emptiness, hopelessness or disappointment.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. The most important component of my practice is to provide a straightforward, honest, and nonjudgmental experience that supports and encourages your personal growth. Researchers agree that building empathy in a therapeutic relationship is the best indicator for change and learning. My specialty is helping individuals find new ways of managing highly emotional and difficult transitions in order to gain insight that enables progress. Improvement can be expected in the following areas: relationships ,co-dependency, career concerns, anxiety, depression, trauma or abuse, chemical or alcohol dependency, parenting, self-esteem, self-destructive behaviors, and feelings of emptiness, hopelessness or disappointment.
(813) 321-2585 View (813) 321-2585
Photo of Julie Marie Illari, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brandon, FL
Julie Marie Illari
Pre-Licensed Professional, Ed D
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33510
Have you ever felt the need to speak with someone who understands, who has walked in your shoes, who has helped people who have faced similar challenges? Have you felt frustrated, hopeless or that others wouldn’t understand? Julie is a counseling intern who has a diverse life background that equips her to support many areas of need. As the spouse of a retired military member, she has firsthand experience with families and individuals that are facing trauma, transition, adjustment, separation, and loss. Having spent more than twenty years as an exceptional student (special) educator and school administrator Julie has provided extensi
Have you ever felt the need to speak with someone who understands, who has walked in your shoes, who has helped people who have faced similar challenges? Have you felt frustrated, hopeless or that others wouldn’t understand? Julie is a counseling intern who has a diverse life background that equips her to support many areas of need. As the spouse of a retired military member, she has firsthand experience with families and individuals that are facing trauma, transition, adjustment, separation, and loss. Having spent more than twenty years as an exceptional student (special) educator and school administrator Julie has provided extensi
(813) 710-4336 View (813) 710-4336
Photo of Dr. Laura C Franco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brandon, FL
Dr. Laura C Franco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33511
I am the owner of Life Solutions Services, a practice focused on providing a wide range of services including psychotherapy, hypnoyherapy, medication management and outpatient opioid detox, provided by skilled and experienced clinicians. I often say to our new clients that it takes a lot of courage to reach out and begin their journey towards better mental health. When you finally make the decision to contact a therapist and schedule your first appointment, you are beginning to regain some control over your life. I am proud of you for starting your journey by researching a clinician you feel you will be able to trust.
I am the owner of Life Solutions Services, a practice focused on providing a wide range of services including psychotherapy, hypnoyherapy, medication management and outpatient opioid detox, provided by skilled and experienced clinicians. I often say to our new clients that it takes a lot of courage to reach out and begin their journey towards better mental health. When you finally make the decision to contact a therapist and schedule your first appointment, you are beginning to regain some control over your life. I am proud of you for starting your journey by researching a clinician you feel you will be able to trust.
(954) 280-1966 View (954) 280-1966
Photo of RWJCounseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brandon, FL
RWJCounseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals, couples and families as they tackle the tasks of life. Along with 10+ years experience working in a private practice. I am a retired veteran of 21 years from the U. S. Air Force. Many couples go through dramatic challenges during the lifespan of their relationship. It does not matter if the relationship is 1 year old or 20+ years old.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals, couples and families as they tackle the tasks of life. Along with 10+ years experience working in a private practice. I am a retired veteran of 21 years from the U. S. Air Force. Many couples go through dramatic challenges during the lifespan of their relationship. It does not matter if the relationship is 1 year old or 20+ years old.
(813) 699-4837 View (813) 699-4837
Photo of Vanessa J Power, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brandon, FL
Vanessa J Power
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511  (Online Only)
I was drawn to the individual therapy without even realizing it. I’ve always loved listening to people; I loved feeling helpful and being supportive to people in need. Having overcome personal hardships myself, I also recognize the importance of a skilled therapist who is equal parts authentic and compassionate. I have spent the past 19 years of my career in a variety of clinical environments where I learned numerous specialized trainings. These clinical experiences, trainings, and my personal experiences have really helped shape my practice.
I was drawn to the individual therapy without even realizing it. I’ve always loved listening to people; I loved feeling helpful and being supportive to people in need. Having overcome personal hardships myself, I also recognize the importance of a skilled therapist who is equal parts authentic and compassionate. I have spent the past 19 years of my career in a variety of clinical environments where I learned numerous specialized trainings. These clinical experiences, trainings, and my personal experiences have really helped shape my practice.
(813) 548-5944 View (813) 548-5944
Photo of Quynh Tran, Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern in Brandon, FL
Quynh Tran
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, RCSWI, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33511  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Therapy. You’re thinking about doing it. Or your family and friends recommend it, but you’re still unsure. Or you’re ready for it but don’t know where to start. No matter where you are on your journey, I’m meeting you there and supporting you the rest of the way. Whether it’s anxiety that keeps you from doing what you want, or a dreading sense of insecurity that makes you feel like you don’t belong, or relationship issues that you feel unhappy about, I want to help you through the good, the bad, and the ugly.
