Therapists in Swansea, MA

Photo of Michael D. Carter, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Michael D. Carter
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
If we honestly search within ourselves, we will find the answers and the paths that can lead to a happier, more fulfilling life. I am compassionate and empathic, utilizing a holistic approach with a strong emphasis on nature, humor, and spirituality, to empower people to accept themselves for who they are, to love themselves more fully, and to create successful strategies to enhance as well as sustain more meaning in their lives.
If we honestly search within ourselves, we will find the answers and the paths that can lead to a happier, more fulfilling life. I am compassionate and empathic, utilizing a holistic approach with a strong emphasis on nature, humor, and spirituality, to empower people to accept themselves for who they are, to love themselves more fully, and to create successful strategies to enhance as well as sustain more meaning in their lives.
(508) 213-8177 View (508) 213-8177
Photo of Dawn DePasquale, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Dawn DePasquale
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Swansea, MA 02777
Waitlist for new clients
As an eclectic therapist, I employ many tools when working with you. With adults, I primarily rely on cognitive behavioral techniques. This is an approach that aims to influence dysfunctional emotions, behaviors and thoughts through a goal-oriented, systematic procedure. It is proven to be quite effective with mood, anxiety, personality, eating, substance abuse, and psychotic disorders. With children, I rely on a variety of play therapy and behavioral therapy techniques. Your treatment will be influenced by your own needs and symptoms to help you meet to your goals. You deserve to love the life you live!
As an eclectic therapist, I employ many tools when working with you. With adults, I primarily rely on cognitive behavioral techniques. This is an approach that aims to influence dysfunctional emotions, behaviors and thoughts through a goal-oriented, systematic procedure. It is proven to be quite effective with mood, anxiety, personality, eating, substance abuse, and psychotic disorders. With children, I rely on a variety of play therapy and behavioral therapy techniques. Your treatment will be influenced by your own needs and symptoms to help you meet to your goals. You deserve to love the life you live!
(508) 506-8850 View (508) 506-8850
Photo of Evan Colbert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Evan Colbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swansea, MA 02777
Not accepting new clients
**I am not currently accepting new clients at this time** - I have 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families who have experienced complex trauma. I use a variety of interventions for helping people process their emotions including EMDR, hypnotherapy, art/ expressive therapies along with traditional cognitive behavioral therapy. I also specialize in working with the LGBT population and have supported transgender clients in meeting the current standards of care for GRS. I use a person centered, strengths based approach and will work closely with you on identifying what you want to get out of therapy.
**I am not currently accepting new clients at this time** - I have 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families who have experienced complex trauma. I use a variety of interventions for helping people process their emotions including EMDR, hypnotherapy, art/ expressive therapies along with traditional cognitive behavioral therapy. I also specialize in working with the LGBT population and have supported transgender clients in meeting the current standards of care for GRS. I use a person centered, strengths based approach and will work closely with you on identifying what you want to get out of therapy.
(774) 322-2936 View (774) 322-2936
Photo of Bonita G Cade, Psychologist, PhD
Bonita G Cade
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you remember thinking that life would get so much better when you became an adult? Adulthood was going to be awesome, perfect, and pretty much carefree. You would be in “control”. Do you remember thinking that you would be happier if you were more like everybody else and could just “fit in”? Do you remember thinking that when you “found the person meant for you”, you would be able to relax, and just enjoy the relationship? If you are like many people, frankly, things are not like you expected them to be at all! You are not sure where things went wrong. You just want to feel better, do better, and be in more control.
Do you remember thinking that life would get so much better when you became an adult? Adulthood was going to be awesome, perfect, and pretty much carefree. You would be in “control”. Do you remember thinking that you would be happier if you were more like everybody else and could just “fit in”? Do you remember thinking that when you “found the person meant for you”, you would be able to relax, and just enjoy the relationship? If you are like many people, frankly, things are not like you expected them to be at all! You are not sure where things went wrong. You just want to feel better, do better, and be in more control.
