Therapists in Burlington, VT

Photo of Aaron Kindsvatter, Registered Psychotherapist in Burlington, VT
Aaron Kindsvatter
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401
I specialize in treating individuals, couples and families who are struggling with anxiety and relational turmoil. My approach differs slightly based on the presenting problem. In treating anxiety we will take a close look at the thought processes that inform it. We will then tailor treatment to your situation. When relational turmoil is the presenting concern, we will look at the relational patterns across the span of your life, and explore how these patterns are manifesting in the present. We'll then explore pathways to relational security and empowerment.
I specialize in treating individuals, couples and families who are struggling with anxiety and relational turmoil. My approach differs slightly based on the presenting problem. In treating anxiety we will take a close look at the thought processes that inform it. We will then tailor treatment to your situation. When relational turmoil is the presenting concern, we will look at the relational patterns across the span of your life, and explore how these patterns are manifesting in the present. We'll then explore pathways to relational security and empowerment.
(802) 200-2588 View (802) 200-2588
Photo of David Beams, Pre-Licensed Professional in Burlington, VT
David Beams
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401
Not accepting new clients
As a counselor I strive to foster a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space in which we can work collaboratively towards your goals. I believe that clients are the experts in their own lives and that together we can explore new opportunities for growth. Whether you need someone to listen with curiosity, help address unhealthy patterns in your life, provide support in setting boundaries, or challenge you to look at things from a new perspective, I am here to help.
As a counselor I strive to foster a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space in which we can work collaboratively towards your goals. I believe that clients are the experts in their own lives and that together we can explore new opportunities for growth. Whether you need someone to listen with curiosity, help address unhealthy patterns in your life, provide support in setting boundaries, or challenge you to look at things from a new perspective, I am here to help.
(802) 676-7862 View (802) 676-7862
Photo of Valerie Niklas, Pre-Licensed Professional in Burlington, VT
Valerie Niklas
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
My practice is founded on the belief in the fundamental human need for safety and connection. I aim to provide a collaborative and compassionate therapeutic space in which clients can explore reconnecting body and mind to develop an internal sense of safety and connection, to live more authentically and aligned. Through mindfulness and somatic-based practices, I support clients in expanding body awareness and the capacity for self-regulation.
My practice is founded on the belief in the fundamental human need for safety and connection. I aim to provide a collaborative and compassionate therapeutic space in which clients can explore reconnecting body and mind to develop an internal sense of safety and connection, to live more authentically and aligned. Through mindfulness and somatic-based practices, I support clients in expanding body awareness and the capacity for self-regulation.
View
Photo of Jonathan Ayers, Counselor in Burlington, VT
Jonathan Ayers
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401
www.flourishvt.com Providing person-centered psychotherapy to adults working toward emotional wellness and walking through difficult seasons of life. I believe that good listening ("Helping someone to tell their story") is the most effective tool we have for healing hurt. Using your regular feedback, we are able to tailor our work together to utilize a counseling approach that fits well for you.
www.flourishvt.com Providing person-centered psychotherapy to adults working toward emotional wellness and walking through difficult seasons of life. I believe that good listening ("Helping someone to tell their story") is the most effective tool we have for healing hurt. Using your regular feedback, we are able to tailor our work together to utilize a counseling approach that fits well for you.
View
Photo of Dominique Couture-Sherman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burlington, VT
Dominique Couture-Sherman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CGP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401  (Online Only)
So often when talking to prospective clients, they are most worried about sitting in a session with a therapist that looks like the ones they see on TV. You know, the very stereotypical therapist, in a very sterile room, in a three-piece suit, who almost strictly takes notes and is some times hard to read. Though, I strongly believe that all therapy has a place, for me, this isn’t how I practice. In therapy, I believe there is a time for silence and a time for reflection, but I also believe there is a time for humor, laughter, and connection.
