Therapists in Boonsboro, MD

Photo of Angela Sluzalis, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Sluzalis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Boonsboro, MD 21713  (Online Only)
Treatment is offered for mood disorders, anxiety, trauma and other mental health and substance abuse disorders. Individual therapy offered in a safe and caring relationship.
Treatment is offered for mood disorders, anxiety, trauma and other mental health and substance abuse disorders. Individual therapy offered in a safe and caring relationship.
(240) 213-7885 View (240) 213-7885
Photo of Vivian Suzanne Fahey - Best Life Counseling and Life Coaching, LCPC
Best Life Counseling and Life Coaching
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Boonsboro, MD 21713  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe that everyone can get stuck or lost. Sometimes we can get unstuck by connecting with someone who is compassionate, non-judgmental and objective. I have spent over 25 years in behavioral health, helping people discover and become their "best" and healthy selves. Present problems, past hurts or even diagnoses don't have to take over our lives. Problems can be solved, hurts transformed, diagnoses understood and skills can be learned. A wise person once told me, "As long as you are alive, there is hope." I believe that and offer you the opportunity to find a new way.
I believe that everyone can get stuck or lost. Sometimes we can get unstuck by connecting with someone who is compassionate, non-judgmental and objective. I have spent over 25 years in behavioral health, helping people discover and become their "best" and healthy selves. Present problems, past hurts or even diagnoses don't have to take over our lives. Problems can be solved, hurts transformed, diagnoses understood and skills can be learned. A wise person once told me, "As long as you are alive, there is hope." I believe that and offer you the opportunity to find a new way.
(301) 882-5033 View (301) 882-5033
Photo of Charles Eric Levy - Dr Rick Levy, PhD, Psychologist
Dr Rick Levy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boonsboro, MD 21713
I'm a full time clinical psychologist with 30+ years of experience treating the types of problems that plague a majority of people in our area: chronic stress, depression, anxiety, panic, sleeplessness, ADHD, PTSD, relationship problems and divorce, family conflict, trauma, and abuse recovery, for people of all ages. Everyone is unique - I specialize in healing the root cause of complex problems, quickly, and just as importantly, I help people realize their most deeply held aspirations. I also specialize in Mind-Body Medicine - helping people overcome major health problems like heart disease, diabetes, MS, dementia, and cancer.
I'm a full time clinical psychologist with 30+ years of experience treating the types of problems that plague a majority of people in our area: chronic stress, depression, anxiety, panic, sleeplessness, ADHD, PTSD, relationship problems and divorce, family conflict, trauma, and abuse recovery, for people of all ages. Everyone is unique - I specialize in healing the root cause of complex problems, quickly, and just as importantly, I help people realize their most deeply held aspirations. I also specialize in Mind-Body Medicine - helping people overcome major health problems like heart disease, diabetes, MS, dementia, and cancer.
(301) 923-4099 View (301) 923-4099
Photo of Anne L. Jenkins - River Bend Wellness/ Anne Jenkins LCSW-C    , LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
River Bend Wellness/ Anne Jenkins LCSW-C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boonsboro, MD 21713
Welcome! Making the decision to look for support is not an easy one, but I am glad you have taken the first step. My name is Anne Jenkins (Lawrence). My path has always brought me to a place where I was able to collaborate and assist in the process of healing from trauma. I am also experienced in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders; supporting persons who are members of the neurodivergent population navigate their experiences; supporting individuals who are discovering their gender identity and/or sexual identity as well as persons navigating change, grief and loss.
Welcome! Making the decision to look for support is not an easy one, but I am glad you have taken the first step. My name is Anne Jenkins (Lawrence). My path has always brought me to a place where I was able to collaborate and assist in the process of healing from trauma. I am also experienced in treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders; supporting persons who are members of the neurodivergent population navigate their experiences; supporting individuals who are discovering their gender identity and/or sexual identity as well as persons navigating change, grief and loss.
(301) 835-2523 View (301) 835-2523

