Therapists in Maine

View cities and counties in Maine
Photo of Layla Billings in Maine
Layla Billings
PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farmington, ME 04938  (Online Only)
I believe every person has tremendous capacity to know and heal themselves, though sometimes we need support and guidance on that journey. My practice is focused on helping those who suffer with anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, traumatic experiences, and a sense of being stuck in patterns that do not serve them. Together we can work toward bringing awareness and understanding to the ways in which you lack access to the self you want to be. Utilizing an eclectic and person-centered approach, I will help you transform your inner and outer obstacles into experiences that foster growth and positive change.
I believe every person has tremendous capacity to know and heal themselves, though sometimes we need support and guidance on that journey. My practice is focused on helping those who suffer with anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, traumatic experiences, and a sense of being stuck in patterns that do not serve them. Together we can work toward bringing awareness and understanding to the ways in which you lack access to the self you want to be. Utilizing an eclectic and person-centered approach, I will help you transform your inner and outer obstacles into experiences that foster growth and positive change.
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Photo of Debra Rose Fredette, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Debra Rose Fredette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904
Welcome to my practice. I have worked with couples, families, and individuals for 25 years helping to heal from trauma, affairs, and early life experiences that get in the way of having warm loving relationships and individual joy. It can be challenging to take the first step to move toward a better and more fulfilling life. Often we fear judgement. I can help you develop an understanding of the issues that are keeping you from living the best life possible. I will work with you to identify the underlying barriers and develop problem solving skills and strategies to cope with issues outside of your control.
Welcome to my practice. I have worked with couples, families, and individuals for 25 years helping to heal from trauma, affairs, and early life experiences that get in the way of having warm loving relationships and individual joy. It can be challenging to take the first step to move toward a better and more fulfilling life. Often we fear judgement. I can help you develop an understanding of the issues that are keeping you from living the best life possible. I will work with you to identify the underlying barriers and develop problem solving skills and strategies to cope with issues outside of your control.
(207) 358-4305 View (207) 358-4305
Photo of Sarah Scott Zell, Counselor in Maine
Sarah Scott Zell
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Brunswick, ME 04011
Not accepting new clients
I offer individual counseling to adults and adolescents ages 16 and over. My approach is a combination of cognitive-behavioral (actively working on changing ones thoughts and behaviors) and therapeutic mindfulness (learning to experience difficulties with awareness and self-compassion rather than judgment and avoidance). I place a strong emphasis on building communication and coping skills that can be used again and again in challenging situations. I have experience treating anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, self-harming behaviors, and counseling around life transitions and family concerns.
I offer individual counseling to adults and adolescents ages 16 and over. My approach is a combination of cognitive-behavioral (actively working on changing ones thoughts and behaviors) and therapeutic mindfulness (learning to experience difficulties with awareness and self-compassion rather than judgment and avoidance). I place a strong emphasis on building communication and coping skills that can be used again and again in challenging situations. I have experience treating anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, self-harming behaviors, and counseling around life transitions and family concerns.
(207) 358-6234 View (207) 358-6234
Photo of Aileen Park, Psychologist in Maine
Aileen Park
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Not accepting new clients
I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience, offering psychotherapy for adults across the lifespan. I specialize in treating individuals from a diversity of backgrounds, who are struggling with the emotional, physical, and mental impact of relationship stress. This can mean relationships at work or at school, with a romantic partner or spouse, or with family members or friends. I am also experienced in helping people manage anxiety, and cope with challenging life events or transitions.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience, offering psychotherapy for adults across the lifespan. I specialize in treating individuals from a diversity of backgrounds, who are struggling with the emotional, physical, and mental impact of relationship stress. This can mean relationships at work or at school, with a romantic partner or spouse, or with family members or friends. I am also experienced in helping people manage anxiety, and cope with challenging life events or transitions.
(207) 806-0523 View (207) 806-0523
Photo of Jennifer Goodwin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Jennifer Goodwin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCS
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
Not accepting new clients
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: Phone and Video sessions authorized by most Insurances due to COVID 19. Are you looking to feel happier in your life? I believe that seeing a therapist can make positive change happen. We can work together to explore difficult situations and identify solutions. I have over 25 years of experience helping people improve the quality of their lives. Frequently, mental health, trauma and/or addiction can impact our self-esteem, relationships, work and family. I am interested in how people feel, think and behave. If something in your life working for you, let's figure it out. You deserve to feel joy.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: Phone and Video sessions authorized by most Insurances due to COVID 19. Are you looking to feel happier in your life? I believe that seeing a therapist can make positive change happen. We can work together to explore difficult situations and identify solutions. I have over 25 years of experience helping people improve the quality of their lives. Frequently, mental health, trauma and/or addiction can impact our self-esteem, relationships, work and family. I am interested in how people feel, think and behave. If something in your life working for you, let's figure it out. You deserve to feel joy.