So often when talking to prospective clients, they are most worried about sitting in a session with a therapist that looks like the ones they see on TV. You know, the very stereotypical therapist, in a very sterile room, in a three-piece suit, who almost strictly takes notes and is some times hard to read. Though, I strongly believe that all therapy has a place, for me, this isn’t how I practice. In therapy, I believe there is a time for silence and a time for reflection, but I also believe there is a time for humor, laughter, and connection.
View
Photo of Myra E Woodruff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burlington, VT
Myra E Woodruff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MA, LICSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
Not accepting new clients
Given the level of community and world uncertainty, you may be feeling increased anxiety, depression, conflict, confusion and isolation. How do you cope with such enormous uncertainty? Working effectively with your mind and reactivity is essential to finding balance, strength, comfort and connection. My focus in therapy is to listen deeply to your inner wisdom, express more fully who you are, develop skills to accomplish this and make choices that further your positive intentions. Life provides challenges at the best of times; we need support when we are most vulnerable. Therapy provides an opportunity to explore what is possible.
Given the level of community and world uncertainty, you may be feeling increased anxiety, depression, conflict, confusion and isolation. How do you cope with such enormous uncertainty? Working effectively with your mind and reactivity is essential to finding balance, strength, comfort and connection. My focus in therapy is to listen deeply to your inner wisdom, express more fully who you are, develop skills to accomplish this and make choices that further your positive intentions. Life provides challenges at the best of times; we need support when we are most vulnerable. Therapy provides an opportunity to explore what is possible.
(802) 557-0079 View (802) 557-0079
Photo of Courtney Foley, Counselor in Burlington, VT
Courtney Foley
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401
Waitlist for new clients
I can only imagine what growing up in the world today must be like. With so many dynamic challenges present in so many areas of life, it's no wonder to me that young people are struggling. While the feelings and experiences behind these struggles may be completely valid, sometimes the ways in which we cope, communicate or express ourselves may be unpleasant, unhealthy, or downright damaging. As the therapist, I am here to listen deeply to my child, teen and young adult clients (and their caregivers as needed), help them explore and identify what’s going on for them, and support them in making desired changes.
I can only imagine what growing up in the world today must be like. With so many dynamic challenges present in so many areas of life, it's no wonder to me that young people are struggling. While the feelings and experiences behind these struggles may be completely valid, sometimes the ways in which we cope, communicate or express ourselves may be unpleasant, unhealthy, or downright damaging. As the therapist, I am here to listen deeply to my child, teen and young adult clients (and their caregivers as needed), help them explore and identify what’s going on for them, and support them in making desired changes.
(802) 780-2648 View (802) 780-2648
Photo of Georgina Achilles, Counselor in Burlington, VT
Georgina Achilles
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
I provide a safe, confidential space for our work together. Each person seeks a therapist for their own personal reasons. Whether you feel stuck at an impasse, want more satisfying relationships, or seek freedom from difficult patterns- no matter your struggle, having a place to think and talk about what is bothering you may help. The outcome of therapy is unpredictable, though it often results in a greater sense of well-being and eases internal conflict. Together we can seek to understand what is going on and explore possibilities not previously considered.
I provide a safe, confidential space for our work together. Each person seeks a therapist for their own personal reasons. Whether you feel stuck at an impasse, want more satisfying relationships, or seek freedom from difficult patterns- no matter your struggle, having a place to think and talk about what is bothering you may help. The outcome of therapy is unpredictable, though it often results in a greater sense of well-being and eases internal conflict. Together we can seek to understand what is going on and explore possibilities not previously considered.
(802) 376-1897 View (802) 376-1897
Photo of Emily Hair, Counselor in Burlington, VT
Emily Hair
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05405  (Online Only)
Life can be challenging, but it can also be wonderful and exciting. Challenge finds its way into our lives and we are not always equipped to manage life's demands. It can be hard to find hope in these moments - but I want you to know you are not alone in this. I work with many young adults and adults who are experiencing anxiety, relationship issues, and who are having difficulty finding balance in their lives. If you’re feeling less like yourself, experiencing anxious thoughts, depression, or just feeling like your life isn't what you expected, we can work toward a new path of healing and purpose.
