Therapists in Hatfield, MA

Photo of Jen Malcolm-Brown, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jen Malcolm-Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hatfield, MA 01038
I'm here to support people who are having difficulty in their parenting role. We can trust you are a good parent and you love your children but something doesn't feel right. Whether you find yourself yelling a lot, worrying and feeling overwhelmed, or just not feeling satisfied as a parent, I’m here to help you untangle the knots of your current circumstances along with the impacts of your own childhood experiences and long-held beliefs that are getting in the way. Let's work together to explore what you want from life and relationships to feel more hopeful, supported and connected.
I'm here to support people who are having difficulty in their parenting role. We can trust you are a good parent and you love your children but something doesn't feel right. Whether you find yourself yelling a lot, worrying and feeling overwhelmed, or just not feeling satisfied as a parent, I’m here to help you untangle the knots of your current circumstances along with the impacts of your own childhood experiences and long-held beliefs that are getting in the way. Let's work together to explore what you want from life and relationships to feel more hopeful, supported and connected.
(413) 269-5271 View (413) 269-5271
Photo of Joan Berzoff, EdD, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joan Berzoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Hatfield, MA 01038
I have been in practice for almost fifty years. I am the author of six books, forty articles, and am a professor emerita at the Smith College School for Social Work where I co- directed the doctoral program, and directed the theory sequence in the Masters Program for over twenty years. I provide psychodynamicaly oriented relational and insight oriented work with a range of adults who come from many racial, ethnic and cultural backgrounds and who have difficulties including anxiety, depression, gender issues, gay lesbian issues, trauma, racial trauma, relationship difficulties and problems in work or retirement.
I have been in practice for almost fifty years. I am the author of six books, forty articles, and am a professor emerita at the Smith College School for Social Work where I co- directed the doctoral program, and directed the theory sequence in the Masters Program for over twenty years. I provide psychodynamicaly oriented relational and insight oriented work with a range of adults who come from many racial, ethnic and cultural backgrounds and who have difficulties including anxiety, depression, gender issues, gay lesbian issues, trauma, racial trauma, relationship difficulties and problems in work or retirement.
(413) 485-7428 View (413) 485-7428
Photo of Ira Band, MS, CAGS, LMHC, Counselor
Ira Band
Counselor, MS, CAGS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hatfield, MA 01038
Waitlist for new clients
I have enjoyed working as a therapist for over 30 years in private, medical, agency, and public school settings. My approach is collaborative and goal focused, including active coaching and monitoring of progress toward desired treatment outcomes. Should you be finding yourself in a place of readiness to access or maintain healthier patterns of emotional responding and related behaviors toward your desired outcomes I welcome you to contact me. My practice is active and often full. While my waiting list will vary in length, I do my best to meet the majority of my clients requests in as time efficient manner as possible.
I have enjoyed working as a therapist for over 30 years in private, medical, agency, and public school settings. My approach is collaborative and goal focused, including active coaching and monitoring of progress toward desired treatment outcomes. Should you be finding yourself in a place of readiness to access or maintain healthier patterns of emotional responding and related behaviors toward your desired outcomes I welcome you to contact me. My practice is active and often full. While my waiting list will vary in length, I do my best to meet the majority of my clients requests in as time efficient manner as possible.
(413) 296-1916 View (413) 296-1916