(508) 859-7756 View (508) 859-7756
Photo of Elena Norman, Counselor, LMHC
Elena Norman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m Elena, a licensed mental health clinician dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and achieve personal growth. With a compassionate, client-centered approach, I integrate a variety of evidence-based therapeutic techniques, to guide clients in building healthier thought patterns, stronger relationships, and greater emotional resilience. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, stress, relationship issues, or personal development goals, my goal is to work collaboratively with you to create meaningful lasting change.
I’m Elena, a licensed mental health clinician dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and achieve personal growth. With a compassionate, client-centered approach, I integrate a variety of evidence-based therapeutic techniques, to guide clients in building healthier thought patterns, stronger relationships, and greater emotional resilience. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, stress, relationship issues, or personal development goals, my goal is to work collaboratively with you to create meaningful lasting change.
(508) 905-6398 View (508) 905-6398
Photo of James DeBlois, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
James DeBlois
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Swansea, MA 02777
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker specializing in helping adults pursue their potential despite their experiences with trauma, anxiety, health issues, depression, life adjustments and substance use. By exploring our reactions to life's challenges, we can begin to understand how our thoughts, feelings and behaviors are interconnected. This is the key to understanding how to make meaningful adjustments in our lives and alleviate the consequences of behaviors we wish to change.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker specializing in helping adults pursue their potential despite their experiences with trauma, anxiety, health issues, depression, life adjustments and substance use. By exploring our reactions to life's challenges, we can begin to understand how our thoughts, feelings and behaviors are interconnected. This is the key to understanding how to make meaningful adjustments in our lives and alleviate the consequences of behaviors we wish to change.
(508) 978-5294 View (508) 978-5294
Photo of Karen Oliveira, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Karen Oliveira
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! I believe our problems are related to both environmental and/or internal factors, however we don't need to be the victim of our current or life's circumstances. Our healing resides within each one of us, and all we may need is guidance to help us reach clarity to claim our true power within. The author and M.D., Scott Peck states at the start of his book, The Road Less Traveled, “Life is difficult.” When we experience those difficulties, therapy gives us an outlet to sift through those painful emotions of confusion, fear, sadness, and even hopelessness, but most importantly therapy can help give us a new outlook on life.
Welcome! I believe our problems are related to both environmental and/or internal factors, however we don't need to be the victim of our current or life's circumstances. Our healing resides within each one of us, and all we may need is guidance to help us reach clarity to claim our true power within. The author and M.D., Scott Peck states at the start of his book, The Road Less Traveled, “Life is difficult.” When we experience those difficulties, therapy gives us an outlet to sift through those painful emotions of confusion, fear, sadness, and even hopelessness, but most importantly therapy can help give us a new outlook on life.
(508) 978-1913 View (508) 978-1913
Photo of W. Brooks Saul, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
W. Brooks Saul
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Swansea, MA 02777
At times, we all experience difficult-to-feel feelings: anxiety, depression, stress, overwhelm, grief, anger, shame, alone, not good enough/an imposter, unloved, “stuck," and others. If you're here, it might be time to give attention and care to what hurts -as you would to treat any physical injury. Therapy helps us get better at having feelings; grow beyond problems; access inner wisdom; improve our inner and outer relationships; make meaning of struggle; and discover who we are.
At times, we all experience difficult-to-feel feelings: anxiety, depression, stress, overwhelm, grief, anger, shame, alone, not good enough/an imposter, unloved, “stuck," and others. If you're here, it might be time to give attention and care to what hurts -as you would to treat any physical injury. Therapy helps us get better at having feelings; grow beyond problems; access inner wisdom; improve our inner and outer relationships; make meaning of struggle; and discover who we are.
(508) 643-8036 View (508) 643-8036
Photo of Mekenzie Berry, Counselor, LMHC
Mekenzie Berry
