Therapists in West Cambridge, Cambridge, MA

Photo of Annabel Gill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Annabel Gill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
West Cambridge, Cambridge, MA 02138
Not accepting new clients
Therapy offers many opportunities: to relieve suffering, to improve our relationships, to overcome the ways we feel stuck, and ultimately to build a more meaningful life as we come to understand ourselves more deeply. I collaborate with the client to build a long-term therapeutic relationship, which is the cornerstone of my work. In this environment of safety, respect, and openness, we will work to effect healing and change in your relationship with yourself, with others, and with the challenges of day-to-day life.
Therapy offers many opportunities: to relieve suffering, to improve our relationships, to overcome the ways we feel stuck, and ultimately to build a more meaningful life as we come to understand ourselves more deeply. I collaborate with the client to build a long-term therapeutic relationship, which is the cornerstone of my work. In this environment of safety, respect, and openness, we will work to effect healing and change in your relationship with yourself, with others, and with the challenges of day-to-day life.
(617) 910-3377 View (617) 910-3377
Photo of Sophia Sgarlat, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sophia Sgarlat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
West Cambridge, Cambridge, MA 02138
Do you think you may have ADHD or Autism? Have you struggled to assert boundaries at work, with family, & partners? Have you felt curious about exploring different pronouns and gender identities? Do you feel bad that you have a disability and don't know how to tell your friends that you can't do certain activities? You may have goals to say your preferred pronouns to your friends. Goals to get a diagnosis for your disability & curious about medication, goals to reevaluate your relationship with cannabis/alcohol. You may feel shame & anger about your childhood & the way your parents handled your behavior.
Do you think you may have ADHD or Autism? Have you struggled to assert boundaries at work, with family, & partners? Have you felt curious about exploring different pronouns and gender identities? Do you feel bad that you have a disability and don't know how to tell your friends that you can't do certain activities? You may have goals to say your preferred pronouns to your friends. Goals to get a diagnosis for your disability & curious about medication, goals to reevaluate your relationship with cannabis/alcohol. You may feel shame & anger about your childhood & the way your parents handled your behavior.
(508) 690-5799 View (508) 690-5799
Photo of Daniel Gensler, Psychologist, PhD
Daniel Gensler
Psychologist, PhD
West Cambridge, Cambridge, MA 02138
I help young people, couples, families and adults with problems in living through brief and long-term therapy as well and through psychoeducational evaluations. Until my recent move to Watertown, MA, I ran an externship in New York, NY, working with children and adolescents for many years. I have supervised, taught, presented, and published; I have seen such a variety of problems that I am reluctant to say that I specialize. I approach people as individuals rather than as diagnostic categories, and don't assume a single treatment approach for everyone. The relationship we build is our best tool for making a difference.
I help young people, couples, families and adults with problems in living through brief and long-term therapy as well and through psychoeducational evaluations. Until my recent move to Watertown, MA, I ran an externship in New York, NY, working with children and adolescents for many years. I have supervised, taught, presented, and published; I have seen such a variety of problems that I am reluctant to say that I specialize. I approach people as individuals rather than as diagnostic categories, and don't assume a single treatment approach for everyone. The relationship we build is our best tool for making a difference.
(339) 675-2151 View (339) 675-2151
Photo of Sarah Schermerhorn, Counselor, LMHC, RYT
Sarah Schermerhorn
Counselor, LMHC, RYT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I wholeheartedly believe that therapy should be as unique as each individual and rooted in compassionate and collaborative curiosity. It is essential to honor your journey, and I will always approach our sessions with the understanding that you are in the driver’s seat. I draw from somatic, analytic, and relational schools of thought, nurturing the belief that you already possess the strength and resources within yourself to heal. My experience includes supporting young adults, adults, and athletes across various settings, from community mental health and college counseling centers to my current work in private practice.
