Therapists in Beach Park, Tampa, FL

Photo of Christine Pickering, Psychologist, PhD, BCBA, NCSP
Christine Pickering
Psychologist, PhD, BCBA, NCSP
4 Endorsed
Beach Park, Tampa, FL 33609
I am a licensed psychologist and board certified behavior analyst, and I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of learning, emotional, and behavioral difficulties. I believe that everyone has the ability to appreciate the gifts that life has to offer and work through those inevitable challenging times. I primarily work with children and adolescents using a variety of strategies to meet the needs of the individual and the family. Children and adolescents have so much life ahead of them and can truly benefit from learning skills that will help them for the rest of their lives.
I am a licensed psychologist and board certified behavior analyst, and I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of learning, emotional, and behavioral difficulties. I believe that everyone has the ability to appreciate the gifts that life has to offer and work through those inevitable challenging times. I primarily work with children and adolescents using a variety of strategies to meet the needs of the individual and the family. Children and adolescents have so much life ahead of them and can truly benefit from learning skills that will help them for the rest of their lives.
(813) 710-3732 View (813) 710-3732
Photo of Rachel Elzey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Rachel Elzey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Beach Park, Tampa, FL 33609
Welcome! I'm Rachel. You might be struggling with depression, anxiety, identity questions, or feeling overwhelmed by life changes of becoming a new parent. Maybe you’re just looking for a way to feel more centered and connected. You want a space where you can show up fully as yourself, without judgment, to work through tough feelings or confusing moments. My ideal client is someone who’s ready to explore their emotions, gain clarity, and build practical tools to feel better and move forward with confidence.
Welcome! I'm Rachel. You might be struggling with depression, anxiety, identity questions, or feeling overwhelmed by life changes of becoming a new parent. Maybe you’re just looking for a way to feel more centered and connected. You want a space where you can show up fully as yourself, without judgment, to work through tough feelings or confusing moments. My ideal client is someone who’s ready to explore their emotions, gain clarity, and build practical tools to feel better and move forward with confidence.
(813) 531-7201 View (813) 531-7201
Photo of Merari Flores Saldana, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Merari Flores Saldana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Beach Park, Tampa, FL 33609
You don’t have to have it all figured out to start therapy. Maybe you’ve been trying to “handle it” on your own, but it’s starting to wear you down. Life can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re carrying trauma, feeling worn down by anxiety, or constantly stuck in your own head. Often, different parts of us show up in hard moments. There may be a part that worries, a part that shuts down, a part that pushes you to keep going, or a part that feels stuck. Instead of fighting those parts, we’ll slow down and get curious about them with compassion.
You don’t have to have it all figured out to start therapy. Maybe you’ve been trying to “handle it” on your own, but it’s starting to wear you down. Life can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re carrying trauma, feeling worn down by anxiety, or constantly stuck in your own head. Often, different parts of us show up in hard moments. There may be a part that worries, a part that shuts down, a part that pushes you to keep going, or a part that feels stuck. Instead of fighting those parts, we’ll slow down and get curious about them with compassion.
(813) 412-8471 View (813) 412-8471
Photo of Dr. Cheryl Gelley, Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Dr. Cheryl Gelley
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
3 Endorsed
Beach Park, Tampa, FL 33609
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I provide evaluations for gifted learners and students with learning difficulties, attention concerns, intellectual disabilities, emotional disorders and/or behavior disorders. I also provide evaluations for individuals seeking accommodations for college entrance exams and/or accommodations in a post-secondary setting. I am also experienced in providing counseling services for a wide range of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, stress management, social skills, etc.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I provide evaluations for gifted learners and students with learning difficulties, attention concerns, intellectual disabilities, emotional disorders and/or behavior disorders. I also provide evaluations for individuals seeking accommodations for college entrance exams and/or accommodations in a post-secondary setting. I am also experienced in providing counseling services for a wide range of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, stress management, social skills, etc.