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Misha Mehrel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Misha Mehrel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035
Misha Mehrel is a psychotherapist with an MSW from Smith College and a BFA from New York University. He combines academic rigor with real-world experience from working at Therapeutic Health Services, a community health center in Seattle, WA, and then for three years at the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, in Greenfield, MA, where he ran a variety of therapy groups along with individual therapy for men and women in and out of jail.
Misha Mehrel is a psychotherapist with an MSW from Smith College and a BFA from New York University. He combines academic rigor with real-world experience from working at Therapeutic Health Services, a community health center in Seattle, WA, and then for three years at the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, in Greenfield, MA, where he ran a variety of therapy groups along with individual therapy for men and women in and out of jail.
(413) 423-1192 View (413) 423-1192
Photo of Sarah Gillio, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Gillio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035
Not accepting new clients
I am here to help you embrace your authenticity and find liberation from stories, patterns, habits and ways of being that don’t fit who you want to be. I believe that there is always a good reason that certain ways of relating first developed AND those patterns can have costs that can be painful. My work balances providing education and strategies, with noticing and practicing different ways of relating to yourself, your feelings and others. I particularly enjoy working with parents, pregnant people, young adults, and people in helping professions.
I am here to help you embrace your authenticity and find liberation from stories, patterns, habits and ways of being that don’t fit who you want to be. I believe that there is always a good reason that certain ways of relating first developed AND those patterns can have costs that can be painful. My work balances providing education and strategies, with noticing and practicing different ways of relating to yourself, your feelings and others. I particularly enjoy working with parents, pregnant people, young adults, and people in helping professions.
(413) 414-5771 View (413) 414-5771
Photo of Mateusz Marcinowski, LMHC, Counselor
Mateusz Marcinowski
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035
Mateusz believes that any successful therapy outcome requires a safe, trusting and positive therapeutic relationship between the therapist and the client; it is the goal and desire of Mateusz to provide his client(s) a safe & comfortable space to explore their inner world through Internal Family Systems; one of Mateusz’ goals in a therapy session is to allow the client to experience both internal and external safety. Mateusz approach to Psychotherapy is grounded in a person-centered approach.
Mateusz believes that any successful therapy outcome requires a safe, trusting and positive therapeutic relationship between the therapist and the client; it is the goal and desire of Mateusz to provide his client(s) a safe & comfortable space to explore their inner world through Internal Family Systems; one of Mateusz’ goals in a therapy session is to allow the client to experience both internal and external safety. Mateusz approach to Psychotherapy is grounded in a person-centered approach.
(413) 675-5973 View (413) 675-5973
Photo of Bren Palla, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bren Palla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060  (Online Only)
We can all become stuck, overwhelmed, hopeless, or just feel we’re not living our best lives for many different reasons. Additionally, the current unrest in society around us can shake a sense of security or predictability we may have held about what our futures hold. These may cause disruptions in sleep and appetite and encourage negative thoughts and moods to grow and persist. Whatever your struggles, I ensure professional care that is collaborative, respectful, and that has your best interests at heart.
We can all become stuck, overwhelmed, hopeless, or just feel we’re not living our best lives for many different reasons. Additionally, the current unrest in society around us can shake a sense of security or predictability we may have held about what our futures hold. These may cause disruptions in sleep and appetite and encourage negative thoughts and moods to grow and persist. Whatever your struggles, I ensure professional care that is collaborative, respectful, and that has your best interests at heart.
(413) 207-9135 View (413) 207-9135
Photo of Marie Westburg, MA, ATR, Art Therapist
Marie Westburg
Art Therapist, MA, ATR
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035
Hi I'm Marie, I am an art therapist and owner of ArtStar: Creative Arts Lounge. I work with women and teen girls who feel overwhelmed by their thoughts and emotions, struggle with self-doubt, depression, anxiety or are managing a major life transition. I help women become more present and connected, get free of harsh self-judgment and shame so they can learn to trust their intuition, connect to their authentic self and ​begin to experience a more joyful and meaningful life.
Hi I'm Marie, I am an art therapist and owner of ArtStar: Creative Arts Lounge. I work with women and teen girls who feel overwhelmed by their thoughts and emotions, struggle with self-doubt, depression, anxiety or are managing a major life transition. I help women become more present and connected, get free of harsh self-judgment and shame so they can learn to trust their intuition, connect to their authentic self and ​begin to experience a more joyful and meaningful life.
(413) 553-1242 View (413) 553-1242
Photo of David Levit, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
David Levit
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035
I am a clinical psychologist in practice in Amherst since 1989. I work with a wide range of people, from college aged through older adults, and with a wide range of problems and issues including: negative or vulnerable self-image, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, losses, and life transitions. I strive to provide a warm, safe, collaborative, open atmosphere in which to help people find relief from suffering and enhanced vital engagement in living. I believe that pathways to growth and healing often involve increasing awareness of underlying self-defeating patterns in the ways people experience and live their lives.