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Susan D Buckingham-Saunders - Maryland Mediation (dot) Services, MSW, CAC-AD-, CTS, CCMC, Mediato
Maryland Mediation (dot) Services
MSW, CAC-AD-, CTS, CCMC, Mediato
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hagerstown, MD 21740  (Online Only)
Susan Saunders, MSW,Mediator/ Parenting Corridinator, envisions her ideal client as someone struggling with divorce, child custody and visitation with complex emotional turmoil, perhaps stemming from interpersonal conflicts, traumatic experiences, or challenging life transitions. These individuals seek resolution, understanding, in the process of divorce their issues may include unresolved trauma, communication breakdowns, or navigating difficult relationships. Their needs revolve around finding a safe space to express themselves, gain perspective, and work towards solutions that honor their well-being and dignity.
Susan Saunders, MSW,Mediator/ Parenting Corridinator, envisions her ideal client as someone struggling with divorce, child custody and visitation with complex emotional turmoil, perhaps stemming from interpersonal conflicts, traumatic experiences, or challenging life transitions. These individuals seek resolution, understanding, in the process of divorce their issues may include unresolved trauma, communication breakdowns, or navigating difficult relationships. Their needs revolve around finding a safe space to express themselves, gain perspective, and work towards solutions that honor their well-being and dignity.
(240) 209-9110 View (240) 209-9110
Photo of Charles Larry Hunter II, LGPC, Counselor
Charles Larry Hunter II
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Hagerstown, MD 21740
An ideal client is someone who is a good fit for my services, who I enjoy working with, and who is likely to benefit from therapy. They generally share my values, beliefs, and goals and feel comfortable working with me.
An ideal client is someone who is a good fit for my services, who I enjoy working with, and who is likely to benefit from therapy. They generally share my values, beliefs, and goals and feel comfortable working with me.
(240) 348-9075 View (240) 348-9075
Photo of Norita Prather, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Norita Prather
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hagerstown, MD 21740  (Online Only)
Are you a teen and feel like no one understands you? Or need someone to talk to and relate to? Are you having difficulties with your day-to-day, school, work, home, or relationships? Are you constantly worrying about the "what ifs"? Are you struggling to keep everything together? Or are you a parent and having trouble connecting with your teenager? Well, it is time to take back that control and you don't have to do it alone!
Are you a teen and feel like no one understands you? Or need someone to talk to and relate to? Are you having difficulties with your day-to-day, school, work, home, or relationships? Are you constantly worrying about the "what ifs"? Are you struggling to keep everything together? Or are you a parent and having trouble connecting with your teenager? Well, it is time to take back that control and you don't have to do it alone!
(240) 222-5873 View (240) 222-5873
Photo of Lonetta Mason
Lonetta Mason
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Hagerstown, MD 21740  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Lonetta Mason. I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor in Maryland with over 13 years of experience working in the behavioral health field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of ages and concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, mood disorders, and ADHD. My counseling style is collaborative and client-centered. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My biopsychosocial approach to counseling combines cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling.
Hello! My name is Lonetta Mason. I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor in Maryland with over 13 years of experience working in the behavioral health field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of ages and concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, mood disorders, and ADHD. My counseling style is collaborative and client-centered. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My biopsychosocial approach to counseling combines cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of George Stallings
George Stallings
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Hagerstown, MD 21740  (Online Only)
George Stallings is professional mental health counselor. In 2005, I graduated from Towson, University, with a MS, Counseling Psychology and in 2010 Ph.D, counseling psychology from Capella University. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and I have been working in the field of counseling since 1999. . I have experience in assisting people recover from depression, anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, student life, PTSD, divorce, separation, parenting issues, grief, substance abuse issues, and just the stress that can come from everyday living.
George Stallings is professional mental health counselor. In 2005, I graduated from Towson, University, with a MS, Counseling Psychology and in 2010 Ph.D, counseling psychology from Capella University. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and I have been working in the field of counseling since 1999. . I have experience in assisting people recover from depression, anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, student life, PTSD, divorce, separation, parenting issues, grief, substance abuse issues, and just the stress that can come from everyday living.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of JoAnn Sheffield - JoAnn Sheffield, LCSW-C, ACC , LCSW-C, ACC, LCAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
JoAnn Sheffield, LCSW-C, ACC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, ACC, LCAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, MD 21769
Not accepting new clients
The last couple of years have definitely been challenging. I have found that most people fall into three categories: survival, acceptance, or growth. My ideal client is someone who is highly motivated and wants change; someone who is seeking to grow. They are tired of being in survival mode. These individuals are seeking something different than what the traditional therapies offer. They are ready to move on to the next level. As a guide, I work to empower clients to overcome stress, and life challenges. This process involves healing, discovery, and learning valuable life lessons along the way.