Life can be challenging, but it can also be wonderful and exciting. Challenge finds its way into our lives and we are not always equipped to manage life's demands. It can be hard to find hope in these moments - but I want you to know you are not alone in this. I work with many young adults and adults who are experiencing anxiety, relationship issues, and who are having difficulty finding balance in their lives. If you’re feeling less like yourself, experiencing anxious thoughts, depression, or just feeling like your life isn't what you expected, we can work toward a new path of healing and purpose.
(802) 423-2884 View (802) 423-2884
Photo of Julia McGlew, Pre-Licensed Professional in Burlington, VT
Julia McGlew
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
"I did then what I knew how to do. Now that I know better, I do better" (Maya Angelou) Hi! My name is Julia (she/her). My approach to therapy is empathetic and based in both trust and relationship. I truly enjoy getting to know my clients and being able to help them take a look at their past and current challenges and see how they have adapted. I really want to help my clients understand where their reactions to trauma/hard times come from and how to use that knowledge to move forward in a fulfilling way. I feel my approach is truly person centered and trauma informed, using compassion and curiosity to help us navigate.
"I did then what I knew how to do. Now that I know better, I do better" (Maya Angelou) Hi! My name is Julia (she/her). My approach to therapy is empathetic and based in both trust and relationship. I truly enjoy getting to know my clients and being able to help them take a look at their past and current challenges and see how they have adapted. I really want to help my clients understand where their reactions to trauma/hard times come from and how to use that knowledge to move forward in a fulfilling way. I feel my approach is truly person centered and trauma informed, using compassion and curiosity to help us navigate.
View
Photo of Betsy Ellis, Counselor in Burlington, VT
Betsy Ellis
Counselor, LCMHC, EFT
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401  (Online Only)
OPENINGS FOR INDIVIDUALS ONLY at this time. Therapy is my passion! This is not just a job for me. It is a calling! With a focused presence during my sessions I help with my heart and my mind. I am easy going. I like to smile and laugh. And, I am professional and good at what I do. Making you feel comfortable and relaxed during our sessions is a priority. Most of all I want to help you feel better, be happy, grow personally and have peace in your life and your relationships! I am doubly Certified by the International Center of Excellence in EFT - Emotionally Focused Therapy for Individuals (EFIT) and Couples (EFCT).
OPENINGS FOR INDIVIDUALS ONLY at this time. Therapy is my passion! This is not just a job for me. It is a calling! With a focused presence during my sessions I help with my heart and my mind. I am easy going. I like to smile and laugh. And, I am professional and good at what I do. Making you feel comfortable and relaxed during our sessions is a priority. Most of all I want to help you feel better, be happy, grow personally and have peace in your life and your relationships! I am doubly Certified by the International Center of Excellence in EFT - Emotionally Focused Therapy for Individuals (EFIT) and Couples (EFCT).
(802) 999-9026 View (802) 999-9026
Photo of Christopher Futty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burlington, VT
Christopher Futty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes, we find ourselves in repetitive patterns that can betray our deepest wishes for a fulfilling life. Perhaps you have developed ways of coping that were once effective but are less helpful than they were in the past. Natural life transitions themselves, even the joyful ones, can be full of complicated feelings like loss, grief, and resentment. Despite wanting a meaningful relationship with others, you may feel inhibited and alone. We can also just feel ‘off’ yet remain unsure why or what could be the cause. Exploring our unconscious minds and residues can illuminate great depths
Sometimes, we find ourselves in repetitive patterns that can betray our deepest wishes for a fulfilling life. Perhaps you have developed ways of coping that were once effective but are less helpful than they were in the past. Natural life transitions themselves, even the joyful ones, can be full of complicated feelings like loss, grief, and resentment. Despite wanting a meaningful relationship with others, you may feel inhibited and alone. We can also just feel ‘off’ yet remain unsure why or what could be the cause. Exploring our unconscious minds and residues can illuminate great depths
(802) 402-4450 View (802) 402-4450
Photo of Mollie Farnham-Stratton in Burlington, VT
Mollie Farnham-Stratton
MS, MSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
Not accepting new clients
I am a clinical social worker with extensive experience working with pre-teens, adolescents, families and adults in a variety of settings. If you are feeling lost, empty, sad, excessively worried or afraid I will work with you to develop skills and tools that help you live your life in a more satisfactory way.