(207) 209-1541 View (207) 209-1541
Photo of Dannielle McLean, Counselor in Maine
Dannielle McLean
Counselor, LCPC, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Dannielle McLean is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. She completed both her undergraduate degree in Psychology and her Masters in Counseling at the University of Southern Maine. Dannielle has been working with people in inpatient and outpatient settings for the last 6 years, helping them navigate through some of the hardest times of their lives. Dannielle specializes in group and individual therapy for adults seeking support for substance use, depression, anxiety, stress management, relationship issues, personal growth, and life transitions.
Dannielle McLean is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. She completed both her undergraduate degree in Psychology and her Masters in Counseling at the University of Southern Maine. Dannielle has been working with people in inpatient and outpatient settings for the last 6 years, helping them navigate through some of the hardest times of their lives. Dannielle specializes in group and individual therapy for adults seeking support for substance use, depression, anxiety, stress management, relationship issues, personal growth, and life transitions.
(207) 716-0939 View (207) 716-0939
Photo of Meghan Gorchoff, Counselor in Maine
Meghan Gorchoff
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Brunswick, ME 04011
Not accepting new clients
It's a distinct honor and privilege to help facilitate healing and transformation in people's lives. Clients report they leave our sessions feeling rejuvenated, grounded, valued, and heard. I am trained in EMDR and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, and have extensive clinical experience utilizing these modalities as part of treatment for PTSD, addiction issues, eating disorders, depression, OCD, and anxiety. I'm also certified to teach Hatha Yoga and Yoga Nidra. With a client's interest and permission, trauma sensitive embodied movement and guided meditation can be incorporated in sessions to enhance and deepen healing.
It's a distinct honor and privilege to help facilitate healing and transformation in people's lives. Clients report they leave our sessions feeling rejuvenated, grounded, valued, and heard. I am trained in EMDR and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, and have extensive clinical experience utilizing these modalities as part of treatment for PTSD, addiction issues, eating disorders, depression, OCD, and anxiety. I'm also certified to teach Hatha Yoga and Yoga Nidra. With a client's interest and permission, trauma sensitive embodied movement and guided meditation can be incorporated in sessions to enhance and deepen healing.
(207) 203-6527 View (207) 203-6527
Photo of Raquel Rossi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Raquel Rossi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
Being a parent is hard even when life is going well and can feel downright impossible when either yourself, children or partner are struggling. We know family stress takes a significant emotional toll and sometimes can feel as though it’s never going to get better. I take pride in creating a warm, dynamic environment in which you will laugh, cry and everything in between, however you will feel safe and supported each step of the way. My goal is to help you learn new tools and strategies so you can parent effectively and begin to better understand your child’s behavior because let’s admit it’s not always super clear!
Being a parent is hard even when life is going well and can feel downright impossible when either yourself, children or partner are struggling. We know family stress takes a significant emotional toll and sometimes can feel as though it’s never going to get better. I take pride in creating a warm, dynamic environment in which you will laugh, cry and everything in between, however you will feel safe and supported each step of the way. My goal is to help you learn new tools and strategies so you can parent effectively and begin to better understand your child’s behavior because let’s admit it’s not always super clear!
(207) 421-9795 View (207) 421-9795
Photo of Julie M. Paquette, LICSW,CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Julie M. Paquette, LICSW,CADC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Portland, ME 04106  (Online Only)
I teach EVERYONE- from kids to adults, how to manage difficult thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I teach parents how to help their children regulate their feelings, which in turn helps manage behaviors. My work focuses on the mind and the heart; I focus on reducing unnecessary suffering by learning how to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviors, so you can overcome life obstacles while respecting your soul's journey. My goal is to pass my skills and knowledge onto parents, adults and children, so you don't need me anymore. I work late afternoons and evenings.
I teach EVERYONE- from kids to adults, how to manage difficult thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I teach parents how to help their children regulate their feelings, which in turn helps manage behaviors. My work focuses on the mind and the heart; I focus on reducing unnecessary suffering by learning how to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviors, so you can overcome life obstacles while respecting your soul's journey. My goal is to pass my skills and knowledge onto parents, adults and children, so you don't need me anymore. I work late afternoons and evenings.
(207) 808-7942 View (207) 808-7942
Photo of InStride Health, Psychologist in Maine
InStride Health
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Augusta, ME 04330  (Online Only)
InStride Health specializes in treating young patients whose anxiety or OCD is causing significant impairment in life (ie., school avoidance, social isolation, family disruption, and physical manifestations.) Practicing evidence-based treatment (CBT, ACT, components of DBT) with an emphasis on exposure, the InStride team empowers youth to face their fears and build resilience.