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Swansea, MA 02777
I believe that my clients know themselves better than I ever will. My therapeutic style focuses on empowerment through support and healing through life’s most difficult challenges. I communicate that the client decides the direction and pace that their experience of therapy will go. I share a non-judgmental environment in which you can be yourself while getting assistance organizing the weight of what you carry. I recognize the importance of wanting to feel in control again.
I believe that my clients know themselves better than I ever will. My therapeutic style focuses on empowerment through support and healing through life’s most difficult challenges. I communicate that the client decides the direction and pace that their experience of therapy will go. I share a non-judgmental environment in which you can be yourself while getting assistance organizing the weight of what you carry. I recognize the importance of wanting to feel in control again.
(508) 882-6871 View (508) 882-6871
Photo of Jennifer Ryall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Jennifer Ryall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Swansea, MA 02777
Asking for help is not always an easy task. Congratulations on taking this first step towards getting some extra help and support. I work with many individuals, such as yourself, who are looking to make positive changes in their lives. As we all know, making change is not easy, especially if obstacles stand in our way, like relationship issues, work conflicts, depression, anxiety, or any of the other daily life stressors. Using a solution-focused approach and concepts from positive psychology, I will collaborate with you in this process towards creating change in your life.
Asking for help is not always an easy task. Congratulations on taking this first step towards getting some extra help and support. I work with many individuals, such as yourself, who are looking to make positive changes in their lives. As we all know, making change is not easy, especially if obstacles stand in our way, like relationship issues, work conflicts, depression, anxiety, or any of the other daily life stressors. Using a solution-focused approach and concepts from positive psychology, I will collaborate with you in this process towards creating change in your life.
(508) 552-9842 View (508) 552-9842
Photo of Taylor Barboza, MA, BCBA, LABA
Taylor Barboza
MA, BCBA, LABA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swansea, MA 02777
I work with neurodivergent kids & young adults to help them uncover their unique strengths, build emotional regulation skills, and gain confidence. Whether they’re working on managing routines, executive functioning, independent life skills, or finding meaningful ways to connect with others, I support them in creating a life that feels authentic and empowering. Our work might include painting, crafting, outdoor walk-and-talks, or structured sessions focused on real-life skills and goals. Together, we build the emotional and practical tools to feel more confident, at ease in relationships, and engaged in the community.
I work with neurodivergent kids & young adults to help them uncover their unique strengths, build emotional regulation skills, and gain confidence. Whether they’re working on managing routines, executive functioning, independent life skills, or finding meaningful ways to connect with others, I support them in creating a life that feels authentic and empowering. Our work might include painting, crafting, outdoor walk-and-talks, or structured sessions focused on real-life skills and goals. Together, we build the emotional and practical tools to feel more confident, at ease in relationships, and engaged in the community.
(774) 804-8679 View (774) 804-8679
Photo of Julie Charisse Sanders - JCSanders Counseling and Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
JCSanders Counseling and Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Swansea, MA 02777
Are you looking for an experienced therapist/counselor who will give you the tools to help you manage your mental, physical, and spiritual health? I am a clinical social worker, with over 25 years of experience, who has learned to manage my own Type I Diabetes and other chronic health issues using skills learned from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), among other healing practices. Please go to my website at www.juliesanders.net to find out more and schedule a 15 minute free consultation to see if we are a good fit.
Are you looking for an experienced therapist/counselor who will give you the tools to help you manage your mental, physical, and spiritual health? I am a clinical social worker, with over 25 years of experience, who has learned to manage my own Type I Diabetes and other chronic health issues using skills learned from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), among other healing practices. Please go to my website at www.juliesanders.net to find out more and schedule a 15 minute free consultation to see if we are a good fit.
(508) 876-2172 View (508) 876-2172
Photo of Alison S Medeiros, Counselor, LMHC, MA
Alison S Medeiros
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Swansea, MA 02777
