Therapists in Downtown, Miami, FL

Photo of Riley Strauss, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RMHC-I
Riley Strauss
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RMHC-I
2 Endorsed
Downtown, Miami, FL 33131
Welcome! I am so happy you are here. I hope to create a supportive and calming space for you to explore your inner world and experiences. My goal is to guide you in cultivating a more meaningful self-understanding by helping you explore the underlying causes of your pain and empowering you to embrace your authentic self.
Welcome! I am so happy you are here. I hope to create a supportive and calming space for you to explore your inner world and experiences. My goal is to guide you in cultivating a more meaningful self-understanding by helping you explore the underlying causes of your pain and empowering you to embrace your authentic self.
(786) 733-8601 View (786) 733-8601
Photo of Jennie Robinson, LGPC, RMHCI
Jennie Robinson
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downtown, Miami, FL 33131
Do you feel like past experiences are holding you back from living the life you want? Are you struggling with anxiety, overwhelm, or feeling stuck, and want to feel more confident in yourself? Trauma, whether from the past or more recent experiences, can affect every part of your life, from your relationships to your daily functioning and anxiety often feeds off those unresolved emotions. Whether it’s feeling stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts or struggling to manage intense emotions, we’ll work together to find balance and clarity.
Do you feel like past experiences are holding you back from living the life you want? Are you struggling with anxiety, overwhelm, or feeling stuck, and want to feel more confident in yourself? Trauma, whether from the past or more recent experiences, can affect every part of your life, from your relationships to your daily functioning and anxiety often feeds off those unresolved emotions. Whether it’s feeling stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts or struggling to manage intense emotions, we’ll work together to find balance and clarity.
(786) 891-2248 View (786) 891-2248
Photo of Dr. Silvina Nancy Belmonte, Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Dr. Silvina Nancy Belmonte
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Downtown, Miami, FL 33129
One or more of these issues may be affecting you: Depression, Stress and Anxiety, Love and Intimacy, Sexual Dysfunctions, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Low Self Esteem/Lack of Self Confidence, Low Self Image, Relationship Concerns, Guilt, Loneliness, Sex addiction. I offer you a confidential and safe place to explore and process what is emotionally affecting you. Let's Talk! I can Help!
One or more of these issues may be affecting you: Depression, Stress and Anxiety, Love and Intimacy, Sexual Dysfunctions, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Low Self Esteem/Lack of Self Confidence, Low Self Image, Relationship Concerns, Guilt, Loneliness, Sex addiction. I offer you a confidential and safe place to explore and process what is emotionally affecting you. Let's Talk! I can Help!
(305) 982-7961 View (305) 982-7961
Photo of Emily Yagudaev, Pre-Licensed Professional, RCMHC-I
Emily Yagudaev
Pre-Licensed Professional, RCMHC-I
Downtown, Miami, FL 33129
Are you feeling weighed down? This may come from stress, past trauma, or relationships that aren’t working the way you want. I’m Emily Yagudaev, I offer therapy in English and Spanish for children, teens, adults, couples, and families, online or in person. You want to feel lighter, more connected, and more in control of your life. Together, we’ll create a safe space to untangle what’s holding you back and give you tools to heal, grow, and build relationships that truly support you.
Are you feeling weighed down? This may come from stress, past trauma, or relationships that aren’t working the way you want. I’m Emily Yagudaev, I offer therapy in English and Spanish for children, teens, adults, couples, and families, online or in person. You want to feel lighter, more connected, and more in control of your life. Together, we’ll create a safe space to untangle what’s holding you back and give you tools to heal, grow, and build relationships that truly support you.
(786) 723-8150 View (786) 723-8150
Photo of Monica Vegas, Psychologist, PhD
Monica Vegas
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Downtown, Miami, FL 33129
What do you want right now? Are you searching for something that keeps slipping away? Are you feeling stuck, sad, anxious or scared? Psychotherapy can help you discover what you may not see about yourself and your behavior. In my practice I work with people who are seeking change, self-understanding and greater fulfillment in their lives. Psychotherapy can be instrumental to help you establish better relationships, process conflict and deal with questions of self-worth. With warmth and dedicated attention I strive to be respectful, open and curious. I create a space where people can explore their internal world and speak freely.
