Therapists in Florida

View cities and counties in Florida
Photo of Megan Bush, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Bush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33138  (Online Only)
If you’ve been feeling stuck or trapped in a life that no longer brings you happiness, and you’re ready to take action toward creating the life and relationships you’ve always dreamed of, welcome! I believe that joy is the gateway to change, and that tending to our values and interests through an empowered mindset creates the motivation necessary to bring us closer to the life we deeply desire. Using a collaborative, compassionate, personable, and often playful approach, I specialize in helping women get in touch with their joy again, and find the authenticity, confidence, and agency needed to live with deep fulfillment and peace.
If you’ve been feeling stuck or trapped in a life that no longer brings you happiness, and you’re ready to take action toward creating the life and relationships you’ve always dreamed of, welcome! I believe that joy is the gateway to change, and that tending to our values and interests through an empowered mindset creates the motivation necessary to bring us closer to the life we deeply desire. Using a collaborative, compassionate, personable, and often playful approach, I specialize in helping women get in touch with their joy again, and find the authenticity, confidence, and agency needed to live with deep fulfillment and peace.
(786) 686-8710 View (786) 686-8710
Photo of Nina Nicholas, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Nina Nicholas
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Do you seek peace and harmony? Nina helps individuals develop skills that enable them to express themselves more effectively, understand others, resolve conflicts and develop mutually agreeable solutions to problems. For example, individuals learn to: identify goals and implement steps to achieve them; develop techniques to build healthy relationships; effectively manage stress; effectively manage psychological disorders and develop effective coping skills in order to lead fulfilling lives. She has seven years of experience in hospital, church, and private settings. Nina is also a trained family mediator and life coach. Her clients include adults, children, adolescents, couples, families, and organizations.
Do you seek peace and harmony? Nina helps individuals develop skills that enable them to express themselves more effectively, understand others, resolve conflicts and develop mutually agreeable solutions to problems. For example, individuals learn to: identify goals and implement steps to achieve them; develop techniques to build healthy relationships; effectively manage stress; effectively manage psychological disorders and develop effective coping skills in order to lead fulfilling lives. She has seven years of experience in hospital, church, and private settings. Nina is also a trained family mediator and life coach. Her clients include adults, children, adolescents, couples, families, and organizations.
(561) 269-3350 View (561) 269-3350
Photo of Christina Kazlauskas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christina Kazlauskas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Deland, FL 32724
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I recognize the profound impact of relationships on our self-perception and worldview. I am committed to creating a safe, validating space where individuals and families can explore their challenges. With extensive experience spanning children, teens, adults, and families, my goal is to foster comfort and reassurance in therapy. I strive to empower clients on their unique journeys, ensuring they feel supported throughout their therapeutic process.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I recognize the profound impact of relationships on our self-perception and worldview. I am committed to creating a safe, validating space where individuals and families can explore their challenges. With extensive experience spanning children, teens, adults, and families, my goal is to foster comfort and reassurance in therapy. I strive to empower clients on their unique journeys, ensuring they feel supported throughout their therapeutic process.
(386) 260-9182 View (386) 260-9182
Photo of Amity Olson - Amity Olson: Virtual EMDR Intensives, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amity Olson: Virtual EMDR Intensives
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32258  (Online Only)
I work closely with individuals who have lived through trauma and/or painful life experiences. I help them process their experiences to find their way toward healing; whatever that may look like for them, based on their individual goals.
I work closely with individuals who have lived through trauma and/or painful life experiences. I help them process their experiences to find their way toward healing; whatever that may look like for them, based on their individual goals.
(904) 875-8797 View (904) 875-8797
Photo of Karen Ann Dwyer-Tesoriero, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Ann Dwyer-Tesoriero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
As a seasoned professional with over 25 years' experience, I have helped many clients with feelings of anxiety, irritability, depression, anger as a result of trauma and CPTSD. I work with people to identify how they would like to improve their lives and help clients through the change process. Making a change can be overwhelming. Using talk therapy, EMDR and Somatic experience, we will work together to accomplish your goals. I am currently offering EMDR Intensives, which are half or full day or multiple day EMDR sessions created just for you with you. I am also being trained in Somatic Experience which I use with clients.
As a seasoned professional with over 25 years' experience, I have helped many clients with feelings of anxiety, irritability, depression, anger as a result of trauma and CPTSD. I work with people to identify how they would like to improve their lives and help clients through the change process. Making a change can be overwhelming. Using talk therapy, EMDR and Somatic experience, we will work together to accomplish your goals. I am currently offering EMDR Intensives, which are half or full day or multiple day EMDR sessions created just for you with you. I am also being trained in Somatic Experience which I use with clients.