Therapy. You’re thinking about doing it. Or your family and friends recommend it, but you’re still unsure. Or you’re ready for it but don’t know where to start. No matter where you are on your journey, I’m meeting you there and supporting you the rest of the way. Whether it’s anxiety that keeps you from doing what you want, or a dreading sense of insecurity that makes you feel like you don’t belong, or relationship issues that you feel unhappy about, I want to help you through the good, the bad, and the ugly.
View
Photo of Dr. Howard J Lloyd, Psychologist in Brandon, FL
Dr. Howard J Lloyd
Psychologist, EdS, PhD
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33508  (Online Only)
As a counseling psychologist my ultimate goal is to enhance, restore and empower every individual to take control of their lives and healing with compassion, courage, and care. I believe that everyone deserves to be seen, respected, and understood. I respect who you are and understand that different identities (race, orientation, gender, religion, etc) may make the world around you more challenging to navigate. I am dedicated to the meaningful work of assisting in unearthing your authenticity and charting a unique path to wellness.
As a counseling psychologist my ultimate goal is to enhance, restore and empower every individual to take control of their lives and healing with compassion, courage, and care. I believe that everyone deserves to be seen, respected, and understood. I respect who you are and understand that different identities (race, orientation, gender, religion, etc) may make the world around you more challenging to navigate. I am dedicated to the meaningful work of assisting in unearthing your authenticity and charting a unique path to wellness.
(813) 790-5944 View (813) 790-5944
Photo of Brandon Area Psychology Associates, LLC, Psychologist in Brandon, FL
Brandon Area Psychology Associates, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511
Brandon Area Psychology Associates is one of the leading behavioral health practices in the Brandon Florida area. Our team of independent practitioners includes licensed child, adolescent, and adult psychologists, therapists, and post-doctoral residents who have experience, training, and skill in numerous areas within the field of psychology. We provide a variety of services and our newly built 3600 sqft building is ideally located in Brookwood Office Park on Bloomingdale Avenue between Bryan and John Moore roads in Brandon, Florida.
Brandon Area Psychology Associates is one of the leading behavioral health practices in the Brandon Florida area. Our team of independent practitioners includes licensed child, adolescent, and adult psychologists, therapists, and post-doctoral residents who have experience, training, and skill in numerous areas within the field of psychology. We provide a variety of services and our newly built 3600 sqft building is ideally located in Brookwood Office Park on Bloomingdale Avenue between Bryan and John Moore roads in Brandon, Florida.
(813) 737-7259 View (813) 737-7259
Photo of Zinthiana Mendoza, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brandon, FL
Zinthiana Mendoza
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33511
If you’re ready to embrace authenticity, navigate life’s twists, improve communication, and nurture self-love even during challenges, I’m here to be your ally. My mission is to empower you to discover that the key to reducing anxiety and fear lies within you. You deserve a life where your well-being comes first, freed from worries. I focus on helping individuals regain mental clarity, increase confidence, and trust their inner guidance. I provide a safe, judgment-free zone where your voice matters. It’s all about creating an atmosphere where you can reconnect with your inner strength and confidently prioritize yourself.
If you’re ready to embrace authenticity, navigate life’s twists, improve communication, and nurture self-love even during challenges, I’m here to be your ally. My mission is to empower you to discover that the key to reducing anxiety and fear lies within you. You deserve a life where your well-being comes first, freed from worries. I focus on helping individuals regain mental clarity, increase confidence, and trust their inner guidance. I provide a safe, judgment-free zone where your voice matters. It’s all about creating an atmosphere where you can reconnect with your inner strength and confidently prioritize yourself.
(813) 566-0296 View (813) 566-0296
Photo of Affordable Counseling Center, Counselor in Brandon, FL
Affordable Counseling Center
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33510
We have a sliding scale from $60 - $120 to help people who do not have insurance. We are available days, evenings and weekends for your convenience. We do not accept Medicaid. The Counseling Team specializes in working with couples, troubled teens, family conflict, blended families, vets returning to civilian life and their spouses and families, individuals with depression, stress, anxiety, trauma and co-dependency issues, addiction, anger management, and many other sources of stress that compromise the quality of a person's daily life experience. "Live the life you deserve"
We have a sliding scale from $60 - $120 to help people who do not have insurance. We are available days, evenings and weekends for your convenience. We do not accept Medicaid. The Counseling Team specializes in working with couples, troubled teens, family conflict, blended families, vets returning to civilian life and their spouses and families, individuals with depression, stress, anxiety, trauma and co-dependency issues, addiction, anger management, and many other sources of stress that compromise the quality of a person's daily life experience. "Live the life you deserve"
(813) 776-2724 View (813) 776-2724
Photo of Ira Lee West, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Brandon, FL
Ira Lee West
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33510
During life’s difficulties, we often feel unheard and alone. Aloneness can be enough to overwhelm. Add in relationship conflicts, parenting struggles, and work issues. More so, a significant life event like a death or divorce. Where can you turn for support? We all can find ourselves needing care and comfort. Beginning the first time we meet; you will be heard. Better yet, my goal is for you to feel heard. My experience is the aloneness will start to subside knowing you have someone to walk alongside you. I say alongside because you are the expert of your life and I believe you will guide us in the direction we should go.