What do you want right now? Are you searching for something that keeps slipping away? Are you feeling stuck, sad, anxious or scared? Psychotherapy can help you discover what you may not see about yourself and your behavior. In my practice I work with people who are seeking change, self-understanding and greater fulfillment in their lives. Psychotherapy can be instrumental to help you establish better relationships, process conflict and deal with questions of self-worth. With warmth and dedicated attention I strive to be respectful, open and curious. I create a space where people can explore their internal world and speak freely.
(646) 791-2819 View (646) 791-2819
Photo of Jennie Fernandez Beltz, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LMHC, EMDR, IFS
Jennie Fernandez Beltz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LMHC, EMDR, IFS
2 Endorsed
Downtown, Miami, FL 33131
Are you feeling stuck? Are you tired of repeating the same mistakes? Are you attracting the wrong people to your life or messing up your relationships? Are you constantly anxious, worried, angry or depressed? Do you feel out of control or disassociated? Many of these symptoms stem from a compilation of life traumas or a large traumatic event. I will work with you to help you heal from the past, reprocess memories, develop new skills, and grow into the person that you were meant to be. Its never too late to live the life that you deserve. I balance my sessions with technical expertise, intuition, and a sense of humor.
Are you feeling stuck? Are you tired of repeating the same mistakes? Are you attracting the wrong people to your life or messing up your relationships? Are you constantly anxious, worried, angry or depressed? Do you feel out of control or disassociated? Many of these symptoms stem from a compilation of life traumas or a large traumatic event. I will work with you to help you heal from the past, reprocess memories, develop new skills, and grow into the person that you were meant to be. Its never too late to live the life that you deserve. I balance my sessions with technical expertise, intuition, and a sense of humor.
(415) 687-3894 View (415) 687-3894
Photo of Lauren Mackie - The Counseling Center of Florida , Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, LMSW
The Counseling Center of Florida
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, LMSW
Downtown, Miami, FL 33131
The experts at The Counseling Center of Florida employ a diverse array of methods to enhance the well-being of individuals, couples, groups, and families. With a strength-based, collaborative approach, we provide fresh insights that help our clients adopt new perspectives. We offer therapy and support for issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, emotional regulation, self-harm, suicidal ideation, self-esteem, relationship challenges, parenting, and more. Utilizing active and research-backed strategies, we empower clients to make decisions that lead to positive transformations in their lives. Together, we will explore feelings, thoughts, and behaviors as pathways to positive change.
The experts at The Counseling Center of Florida employ a diverse array of methods to enhance the well-being of individuals, couples, groups, and families. With a strength-based, collaborative approach, we provide fresh insights that help our clients adopt new perspectives. We offer therapy and support for issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, emotional regulation, self-harm, suicidal ideation, self-esteem, relationship challenges, parenting, and more. Utilizing active and research-backed strategies, we empower clients to make decisions that lead to positive transformations in their lives. Together, we will explore feelings, thoughts, and behaviors as pathways to positive change.
(786) 550-6371 View (786) 550-6371
Photo of Joann Ikeh, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Joann Ikeh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Downtown, Miami, FL 33131
Virtual therapy for individuals and couples wanting to shift unhealthy patterns in their relationships, learn new ways to communicate, reduce fighting, and connect deeply with their partners. All relationships go through hell, the best ones get through it. Are you in the midst of relationship hell and trying to find your way through? Do you just need help to make some changes to attract the relationships you long for. I specialize in working on relationships sometimes as a couple and sometimes as an individual. I also have specialized training in working with interracial/intercultural couples. If this is you book a free consult.
Virtual therapy for individuals and couples wanting to shift unhealthy patterns in their relationships, learn new ways to communicate, reduce fighting, and connect deeply with their partners. All relationships go through hell, the best ones get through it. Are you in the midst of relationship hell and trying to find your way through? Do you just need help to make some changes to attract the relationships you long for. I specialize in working on relationships sometimes as a couple and sometimes as an individual. I also have specialized training in working with interracial/intercultural couples. If this is you book a free consult.