(727) 312-1018 View (727) 312-1018
Photo of Lauren Cummins - Sunshine Children's Counseling Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sunshine Children's Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Is your child struggling with anxious or depressive thoughts at home, school or with peers? Or do they have the motivation to do well but still face behavior challenges and you both need support? Does your teen need a supportive space to process their thoughts and emotions? My name is Lauren and as a child and family therapist dedicated to the Pinellas County communtity, my goal is to guide children and their families through their journey using CBT to support the social-emotional development of my clients and their knowledge about their cognitive and emotional coping processes.
Is your child struggling with anxious or depressive thoughts at home, school or with peers? Or do they have the motivation to do well but still face behavior challenges and you both need support? Does your teen need a supportive space to process their thoughts and emotions? My name is Lauren and as a child and family therapist dedicated to the Pinellas County communtity, my goal is to guide children and their families through their journey using CBT to support the social-emotional development of my clients and their knowledge about their cognitive and emotional coping processes.
(727) 594-4716 View (727) 594-4716
Photo of Brianna Penney, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brianna Penney
Pre-Licensed Professional, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Now Accepting New Clients!
Now Accepting New Clients!
(772) 356-0488 View (772) 356-0488
Photo of Tommy Lloyd, MS, LMHC, LMFT, QS
Tommy Lloyd
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, LMFT, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
We all face emotional and mental struggles in our lives from time-to-time. Regardless of what you are dealing with, I will join you in your journey and help guide you towards a life of freedom. There is hope. There is solution. If you are searching for a therapist on this site, you are already taking a step in the right direction. The idea of overcoming whatever you are dealing with can be overwhelming. I encourage you to take the next small step and give me a call for a free consultation. We will deal with the rest together.
We all face emotional and mental struggles in our lives from time-to-time. Regardless of what you are dealing with, I will join you in your journey and help guide you towards a life of freedom. There is hope. There is solution. If you are searching for a therapist on this site, you are already taking a step in the right direction. The idea of overcoming whatever you are dealing with can be overwhelming. I encourage you to take the next small step and give me a call for a free consultation. We will deal with the rest together.
(386) 559-6215 View (386) 559-6215
Photo of Greg Stewart - Becoming More Counseling, Coaching, & Consulting, PhD, MDiv, Counselor
Becoming More Counseling, Coaching, & Consulting
Counselor, PhD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Maitland, FL 32751  (Online Only)
Virtual only! I live in TX. Clients who are struggling but wanting to not only heal, but also grow have the potential for being extremely powerful people. We have all gone through difficult times, experiencing anxiety, fear, depression, and hopelessness. However, if we have healed, we look back and see those times as hard, but some of the most powerful in our lives. Hearts can become strong, marriages can be healed and become euphoric, and our families can become strong, powerful, and beautiful. If you have a Christian background, I can help you become stronger in your faith. Executive Coaching available.
Virtual only! I live in TX. Clients who are struggling but wanting to not only heal, but also grow have the potential for being extremely powerful people. We have all gone through difficult times, experiencing anxiety, fear, depression, and hopelessness. However, if we have healed, we look back and see those times as hard, but some of the most powerful in our lives. Hearts can become strong, marriages can be healed and become euphoric, and our families can become strong, powerful, and beautiful. If you have a Christian background, I can help you become stronger in your faith. Executive Coaching available.
(772) 837-6356 View (772) 837-6356
Photo of Cathy Allsman, PhD, MFT, Psychologist
Cathy Allsman
Psychologist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Palmetto Bay, FL 33157  (Online Only)
Most people enter therapy wanting to change something about themselves, their circumstances or their relationships. My job is to help you take a realistic look at what is possible and to help you get there. You are unique and so my approach often changes to match what you need. Together we will come up with a plan to help you heal and change.
Most people enter therapy wanting to change something about themselves, their circumstances or their relationships. My job is to help you take a realistic look at what is possible and to help you get there. You are unique and so my approach often changes to match what you need. Together we will come up with a plan to help you heal and change.
(305) 432-9455 View (305) 432-9455
Photo of Robin Horvitz, JD, LMHC, Counselor
Robin Horvitz
Counselor, JD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coral Springs, FL 33065
Is your child or teenager struggling? Maybe they are coping with worry, mood changes, or problems at school. Perhaps there is family conflict, including divorce or separation. Or they are dealing with bullying, relationship drama, or low self-esteem. As parents, we want nothing more than for our kids to be happy. We want them to learn healthy ways to manage their emotions and feel good about themselves.
Is your child or teenager struggling? Maybe they are coping with worry, mood changes, or problems at school. Perhaps there is family conflict, including divorce or separation. Or they are dealing with bullying, relationship drama, or low self-esteem. As parents, we want nothing more than for our kids to be happy. We want them to learn healthy ways to manage their emotions and feel good about themselves.