InStride Health specializes in treating young patients whose anxiety or OCD is causing significant impairment in life (ie., school avoidance, social isolation, family disruption, and physical manifestations.) Practicing evidence-based treatment (CBT, ACT, components of DBT) with an emphasis on exposure, the InStride team empowers youth to face their fears and build resilience.
(207) 548-5827 View (207) 548-5827
Photo of Sarah E Hazelton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Sarah E Hazelton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitefield, ME 04353  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating OCD, Anxiety, and associated mental health challenges for clients 18+. My practice uses Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) in conjunction with other cognitive behavior interventions, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Habit Reversal Training. I enjoy clients who are considering taking on the challenge of treating their OCD or anxiety and are ready to see results.
I specialize in treating OCD, Anxiety, and associated mental health challenges for clients 18+. My practice uses Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) in conjunction with other cognitive behavior interventions, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Habit Reversal Training. I enjoy clients who are considering taking on the challenge of treating their OCD or anxiety and are ready to see results.
(207) 900-2077 View (207) 900-2077
Photo of Ian Whitmore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Ian Whitmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
Current Pro Bono openings for individuals open to working with a student. Countless young people have reported feeling like their trauma is their fault, that they feel guilty or shameful of having been victimized. If you're experiencing anger, shame, fear, guilt, anxiety, or depression related to an experience out of your control, we can work together to put you back in control of your life. Familial conflict or transitions interfering with your relationship with your teen? Lets work together to figure out how to meet everyone's needs and meet balance.
Current Pro Bono openings for individuals open to working with a student. Countless young people have reported feeling like their trauma is their fault, that they feel guilty or shameful of having been victimized. If you're experiencing anger, shame, fear, guilt, anxiety, or depression related to an experience out of your control, we can work together to put you back in control of your life. Familial conflict or transitions interfering with your relationship with your teen? Lets work together to figure out how to meet everyone's needs and meet balance.
(207) 640-2262 View (207) 640-2262
Photo of Fawn Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Fawn Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401
Not accepting new clients
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my profile. I have been practicing as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 20 years and am always humbled when someone feels safe enough with me to share their story. My goal is always to ensure that my clients feel supported and heard, to help them attain their goals and for them to walk away from our sessions feeling a sense of accomplishment and empowerment in their lives. I utilize a multitude of therapy approaches and give close attention to which approach is the right fit for each individual. I look forward to talking with you more about the work we can do together.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my profile. I have been practicing as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 20 years and am always humbled when someone feels safe enough with me to share their story. My goal is always to ensure that my clients feel supported and heard, to help them attain their goals and for them to walk away from our sessions feeling a sense of accomplishment and empowerment in their lives. I utilize a multitude of therapy approaches and give close attention to which approach is the right fit for each individual. I look forward to talking with you more about the work we can do together.
(207) 421-9653 View (207) 421-9653
Photo of Jo Boeschenstein - Cape Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Jo Boeschenstein - Cape Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107  (Online Only)
With over 20 years experience working with children and families, I am committed to providing individualized counseling that helps client’s address life’s challenges. My clinical vision is to ensure that my office provides a safe haven where my clients can experience their vulnerabilities while sharing their stories. Drawing on active listening and collaboration, I employ an empathetic and practical approach that is carefully attuned to the needs of each individual.
With over 20 years experience working with children and families, I am committed to providing individualized counseling that helps client’s address life’s challenges. My clinical vision is to ensure that my office provides a safe haven where my clients can experience their vulnerabilities while sharing their stories. Drawing on active listening and collaboration, I employ an empathetic and practical approach that is carefully attuned to the needs of each individual.
(207) 203-9245 View (207) 203-9245
Photo of Dr. Edward Hall, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Maine
Dr. Edward Hall
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, LADC, MAC, CCS
Verified Verified
Bath, ME 04530  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Addiction can take such a heavy toll on us, and on the people, we care about the most, I’d like to help. I believe everyone has within them limitless power to transform into the most confident, fulfilled, authentic version of themselves. But that can feel impossible, especially when you’re weighed down by anxiety, frustration, disappointment, anger, financial difficulty, legal issues, and hopelessness.
Addiction can take such a heavy toll on us, and on the people, we care about the most, I’d like to help. I believe everyone has within them limitless power to transform into the most confident, fulfilled, authentic version of themselves. But that can feel impossible, especially when you’re weighed down by anxiety, frustration, disappointment, anger, financial difficulty, legal issues, and hopelessness.