I am a clinical social worker with extensive experience working with pre-teens, adolescents, families and adults in a variety of settings. If you are feeling lost, empty, sad, excessively worried or afraid I will work with you to develop skills and tools that help you live your life in a more satisfactory way.
(802) 499-2143 x135 View (802) 499-2143 x135
Photo of Zachary Kudman Psychotherapy, LLC, Pre-Licensed Professional in Burlington, VT
Zachary Kudman Psychotherapy, LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401
Currently accepting new clients! I believe we all have the inner capacity to live fulfilling lives that feel authentic and meaningful. Therapy can be a way to uncover your innate capacity for healing and growth and reconnect with yourself. Together, we will explore patterns of thought and behavior that contribute to your current challenges. Bringing curiosity into our work, we will listen to what life is communicating and imagine new ways of relating that feel alive and hopeful. Developing a collaborative relationship rooted in compassion, respect and nonjudgment serves as our foundation.
Currently accepting new clients! I believe we all have the inner capacity to live fulfilling lives that feel authentic and meaningful. Therapy can be a way to uncover your innate capacity for healing and growth and reconnect with yourself. Together, we will explore patterns of thought and behavior that contribute to your current challenges. Bringing curiosity into our work, we will listen to what life is communicating and imagine new ways of relating that feel alive and hopeful. Developing a collaborative relationship rooted in compassion, respect and nonjudgment serves as our foundation.
(802) 200-2908 View (802) 200-2908
Photo of Genevieve King, Psychologist in Burlington, VT
Genevieve King
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05408  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! It can be very difficult asking for help. Through my engaged and compassionate therapeutic style, I work to lessen the difficulty. I believe that throughout all of our lives we find ourselves navigating transition, relational difficulties, illness, distress, and growth. During these times, there can be a range of experiences from mild dissatisfaction to anxiety and despair. My practice centers on fostering an empathic and authentic therapeutic environment in which there is acceptance and safety in exploring and making meaning out of your experiences and internal world.
Welcome! It can be very difficult asking for help. Through my engaged and compassionate therapeutic style, I work to lessen the difficulty. I believe that throughout all of our lives we find ourselves navigating transition, relational difficulties, illness, distress, and growth. During these times, there can be a range of experiences from mild dissatisfaction to anxiety and despair. My practice centers on fostering an empathic and authentic therapeutic environment in which there is acceptance and safety in exploring and making meaning out of your experiences and internal world.
(802) 316-4082 View (802) 316-4082
Photo of Chuck Brewer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burlington, VT
Chuck Brewer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hi! My name is Chuck Brewer and I am a licensed psychotherapist who has been in practice for 10+ years. I specialize in treating depression/stress; I specialize with helping clients navigate troubling relationships, and I specialize with helping clients create and then implement meaning & purpose within their existence so that life becomes coherent and significant too. The clients I work with know that I care deeply about them and that I will walk with them through rough times. I also offer clinical supervision where needed; this is meaningful work.
Hi! My name is Chuck Brewer and I am a licensed psychotherapist who has been in practice for 10+ years. I specialize in treating depression/stress; I specialize with helping clients navigate troubling relationships, and I specialize with helping clients create and then implement meaning & purpose within their existence so that life becomes coherent and significant too. The clients I work with know that I care deeply about them and that I will walk with them through rough times. I also offer clinical supervision where needed; this is meaningful work.