(954) 231-4463 View (954) 231-4463
Photo of Tony Buford, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Tony Buford
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coral Springs, FL 33065
I'm Tony Buford, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor here in West Palm Beach Florida. When choosing me as your counselor to work with, I firmly believe in having an open-minded approach to your healing and wellness journey. I’ve learned to understand your life is a unique combination of experiences of, family traditions, culture, and spiritual beliefs. To support you effectively, I believe in create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can feel comfortable sharing life's most difficult challenges. I'm dedicated to you in discovering your inner strengths and conquering the obstacles you're facing in life.
I'm Tony Buford, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor here in West Palm Beach Florida. When choosing me as your counselor to work with, I firmly believe in having an open-minded approach to your healing and wellness journey. I’ve learned to understand your life is a unique combination of experiences of, family traditions, culture, and spiritual beliefs. To support you effectively, I believe in create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can feel comfortable sharing life's most difficult challenges. I'm dedicated to you in discovering your inner strengths and conquering the obstacles you're facing in life.
(754) 296-8380 View (754) 296-8380
Photo of Judith Rey McCalla, PhD, Psychologist
Judith Rey McCalla
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
South Miami, FL 33143
As a licensed psychologist, I view therapy as a collaborative process in which I use my clinical skills to help clients achieve their goals. Whether your issues include depression, anxiety, insomnia, stress management, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, or coping with chronic medical diagnoses, I can work with you to improve your mood and your ability to cope effectively. As a health psychologist, I am interested in helping people increase their physical and emotional well-being and promote heathy lifestyle changes. My specialty is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but I use other therapy styles based on clients’ needs.
As a licensed psychologist, I view therapy as a collaborative process in which I use my clinical skills to help clients achieve their goals. Whether your issues include depression, anxiety, insomnia, stress management, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, or coping with chronic medical diagnoses, I can work with you to improve your mood and your ability to cope effectively. As a health psychologist, I am interested in helping people increase their physical and emotional well-being and promote heathy lifestyle changes. My specialty is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), but I use other therapy styles based on clients’ needs.
(305) 748-2932 View (305) 748-2932
Photo of Sharon Salas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Salas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130  (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Sharon, and I'm passionate about helping individuals rediscover their inner child and embark on a journey of healing the wounds from their past. As a compassionate and creative soul, I offer a unique approach to processing and addressing emotions. Through my work, I aim to provide a safe and nurturing space for you to explore your feelings, particularly those affected by addiction and co-dependency. I firmly believe that art, not in the traditional sense but as a personal expression of one's emotions, holds the key to authenticity and self-discovery.
Hi there, I'm Sharon, and I'm passionate about helping individuals rediscover their inner child and embark on a journey of healing the wounds from their past. As a compassionate and creative soul, I offer a unique approach to processing and addressing emotions. Through my work, I aim to provide a safe and nurturing space for you to explore your feelings, particularly those affected by addiction and co-dependency. I firmly believe that art, not in the traditional sense but as a personal expression of one's emotions, holds the key to authenticity and self-discovery.
(786) 648-7231 View (786) 648-7231
Photo of Stephanie L Renfrow - Autism Diagnostic Center, PhD
Autism Diagnostic Center
PhD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33433
ADC was established to provide families with a comprehensive assessment of their child's development and behavior, serving AGES 12 MONTHS TO ADULTHOOD. The objective of the evaluation is to determine whether delays are consistent with Autism Spectrum Disorder or other neurodevelopmental impairments, and to determine the most effective and appropriate course of action with regards to treatment options. Primary Areas of Assessment include: Functional assessment determines the child's ability to adapt to the demands of everyday life and assesses presence of repetitive/restrictive behaviors and interests; Emotional assessment determine's the child's ability to regulate, express and manage strong emotions; Social skills assessment determines the child's ability to interact, communicate and reciprocate as expected for their age. All assessments include the use of ADOS2 which is heavily sought out by insurance companies in the coverage of therapeutic needs and services. Please call or visit HTTPS://CALENDLY.COM/DR-RENFROW to schedule a free 15 minute consultation with Dr. Renfrow. WWW.ADCBOCA.COM
ADC was established to provide families with a comprehensive assessment of their child's development and behavior, serving AGES 12 MONTHS TO ADULTHOOD. The objective of the evaluation is to determine whether delays are consistent with Autism Spectrum Disorder or other neurodevelopmental impairments, and to determine the most effective and appropriate course of action with regards to treatment options. Primary Areas of Assessment include: Functional assessment determines the child's ability to adapt to the demands of everyday life and assesses presence of repetitive/restrictive behaviors and interests; Emotional assessment determine's the child's ability to regulate, express and manage strong emotions; Social skills assessment determines the child's ability to interact, communicate and reciprocate as expected for their age. All assessments include the use of ADOS2 which is heavily sought out by insurance companies in the coverage of therapeutic needs and services. Please call or visit HTTPS://CALENDLY.COM/DR-RENFROW to schedule a free 15 minute consultation with Dr. Renfrow. WWW.ADCBOCA.COM
(561) 413-7759 View (561) 413-7759
Photo of Elsa Hines, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elsa Hines
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33137
What if you could listen and understand differently? I always say "Insight gives perspective and perspective ignites change". My therapeutic setting aims to notice and analyze patterns that can help you gain a new perspective. I offer counseling services to individuals, couples, and families looking to improve their relationships, adapt to life’s changing circumstances, or alter undesired behavioral patterns.