(207) 288-7185 View (207) 288-7185
Photo of Caitlyn Madden, Counselor in Maine
Caitlyn Madden
Counselor, LCPC-C, MS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Scarborough, ME 04074
Why am I still stuck? I'm doing all the work! Sound familiar? Are you ready to finally get unstuck & build the life, the relationship that is aligned with your values, goals, & desires? Are you longing for the fulfillment & peace of healing? Together we build a strong therapeutic relationship that enables you to explore & discover parts of yourself or your relationship more deeply with support & safety. We will work to help you understand your past & grow from it into an empowered present. We will heal your communication cycles and lost intimacy & help you become seen & heard in your relationships again.
Why am I still stuck? I'm doing all the work! Sound familiar? Are you ready to finally get unstuck & build the life, the relationship that is aligned with your values, goals, & desires? Are you longing for the fulfillment & peace of healing? Together we build a strong therapeutic relationship that enables you to explore & discover parts of yourself or your relationship more deeply with support & safety. We will work to help you understand your past & grow from it into an empowered present. We will heal your communication cycles and lost intimacy & help you become seen & heard in your relationships again.
(207) 600-2945 View (207) 600-2945
Photo of Janet Anderson-Murch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Janet Anderson-Murch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waterville, ME 04901  (Online Only)
Current statewide openings for telehealth sessions. It has been a challenging few years. Asking for help is the first step toward healing. I provide individuals with a personalized, strength-based, and supportive environment to manage life changes, conflicts, and past issues. I believe every person holds the key to their success and happiness. Sometimes everyday stressors overwhelm us. In sessions, I hope to assist you in finding peace, joy, and fulfillment again.
Current statewide openings for telehealth sessions. It has been a challenging few years. Asking for help is the first step toward healing. I provide individuals with a personalized, strength-based, and supportive environment to manage life changes, conflicts, and past issues. I believe every person holds the key to their success and happiness. Sometimes everyday stressors overwhelm us. In sessions, I hope to assist you in finding peace, joy, and fulfillment again.
(207) 417-4705 View (207) 417-4705
Photo of Nadine Tardie, Marriage & Family Therapist in Maine
Nadine Tardie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Your sleep has become irregular. You are eating too many cookies or you don't feel like eating. It is hard to get up in the morning. The energy you once had has become a memory. Your friends seem to be doing much better than you are, so you can't confide in them about how you feel. You worry about your spouse, about your children, about the economy, or about your job. You wonder if you are drinking too many lattes or glasses of wine. It is hard to concentrate, to get just one thing done.And you don't know why you have these thoughts, these worries, these sleepless nights.
Your sleep has become irregular. You are eating too many cookies or you don't feel like eating. It is hard to get up in the morning. The energy you once had has become a memory. Your friends seem to be doing much better than you are, so you can't confide in them about how you feel. You worry about your spouse, about your children, about the economy, or about your job. You wonder if you are drinking too many lattes or glasses of wine. It is hard to concentrate, to get just one thing done.And you don't know why you have these thoughts, these worries, these sleepless nights.
(207) 280-8950 View (207) 280-8950
Photo of Ryan Sullivan, Counselor in Maine
Ryan Sullivan
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Berwick, ME 03908  (Online Only)
I serve those who are disconnected, despairing and without healthy coping skills. Through individual and group Nature-Based Therapy, my clients will experience connection, belonging and develop their unique personal identity. Make your health a priority today.
I serve those who are disconnected, despairing and without healthy coping skills. Through individual and group Nature-Based Therapy, my clients will experience connection, belonging and develop their unique personal identity. Make your health a priority today.
(207) 360-4375 View (207) 360-4375
Photo of Dr. Scott P Kavanagh, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maine
Dr. Scott P Kavanagh
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, DMin, LMHC, LPC, LCPC, ACPE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kennebunk, ME 04043
Established Practice in Maine 2017. Life events can cause us to experience a variety of feelings such as anxiety, uncertainty, sadness, frustration, anger and even hopelessness. Stress impacts our relationships, work, financial well being, and families. There are chapters in everyone's life that are overwhelming and during these times it is wise and healthy to process with someone who is objective and understanding. Counseling can assist us in becoming unstuck. Sometimes short term intervention is all that is needed. Call to schedule an appointment.
Established Practice in Maine 2017. Life events can cause us to experience a variety of feelings such as anxiety, uncertainty, sadness, frustration, anger and even hopelessness. Stress impacts our relationships, work, financial well being, and families. There are chapters in everyone's life that are overwhelming and during these times it is wise and healthy to process with someone who is objective and understanding. Counseling can assist us in becoming unstuck. Sometimes short term intervention is all that is needed. Call to schedule an appointment.
(315) 939-1148 View (315) 939-1148

How does your Therapist compare?

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in Maine who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
84% Depression
73% Relationship Issues
71% Trauma and PTSD
71% Self Esteem
67% Coping Skills
64% Stress

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

64% Anthem | Elevance
60% BlueCross and BlueShield
56% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Maine see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Maine?

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.