I wholeheartedly believe that therapy should be as unique as each individual and rooted in compassionate and collaborative curiosity. It is essential to honor your journey, and I will always approach our sessions with the understanding that you are in the driver’s seat. I draw from somatic, analytic, and relational schools of thought, nurturing the belief that you already possess the strength and resources within yourself to heal. My experience includes supporting young adults, adults, and athletes across various settings, from community mental health and college counseling centers to my current work in private practice.
(781) 691-2319 View (781) 691-2319
Photo of Sam Lipschultz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Sam Lipschultz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
West Cambridge, Cambridge, MA 02138
Therapy can help you free up the “stuck” places in your life, the ways of relating to yourself and others that can feel self-defeating, limiting or out of your control. These ways can lead to distress that may come in many forms: anxiety, anger, emptiness, detachment. Yet these experiences are not only a source of suffering, they are also a message that speaks to desires, passions, conflicts, and pain. Together we work to understand all this and place it in the context of where you come from and the world you live in now.
Therapy can help you free up the “stuck” places in your life, the ways of relating to yourself and others that can feel self-defeating, limiting or out of your control. These ways can lead to distress that may come in many forms: anxiety, anger, emptiness, detachment. Yet these experiences are not only a source of suffering, they are also a message that speaks to desires, passions, conflicts, and pain. Together we work to understand all this and place it in the context of where you come from and the world you live in now.
(508) 256-9725 View (508) 256-9725
Alyssa Christopher
Pre-Licensed Professional, they, she
1 Endorsed
West Cambridge, Cambridge, MA 02138
My therapeutic orientation is grounded in principles from Liberation psychology, Black/African-centered psychology, mad pride, and disability justice. I work with clients to explore their lived experiences and emotions in the context of intersecting systems of power, privilege, and oppression. I also collaborate with clients in exploring alternative models of understanding psychiatric disabilities outside of pathologization and the medical model of health and wellness. I aim to co-create a therapeutic space that prioritizes transparency, agency, authenticity, understanding, and connection.
My therapeutic orientation is grounded in principles from Liberation psychology, Black/African-centered psychology, mad pride, and disability justice. I work with clients to explore their lived experiences and emotions in the context of intersecting systems of power, privilege, and oppression. I also collaborate with clients in exploring alternative models of understanding psychiatric disabilities outside of pathologization and the medical model of health and wellness. I aim to co-create a therapeutic space that prioritizes transparency, agency, authenticity, understanding, and connection.
(508) 501-5745 View (508) 501-5745
Photo of Matthew Krieger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Matthew Krieger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
West Cambridge, Cambridge, MA 02138
My ideal client wants to live according to their values and aspirations, but they feel stuck. They don't know how to get where they want to go. They might be having some negative thoughts about themselves. They may feel on edge, jump to the worst possible conclusions, or think people are judging them. They often want to be able to do many things that they've been avoiding. Accomplishing these things is important to them because it helps them feel in control of their lives.
My ideal client wants to live according to their values and aspirations, but they feel stuck. They don't know how to get where they want to go. They might be having some negative thoughts about themselves. They may feel on edge, jump to the worst possible conclusions, or think people are judging them. They often want to be able to do many things that they've been avoiding. Accomplishing these things is important to them because it helps them feel in control of their lives.
(508) 938-8734 View (508) 938-8734
Photo of Dr. Laura Russell, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Laura Russell
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
West Cambridge, Cambridge, MA 02138
Are you feeling emotionally depleted and uncertain about the future? I specialize in individual therapy for individuals who are struggling with relationship issues, anxiety, trauma, OCD, depression, ADHD, grief/loss, and insomnia. If you are feeling distressed, isolated, or experiencing problems in your relationships I hope I can guide you through these challenging times. My goal as your therapist would be to help you find your own pathway to healing, balance, and a peace of mind.
Are you feeling emotionally depleted and uncertain about the future? I specialize in individual therapy for individuals who are struggling with relationship issues, anxiety, trauma, OCD, depression, ADHD, grief/loss, and insomnia. If you are feeling distressed, isolated, or experiencing problems in your relationships I hope I can guide you through these challenging times. My goal as your therapist would be to help you find your own pathway to healing, balance, and a peace of mind.
