Therapists in Boston, MA

View neighborhoods in Boston
Photo of Adam Ayala, MA, Counselor
Adam Ayala
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
Do you feel like your past problems, being cheated on, being left, and being emotionally and sexually abused have completely ruined you for love? Do you feel like no matter what you do you will always be alone in a loveless life or worse, you will settle for a person that's not good for you at all? The real problem is that you haven't made the shifts. When you make the shifts you'll have complete control over who you are with, you will walk away from low-quality people, and you will have defeated your inner dark world that brings you back to trash relationships and into that relationship of outstanding sex that's drama free.
Do you feel like your past problems, being cheated on, being left, and being emotionally and sexually abused have completely ruined you for love? Do you feel like no matter what you do you will always be alone in a loveless life or worse, you will settle for a person that's not good for you at all? The real problem is that you haven't made the shifts. When you make the shifts you'll have complete control over who you are with, you will walk away from low-quality people, and you will have defeated your inner dark world that brings you back to trash relationships and into that relationship of outstanding sex that's drama free.
View
Photo of Latrese Vance, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Latrese Vance
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
It can be challenging and scary to seek counseling and to take the first steps toward desired change. Being aware of that, Latrese is grateful and eager about the opportunity to meet people where they are and to help them get to where they want to be.
It can be challenging and scary to seek counseling and to take the first steps toward desired change. Being aware of that, Latrese is grateful and eager about the opportunity to meet people where they are and to help them get to where they want to be.
(617) 546-4544 View (617) 546-4544
Photo of Jenny A Reed, LMHC, ATR, Counselor
Jenny A Reed
Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02132  (Online Only)
Change unleashes one's creative energy. When you engage in therapy you unleash changes within yourself. Therapy is a process of opening up about your life experiences and voicing your thoughts and feelings. Over-time you can gain a greater sense of self-awareness and confidence. You learn to trust your intuition to better cope and maintain well-being. I initially work with you to choose whether you prefer to use art therapy or talk therapy, or a combination of both. If interested, we can engage in Art Therapy, which involves art making with a variety of materials to express your feelings and cope with troubling emotions.
Change unleashes one's creative energy. When you engage in therapy you unleash changes within yourself. Therapy is a process of opening up about your life experiences and voicing your thoughts and feelings. Over-time you can gain a greater sense of self-awareness and confidence. You learn to trust your intuition to better cope and maintain well-being. I initially work with you to choose whether you prefer to use art therapy or talk therapy, or a combination of both. If interested, we can engage in Art Therapy, which involves art making with a variety of materials to express your feelings and cope with troubling emotions.
(857) 267-3824 View (857) 267-3824
Photo of Kerlie Merizier, LMHC, Counselor
Kerlie Merizier
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
My ideal client is someone who is ready to explore their patterns, thoughts, and unique stories. They may be struggling with anxiety or depression or haven't fully processed traumas and attachment issues in their lifetime. This ideal client may be detached from their emotions, have a hard time letting go, or find it difficult to experience joy. This person is motivated for change and seeks more insight about themselves.
My ideal client is someone who is ready to explore their patterns, thoughts, and unique stories. They may be struggling with anxiety or depression or haven't fully processed traumas and attachment issues in their lifetime. This ideal client may be detached from their emotions, have a hard time letting go, or find it difficult to experience joy. This person is motivated for change and seeks more insight about themselves.
(617) 644-4607 View (617) 644-4607
Photo of Dewin Hernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dewin Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
Embracing Healing Justice (HJ) is a transformative journey towards dismantling the oppressive structures that affect our mental well-being. This framework, intricately woven with threads of racial, disability, and economic justice, empowers us to interrupt the chains of systemic oppression. My commitment lies in championing vulnerable populations, employing a person-centered, holistic and solution-focused approach. I support my clients in navigating the intricate tapestry of social identities to foster healing, resilience and transformative change.
Embracing Healing Justice (HJ) is a transformative journey towards dismantling the oppressive structures that affect our mental well-being. This framework, intricately woven with threads of racial, disability, and economic justice, empowers us to interrupt the chains of systemic oppression. My commitment lies in championing vulnerable populations, employing a person-centered, holistic and solution-focused approach. I support my clients in navigating the intricate tapestry of social identities to foster healing, resilience and transformative change.
(857) 367-1069 View (857) 367-1069
Photo of Mandy Datro, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mandy Datro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02129  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have 15 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, across a variety of cultures; receiving my training and practicing in both Australia and the US. I work with adults, couples and families to achieve their goals and specialize in a range of clinical presentations including trauma, relationship and family of origin issues, men’s mental health and therapy for helping professionals, among others.