Realizing you are going through a difficult time and seeking support from a therapist can be nerve-wracking and a little scary... "Am I going to 'click' with my therapist? Will they be able to understand and meet me where I'm at?" My main priority with my clients is to make them truly feel at ease and understood. I prefer to set small achievable goals- ensuring they can be met and remain hopeful about reaching a larger, perhaps intimidating goal. I am rather laid back in style and believe my clients to be experts of their own lives, needing some support in finding answers to solutions and reaching their goals.
Realizing you are going through a difficult time and seeking support from a therapist can be nerve-wracking and a little scary... "Am I going to 'click' with my therapist? Will they be able to understand and meet me where I'm at?" My main priority with my clients is to make them truly feel at ease and understood. I prefer to set small achievable goals- ensuring they can be met and remain hopeful about reaching a larger, perhaps intimidating goal. I am rather laid back in style and believe my clients to be experts of their own lives, needing some support in finding answers to solutions and reaching their goals.
(508) 850-0195 View (508) 850-0195
Photo of Mat Barbosa, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Mat Barbosa
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The decision to come to counseling can be difficult. Taking that leap into the unknown can be scary. I believe an individual decides to come to therapy because they have tried everything they could to improve their situation but have become stuck. The goal in therapy is to assist the client in becoming ‘unstuck’ and taking steps towards a more rich and meaningful life. My "ideal client" is really anyone dissatisfied with how mental health is impacting their lives. I will work with you from a down to earth, non judgmental, solution focused, and accepting stance.
The decision to come to counseling can be difficult. Taking that leap into the unknown can be scary. I believe an individual decides to come to therapy because they have tried everything they could to improve their situation but have become stuck. The goal in therapy is to assist the client in becoming ‘unstuck’ and taking steps towards a more rich and meaningful life. My "ideal client" is really anyone dissatisfied with how mental health is impacting their lives. I will work with you from a down to earth, non judgmental, solution focused, and accepting stance.
(508) 625-9665 View (508) 625-9665
Photo of Rebecca Tanguay - Life's A Journey Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Life's A Journey Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Rebecca is not accepting new clients at this time - Please check out Apryl Scott, our newest clinician at LAJC! Welcome to Life's A Journey Counseling! - My name is Rebecca, and I am an independently licensed clinical social worker. Now that you worked up the confidence to seek treatment, reach out! I am here to help you, but I don't know unless you ask.
Rebecca is not accepting new clients at this time - Please check out Apryl Scott, our newest clinician at LAJC! Welcome to Life's A Journey Counseling! - My name is Rebecca, and I am an independently licensed clinical social worker. Now that you worked up the confidence to seek treatment, reach out! I am here to help you, but I don't know unless you ask.
(401) 356-3201 View (401) 356-3201
Photo of Suzanne Kane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Suzanne Kane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker licensed in Rhode Island and Massachusetts with 7 years of direct psychotherapy experience working with individuals from many backgrounds and ages including first responders. In addition, I have over 12 years experience mentoring youth and families and over 8 years as a life coach for women struggling with health and body issues. I have worked with individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, relationship and intimacy issues, sexual dysfunction, parenting problems, discipline strategies, trauma related issues and borderline personality disorder.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker licensed in Rhode Island and Massachusetts with 7 years of direct psychotherapy experience working with individuals from many backgrounds and ages including first responders. In addition, I have over 12 years experience mentoring youth and families and over 8 years as a life coach for women struggling with health and body issues. I have worked with individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, relationship and intimacy issues, sexual dysfunction, parenting problems, discipline strategies, trauma related issues and borderline personality disorder.
(508) 690-4659 View (508) 690-4659
Photo of Dr. Claire V Wiseman, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Claire V Wiseman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Swansea, MA 02777
