Therapists in Captiva, FL

Photo of Karen Curtis Allen, LMHC, Counselor
Karen Curtis Allen
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Therapy helps you maintain emotional resilience regardless of the difficulties we all experience in life. I specialize in holistic approaches to managing life challenges. Things like chronic illness, financial stress, relationship issues, etc. normally can cause significant anxiety, depression, chronic stress, prolonged grief, or even chronic pain. Holistic therapies help you maintain the resilience you need at these times. I have a significant focus in working with victims of car accidents since they often develop acute stress disorder or PTSD following the accident and I accept no-fault insurance in these cases.
Therapy helps you maintain emotional resilience regardless of the difficulties we all experience in life. I specialize in holistic approaches to managing life challenges. Things like chronic illness, financial stress, relationship issues, etc. normally can cause significant anxiety, depression, chronic stress, prolonged grief, or even chronic pain. Holistic therapies help you maintain the resilience you need at these times. I have a significant focus in working with victims of car accidents since they often develop acute stress disorder or PTSD following the accident and I accept no-fault insurance in these cases.
(716) 219-2005 View (716) 219-2005
Photo of Yeney Ruiz, LCSW, MSW, BSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yeney Ruiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! You can expect that I will meet you where you are...I will not rush any part of the process. Our first session will be based on introductions and getting to know the “what brought you here” and “what are your expectations”. We will formulate a plan for the next sessions. No human being is the same as another, we are all different and in distinct phases of life. I engage easily with clients; I have worked with all populations and that is one of my strengths. I believe in positive changes, and I would love to be part of your journey! Especially because I know I have the expertise to make my clients’ transformations possible.
Hello! You can expect that I will meet you where you are...I will not rush any part of the process. Our first session will be based on introductions and getting to know the “what brought you here” and “what are your expectations”. We will formulate a plan for the next sessions. No human being is the same as another, we are all different and in distinct phases of life. I engage easily with clients; I have worked with all populations and that is one of my strengths. I believe in positive changes, and I would love to be part of your journey! Especially because I know I have the expertise to make my clients’ transformations possible.
(239) 970-6083 View (239) 970-6083