I have 15 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, across a variety of cultures; receiving my training and practicing in both Australia and the US. I work with adults, couples and families to achieve their goals and specialize in a range of clinical presentations including trauma, relationship and family of origin issues, men’s mental health and therapy for helping professionals, among others.
(617) 231-9799 View (617) 231-9799
Photo of Christina Pringle, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Pringle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who has worked with adolescents who have dealt with trauma and family issues. I also have worked with veterans both in graduate school and post graduate school as well as the general population in psychiatric settings. I am a CCTP (Certified Trauma Professional). I provide client centered clinical support and enjoy helping people succeed in life and become confident and comfortable in and with their lives. I utilize a strength based approach and am very adept at helping individuals build self-esteem. I am solution focused and skilled at helping people problem solve.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who has worked with adolescents who have dealt with trauma and family issues. I also have worked with veterans both in graduate school and post graduate school as well as the general population in psychiatric settings. I am a CCTP (Certified Trauma Professional). I provide client centered clinical support and enjoy helping people succeed in life and become confident and comfortable in and with their lives. I utilize a strength based approach and am very adept at helping individuals build self-esteem. I am solution focused and skilled at helping people problem solve.
(857) 567-6527 View (857) 567-6527
Photo of Beth Chase, LMHC, Counselor
Beth Chase
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
My ideal client is an adult who is facing challenges associated with depression, anxiety, life changes, and life stages. My client seeks to find joy in life and expand tools to meet the day's challenges. Another ideal client would be the neuroatypical person seeking to understand how to navigate a world they struggle to understand. This could include those on the autism spectrum or ADHD. Another ideal client would be seniors seeking to navigate the challenges of aging, including loss of jobs through retirement, changing health, or any other issue.
My ideal client is an adult who is facing challenges associated with depression, anxiety, life changes, and life stages. My client seeks to find joy in life and expand tools to meet the day's challenges. Another ideal client would be the neuroatypical person seeking to understand how to navigate a world they struggle to understand. This could include those on the autism spectrum or ADHD. Another ideal client would be seniors seeking to navigate the challenges of aging, including loss of jobs through retirement, changing health, or any other issue.
(617) 221-7618 View (617) 221-7618
Photo of Oyenike Balogun-Mwangi, PhD, Psychologist
Oyenike Balogun-Mwangi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
***Waitlisting for couples therapy***I treat individuals and couples seeking avenues to thrive. I have expansive experience working with diverse populations on adjustment issues across the lifespan, emotional distress, problematic relationship patterns, family-related stress, body image concerns, and sexual trauma. Unique to my practice is a focus on the impact of intersections of race and gender. In our work together, I look to facilitate a process of discovery that empowers you to realize your personal goals.
***Waitlisting for couples therapy***I treat individuals and couples seeking avenues to thrive. I have expansive experience working with diverse populations on adjustment issues across the lifespan, emotional distress, problematic relationship patterns, family-related stress, body image concerns, and sexual trauma. Unique to my practice is a focus on the impact of intersections of race and gender. In our work together, I look to facilitate a process of discovery that empowers you to realize your personal goals.
(781) 350-9812 View (781) 350-9812
Photo of Briana Callahan, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Briana Callahan
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
Feeling stuck and unfulfilled, but unsure how to change? I help you develop the self-awareness needed to identify and break unhelpful patterns and behaviors, empowering you to become the best version of yourself. Together, we'll cultivate resilience to navigate life's challenges, allowing you to thrive in your life. I work with teens and adults who are struggling with anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma, relationship issues, and stress management. I am here to provide tools, support, and guidance in helping you become who you want to be. I truly believe everyone is capable of change!
Feeling stuck and unfulfilled, but unsure how to change? I help you develop the self-awareness needed to identify and break unhelpful patterns and behaviors, empowering you to become the best version of yourself. Together, we'll cultivate resilience to navigate life's challenges, allowing you to thrive in your life. I work with teens and adults who are struggling with anxiety disorders, OCD, trauma, relationship issues, and stress management. I am here to provide tools, support, and guidance in helping you become who you want to be. I truly believe everyone is capable of change!
(978) 222-7835 View (978) 222-7835
Photo of Tanner Glen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tanner Glen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
I believe that every human is on a challenging, exciting, complex, and unique journey through life, and that each of us need different types of support to make this adventure the best it can be. As a therapist, it’s my primary joy to walk alongside you on your path to heal wounds, amplify your current strengths, cultivate new ones, strengthen your relationships, set and achieve personal goals, and, importantly, find opportunities to find joy along the way. This can include working to reduce anxiety and depression, navigating family relationships and/or systemic oppression, processing and mitigating the impacts of trauma, etc.