(813) 296-5357 View (813) 296-5357
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Justine Devlin, Psychologist, MA-MHC, PhD
Dr. Elizabeth Justine Devlin
Psychologist, MA-MHC, PhD
1 Endorsed
Beach Park, Tampa, FL 33609
Welcome! I am Dr. Justine Devlin, a licensed psychologist trained in treating and working with a variety of mental health and general life adaptation concerns. My training and expertise across the lifespan includes treating adolescents, adults, and couples/families. My expertise and passion lies within the areas of treating emotional regulation (complex trauma), relationship distress, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder). In addition, I have a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling for adjustment to physical disabilities.
Welcome! I am Dr. Justine Devlin, a licensed psychologist trained in treating and working with a variety of mental health and general life adaptation concerns. My training and expertise across the lifespan includes treating adolescents, adults, and couples/families. My expertise and passion lies within the areas of treating emotional regulation (complex trauma), relationship distress, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder). In addition, I have a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling for adjustment to physical disabilities.
(813) 212-2514 View (813) 212-2514
Photo of Lisa Otero Sullivan, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Lisa Otero Sullivan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
5 Endorsed
Beach Park, Tampa, FL 33609
Are you having difficulty communicating with your spouse or partner? Do you feel unheard or alone in your relationship? Maybe it feels like you are having the same fight over and over? If so you, you are in good company. The number one issue couples report is ineffective communication. Interestingly, research suggests most issues couples face are perpetual. The good news is solving these issues is not as important as learning how to have respectful communication about them. The better news is helping couples communicate more effectively about tough issues is my specialty.
Are you having difficulty communicating with your spouse or partner? Do you feel unheard or alone in your relationship? Maybe it feels like you are having the same fight over and over? If so you, you are in good company. The number one issue couples report is ineffective communication. Interestingly, research suggests most issues couples face are perpetual. The good news is solving these issues is not as important as learning how to have respectful communication about them. The better news is helping couples communicate more effectively about tough issues is my specialty.
(813) 639-8745 View (813) 639-8745
Photo of Andrea Preisler - Rogers Behavioral Health, Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Rogers Behavioral Health
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Beach Park, Tampa, FL 33609
Rogers Behavioral Health in Tampa offers highly specialized outpatient treatment for OCD/anxiety, eating disorders, trauma and depression recovery for children through adults. All patients have access to board-certified psychiatrists, registered nurses, licensed therapists and a multidisciplinary team of mental health experts in a comfortable setting.
Rogers Behavioral Health in Tampa offers highly specialized outpatient treatment for OCD/anxiety, eating disorders, trauma and depression recovery for children through adults. All patients have access to board-certified psychiatrists, registered nurses, licensed therapists and a multidisciplinary team of mental health experts in a comfortable setting.
(813) 324-6478 View (813) 324-6478
Photo of Joely Spencer, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Joely Spencer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Beach Park, Tampa, FL 33609
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Florida and South Carolina. I work with family systems and individuals facing struggles in their relationships, finding themselves caught in maladaptive interactional patterns of communication and behavior. Neurodiverse families looking to better understand their specific circumstances, and ADHD or ASD struggles see these struggles, but are usually more exacerbated by often parent-child or pursuit-withdrawal style interactions between couples.
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Florida and South Carolina. I work with family systems and individuals facing struggles in their relationships, finding themselves caught in maladaptive interactional patterns of communication and behavior. Neurodiverse families looking to better understand their specific circumstances, and ADHD or ASD struggles see these struggles, but are usually more exacerbated by often parent-child or pursuit-withdrawal style interactions between couples.
(813) 590-4612 View (813) 590-4612
Photo of Erin Anderson, Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Erin Anderson
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Beach Park, Tampa, FL 33609
Sometimes understanding your child's learning, behavior, and/or social-emotional needs and how to help can be a challenge. But taking the first step in supporting your child is the most important one. In order to best help your child, a comprehensive psychological evaluation may be beneficial. Whether to better understand your child's strengths and weaknesses or to assist in treatment planning, early identification can reduce and prevent long-term negative outcomes. I specialize in the assessment of and treatment planning for children ranging from early childhood through early adulthood to help families better support their child.