Women often find themselves overcommitted, stressed out, and exhausted from the constant grind, with no sense of peace or time to just be. northstarpersonaldevelopment.com Our emotions get out of control and damage both our personal and professional relationships. I offer a unique approach for you to gain control of the chaos of the world, and finally let go. Do something good for yourself, regain your integrity, the respect of others and feel.For women ready to initiate effective change, you are able to calm your emotions, open to insight, and embark on a natural unfolding of self-awareness.
Women often find themselves overcommitted, stressed out, and exhausted from the constant grind, with no sense of peace or time to just be. northstarpersonaldevelopment.com Our emotions get out of control and damage both our personal and professional relationships. I offer a unique approach for you to gain control of the chaos of the world, and finally let go. Do something good for yourself, regain your integrity, the respect of others and feel.For women ready to initiate effective change, you are able to calm your emotions, open to insight, and embark on a natural unfolding of self-awareness.
(401) 371-9526 View (401) 371-9526
Photo of Ashley Moniz - RISE Counseling & Wellness, Ashley Moniz LMHC, Counselor, MS, LMHC
RISE Counseling & Wellness, Ashley Moniz LMHC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swansea, MA 02777
At RISE Counseling & Wellness, we truly believe that everyone could benefit from therapy. We focus on our health in so many ways, it is important to focus on our Mental Health too! We have multiple clinicians with various specialities. I am specifically passionate about my work with women, empowering them through various phases of life and assisting with mood symptoms as well as family dynamics & parenting. Because of my work in child-welfare and adoption, I also specialize in trauma-related struggles in adults & children, as well as behavior management and positive parenting.
At RISE Counseling & Wellness, we truly believe that everyone could benefit from therapy. We focus on our health in so many ways, it is important to focus on our Mental Health too! We have multiple clinicians with various specialities. I am specifically passionate about my work with women, empowering them through various phases of life and assisting with mood symptoms as well as family dynamics & parenting. Because of my work in child-welfare and adoption, I also specialize in trauma-related struggles in adults & children, as well as behavior management and positive parenting.
(401) 537-1233 View (401) 537-1233
Photo of Jennifer Brown, Counselor, LMHC
Jennifer Brown
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I work with adults who feel trapped in cycles of unhealthy thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, or relationship issues and often feel overwhelmed by their past experiences. They need effective tools and a safe space to explore their emotions. Goals include achieving emotional resilience, improving self-awareness, and developing healthier coping strategies. They want to reclaim their lives and foster a sense of balance. With my experience in psychotherapy, personal fitness training, and as a Reiki Master, I address their mind, body, and spirit for holistic healing.
I work with adults who feel trapped in cycles of unhealthy thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, or relationship issues and often feel overwhelmed by their past experiences. They need effective tools and a safe space to explore their emotions. Goals include achieving emotional resilience, improving self-awareness, and developing healthier coping strategies. They want to reclaim their lives and foster a sense of balance. With my experience in psychotherapy, personal fitness training, and as a Reiki Master, I address their mind, body, and spirit for holistic healing.
(508) 290-2494 View (508) 290-2494
Photo of Madeline Lafleur - The Inner You of Massachusetts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
The Inner You of Massachusetts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
The Inner You Counseling Center was founded on the belief that everyone should have easy and timely access to mental health services because we know that asking for help is hard enough. The clinical treatment team provides excellent mental health care for patients throughout the life-span, from young children to elder care.
The Inner You Counseling Center was founded on the belief that everyone should have easy and timely access to mental health services because we know that asking for help is hard enough. The clinical treatment team provides excellent mental health care for patients throughout the life-span, from young children to elder care.
(508) 290-5424 View (508) 290-5424
1

See more therapy options for Swansea

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Swansea, MA

40+

Average cost per session

$145

Therapists in Swansea, MA who prioritize treating:

98% Anxiety
86% Depression
74% Trauma and PTSD
72% Self Esteem
70% Relationship Issues
70% Stress
65% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% BlueCross and BlueShield
76% Tufts
73% Harvard Pilgrim

How Therapists in Swansea, MA see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
24% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Swansea?

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.