(781) 262-1363 View (781) 262-1363
Photo of Holly Levenkron, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Holly Levenkron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
West Cambridge, Cambridge, MA 02138
I've been working for 39 years helping people develop confidence and capabilities for personal and profession growth and fulfilling relationships. I'm a "Relational" psychodynamically oriented therapist trained in psychoanalysis. I draw from CBT and solution based therapies, Seeing individuals & couples from all walks of life and wide ranging professions, with empathy and helpful directness, I emphasize finding and expressing your voice and discovering what's been getting in your way. With your input, I try to create a safe approach suited to your needs and goals. I give feedback, encourage curiosity and welcome the same from you.
I've been working for 39 years helping people develop confidence and capabilities for personal and profession growth and fulfilling relationships. I'm a "Relational" psychodynamically oriented therapist trained in psychoanalysis. I draw from CBT and solution based therapies, Seeing individuals & couples from all walks of life and wide ranging professions, with empathy and helpful directness, I emphasize finding and expressing your voice and discovering what's been getting in your way. With your input, I try to create a safe approach suited to your needs and goals. I give feedback, encourage curiosity and welcome the same from you.
(917) 633-8124 View (917) 633-8124
Photo of Kailey Bousquet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Kailey Bousquet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Now Accepting New Patients Via Telehealth! Hi there, I’m Kailey—a warm, easygoing therapist specializing in helping individuals navigate life transitions, address interpersonal dynamics, manage anxiety, improve body image, boost self-esteem, and address women’s issues, utilizing an integrative, humanistic approach. My goal is to create an environment where you can show up exactly as you are—no masks, no judgment, just real, honest conversation. I know life can feel overwhelming at times, but I truly believe that with the right support, each of us can grow, heal, and move forward in a way that feels authentic and meaningful.
Now Accepting New Patients Via Telehealth! Hi there, I’m Kailey—a warm, easygoing therapist specializing in helping individuals navigate life transitions, address interpersonal dynamics, manage anxiety, improve body image, boost self-esteem, and address women’s issues, utilizing an integrative, humanistic approach. My goal is to create an environment where you can show up exactly as you are—no masks, no judgment, just real, honest conversation. I know life can feel overwhelming at times, but I truly believe that with the right support, each of us can grow, heal, and move forward in a way that feels authentic and meaningful.
(508) 401-8858 View (508) 401-8858
Photo of Jasen L Boyle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Jasen L Boyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
West Cambridge, Cambridge, MA 02138
*** Now offering virtual sessions to new patients*** Do you have concerns about your substance use? Are you worried about a loved one with an addiction problem? Are you in recovery & looking to make changes in your life? Are you looking to make changes regarding your relationship with substances? Many of my clients are parents, siblings, spouses or concerned significant others (friends, coworkers, etc) with a primary concern about someone else's well-being. Other clients I see are looking for a therapist who will meet them where they are in trying to change their substance use or assist them in their individual recovery process.
*** Now offering virtual sessions to new patients*** Do you have concerns about your substance use? Are you worried about a loved one with an addiction problem? Are you in recovery & looking to make changes in your life? Are you looking to make changes regarding your relationship with substances? Many of my clients are parents, siblings, spouses or concerned significant others (friends, coworkers, etc) with a primary concern about someone else's well-being. Other clients I see are looking for a therapist who will meet them where they are in trying to change their substance use or assist them in their individual recovery process.
(617) 396-7334 View (617) 396-7334
Photo of Deborah Cohen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Deborah Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Online Only
I believe there are many ways to bring about change, and work collaboratively with clients to identify the ways that will work best for them. My approach to therapy is integrative, incorporating relational, psychodynamic and strengths-based perspectives, as well as cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness-based interventions. I am committed to understanding clients within their cultural contexts, and pay close attention to the impact of ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation and, when relevant, religion on development and identity.