(305) 249-1975 View (305) 249-1975
Photo of Franka Cumberbatch-Hankton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Franka Cumberbatch-Hankton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Downtown, Miami, FL 33130
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds through a wide range of life challenges—including depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, parenting issues, and career transitions. I believe therapy is a collaborative journey toward healing, self-awareness, and becoming the best version of yourself. Life can be difficult to navigate, but I deeply believe that we all have the inherent strength and resilience to grow and change. My role is to walk alongside you, meeting you where you are and helping you find clarity, confidence, and new ways forward.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds through a wide range of life challenges—including depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, parenting issues, and career transitions. I believe therapy is a collaborative journey toward healing, self-awareness, and becoming the best version of yourself. Life can be difficult to navigate, but I deeply believe that we all have the inherent strength and resilience to grow and change. My role is to walk alongside you, meeting you where you are and helping you find clarity, confidence, and new ways forward.
(786) 751-7591 View (786) 751-7591
Photo of Madison Knowles, Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC, LCMHC
Madison Knowles
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC, LCMHC
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Miami, FL 33130
I am a motivated Licensed Behavior & Mental Health Therapist. I am residing in Nevada and I am licensed in NV, FL, NJ, NH, CO, ID, IN, WI, UT, SC & VT. I have had extensive experience with multiple populations including people with special needs (i.e. Autism, ADHD ect..). I am looking for in person clients as well as Telehealth clients. The clients I would like to take on in person clients including children experiencing maladaptive behaviors. I also specialize in trauma and substance use.
I am a motivated Licensed Behavior & Mental Health Therapist. I am residing in Nevada and I am licensed in NV, FL, NJ, NH, CO, ID, IN, WI, UT, SC & VT. I have had extensive experience with multiple populations including people with special needs (i.e. Autism, ADHD ect..). I am looking for in person clients as well as Telehealth clients. The clients I would like to take on in person clients including children experiencing maladaptive behaviors. I also specialize in trauma and substance use.
(754) 339-1064 View (754) 339-1064
Photo of Gustavo Alberto Benejam, Psychologist, PsyD
Gustavo Alberto Benejam
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Miami, FL 33129
I am a licensed psychologist practicing in Ft. Lauderdale and Miami FL. I offer individual, couples, and family therapy. I work with clients to enrich their lives while resolving issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, life events, relationship challenges, and self-development. My approach always involves developing a deep understanding of you and your unique experience with warmth, non-judgment, and respect. Beyond improving symptoms and providing effective coping skills, our work will focus on enriching your life in a holistic way—increasing awareness, improving relationships, and connecting with purpose and meaning.
I am a licensed psychologist practicing in Ft. Lauderdale and Miami FL. I offer individual, couples, and family therapy. I work with clients to enrich their lives while resolving issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, life events, relationship challenges, and self-development. My approach always involves developing a deep understanding of you and your unique experience with warmth, non-judgment, and respect. Beyond improving symptoms and providing effective coping skills, our work will focus on enriching your life in a holistic way—increasing awareness, improving relationships, and connecting with purpose and meaning.
(786) 705-4613 View (786) 705-4613
Photo of Elizabeth Deaton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Elizabeth Deaton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Downtown, Miami, FL 33130
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in a broad variety of settings to include child welfare, medical. military and hospice. I received my Bachelor’s degree at the College of Charleston and my Master’s degree at the University of South Carolina as part of the Child Welfare Leadership Project. I am passionate about advocating for clients and helping them process trauma and difficult life transitions and relationships.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in a broad variety of settings to include child welfare, medical. military and hospice. I received my Bachelor’s degree at the College of Charleston and my Master’s degree at the University of South Carolina as part of the Child Welfare Leadership Project. I am passionate about advocating for clients and helping them process trauma and difficult life transitions and relationships.