(802) 242-8537 View (802) 242-8537
Photo of Aya Inoue, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burlington, VT
Aya Inoue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
Not accepting new clients
Not accepting new clients and no waitlist availability at this time. I love working with adults and youth who are feeling "stuck" and are seeking ways in which they can improve their overall functioning across domains. I offer a calm and safe place that can be utilized for self-exploration and reflection. My background is rooted in trauma-informed care and transformative social work practice. I am a strong believer in the importance of authenticity in relationships. My ideal client is someone who is willing, at whatever pace makes sense to them, to collaborate on identifying solutions to overcome obstacles.
Not accepting new clients and no waitlist availability at this time. I love working with adults and youth who are feeling "stuck" and are seeking ways in which they can improve their overall functioning across domains. I offer a calm and safe place that can be utilized for self-exploration and reflection. My background is rooted in trauma-informed care and transformative social work practice. I am a strong believer in the importance of authenticity in relationships. My ideal client is someone who is willing, at whatever pace makes sense to them, to collaborate on identifying solutions to overcome obstacles.
(802) 992-1744 View (802) 992-1744
Photo of Lynn Martin, Counselor in Burlington, VT
Lynn Martin
Counselor, MRC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
Whether your problem is the result of a crisis or a pattern of self-destructive behavior, your ability to cope is impacted by your personal strengths. My first goal is to meet you where you are, listen to your story, and focus on the way your past shapes the way you deal with challenges in the present.
Whether your problem is the result of a crisis or a pattern of self-destructive behavior, your ability to cope is impacted by your personal strengths. My first goal is to meet you where you are, listen to your story, and focus on the way your past shapes the way you deal with challenges in the present.
(802) 823-1169 View (802) 823-1169
Photo of Marc D. Richter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burlington, VT
Marc D. Richter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LADC, CADC, MSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
Not accepting new clients
I'm interested in helping clients gain a better understanding of their relationship with themselves and to others within their lives. I believe human connection is essential for people as well as living with honesty and balance. Through compassionate humor and straightforward dialogue, I strive to help clients review the thought process involved in developing harmony between their behaviors, values and feelings and their identified inner needs, goals and sense of self. I'm especially interested in helping clients to establish a harmony of communication between the three parts of the mind: the Brain, the Heart and the Gut.
I'm interested in helping clients gain a better understanding of their relationship with themselves and to others within their lives. I believe human connection is essential for people as well as living with honesty and balance. Through compassionate humor and straightforward dialogue, I strive to help clients review the thought process involved in developing harmony between their behaviors, values and feelings and their identified inner needs, goals and sense of self. I'm especially interested in helping clients to establish a harmony of communication between the three parts of the mind: the Brain, the Heart and the Gut.
(866) 828-9074 View (866) 828-9074
Photo of Corrine Mertz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burlington, VT
Corrine Mertz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
Openings 11AM Monday and 2PM Thursday: I work with children, teens, families, and adults who are ready to heal from trauma and build healthy relationships. As a Queer therapist, I'm skilled in supporting marginalized people to build self-worth and live with a greater sense of wellbeing amidst systems that undermine our inherent value. Working with me is what it sounds like: having a guide for you, your child, and partner(s) in building more loving, functional, and liberating relationships with yourself and others. With adults and teens, I utilize an evidence-based modality based in neuroscience called Brainspotting to heal trauma.
Openings 11AM Monday and 2PM Thursday: I work with children, teens, families, and adults who are ready to heal from trauma and build healthy relationships. As a Queer therapist, I'm skilled in supporting marginalized people to build self-worth and live with a greater sense of wellbeing amidst systems that undermine our inherent value. Working with me is what it sounds like: having a guide for you, your child, and partner(s) in building more loving, functional, and liberating relationships with yourself and others. With adults and teens, I utilize an evidence-based modality based in neuroscience called Brainspotting to heal trauma.
(802) 222-0436 View (802) 222-0436

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Burlington, VT

700+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Burlington, VT who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
87% Depression
83% Relationship Issues
79% Self Esteem
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Stress
67% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% BlueCross and BlueShield
64% Medicaid
53% MVP Health Care

How Therapists in Burlington, VT see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
23% Male
3% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Burlington?

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.