During life’s difficulties, we often feel unheard and alone. Aloneness can be enough to overwhelm. Add in relationship conflicts, parenting struggles, and work issues. More so, a significant life event like a death or divorce. Where can you turn for support? We all can find ourselves needing care and comfort. Beginning the first time we meet; you will be heard. Better yet, my goal is for you to feel heard. My experience is the aloneness will start to subside knowing you have someone to walk alongside you. I say alongside because you are the expert of your life and I believe you will guide us in the direction we should go.
(813) 669-4274 View (813) 669-4274
Photo of Steven Poncin, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Brandon, FL
Steven Poncin
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33510
Whether you are an individual concerned with with anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, self-esteem, grief, relational stresses, or any other concerns, I am available to assist you in achieving the stability we all search for in life through optimizing the strengths you already possess.
Whether you are an individual concerned with with anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, self-esteem, grief, relational stresses, or any other concerns, I am available to assist you in achieving the stability we all search for in life through optimizing the strengths you already possess.
(813) 945-7810 View (813) 945-7810
Photo of Shamika Gaskin, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brandon, FL
Shamika Gaskin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MBA, CRPS-V, CPLC
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33510
Not accepting new clients
When life gets complicated and things seem to be out of order we all need to have a safe space to be able to come to. I am a therapist that is interested in listening and can provide that space for you. I am a military veteran that has experience working with clients from all branches of service. Talk therapy can be beneficial to our self-care. We all need to feel like we are cared for and about. Making the decision to attend therapy is a courageous one and I will walk through this journey with you. I enjoy working with young adults and adults dealing with depression, anxiety, OCD, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
When life gets complicated and things seem to be out of order we all need to have a safe space to be able to come to. I am a therapist that is interested in listening and can provide that space for you. I am a military veteran that has experience working with clients from all branches of service. Talk therapy can be beneficial to our self-care. We all need to feel like we are cared for and about. Making the decision to attend therapy is a courageous one and I will walk through this journey with you. I enjoy working with young adults and adults dealing with depression, anxiety, OCD, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
(813) 669-4811 View (813) 669-4811
Photo of Ann E. Grimaldi- Brandon Counseling And Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brandon, FL
Ann E. Grimaldi- Brandon Counseling And Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511
I have been working with a variety of clients to include: individuals, couples, adolescents, children and families for over twenty-seven years. My experience is as diverse as my clients, I have had the opportunity to work, with couples on relationship issues, families, victims of violence, divorce, step-parenting and blended families, clients suffering from depression, anxiety and mood disorders. I have also worked with clients experiencing gender identity and LGBTQ issues. Additionally. I have worked with major life transitions such as, grief, trauma, and the care of aging / elderly parents.
I have been working with a variety of clients to include: individuals, couples, adolescents, children and families for over twenty-seven years. My experience is as diverse as my clients, I have had the opportunity to work, with couples on relationship issues, families, victims of violence, divorce, step-parenting and blended families, clients suffering from depression, anxiety and mood disorders. I have also worked with clients experiencing gender identity and LGBTQ issues. Additionally. I have worked with major life transitions such as, grief, trauma, and the care of aging / elderly parents.
(813) 328-7990 View (813) 328-7990
Photo of Emma Tarte, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brandon, FL
Emma Tarte
Pre-Licensed Professional, RCSWI
Verified Verified
Brandon, FL 33511
Life can be challenging, overwhelming, and chaotic. You can learn new ways to cope, change, and overcome life's difficulties. Take the next step towards a better you.
Life can be challenging, overwhelming, and chaotic. You can learn new ways to cope, change, and overcome life's difficulties. Take the next step towards a better you.
(813) 328-5779 View (813) 328-5779

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Brandon, FL

200+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Brandon, FL who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
77% Self Esteem
75% Coping Skills
71% Trauma and PTSD
68% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Aetna
81% Cigna and Evernorth
81% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Brandon, FL see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Brandon?

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.