I am a clinical psychologist in practice in Amherst since 1989. I work with a wide range of people, from college aged through older adults, and with a wide range of problems and issues including: negative or vulnerable self-image, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, losses, and life transitions. I strive to provide a warm, safe, collaborative, open atmosphere in which to help people find relief from suffering and enhanced vital engagement in living. I believe that pathways to growth and healing often involve increasing awareness of underlying self-defeating patterns in the ways people experience and live their lives.
(413) 248-4536 View (413) 248-4536
Photo of Whole Child And Parent: Family Coaching And Therapy ~Julie B. Rosenshein, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Whole Child And Parent: Family Coaching And Therapy ~Julie B. Rosenshein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035
I have been working with parents, children and families for over 25 years. I specialize in elementary school age children. My book: “Parenting the Highly Sensitive Child” has been a resource for many parents. I offer tools and strategies for children struggling with emotional regulation, anger issues, ADHD, anxiety, oppositional defiant/challenging behaviors, learning difficulties and social skills. I help families regain a sense of balance by helping to resolve conflict and enhance communication....bringing enjoyment to your family once again.
I have been working with parents, children and families for over 25 years. I specialize in elementary school age children. My book: “Parenting the Highly Sensitive Child” has been a resource for many parents. I offer tools and strategies for children struggling with emotional regulation, anger issues, ADHD, anxiety, oppositional defiant/challenging behaviors, learning difficulties and social skills. I help families regain a sense of balance by helping to resolve conflict and enhance communication....bringing enjoyment to your family once again.
(413) 307-3651 View (413) 307-3651
Photo of Ruth Levy, MA, MSW, LICSW, EAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruth Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW, EAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hadley, MA 01035  (Online Only)
Change is a natural part of life which can be both exciting and anxiety provoking. If you'd like to build your capacity for meeting the challenge of transitions, or are seeking new ways of responding to old patterns, let's actively work together to create fresh approaches to building the life you want to be living. I am easy to talk to, and bring a warm and open presence approaching therapy as a conversation. I listen closely and aim to ask questions that help you to grow your own innate wisdom and inspire new ideas and solutions.
Change is a natural part of life which can be both exciting and anxiety provoking. If you'd like to build your capacity for meeting the challenge of transitions, or are seeking new ways of responding to old patterns, let's actively work together to create fresh approaches to building the life you want to be living. I am easy to talk to, and bring a warm and open presence approaching therapy as a conversation. I listen closely and aim to ask questions that help you to grow your own innate wisdom and inspire new ideas and solutions.
(617) 936-7077 View (617) 936-7077
Photo of Randall Braun - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Amherst, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Amherst
Counselor
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of Debra Lucey-Maynard, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Lucey-Maynard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035  (Online Only)
I am honored to support individuals/families that have struggles that they are motivated to overcome. It is normal for us all to struggle from time to time. Many of us have endured trauma in the past and it can be a challenge to feel peace and/or joy again. Trauma focused therapy can provide a safe outlet for you to explore your concerns and learn or strengthen coping skills as you continue to find healing. I believe that everyone has struggles in their lives. Many of us are touched by trauma and work hard to get through necessary activities during our day to day life. I feel we can all change and grow at any point in our life.
I am honored to support individuals/families that have struggles that they are motivated to overcome. It is normal for us all to struggle from time to time. Many of us have endured trauma in the past and it can be a challenge to feel peace and/or joy again. Trauma focused therapy can provide a safe outlet for you to explore your concerns and learn or strengthen coping skills as you continue to find healing. I believe that everyone has struggles in their lives. Many of us are touched by trauma and work hard to get through necessary activities during our day to day life. I feel we can all change and grow at any point in our life.
(978) 341-3859 View (978) 341-3859
Photo of Jaime Devins, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaime Devins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035  (Online Only)
I now reside and practice in CT, and am working on accepting CT clients. I'm excited to partner with you as you take the brave step in seeking help. Many struggle with isolation, depression, anxiety, attention, identity, change of life, toxic stress, grief, trauma, relationships, or work. Do you feel alone and overwhelmed in these issues? I offer a compassionate space in which to help you take a look at these issues in an empowering, strengths-based way. I specialize in using creativity, art, mind-body strategies, and self-empowerment in relationships. We will take an in-depth look at your concerns in a holistic way.
I now reside and practice in CT, and am working on accepting CT clients. I'm excited to partner with you as you take the brave step in seeking help. Many struggle with isolation, depression, anxiety, attention, identity, change of life, toxic stress, grief, trauma, relationships, or work. Do you feel alone and overwhelmed in these issues? I offer a compassionate space in which to help you take a look at these issues in an empowering, strengths-based way. I specialize in using creativity, art, mind-body strategies, and self-empowerment in relationships. We will take an in-depth look at your concerns in a holistic way.
(207) 203-9293 View (207) 203-9293
Photo of Montana McKim, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Montana McKim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035  (Online Only)