(786) 481-0850 View (786) 481-0850
Photo of Lily Decker, Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Lily Decker
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Downtown, Miami, FL 33130
I offer a warm, empathic, and client-centered space where you can feel seen and supported. Drawing from DBT and somatic practices, I help you build tools while staying connected to your body and emotions. I believe we all have the power to discover who we are and what we want in our lives, relationships, and the world around us. I am experienced in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), trauma-informed care, eating disorder treatment, and group therapy.
I offer a warm, empathic, and client-centered space where you can feel seen and supported. Drawing from DBT and somatic practices, I help you build tools while staying connected to your body and emotions. I believe we all have the power to discover who we are and what we want in our lives, relationships, and the world around us. I am experienced in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), trauma-informed care, eating disorder treatment, and group therapy.
(786) 713-2431 View (786) 713-2431
Photo of Alex Alvarado - Thriving Center of Psychology - Miami, Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, LMFT, LPCC, LCSW
Thriving Center of Psychology - Miami
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, LMFT, LPCC, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Miami, FL 33131
Thriving Center of Psychology is setting a new standard for accessible, high-quality mental health care. As a therapist-founded organization, our mission is to streamline the journey towards mental well-being, offering personalized hybrid care that gives patients and clinicians flexibility between in-person and virtual sessions which includes individual, couples, and family therapy across 14 states. We ensure that you can find the right therapist and form a connection that fosters measurable and meaningful change.
Thriving Center of Psychology is setting a new standard for accessible, high-quality mental health care. As a therapist-founded organization, our mission is to streamline the journey towards mental well-being, offering personalized hybrid care that gives patients and clinicians flexibility between in-person and virtual sessions which includes individual, couples, and family therapy across 14 states. We ensure that you can find the right therapist and form a connection that fosters measurable and meaningful change.
(786) 418-4014 View (786) 418-4014
Photo of Mackenzie Lyons, Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHC-I
Mackenzie Lyons
Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHC-I
Downtown, Miami, FL 33129
Life can feel overwhelming. This may come from stress, anxiety, grief, or the sense that you’ve lost touch with yourself. You want to feel stronger, more grounded, and more connected to the people and parts of life that matter most. I’m Mackenzie Lyons, a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Florida Atlantic University. I help children, teens, and adults reconnect with their strengths, trust themselves again, and create lives that feel authentic and meaningful.
Life can feel overwhelming. This may come from stress, anxiety, grief, or the sense that you’ve lost touch with yourself. You want to feel stronger, more grounded, and more connected to the people and parts of life that matter most. I’m Mackenzie Lyons, a Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Florida Atlantic University. I help children, teens, and adults reconnect with their strengths, trust themselves again, and create lives that feel authentic and meaningful.
(786) 461-1859 View (786) 461-1859
Photo of Arielle Gordon, Pre-Licensed Professional, RMFT-I
Arielle Gordon
Pre-Licensed Professional, RMFT-I
2 Endorsed
Downtown, Miami, FL 33129
Do you feel like you’re carrying too much, stuck in the same arguments, or unsure how to move forward? You want therapy that helps see your story for what it is and actually make changes. I’m Arielle, I work with individuals, couples, and families ready to break patterns, strengthen connection, and feel lighter in daily life. Together, we’ll clarify what’s getting in your way and create real steps toward the life and relationships you want.
Do you feel like you’re carrying too much, stuck in the same arguments, or unsure how to move forward? You want therapy that helps see your story for what it is and actually make changes. I’m Arielle, I work with individuals, couples, and families ready to break patterns, strengthen connection, and feel lighter in daily life. Together, we’ll clarify what’s getting in your way and create real steps toward the life and relationships you want.