I believe there are many ways to bring about change, and work collaboratively with clients to identify the ways that will work best for them. My approach to therapy is integrative, incorporating relational, psychodynamic and strengths-based perspectives, as well as cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness-based interventions. I am committed to understanding clients within their cultural contexts, and pay close attention to the impact of ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation and, when relevant, religion on development and identity.
(617) 468-3583 View (617) 468-3583
Photo of Katy Aisenberg, Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
Katy Aisenberg
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
West Cambridge, Cambridge, MA 02138
Often we feel that happiness is just out of reach. We need to perfect something, someone, or ourselves to become happy. In a safe and confidential therapeutic setting, you can examine the problems which challenge you. Core beliefs about yourself and your relationships can change. As an experienced psychologist I help clients to act mindfully rather than react to life with self-blame, anger, or sadness. Learning how to find calm within yourself can take the place of the constant quest for external perfection.
Often we feel that happiness is just out of reach. We need to perfect something, someone, or ourselves to become happy. In a safe and confidential therapeutic setting, you can examine the problems which challenge you. Core beliefs about yourself and your relationships can change. As an experienced psychologist I help clients to act mindfully rather than react to life with self-blame, anger, or sadness. Learning how to find calm within yourself can take the place of the constant quest for external perfection.
(617) 433-7952 View (617) 433-7952
Photo of Yedjhana Labady, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Yedjhana Labady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
West Cambridge, Cambridge, MA 02138
I have worked in different settings within the community, working with all ages and diagnoses such as depression, anxiety, Autism, PTSD, mood disorders, and ADHD. I have experience with doing individual work as well as family therapeutic work. I believe in collaboratively working with my clients and establishing a strong therapeutic alliance. My goal is to support my clients through their journeys. If you are looking to learn more about yourself and how to better navigate through current and past issues, I am here to help.
I have worked in different settings within the community, working with all ages and diagnoses such as depression, anxiety, Autism, PTSD, mood disorders, and ADHD. I have experience with doing individual work as well as family therapeutic work. I believe in collaboratively working with my clients and establishing a strong therapeutic alliance. My goal is to support my clients through their journeys. If you are looking to learn more about yourself and how to better navigate through current and past issues, I am here to help.
(508) 252-0372 View (508) 252-0372
Photo of Chanelle Dow, Counselor, LMHC
Chanelle Dow
Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
I provide culturally informed and identity-affirming therapy. The integrative treatment I provide is influenced by relational, attachment-based, and psychodynamic modalities. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity concerns, trauma, and stress related to work and relationships. We'll address your current symptoms, as well as explore the underlying roots of these symptoms to establish long-term benefits.
I provide culturally informed and identity-affirming therapy. The integrative treatment I provide is influenced by relational, attachment-based, and psychodynamic modalities. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity concerns, trauma, and stress related to work and relationships. We'll address your current symptoms, as well as explore the underlying roots of these symptoms to establish long-term benefits.
(508) 433-3795 View (508) 433-3795
Photo of Julia Perriello, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Julia Perriello
Counselor, MA, LMHC
West Cambridge, Cambridge, MA 02138
You might feel stuck when challenges arise and there isn’t a clear path ahead. Therapy can help you figure out where you want to go, navigate through struggles, and take steps forward. I work with adults experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and those facing difficult decisions and transitions. My aim is to support you in developing compassion and flexibility in the way you relate to yourself, others, and difficult situations. My approach is collaborative, warm, and non judgmental.
You might feel stuck when challenges arise and there isn’t a clear path ahead. Therapy can help you figure out where you want to go, navigate through struggles, and take steps forward. I work with adults experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and those facing difficult decisions and transitions. My aim is to support you in developing compassion and flexibility in the way you relate to yourself, others, and difficult situations. My approach is collaborative, warm, and non judgmental.
(508) 403-9163 View (508) 403-9163
Photo of Ester Hernandez, Counselor, LMHC
Ester Hernandez
Counselor, LMHC
West Cambridge, Cambridge, MA 02138
My ideal client is someone who struggles with depression, anxiety, grief, lack of confidence, stress, and feeling overwhelmed. If you want to learn coping strategies, identify triggers, learn about symptoms, and find your inner strength, then consider partnering up with me to improve your mental health.