The last couple of years have definitely been challenging. I have found that most people fall into three categories: survival, acceptance, or growth. My ideal client is someone who is highly motivated and wants change; someone who is seeking to grow. They are tired of being in survival mode. These individuals are seeking something different than what the traditional therapies offer. They are ready to move on to the next level. As a guide, I work to empower clients to overcome stress, and life challenges. This process involves healing, discovery, and learning valuable life lessons along the way.
(301) 323-8660 View (301) 323-8660
Photo of Precious Wells
Precious Wells
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Hagerstown, MD 21740  (Online Only)
I am a licensed mental health therapist in Maryland with over 4 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, couples, families and group counseling. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, adjustment issues, anger management, work burn out, relationship issues, family conflicts, emotional adjustment, life transitioning, employment issues, grief, and depression. I work with my clients to create an open, caring, safe and judgment free environment where my clients thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear.
I am a licensed mental health therapist in Maryland with over 4 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, couples, families and group counseling. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, adjustment issues, anger management, work burn out, relationship issues, family conflicts, emotional adjustment, life transitioning, employment issues, grief, and depression. I work with my clients to create an open, caring, safe and judgment free environment where my clients thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Dr. Stephanie McGraw, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Stephanie McGraw
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hagerstown, MD 21742  (Online Only)
Therapy is an incredibly vulnerable process that involves stripping down the emotional armor we have collected over years of struggle, insecurity, or fear. For some the idea of therapy feels like the sweetest release and for others this idea feels incredibly intimidating. Often times, individuals present for their first sessions after an acute stressor, a period of prolonged distress, or even a previously failed treatment. Regardless of the precipitating factor, people often enter therapy when they feel hurt and alone. Many come with bruised hearts and tired souls, uncertain of what their struggles mean about their ability to heal.
Therapy is an incredibly vulnerable process that involves stripping down the emotional armor we have collected over years of struggle, insecurity, or fear. For some the idea of therapy feels like the sweetest release and for others this idea feels incredibly intimidating. Often times, individuals present for their first sessions after an acute stressor, a period of prolonged distress, or even a previously failed treatment. Regardless of the precipitating factor, people often enter therapy when they feel hurt and alone. Many come with bruised hearts and tired souls, uncertain of what their struggles mean about their ability to heal.
(240) 647-5336 View (240) 647-5336
Photo of Sevena Boughton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sevena Boughton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hagerstown, MD 21740
Hello: My name is Sevena Boughton, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-C). I have worked with individuals, couples and families seeking counseling for over 30 years. I am passionate about supporting all of my clients through various challenges or trauma and having them experience healing and fulfillment. I have found my style and approach to be a good fit for those 18 years and older- spanning the entire adult life cycle. Those adults dealing with challenges of life transitions and social pressures. This takes the form of anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss.
Hello: My name is Sevena Boughton, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-C). I have worked with individuals, couples and families seeking counseling for over 30 years. I am passionate about supporting all of my clients through various challenges or trauma and having them experience healing and fulfillment. I have found my style and approach to be a good fit for those 18 years and older- spanning the entire adult life cycle. Those adults dealing with challenges of life transitions and social pressures. This takes the form of anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss.
(410) 883-5477 View (410) 883-5477
Catherine Drennan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Hagerstown, MD 21740  (Online Only)
Hello, I’m Catherine Drennan, and I’m here to offer compassionate support and guidance on your journey toward healing and growth. With a Master of Social Work degree from UMAB School of Social Work and Community Planning, and over 40 years of experience, including practicing at the LCSW-C level since 1996, I specialize in helping adults navigate challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and trauma. If you find yourself wondering, "How did I get here? Why do I keep sabotaging myself?" or struggling with self-defeating patterns, know that you’re not alone. Traditional talk therapy can be a powerful tool.
Hello, I’m Catherine Drennan, and I’m here to offer compassionate support and guidance on your journey toward healing and growth. With a Master of Social Work degree from UMAB School of Social Work and Community Planning, and over 40 years of experience, including practicing at the LCSW-C level since 1996, I specialize in helping adults navigate challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and trauma. If you find yourself wondering, "How did I get here? Why do I keep sabotaging myself?" or struggling with self-defeating patterns, know that you’re not alone. Traditional talk therapy can be a powerful tool.
(240) 502-0468 View (240) 502-0468
Photo of Jacinta Casey, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacinta Casey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Hagerstown, MD 21740
I work with those struggling with confidence/self-esteem/self-compassion, those interested in working on emotion identification and regulation, and those struggling with inattentiveness/focus difficulties. I help those who want to build up their coping skills toolkit. I am interested in working with those striving to identify and live aligned with their values and eager to engage in therapy. I am comfortable with people who might be the first generation willing to engage and trust the therapeutic relationship. I want to work with someone who wants to find balance and acceptance in a life of suffering and joy.