Are your worries keeping you up at night? Do you think about something over and over and imagine the worst might happen? Do you feel so overwhelmed that you can’t get anything done? Does everything, including eating and sleeping, feel hard? It is okay to need help and I want to help you get unstuck.
Are your worries keeping you up at night? Do you think about something over and over and imagine the worst might happen? Do you feel so overwhelmed that you can’t get anything done? Does everything, including eating and sleeping, feel hard? It is okay to need help and I want to help you get unstuck.
View
Photo of Laura Morrissette, LMHC, Counselor
Laura Morrissette
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035
I offer empathic listening and mind-body approaches to support adults of diverse backgrounds with a wide range of issues including but not limited to: stress, life transitions, anxiety, trauma, stuck emotions, coping with partner/family substance abuse and cross cultural issues. I am an engaged listener with a focus on self-empowerment. I provide a nurturing and supportive environment to facilitate authentic self-expression. I believe in the innate ability of each individual to heal and realize unlimited potential. It is an honor for me to witness this journey.
I offer empathic listening and mind-body approaches to support adults of diverse backgrounds with a wide range of issues including but not limited to: stress, life transitions, anxiety, trauma, stuck emotions, coping with partner/family substance abuse and cross cultural issues. I am an engaged listener with a focus on self-empowerment. I provide a nurturing and supportive environment to facilitate authentic self-expression. I believe in the innate ability of each individual to heal and realize unlimited potential. It is an honor for me to witness this journey.
(781) 417-5054 View (781) 417-5054
Photo of Anne Curtis, MSW, LICSW, CPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Curtis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CPT
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035
Do you want to make changes in your life but feel too stuck to see a way forward? Do you have a complicated relationship with your body? You’re not alone and making change is possible.
Do you want to make changes in your life but feel too stuck to see a way forward? Do you have a complicated relationship with your body? You’re not alone and making change is possible.
(413) 359-6829 View (413) 359-6829
Photo of Emmanuel Nyongani, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emmanuel Nyongani
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035
Emmanuel is a psychotherapist dedicated to fostering resilience in his clients and promoting their mental well-being. With specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), he is equipped to support clients facing a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges. His approach combines the practical skills-building aspect of DBT with the goal-oriented, hopeful perspective of SFBT, helping clients not only to manage symptoms but also to envision and work toward a better future.
Emmanuel is a psychotherapist dedicated to fostering resilience in his clients and promoting their mental well-being. With specialized training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), he is equipped to support clients facing a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges. His approach combines the practical skills-building aspect of DBT with the goal-oriented, hopeful perspective of SFBT, helping clients not only to manage symptoms but also to envision and work toward a better future.
(413) 324-5413 View (413) 324-5413
Photo of Emily Mentin-Chamble, MSW, LICSW, CIHMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Mentin-Chamble
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CIHMHP
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035  (Online Only)
I am eager to work with clients seeking insight and change in their lives. I strive to create a trusting relationship that fosters emotional and spiritual growth while examining the issues that are preventing you from living up to your full potential. I work from an anti-oppression lens, prioritizing psychospiritual holistic health and wellness, utilizing my years of clinical training and experience in treating individuals and communities deeply impacted by trauma, grief/loss and illness. I offer EMDR treatment in addition to psychodynamic psychotherapy to support healing and lasting transformative change.
I am eager to work with clients seeking insight and change in their lives. I strive to create a trusting relationship that fosters emotional and spiritual growth while examining the issues that are preventing you from living up to your full potential. I work from an anti-oppression lens, prioritizing psychospiritual holistic health and wellness, utilizing my years of clinical training and experience in treating individuals and communities deeply impacted by trauma, grief/loss and illness. I offer EMDR treatment in addition to psychodynamic psychotherapy to support healing and lasting transformative change.
(413) 676-1073 View (413) 676-1073
Photo of Felicia Sevene, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Felicia Sevene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035
We all need help and support sometimes. Many of us have been taught that asking for help is a sign of weakness. We may have tried reaching out for help and were ignored, shamed, or hurt by those we trusted, leading us to create protections, to shut down, or to engage in unworkable coping strategies that keep us stuck and hurting. Sometimes it can feel overwhelming just trying to untangle and make sense of it all. The truth is, asking for help is brave and takes courage. You don't have to do it alone!
We all need help and support sometimes. Many of us have been taught that asking for help is a sign of weakness. We may have tried reaching out for help and were ignored, shamed, or hurt by those we trusted, leading us to create protections, to shut down, or to engage in unworkable coping strategies that keep us stuck and hurting. Sometimes it can feel overwhelming just trying to untangle and make sense of it all. The truth is, asking for help is brave and takes courage. You don't have to do it alone!
(413) 278-6792 View (413) 278-6792

See more therapy options for Hatfield

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Hatfield, MA

< 10

Therapists in Hatfield, MA who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Anxiety
100% Parenting
100% School Issues
100% Family Conflict
100% Peer Relationships
67% Depression

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
67% Other

How Therapists in Hatfield, MA see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Hatfield?

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.