What if you could listen and understand differently? I always say "Insight gives perspective and perspective ignites change". My therapeutic setting aims to notice and analyze patterns that can help you gain a new perspective. I offer counseling services to individuals, couples, and families looking to improve their relationships, adapt to life’s changing circumstances, or alter undesired behavioral patterns.
(786) 876-6792 View (786) 876-6792
Photo of Carele Etienne, LMHC, Counselor
Carele Etienne
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32835  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Carele, a dedicated LMHC committed to guiding individuals towards holistic wellness and personal growth. I have 6 years of experience working with clients with mood and adjustment disorders in both outpatient and inpatient settings. I specialize in working with individuals with anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD and adjustment issues. Together, we'll collaborate to explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, uncovering patterns and insights that promote understanding and growth. Through our partnership, you can anticipate genuine support, empathetic guidance, and a commitment to your well-being every step of the way.
Hello, I'm Carele, a dedicated LMHC committed to guiding individuals towards holistic wellness and personal growth. I have 6 years of experience working with clients with mood and adjustment disorders in both outpatient and inpatient settings. I specialize in working with individuals with anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD and adjustment issues. Together, we'll collaborate to explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, uncovering patterns and insights that promote understanding and growth. Through our partnership, you can anticipate genuine support, empathetic guidance, and a commitment to your well-being every step of the way.
(407) 315-1315 View (407) 315-1315
Photo of Patricia Rausch, ARNP, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Rausch
Marriage & Family Therapist, ARNP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Deland, FL 32724
I have been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist for over 25 years, and also as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner for over 30. This dual licensure has given me a unique perspective in assisting clients who have health related issues that may be impacting their ability to deal with anxieties, relationships, and other personal challenges. I also have extensive experience working with families facing issues such as addiction, adoption, and marriage therapy. Group therapy is also currently available based upon appropriate referral.
I have been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist for over 25 years, and also as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner for over 30. This dual licensure has given me a unique perspective in assisting clients who have health related issues that may be impacting their ability to deal with anxieties, relationships, and other personal challenges. I also have extensive experience working with families facing issues such as addiction, adoption, and marriage therapy. Group therapy is also currently available based upon appropriate referral.
(386) 742-6037 View (386) 742-6037
Photo of Chanrika Morley, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Chanrika Morley
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plantation, FL 33324
I believe each individual is unique in their own way. My goal is to help each individual reach their full potential. Collaboratively, I will work with you to find your true self and bring out the strengths that you already posses. I have been working in the field of mental health since 2013. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with trauma, human trafficking, behavioral disorders, Depression, Anxiety, other severe and persistent mental illnesses, intellectual disabilities and other special needs. Whether you or someone you know is dealing with these issues, I am here to help.
I believe each individual is unique in their own way. My goal is to help each individual reach their full potential. Collaboratively, I will work with you to find your true self and bring out the strengths that you already posses. I have been working in the field of mental health since 2013. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with trauma, human trafficking, behavioral disorders, Depression, Anxiety, other severe and persistent mental illnesses, intellectual disabilities and other special needs. Whether you or someone you know is dealing with these issues, I am here to help.
(954) 519-7791 View (954) 519-7791
Photo of Geneva Thompson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Geneva Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Macclenny, FL 32063
I have tried therapy and it didn't work. I have heard this from clients so many times. The truth is, therapy is not a "one size fits all" type of service. There are many different types of therapy and many different types of therapists. I partner with my clients to customize their treatment plan to fit their preference for treatment style/modality as well as to meet their personal goals. I have helped many people manage a wide variety of struggles including those related to depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and symptoms related to trauma - just to name a few.
I have tried therapy and it didn't work. I have heard this from clients so many times. The truth is, therapy is not a "one size fits all" type of service. There are many different types of therapy and many different types of therapists. I partner with my clients to customize their treatment plan to fit their preference for treatment style/modality as well as to meet their personal goals. I have helped many people manage a wide variety of struggles including those related to depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and symptoms related to trauma - just to name a few.
(904) 842-2443 View (904) 842-2443
1
...

How does your Therapist compare?

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Florida who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
75% Self Esteem
71% Coping Skills
70% Relationship Issues
66% Trauma and PTSD
65% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Aetna
78% Cigna and Evernorth
77% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Florida see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
16% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Florida?

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.