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Marissa Kushner, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Dr. Marissa Kushner
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33907
Dr. Kushner is a licensed psychologist who provides individual therapy (child, adolescent, and young adult), behavioral parent training, and comprehensive assessments. She has expertise in the application of cognitive-behavioral and behavioral approaches to address anxiety, ADHD, disruptive behavior problems, mood disorders, and interpersonal difficulties. She offers neurodevelopmental and psychoeducational evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults suspected of having a learning disability or giftedness, executive functioning difficulties (e.g., ADHD), or autism spectrum disorder.
Dr. Kushner is a licensed psychologist who provides individual therapy (child, adolescent, and young adult), behavioral parent training, and comprehensive assessments. She has expertise in the application of cognitive-behavioral and behavioral approaches to address anxiety, ADHD, disruptive behavior problems, mood disorders, and interpersonal difficulties. She offers neurodevelopmental and psychoeducational evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults suspected of having a learning disability or giftedness, executive functioning difficulties (e.g., ADHD), or autism spectrum disorder.
(239) 667-5109 View (239) 667-5109
Photo of Lyndsey Elsass, MA, LMHC
Lyndsey Elsass
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you the “strong” one? Are you the one everyone goes to when they need someone to talk to? Are you the one selflessly passing out advice while you silently deal with your own worries? It can be so exhausting helping everyone else with their problems while pushing your own to the side. This is all too common! It’s nice to feel needed, but how would it feel if you finally got to talk to someone? What if you had a person who was there JUST to listen to YOU. How amazing would that feel? Imagine being able to talk to someone about your own life and work things out without the disruptions of work, friends, kids, or partners.
Are you the “strong” one? Are you the one everyone goes to when they need someone to talk to? Are you the one selflessly passing out advice while you silently deal with your own worries? It can be so exhausting helping everyone else with their problems while pushing your own to the side. This is all too common! It’s nice to feel needed, but how would it feel if you finally got to talk to someone? What if you had a person who was there JUST to listen to YOU. How amazing would that feel? Imagine being able to talk to someone about your own life and work things out without the disruptions of work, friends, kids, or partners.
(239) 356-8816 View (239) 356-8816
Photo of Dulce Martinez, LMHC, CST, Counselor
Dulce Martinez
Counselor, LMHC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a licensed psychotherapist, registered nurse, board-certified sex therapist & EMDR therapist. I graduated with a degree in Counselor Education, from Florida International University. My experience includes working in community mental health, domestic violence/sexual assault counseling (for victims/survivors), and private practice with a focus on intimacy and relationships. I also work as an adjunct professor of psychopathology, at Barry University, on an as-needed basis.
I am a licensed psychotherapist, registered nurse, board-certified sex therapist & EMDR therapist. I graduated with a degree in Counselor Education, from Florida International University. My experience includes working in community mental health, domestic violence/sexual assault counseling (for victims/survivors), and private practice with a focus on intimacy and relationships. I also work as an adjunct professor of psychopathology, at Barry University, on an as-needed basis.
(786) 746-7114 View (786) 746-7114
Photo of Jessica Brooks, MS, LMHC
Jessica Brooks
MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Cape Coral, FL 33904
Waitlist for new clients
Apply for Waitlist on my website. I am an EMDR Certified Therapist that primarily works with women. I get how past trauma can leave you feeling like you’re drowning in chaos—messy family dynamics, toxic relationships, anxiety, low self-esteem—you name it, I’ve seen it. It’s exhausting to keep it together while deep down you know you need something real to heal. Whether it’s past trauma, toxic relationships, or the chaos of everyday life, with my deep understanding of trauma and how it impacts every aspect of life, we’ll tackle it together. I’m here to help you navigate it all with clarity and confidence.
Apply for Waitlist on my website. I am an EMDR Certified Therapist that primarily works with women. I get how past trauma can leave you feeling like you’re drowning in chaos—messy family dynamics, toxic relationships, anxiety, low self-esteem—you name it, I’ve seen it. It’s exhausting to keep it together while deep down you know you need something real to heal. Whether it’s past trauma, toxic relationships, or the chaos of everyday life, with my deep understanding of trauma and how it impacts every aspect of life, we’ll tackle it together. I’m here to help you navigate it all with clarity and confidence.
(239) 990-9120 View (239) 990-9120
Photo of Dr. Matthew Rochefort, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Dr. Matthew Rochefort
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you’re tired of feeling anxious, down, sad, or lonely, consider contacting me to get started on reconnecting with yourself and your life in a more authentic way. I specialize in working with adult clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and trauma/PTSD. I offer a warm, collaborative, and gently challenging therapeutic relationship in which my clients can find relief from their symptoms, get to know themselves at a deeper level, and relate to others more openly.
If you’re tired of feeling anxious, down, sad, or lonely, consider contacting me to get started on reconnecting with yourself and your life in a more authentic way. I specialize in working with adult clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and trauma/PTSD. I offer a warm, collaborative, and gently challenging therapeutic relationship in which my clients can find relief from their symptoms, get to know themselves at a deeper level, and relate to others more openly.
(727) 591-5964 View (727) 591-5964
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
(727) 605-5333 View (727) 605-5333
Photo of Lacey L Binkley, MEd, LPC, CMNLP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lacey L Binkley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CMNLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Now accepting telehealth clients in FL and PA! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in: treatment of adults, anxiety and depression, life-stage transition, trauma, relationships, life coaching, self-esteem development, and navigation of personal challenges.