I believe that every human is on a challenging, exciting, complex, and unique journey through life, and that each of us need different types of support to make this adventure the best it can be. As a therapist, it’s my primary joy to walk alongside you on your path to heal wounds, amplify your current strengths, cultivate new ones, strengthen your relationships, set and achieve personal goals, and, importantly, find opportunities to find joy along the way. This can include working to reduce anxiety and depression, navigating family relationships and/or systemic oppression, processing and mitigating the impacts of trauma, etc.
(508) 694-9887 View (508) 694-9887
Photo of Kayla Shea, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayla Shea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients! While the road to wellness may twist and turn, it holds the promise of hope and the potential for profound change. From the depths of depression to the grip of anxiety, and the overwhelming burden of stress, these are familiar emotions in the human experience. Together, we embark on a journey of exploration through talk therapy, uncovering pathways to resilience and empowerment. I am dedicated to providing a safe and affirming space where individuals of all gender identities, ethnicities, and walks of life can explore and heal their innermost thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear.
Accepting new patients! While the road to wellness may twist and turn, it holds the promise of hope and the potential for profound change. From the depths of depression to the grip of anxiety, and the overwhelming burden of stress, these are familiar emotions in the human experience. Together, we embark on a journey of exploration through talk therapy, uncovering pathways to resilience and empowerment. I am dedicated to providing a safe and affirming space where individuals of all gender identities, ethnicities, and walks of life can explore and heal their innermost thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear.
(617) 712-0341 View (617) 712-0341
Photo of Zarinah Gray, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Zarinah Gray
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02122  (Online Only)
Zarinah is very passionate about helping alleviate symptoms of mental illness while promoting health and wellness especially for Black and Brown communities. It has been her dream to deliver outpatient therapy to clients who look like her. Zarinah modifies her therapeutic approach to each client's specific needs. Her educational background includes a Bachelors in Social Work (BSW) from Regis College in Weston MA, and a Masters in Social Work (MSW) from Bridgewater State University in Massachusetts.
Zarinah is very passionate about helping alleviate symptoms of mental illness while promoting health and wellness especially for Black and Brown communities. It has been her dream to deliver outpatient therapy to clients who look like her. Zarinah modifies her therapeutic approach to each client's specific needs. Her educational background includes a Bachelors in Social Work (BSW) from Regis College in Weston MA, and a Masters in Social Work (MSW) from Bridgewater State University in Massachusetts.
(617) 870-6959 View (617) 870-6959
Photo of Bridget Hager, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridget Hager
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02201  (Online Only)
Welcome! In a world with enumerable pressures and expectations, it can be easy to slip into familiar patterns of surviving that make the world feel more manageable. At times, some of these behaviors stop serving us and can even bring us harm. It can be difficult and scary to shift out of the familiarity of these behaviors and embrace new and unfamiliar ways of taking care of ourselves. I am committed to being there with my clients through that discomfort, building on the skills that exist within, expanding tolerance to distress and discomfort in an empowering way, and creating healthy and sustainable ways of moving through life!
Welcome! In a world with enumerable pressures and expectations, it can be easy to slip into familiar patterns of surviving that make the world feel more manageable. At times, some of these behaviors stop serving us and can even bring us harm. It can be difficult and scary to shift out of the familiarity of these behaviors and embrace new and unfamiliar ways of taking care of ourselves. I am committed to being there with my clients through that discomfort, building on the skills that exist within, expanding tolerance to distress and discomfort in an empowering way, and creating healthy and sustainable ways of moving through life!
(857) 375-8323 View (857) 375-8323
Photo of Farrah Colon, Pre-Licensed Professional
Farrah Colon
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Farrah Colon! I am a proud member of Trust Therapeutics, LLC, dedicated to offering my support to a diverse range of individuals, including young adults, professionals, the Latino/a community, and individuals from all backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ and those with disabilities Whether you aim to achieve a new personal goal or heal from past traumas, rest assured that I offer a non-judgmental and encouraging environment. My goal is to guide you toward becoming the best version of yourself!
Hi, my name is Farrah Colon! I am a proud member of Trust Therapeutics, LLC, dedicated to offering my support to a diverse range of individuals, including young adults, professionals, the Latino/a community, and individuals from all backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ and those with disabilities Whether you aim to achieve a new personal goal or heal from past traumas, rest assured that I offer a non-judgmental and encouraging environment. My goal is to guide you toward becoming the best version of yourself!
(888) 454-2439 View (888) 454-2439
Photo of Dr. Jimmy G Bridges, PhD, LMFT, CFLE, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Jimmy G Bridges
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CFLE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02118  (Online Only)
Hello folks! I'm Jimmy. I'm a gender-queer polyamorous therapist. I work with couples, queer identified folks, and clients in alternative relationship structures. I am trauma-informed and neuro-diverse affirming. All services are telehealth. I only accept out-of-pocket payment. I do not take insurance, but I can provide superbills for clients wanting to use out-of-network benefits. I also provide supervision for clinicians working towards their LMFT and LMHC in Massachusetts, with a focus on couples therapy training. Reach out for a consultation.