I work with those struggling with confidence/self-esteem/self-compassion, those interested in working on emotion identification and regulation, and those struggling with inattentiveness/focus difficulties. I help those who want to build up their coping skills toolkit. I am interested in working with those striving to identify and live aligned with their values and eager to engage in therapy. I am comfortable with people who might be the first generation willing to engage and trust the therapeutic relationship. I want to work with someone who wants to find balance and acceptance in a life of suffering and joy.
(240) 219-3608 View (240) 219-3608
Photo of Sophie Hans, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophie Hans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Hagerstown, MD 21740
My ideal client is someone who comes to therapy in a time of need. They might be experiencing anxiety for the first time due to life changes and transitions or may be concerned as to where the anxiety came from. The client might be processing loss or grief from a loved one or past friendships and or relationships. My ideal client will have needs such as needing to identify coping skills to get through life stressors, assistance with reaching goals. As a therapist I would be able to provide the client with a objective perspective to bounce their ideas and situations off of.
My ideal client is someone who comes to therapy in a time of need. They might be experiencing anxiety for the first time due to life changes and transitions or may be concerned as to where the anxiety came from. The client might be processing loss or grief from a loved one or past friendships and or relationships. My ideal client will have needs such as needing to identify coping skills to get through life stressors, assistance with reaching goals. As a therapist I would be able to provide the client with a objective perspective to bounce their ideas and situations off of.
(240) 847-3332 View (240) 847-3332
Photo of Matteo Ricci
Matteo Ricci
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Hagerstown, MD 21740  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm glad you have taken a therapeutic risk and considered pursuing therapy. A rapport and therapeutic connection with your therapist is a cornerstone for success. Here is a bit about me and some of the approaches I apply in helping my clients address their current life stresses and symptoms. Success with my clients in large part stems from 18 years of direct care experience in the mental health field and 13 years as a licensed clinician in clinical settings which have included inpatient hospital programs, general hospitals, psychiatric day programs, long term residential substance abuse facilities and within his own practice.
Hello! I'm glad you have taken a therapeutic risk and considered pursuing therapy. A rapport and therapeutic connection with your therapist is a cornerstone for success. Here is a bit about me and some of the approaches I apply in helping my clients address their current life stresses and symptoms. Success with my clients in large part stems from 18 years of direct care experience in the mental health field and 13 years as a licensed clinician in clinical settings which have included inpatient hospital programs, general hospitals, psychiatric day programs, long term residential substance abuse facilities and within his own practice.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Deitra Fant, MA, NCC, LCPC-S, LPC-AS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deitra Fant
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC-S, LPC-AS
Verified Verified
Hagerstown, MD 21740
I am a highly experienced and dedicated Board-Certified Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I've held various roles in employment, housing, ACT services, homeless services, case management, and leadership, showcasing my diverse skill set and commitment to helping others.
I am a highly experienced and dedicated Board-Certified Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I've held various roles in employment, housing, ACT services, homeless services, case management, and leadership, showcasing my diverse skill set and commitment to helping others.
(240) 443-2731 View (240) 443-2731
Photo of Anntana Brown
Anntana Brown
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Hagerstown, MD 21740  (Online Only)
Hi! I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Maryland. I received my master’s from Purdue University Global and have been practicing since 2017. I served in The United States Army, and I help veterans struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder and to transition into civilian life. I help adults struggling with managing mental health symptoms and to become the best versions of themselves.
Hi! I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) based in Maryland. I received my master’s from Purdue University Global and have been practicing since 2017. I served in The United States Army, and I help veterans struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder and to transition into civilian life. I help adults struggling with managing mental health symptoms and to become the best versions of themselves.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Kenya Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kenya Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hagerstown, MD 21740  (Online Only)
My name is Kenya Brown, and I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience providing services to a diverse population. I am honored to be chosen to partner with you in your journey of managing your mental health in the midst of life challenges. I use a person-centered approach to working with clients pulling in cognitive behavioral tools and motivational interviewing techniques. I am comfortable working with adults and couples from diverse backgrounds with a ranged of mental health concerns.
My name is Kenya Brown, and I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience providing services to a diverse population. I am honored to be chosen to partner with you in your journey of managing your mental health in the midst of life challenges. I use a person-centered approach to working with clients pulling in cognitive behavioral tools and motivational interviewing techniques. I am comfortable working with adults and couples from diverse backgrounds with a ranged of mental health concerns.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569

See more therapy options for Boonsboro

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Boonsboro, MD

< 10

Therapists in Boonsboro, MD who prioritize treating:

75% Relationship Issues
75% Depression
75% Anxiety
75% Grief
75% Divorce
75% Coping Skills
75% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

20 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% CareFirst
67% Aetna
67% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Boonsboro, MD see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Boonsboro?

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.