Now accepting telehealth clients in FL and PA! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in: treatment of adults, anxiety and depression, life-stage transition, trauma, relationships, life coaching, self-esteem development, and navigation of personal challenges.
(610) 298-9512 View (610) 298-9512
Photo of Johnnie T Terrell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Johnnie T Terrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I became a social worker for two reasons; I have a natural propensity to talk with people therapeutically and I enjoy helping people. Traditionally, social workers help people to get where they want to go in their lives and assist them in becoming more resourceful in dealing with stresses in their life. I provide supportive counseling, which assists in the process of clients leaning how to support themselves and offer them the tools they need to become more proficient at navigating the environment we live in.
I became a social worker for two reasons; I have a natural propensity to talk with people therapeutically and I enjoy helping people. Traditionally, social workers help people to get where they want to go in their lives and assist them in becoming more resourceful in dealing with stresses in their life. I provide supportive counseling, which assists in the process of clients leaning how to support themselves and offer them the tools they need to become more proficient at navigating the environment we live in.
(239) 688-4173 View (239) 688-4173
Photo of Dr. Frances Vidot-Hidalgo, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Frances Vidot-Hidalgo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected? Life transitions, parenting challenges, constant anxiety, and unresolved traumas can feel daunting, but you don’t have to face them alone. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or your child, I’m here to help! As a bilingual Latina psychologist, I provide therapy exclusively via telehealth in English and Spanish. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, including CBT, exposure therapy, and trauma-focused therapy, guided by multicultural awareness and social justice values.
Hello! Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected? Life transitions, parenting challenges, constant anxiety, and unresolved traumas can feel daunting, but you don’t have to face them alone. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or your child, I’m here to help! As a bilingual Latina psychologist, I provide therapy exclusively via telehealth in English and Spanish. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, including CBT, exposure therapy, and trauma-focused therapy, guided by multicultural awareness and social justice values.
(239) 734-7628 View (239) 734-7628
Photo of Liza J. Vitiello, LMHC, NCC, NBCCH, Counselor
Liza J. Vitiello
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Online Only
Many benefits are possible from participating in counseling. Counseling can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. Counseling can help you find new ways to cope with stress, better manage anger, depression, and other emotional pressures. Get "unstuck" from past relationships and family issues--break old patterns and develop new ways of dealing with old issues. Heal old psychological wounds---repair damage from the past. Discover creative ways to problem-solve. Improve your self esteem and boost your self confidence. The overall result can be improved health and well being.
Many benefits are possible from participating in counseling. Counseling can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. Counseling can help you find new ways to cope with stress, better manage anger, depression, and other emotional pressures. Get "unstuck" from past relationships and family issues--break old patterns and develop new ways of dealing with old issues. Heal old psychological wounds---repair damage from the past. Discover creative ways to problem-solve. Improve your self esteem and boost your self confidence. The overall result can be improved health and well being.
(239) 217-9124 x1 View (239) 217-9124 x1
Photo of Kimberly Harter, LMHC, Counselor
Kimberly Harter
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cape Coral, FL 33904
Let’s do real talk. Life can be hard! Understanding what children are experiencing can be difficult. Best of intentions by parents are often misunderstood. When you are a child, talking to your parents is seemingly impossible sometimes. Kids have big emotions they cannot understand or describe, and they think no one understands. Academic stressors, development, parent and peer relationships and significant or traumatic life events can cause a child or teenager to react in various ways. Some kids need a safe space to learn how to identify, express and cope with their feelings. Processing feelings helps to reduce stress and pressures.
Let’s do real talk. Life can be hard! Understanding what children are experiencing can be difficult. Best of intentions by parents are often misunderstood. When you are a child, talking to your parents is seemingly impossible sometimes. Kids have big emotions they cannot understand or describe, and they think no one understands. Academic stressors, development, parent and peer relationships and significant or traumatic life events can cause a child or teenager to react in various ways. Some kids need a safe space to learn how to identify, express and cope with their feelings. Processing feelings helps to reduce stress and pressures.
(239) 766-5931 View (239) 766-5931
Photo of Victoria Blair, LMHC, MA, RYT
Victoria Blair
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MA, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33907
Hi there, my name is Victoria. I want to first thank you for taking the time for yourself to seek therapy. Beginning therapy can feel like a tough decision. I want to assure you that no concern is too big or too small. I am a trauma-informed therapist with experience working with PTSD, attachment trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, relationship concerns, and life-coaching. I particularly enjoy working with teens, women and young adults moving through transitional life phases. My role as a therapist is that of a guide in your healing, growth and meaning making.
Hi there, my name is Victoria. I want to first thank you for taking the time for yourself to seek therapy. Beginning therapy can feel like a tough decision. I want to assure you that no concern is too big or too small. I am a trauma-informed therapist with experience working with PTSD, attachment trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, relationship concerns, and life-coaching. I particularly enjoy working with teens, women and young adults moving through transitional life phases. My role as a therapist is that of a guide in your healing, growth and meaning making.
(239) 230-3603 View (239) 230-3603
Photo of Katia Arroyo-Carrion, PhD, Psychologist
Katia Arroyo-Carrion