Hello folks! I'm Jimmy. I'm a gender-queer polyamorous therapist. I work with couples, queer identified folks, and clients in alternative relationship structures. I am trauma-informed and neuro-diverse affirming. All services are telehealth. I only accept out-of-pocket payment. I do not take insurance, but I can provide superbills for clients wanting to use out-of-network benefits. I also provide supervision for clinicians working towards their LMFT and LMHC in Massachusetts, with a focus on couples therapy training. Reach out for a consultation.
(413) 729-3176 View (413) 729-3176
Photo of Eliana Freeman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eliana Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
Not accepting new clients
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or anxious? Hoping to talk through and better understand patterns you notice? I am here and trained to help. We will work collaboratively to build skills to best meet your needs, hopes, and goals while exploring and building insight to better understand yourself. Together we will work to best support you as you navigate different life phases, relationships, and environments. I specialize in working with young adults traversing school, work, and life challenges. I have extensive training and experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community. I have an individualized and strengths-based framework.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or anxious? Hoping to talk through and better understand patterns you notice? I am here and trained to help. We will work collaboratively to build skills to best meet your needs, hopes, and goals while exploring and building insight to better understand yourself. Together we will work to best support you as you navigate different life phases, relationships, and environments. I specialize in working with young adults traversing school, work, and life challenges. I have extensive training and experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community. I have an individualized and strengths-based framework.
(857) 380-0530 x7 View (857) 380-0530 x7
Photo of Lee Kandlbinder, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lee Kandlbinder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
I am Lee, a licensed independent clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience helping people navigate the challenges of their lives. I worked for many years as a mental health specialist in the Army and then provided mental health case management and crisis response services for veterans and their families. I am now offering therapy services for folks who prefer to get help from the comfort of their homes. I work with individuals, couples and teens from all walks of life.
I am Lee, a licensed independent clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience helping people navigate the challenges of their lives. I worked for many years as a mental health specialist in the Army and then provided mental health case management and crisis response services for veterans and their families. I am now offering therapy services for folks who prefer to get help from the comfort of their homes. I work with individuals, couples and teens from all walks of life.
(617) 209-1012 View (617) 209-1012
Photo of Jessica D. Gerson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica D. Gerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have helped clients and families through issues including anxiety and depression, parenting challenging children, career difficulties, issues related to sexuality and gender identity, ADHD, life stress, work-life balance, relationship issues, and more. As someone who has struggled with both anxiety and depression at various points in my life, I come at the therapeutic process with both personal and professional knowledge, and always keep in mind those things that were most helpful to me when I was the one seeking a therapist.
I have helped clients and families through issues including anxiety and depression, parenting challenging children, career difficulties, issues related to sexuality and gender identity, ADHD, life stress, work-life balance, relationship issues, and more. As someone who has struggled with both anxiety and depression at various points in my life, I come at the therapeutic process with both personal and professional knowledge, and always keep in mind those things that were most helpful to me when I was the one seeking a therapist.
(857) 420-6566 View (857) 420-6566
Photo of Dr. Esther Rosario, PhD, LCSW, MSW, MPA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Esther Rosario
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MSW, MPA
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
You already took the first step. Read a little bit about me to see if I can help you take the next step. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience. I am licensed in Massachusetts, New York, Florida and Connecticut. I am a Qualified Supervisor in the state of Florida. I graduated from New York University with my Master's in Social Work. I focused on clinical training which included specialized practical training in South Africa. In addition, I have worked with evidence based models nationally and internationally.
You already took the first step. Read a little bit about me to see if I can help you take the next step. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience. I am licensed in Massachusetts, New York, Florida and Connecticut. I am a Qualified Supervisor in the state of Florida. I graduated from New York University with my Master's in Social Work. I focused on clinical training which included specialized practical training in South Africa. In addition, I have worked with evidence based models nationally and internationally.
(339) 217-6167 View (339) 217-6167
1
...

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Boston, MA

3,000+

Average cost per session

$154

Therapists in Boston, MA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
74% Relationship Issues
72% Self Esteem
70% Stress
69% Trauma and PTSD
66% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% BlueCross and BlueShield
65% Aetna
62% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Boston, MA see their clients

62% Online Only
38% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

79% Female
19% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Boston?

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.