(305) 676-7015 View (305) 676-7015
Photo of Shara Lynn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MA
Shara Lynn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MA
Downtown, Miami, FL 33131
I specialize evidence-based and trauma informed treatments for anxiety, depression, identity, and relationship issues. If you've been going through a difficult pattern or feeling stuck, I'm here to support you. It's time to build a life you feel proud of, an inner dialogue that improves your self-esteem and internal safety, and relationships that are stable and reciprocal. In our work together, we’ll uncover the behaviors and thoughts that are keeping you stuck. Together, we'll work on tools to help you break free from negative cycles and create a life filled with more intention, meaning, and purpose.
I specialize evidence-based and trauma informed treatments for anxiety, depression, identity, and relationship issues. If you've been going through a difficult pattern or feeling stuck, I'm here to support you. It's time to build a life you feel proud of, an inner dialogue that improves your self-esteem and internal safety, and relationships that are stable and reciprocal. In our work together, we’ll uncover the behaviors and thoughts that are keeping you stuck. Together, we'll work on tools to help you break free from negative cycles and create a life filled with more intention, meaning, and purpose.
(646) 703-0540 View (646) 703-0540
Photo of Rob Cooper, Counselor, LMHC
Rob Cooper
Counselor, LMHC
Downtown, Miami, FL 33130
Welcome! I'm Rob, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. My previous clients would describe me as a warm, approachable, and non-judgmental therapist. I have experience in treating stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, LGTBQIA+ concerns, substance use, and other challenges including severe mental health disorders.
Welcome! I'm Rob, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. My previous clients would describe me as a warm, approachable, and non-judgmental therapist. I have experience in treating stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, LGTBQIA+ concerns, substance use, and other challenges including severe mental health disorders.
(954) 953-5744 View (954) 953-5744
Photo of Kesia Vazquez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Kesia Vazquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Miami, FL 33136
Dr. Kesia Vazquez is passionate about helping women and teens heal, grow, and thrive. She specializes in supporting those seeking guidance, empowerment, and clarity as they navigate life transitions, recover from unresolved trauma, and pursue personal or professional goals. Dr. Vazquez takes a collaborative, compassionate approach, developing personalized care plans that integrate a range of therapeutic methods to meet each client’s unique needs and strengths.
Dr. Kesia Vazquez is passionate about helping women and teens heal, grow, and thrive. She specializes in supporting those seeking guidance, empowerment, and clarity as they navigate life transitions, recover from unresolved trauma, and pursue personal or professional goals. Dr. Vazquez takes a collaborative, compassionate approach, developing personalized care plans that integrate a range of therapeutic methods to meet each client’s unique needs and strengths.
(786) 756-7290 View (786) 756-7290
Photo of Isabel Gonzalez - Insight Neurocognitive and Behavioral Center, Psychologist, PsyD, LMHC, LMFT
Insight Neurocognitive and Behavioral Center
Psychologist, PsyD, LMHC, LMFT
Downtown, Miami, FL 33130
Welcome to Insight Neurocognitive and Behavioral Center! At Insight Neurocognitive and Behavioral Center, our Clinical Neuropsychologists and Therapists are highly specialized in the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral assessment and treatment of children and adults, and are able to provide testing and therapy services in English and Spanish.
Welcome to Insight Neurocognitive and Behavioral Center! At Insight Neurocognitive and Behavioral Center, our Clinical Neuropsychologists and Therapists are highly specialized in the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral assessment and treatment of children and adults, and are able to provide testing and therapy services in English and Spanish.
(786) 772-6795 View (786) 772-6795

See more therapy options for Downtown, Miami

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Downtown, Miami, FL

2,000+

Average cost per session

$131

Therapists in Downtown, Miami, FL who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
82% Depression
71% Self Esteem
68% Coping Skills
61% Trauma and PTSD
54% Life Transitions
52% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Aetna
84% Cigna and Evernorth
68% Other

How Therapists in Downtown, Miami, FL see their clients

70% Online Only
30% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Downtown, Miami?

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.