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you so anxious you feel like you’re crawling out of your skin? Do you feel unsafe and stressed out to the point where it’s difficult for you to sleep? Sometimes the anger can feel so big—like you’re spinning out of control. Other times you might blame yourself for what happened and sink into depression. You might be turning away from your intimate relationships, isolating, being unable to manage your emotions or turning to food for comfort. If you’re experiencing any of these disturbing symptoms that are making it hard to live your life, please know that you can take back your power and heal from PTSD.
Are you so anxious you feel like you’re crawling out of your skin? Do you feel unsafe and stressed out to the point where it’s difficult for you to sleep? Sometimes the anger can feel so big—like you’re spinning out of control. Other times you might blame yourself for what happened and sink into depression. You might be turning away from your intimate relationships, isolating, being unable to manage your emotions or turning to food for comfort. If you’re experiencing any of these disturbing symptoms that are making it hard to live your life, please know that you can take back your power and heal from PTSD.
(727) 761-3347 View (727) 761-3347
Photo of Stephanie Massaro, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Stephanie Massaro
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm so glad you found your way here and look forward to seeing if we may be a good fit! I'm a therapist for women and moms, with a specialized focus on women's issues, maternal mental health, and postpartum depression and anxiety. I'm also seasoned and skilled at helping women who may be experiencing worry that is difficult to control, negative thoughts, depression, low self-esteem, relationship struggles, or life transitions that are causing you stress or making it difficult to cope.
I'm so glad you found your way here and look forward to seeing if we may be a good fit! I'm a therapist for women and moms, with a specialized focus on women's issues, maternal mental health, and postpartum depression and anxiety. I'm also seasoned and skilled at helping women who may be experiencing worry that is difficult to control, negative thoughts, depression, low self-esteem, relationship struggles, or life transitions that are causing you stress or making it difficult to cope.
(239) 360-4493 View (239) 360-4493
Photo of Adriana Gulli, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Adriana Gulli
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a therapist who works with individuals that are hoping to improve their relationship with themselves and with others. I have experience working with individuals across the lifespan experiencing a variety of difficulties such as anxiety disorders and mood disorders. My area of specialty is with clients who have a history of disordered eating patterns, as well as a history of trauma.
I am a therapist who works with individuals that are hoping to improve their relationship with themselves and with others. I have experience working with individuals across the lifespan experiencing a variety of difficulties such as anxiety disorders and mood disorders. My area of specialty is with clients who have a history of disordered eating patterns, as well as a history of trauma.
(585) 549-3089 View (585) 549-3089
Photo of Maria Ortiz, MS, LMHC
Maria Ortiz
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33907
Maria is currently in the process of attaining her Certified Eating Disorder Specialist credential, & primarily works with individuals struggling with eating disorders and body image concerns. She also has experience working with addictions, OCD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, & sport-related concerns. Maria’s authentic and genuine approach helps her clients to feel as though they can be their truest selves as well. She is caring, invested, & passionate about her work, which provides a unique space of safety and encouragement. Maria uses an integrative approach to therapy, and derives her work from a "Health At Every Size" perspective.
Maria is currently in the process of attaining her Certified Eating Disorder Specialist credential, & primarily works with individuals struggling with eating disorders and body image concerns. She also has experience working with addictions, OCD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, & sport-related concerns. Maria’s authentic and genuine approach helps her clients to feel as though they can be their truest selves as well. She is caring, invested, & passionate about her work, which provides a unique space of safety and encouragement. Maria uses an integrative approach to therapy, and derives her work from a "Health At Every Size" perspective.
(239) 237-3692 View (239) 237-3692
Photo of Olga Lomanovitch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Olga Lomanovitch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Can you image a life where you are able to treat yourself with kindness and compassion? A life where you can discover the roots of your pain and learn new, healthy ways of approaching daily difficulties? A life where you don’t need to use alcohol and substances to cope with your pain? Whether you are new to therapy and curious about how therapy can benefit you, or are returning to healing, I am here to help. All that is needed to start this process is a willingness to be curious about your life, which is the first step to initiating the changes you would like to make.
Can you image a life where you are able to treat yourself with kindness and compassion? A life where you can discover the roots of your pain and learn new, healthy ways of approaching daily difficulties? A life where you don’t need to use alcohol and substances to cope with your pain? Whether you are new to therapy and curious about how therapy can benefit you, or are returning to healing, I am here to help. All that is needed to start this process is a willingness to be curious about your life, which is the first step to initiating the changes you would like to make.
(267) 227-9373 View (267) 227-9373
Photo of Amie Ortiz, LMHC, Counselor
Amie Ortiz
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you find yourself struggling with feeling heard or being able to be fully present in the moment? Each person deserves the space to be heard, a place where they can be their authentic self.
Do you find yourself struggling with feeling heard or being able to be fully present in the moment? Each person deserves the space to be heard, a place where they can be their authentic self.
(727) 353-0785 View (727) 353-0785

See more therapy options for Captiva

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Captiva, FL

< 10

Therapists in Captiva, FL who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Stress
50% Addiction
50% Chronic Pain
50% Life Coaching
50% Spirituality

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

50% Aetna
50% BlueCross and BlueShield
50% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Captiva, FL see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Captiva?

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.