Sometimes understanding your child's learning, behavior, and/or social-emotional needs and how to help can be a challenge. But taking the first step in supporting your child is the most important one. In order to best help your child, a comprehensive psychological evaluation may be beneficial. Whether to better understand your child's strengths and weaknesses or to assist in treatment planning, early identification can reduce and prevent long-term negative outcomes. I specialize in the assessment of and treatment planning for children ranging from early childhood through early adulthood to help families better support their child.
(813) 491-1545 View (813) 491-1545
Photo of Brenda Pinkerman, Psychologist, PhD
Brenda Pinkerman
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Beach Park, Tampa, FL 33609
Hello! My name is Dr. Brenda Pinkerman. I am a licensed psychologist trained to treat most mental and behavioral health problems using a mind-body approach. With this approach, I do not consider your symptoms alone but place them in the larger context of your overall physical, social, and emotional well-being.
Hello! My name is Dr. Brenda Pinkerman. I am a licensed psychologist trained to treat most mental and behavioral health problems using a mind-body approach. With this approach, I do not consider your symptoms alone but place them in the larger context of your overall physical, social, and emotional well-being.
(813) 680-3194 View (813) 680-3194
Photo of Allison Gradzki, Counselor, LMHC
Allison Gradzki
Counselor, LMHC
Beach Park, Tampa, FL 33609
Welcome! My name is Allison Gradzki, LMHC. I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Florida. I specialize in anxiety, OCD, depression and mood disorders. I also have experience working with neurodivergent disorders such as Autism, ADHD, and ADD. I am well versed in CBT, DBT, and ERP. I recognize coming to therapy can sometimes be a scary thing leaving many feeling vulnerable and uncertain of change being possible.
Welcome! My name is Allison Gradzki, LMHC. I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Florida. I specialize in anxiety, OCD, depression and mood disorders. I also have experience working with neurodivergent disorders such as Autism, ADHD, and ADD. I am well versed in CBT, DBT, and ERP. I recognize coming to therapy can sometimes be a scary thing leaving many feeling vulnerable and uncertain of change being possible.
(813) 945-8798 View (813) 945-8798
Photo of Mark E Prange - Mark Prange, Ph.D., Psychologist, PhD
Mark Prange, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Beach Park, Tampa, FL 33609
Mark Prange, Ph.D. is a Licensed Psychologist, Parenting Coordinator, Certified Family Mediator, and Team Facilitator in collaborative law cases. Dr. Prange has maintained a private practice for more than 20 years. Prior to his private practice, Dr. Prange served as a Visiting Assistant Professor at the University of South Florida for eight years. Dr. Prange specializes in clinical and forensic services that include psychotherapy, parenting time evaluations, collaborative family law, litigation support, and alternative dispute resolution in high conflict families. Please visit my website for more information: drmarkprange.com
Mark Prange, Ph.D. is a Licensed Psychologist, Parenting Coordinator, Certified Family Mediator, and Team Facilitator in collaborative law cases. Dr. Prange has maintained a private practice for more than 20 years. Prior to his private practice, Dr. Prange served as a Visiting Assistant Professor at the University of South Florida for eight years. Dr. Prange specializes in clinical and forensic services that include psychotherapy, parenting time evaluations, collaborative family law, litigation support, and alternative dispute resolution in high conflict families. Please visit my website for more information: drmarkprange.com
(813) 548-4390 View (813) 548-4390
Photo of Michele Durrance - Tampa Bay Testing, Psychologist, PsyD
Tampa Bay Testing
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
Beach Park, Tampa, FL 33609
Tampa Bay Testing specializes in comprehensive psychological/diagnostic evaluation. The purpose of psychological assessment varies but is essential when attempting to pinpoint an accurate diagnosis and provide educational and treatment recommendations for children, adolescents and adults. Early identification of problem areas and their causes can prevent long term negative effects. If you are considering an evaluation for yourself or your child, you have come to the right place. Additionally, the most current and effective treatments are provided once goals are identified. Consultative, coaching and training services are available as well.