My ideal client is someone who struggles with depression, anxiety, grief, lack of confidence, stress, and feeling overwhelmed. If you want to learn coping strategies, identify triggers, learn about symptoms, and find your inner strength, then consider partnering up with me to improve your mental health.
(508) 546-9255 View (508) 546-9255
Photo of Erin Drum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Erin Drum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My mission is to empower, support, and help navigate an individual’s life transitions, through an unbiased, trustworthy, gentle lens. I provide the highest quality of behavioral and evidence-based therapeutic practices while incorporating a wholesome, humanistic approach that ultimately creates a strong and healthy sense of self in my clients. Focus is an incredibly powerful tool that grows exponentially. I will help you transition your focus rooted in fear and distress to one of safety, strength, and empowerment, with the ultimate goal of alleviating psychological and emotional distress.
My mission is to empower, support, and help navigate an individual’s life transitions, through an unbiased, trustworthy, gentle lens. I provide the highest quality of behavioral and evidence-based therapeutic practices while incorporating a wholesome, humanistic approach that ultimately creates a strong and healthy sense of self in my clients. Focus is an incredibly powerful tool that grows exponentially. I will help you transition your focus rooted in fear and distress to one of safety, strength, and empowerment, with the ultimate goal of alleviating psychological and emotional distress.
(203) 693-8204 View (203) 693-8204
Photo of Aishwarya Chitoor Subash, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Aishwarya Chitoor Subash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
West Cambridge, Cambridge, MA 02138
My approach to psychotherapy is rooted in psychodynamic and relational theory, cultural awareness, cognitive behavioral techniques, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) and neurobehavioral therapeutic approaches. I am dedicated to meeting my clients where they are at and adapting treatment to meet their needs. My therapeutic style is compassionate, relaxed, and empowering. I am currently a postgraduate Social Work Fellow and have worked in a variety of clinical settings, ranging from hospital settings supporting individuals' socio-emotional needs to educational settings supporting individuals' learning needs.
My approach to psychotherapy is rooted in psychodynamic and relational theory, cultural awareness, cognitive behavioral techniques, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) and neurobehavioral therapeutic approaches. I am dedicated to meeting my clients where they are at and adapting treatment to meet their needs. My therapeutic style is compassionate, relaxed, and empowering. I am currently a postgraduate Social Work Fellow and have worked in a variety of clinical settings, ranging from hospital settings supporting individuals' socio-emotional needs to educational settings supporting individuals' learning needs.
(508) 456-9292 View (508) 456-9292
Photo of Eve Mugar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Eve Mugar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Online Only
Mindfulness-based, IFS-informed, EMDR for trauma/CPTSD, anxiety, chronic pain, and more. Gottman and Mindfulness for couples. On a daily basis many of us feel overwhelmed, stressed, fearful of what the future holds and weighed down by the past. I am here to guide you in a process of uncovering the inner resources that will allow you to ride the waves of life with confidence, ease and flexibility. The journey begins with a willingness to look inside and compassionately witness the stories that have shaped you.
Mindfulness-based, IFS-informed, EMDR for trauma/CPTSD, anxiety, chronic pain, and more. Gottman and Mindfulness for couples. On a daily basis many of us feel overwhelmed, stressed, fearful of what the future holds and weighed down by the past. I am here to guide you in a process of uncovering the inner resources that will allow you to ride the waves of life with confidence, ease and flexibility. The journey begins with a willingness to look inside and compassionately witness the stories that have shaped you.
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in West Cambridge, Cambridge, MA

700+

Average cost per session

$180

Therapists in West Cambridge, Cambridge, MA who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
89% Depression
84% Relationship Issues
77% Self Esteem
74% Trauma and PTSD
71% Stress
69% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% BlueCross and BlueShield
59% Aetna
49% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in West Cambridge, Cambridge, MA see their clients

53% In Person and Online
47% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
20% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in West Cambridge, Cambridge?

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.