Tampa Bay Testing specializes in comprehensive psychological/diagnostic evaluation. The purpose of psychological assessment varies but is essential when attempting to pinpoint an accurate diagnosis and provide educational and treatment recommendations for children, adolescents and adults. Early identification of problem areas and their causes can prevent long term negative effects. If you are considering an evaluation for yourself or your child, you have come to the right place. Additionally, the most current and effective treatments are provided once goals are identified. Consultative, coaching and training services are available as well.
(813) 902-3116 View (813) 902-3116
Photo of Dr. Jonathan Huffman, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Jonathan Huffman
Psychologist, PhD
3 Endorsed
Beach Park, Tampa, FL 33609
Hello, My name is Dr. Jonathan Huffman. I am a licensed psychologist, board certified behavior analyst, and a certified therapist in parent child interaction therapy. My main areas of training and clinical interests are in treating symptoms associated with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. In addition, to individual therapy, I also specialize in the assessment of neurodevelopmental disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), ASD, and specific learning disorders.
Hello, My name is Dr. Jonathan Huffman. I am a licensed psychologist, board certified behavior analyst, and a certified therapist in parent child interaction therapy. My main areas of training and clinical interests are in treating symptoms associated with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. In addition, to individual therapy, I also specialize in the assessment of neurodevelopmental disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), ASD, and specific learning disorders.
(813) 607-4392 View (813) 607-4392
Photo of Vivian Arias, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Vivian Arias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Beach Park, Tampa, FL 33609
I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist who believes in the power of personal growth and positive change. With a warm and collaborative approach, I work alongside my clients to create a safe space where they can explore their challenges, gain clarity, and build lasting skills. I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches, including mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral techniques, to tailor my work to your unique needs and goals. I am committed to helping you develop practical tools for coping, improving well-being, and creating the life you want.
I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist who believes in the power of personal growth and positive change. With a warm and collaborative approach, I work alongside my clients to create a safe space where they can explore their challenges, gain clarity, and build lasting skills. I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches, including mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral techniques, to tailor my work to your unique needs and goals. I am committed to helping you develop practical tools for coping, improving well-being, and creating the life you want.
(813) 687-5855 View (813) 687-5855
Photo of Calvin Trought, Counselor, LMHC
Calvin Trought
Counselor, LMHC
Beach Park, Tampa, FL 33609
I am a graduate of Springfield College and have been in the mental health profession since 2015. I work well with individuals with anxiety, depression, and I am also a Christian counselor. I have an eclectic approach in therapy to meet the needs of my patients. I create a warm atmosphere by making my patients relax, which brings about a sense of peace at the end of the day, meaning, helping one is to save a generation.
I am a graduate of Springfield College and have been in the mental health profession since 2015. I work well with individuals with anxiety, depression, and I am also a Christian counselor. I have an eclectic approach in therapy to meet the needs of my patients. I create a warm atmosphere by making my patients relax, which brings about a sense of peace at the end of the day, meaning, helping one is to save a generation.
(813) 544-1650 View (813) 544-1650
Photo of Beatriz M Diez, Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, CMHIMP, YTT
Beatriz M Diez
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, CMHIMP, YTT
1 Endorsed
Beach Park, Tampa, FL 33609
I believe that people as unique individuals have the capacity to grow, heal and change, learning new ways for improving their health and well-being in all areas of life including biological, psychological, social and spiritual. Personal growth is facilitated by setting and working toward goals, assessing and building strengths in these areas to develop skills and resources that help them manage life challenges. As a professional, I focus on working collaboratively with my clients in a safe and open environment to identify goals and work towards positive resolutions.
I believe that people as unique individuals have the capacity to grow, heal and change, learning new ways for improving their health and well-being in all areas of life including biological, psychological, social and spiritual. Personal growth is facilitated by setting and working toward goals, assessing and building strengths in these areas to develop skills and resources that help them manage life challenges. As a professional, I focus on working collaboratively with my clients in a safe and open environment to identify goals and work towards positive resolutions.
(786) 661-1961 View (786) 661-1961
Photo of Carmen Piccolo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Carmen Piccolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Beach Park, Tampa, FL 33609
Hello! I’m Carmen, I am a licensed clinical social worker with a master's degree focused on client's mental health and trauma. With more than ten years of professional experience, I specialize in providing evidenced-based support, assessment, and therapeutic intervention to individuals facing complex emotional, behavioral, and trauma-related challenges. My background equips me to deliver compassionate, informed, and effective clinical care.
Hello! I’m Carmen, I am a licensed clinical social worker with a master's degree focused on client's mental health and trauma. With more than ten years of professional experience, I specialize in providing evidenced-based support, assessment, and therapeutic intervention to individuals facing complex emotional, behavioral, and trauma-related challenges. My background equips me to deliver compassionate, informed, and effective clinical care.
(813) 543-8267 View (813) 543-8267
Photo of Ronald E DeMao, Psychologist, PhD
Ronald E DeMao
Psychologist, PhD
Beach Park, Tampa, FL 33609
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 30 years experience working with individual adults and couples. I have successfully treated clients with issues of anxiety, depression, grief, eating disorders, relationship problems, and difficult life transitions such as divorce or job loss. I also have extensive experience treating alcohol and drug addiction, as well as other compulsive behavior disorders, such as compulsive pornography use. I work from an eclectic/integrative therapy style. I focus on helping my patients utilize their personal strengths to resolve their issues as quickly and easily as possible.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 30 years experience working with individual adults and couples. I have successfully treated clients with issues of anxiety, depression, grief, eating disorders, relationship problems, and difficult life transitions such as divorce or job loss. I also have extensive experience treating alcohol and drug addiction, as well as other compulsive behavior disorders, such as compulsive pornography use. I work from an eclectic/integrative therapy style. I focus on helping my patients utilize their personal strengths to resolve their issues as quickly and easily as possible.
(813) 438-4221 View (813) 438-4221
Photo of Dr. Melissa Miranda, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Melissa Miranda
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Beach Park, Tampa, FL 33609
Hi, I'm Dr. Miranda! Welcome to my page! You might be a young adult trying to make sense of your anxiety, identity, or the pressure to “have it all figured out,” or a parent watching your child or teen struggle with emotions, OCD, eating concerns, or self-doubt. You’re looking for therapy that feels personal, honest, and human. I provide my clients with a space where their inner world is taken seriously, and their culture, values, fears, and strengths actually matter. I work with people who want to explore their complexity, speak truths that often go unsaid, and discover that they’re allowed to hold many parts of themselves at once.
Hi, I'm Dr. Miranda! Welcome to my page! You might be a young adult trying to make sense of your anxiety, identity, or the pressure to “have it all figured out,” or a parent watching your child or teen struggle with emotions, OCD, eating concerns, or self-doubt. You’re looking for therapy that feels personal, honest, and human. I provide my clients with a space where their inner world is taken seriously, and their culture, values, fears, and strengths actually matter. I work with people who want to explore their complexity, speak truths that often go unsaid, and discover that they’re allowed to hold many parts of themselves at once.
(813) 295-2105 View (813) 295-2105

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Beach Park, Tampa, FL

60+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Beach Park, Tampa, FL who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
83% Depression
58% Trauma and PTSD
55% Grief
55% Stress
49% Relationship Issues
45% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
79% Cigna and Evernorth
56% Optum

How Therapists in Beach Park, Tampa, FL see their clients

51% In Person and Online
49% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Beach Park?

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.