Therapists in Salem, NH

Photo of Kimberly Meuse, Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Kimberly Meuse
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Salem, NH 03079
I have experience with substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and LGBT+ although I have worked with an array of different people/disorders. I have worked in residential, PHP, and IOP settings. While utilizing different techniques, I look to help enhance personal awareness and skills, in order for self-acceptance and self-growth to be part of the therapeutic process. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Master's Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor in NH and am ready to work with adults who are experiencing difficult times.
I have experience with substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and LGBT+ although I have worked with an array of different people/disorders. I have worked in residential, PHP, and IOP settings. While utilizing different techniques, I look to help enhance personal awareness and skills, in order for self-acceptance and self-growth to be part of the therapeutic process. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Master's Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor in NH and am ready to work with adults who are experiencing difficult times.
(877) 786-5726 View (877) 786-5726
Photo of Sam B Taliaferro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Sam B Taliaferro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
2 Endorsed
Salem, NH 03079
Hello everyone, my name is Sam Taliaferro and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of New Hampshire. I have worked in the mental health field since 2008, licensed since 2019, and as a professional in this field I have benefited from working in multiple settings, both inpatient and outpatient, while treating multiple mental health ailments. Through these various settings and opportunities, I have gained some useful insight toward common struggles that accompany common mental health ailments such as anxiety and depression. I have also had many opportunities to support individuals with addressing personal
Hello everyone, my name is Sam Taliaferro and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of New Hampshire. I have worked in the mental health field since 2008, licensed since 2019, and as a professional in this field I have benefited from working in multiple settings, both inpatient and outpatient, while treating multiple mental health ailments. Through these various settings and opportunities, I have gained some useful insight toward common struggles that accompany common mental health ailments such as anxiety and depression. I have also had many opportunities to support individuals with addressing personal
(833) 565-1214 View (833) 565-1214
Photo of Amy Chouinard - Perinatal & Women's Mental Health Counseling, Counselor, LCMHC, NBCC, MA, CH
Perinatal & Women's Mental Health Counseling
Counselor, LCMHC, NBCC, MA, CH
1 Endorsed
Salem, NH 03079
You or someone you know may be experiencing a difficult time in their life. You may be looking for information to explain how you are feeling or be looking for a way to get help and someone to talk to. You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or frustrated and that life has just become unmanageable. Counseling is a supportive and helpful way to get things back on track and you feeling good again. www.postpartumnh.com
You or someone you know may be experiencing a difficult time in their life. You may be looking for information to explain how you are feeling or be looking for a way to get help and someone to talk to. You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or frustrated and that life has just become unmanageable. Counseling is a supportive and helpful way to get things back on track and you feeling good again. www.postpartumnh.com
(603) 734-5608 View (603) 734-5608
LifeStance Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Salem, NH 03079
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and inperson therapy and psychiatry services, covered by most major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and inperson therapy and psychiatry services, covered by most major insurance plans.
(855) 467-4740 View (855) 467-4740
Photo of Courtney Keefe, Counselor, LCMHC
Courtney Keefe
Counselor, LCMHC
1 Endorsed
Salem, NH 03079
Courtney Keefe is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor practicing in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. She received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology & Dance from Springfield College in 2015, and her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rivier University in 2018. While receiving her education, she completed an internship at Keene State College’s Counseling Center, where she worked with college students struggling with various mental health concerns. Courtney has more than five years of experience in community mental health settings, specializing in assessment/diagnosis and treating depression, anxiety.
Courtney Keefe is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor practicing in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. She received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology & Dance from Springfield College in 2015, and her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rivier University in 2018. While receiving her education, she completed an internship at Keene State College’s Counseling Center, where she worked with college students struggling with various mental health concerns. Courtney has more than five years of experience in community mental health settings, specializing in assessment/diagnosis and treating depression, anxiety.
(888) 491-5017 View (888) 491-5017
Photo of Kathleen M. Wood Bacon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Kathleen M. Wood Bacon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Salem, NH 03079
With more than 20 years of experience, my approach is founded on evidence-based techniques, integrating cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and solution-focused strategies to empower individuals in managing anxiety, depression, reducing stress, and improving their overall quality of life. Whether you’re experiencing a low mood, anxiety, life changes, or struggling with stress, I create a safe and collaborative space to explore solutions, build coping skills, and make lasting change.
With more than 20 years of experience, my approach is founded on evidence-based techniques, integrating cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and solution-focused strategies to empower individuals in managing anxiety, depression, reducing stress, and improving their overall quality of life. Whether you’re experiencing a low mood, anxiety, life changes, or struggling with stress, I create a safe and collaborative space to explore solutions, build coping skills, and make lasting change.
(877) 845-4930 View (877) 845-4930
Photo of Jaclyn Hannan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Jaclyn Hannan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
3 Endorsed
Salem, NH 03079
Not accepting new clients
Everyone needs a little help sometimes; whether you have been through a major traumatic event, struggled with a personal issue most of your life, or would like to receive a little extra help coping with day to day stress. I believe everyone has the capability to make positive changes that will help enhance their quality of life. I believe there is great value in creating a therapeutic environment that fosters support, safety, respect, and trust. I believe in the greatness and the power of will and that every individual has the strength and the resilience within themselves to create their own path.
Everyone needs a little help sometimes; whether you have been through a major traumatic event, struggled with a personal issue most of your life, or would like to receive a little extra help coping with day to day stress. I believe everyone has the capability to make positive changes that will help enhance their quality of life. I believe there is great value in creating a therapeutic environment that fosters support, safety, respect, and trust. I believe in the greatness and the power of will and that every individual has the strength and the resilience within themselves to create their own path.
(603) 782-0964 View (603) 782-0964
Photo of Kristen Welch - Alliance Counseling & Therapeutic Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MLADC
Alliance Counseling & Therapeutic Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MLADC
Salem, NH 03079
Alliance Counseling Services offers both in-office and telehealth therapy for individual adults. We focus on Mood Disorders, Conflict Resolution, Personal Adjustment Issues, the Impact of Trauma, Addictive Disorders, Substance Use Evaluations (LADC Evaluations) and DWI aftercare. Treatment is client centered, strengths based and utilizes a variety of interventions based on Evidenced Based Practices.
Alliance Counseling Services offers both in-office and telehealth therapy for individual adults. We focus on Mood Disorders, Conflict Resolution, Personal Adjustment Issues, the Impact of Trauma, Addictive Disorders, Substance Use Evaluations (LADC Evaluations) and DWI aftercare. Treatment is client centered, strengths based and utilizes a variety of interventions based on Evidenced Based Practices.
(603) 931-4066 View (603) 931-4066
Photo of Jessica Gagnon, Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Jessica Gagnon
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Salem, NH 03079
She concentrates in working with adults and coming of age teens who are struggling with depression, anxiety, anger, domestic violence, grief/loss, trauma, relationships, substance misuse or individuals who are seeking life balance during difficult transitions or dealing with an overwhelming life changing event. Jessica brings a person-centered and trauma informed approach to therapy. She closely listens and acknowledges where an individual wants to be in their life and helps them identify the changes needed to move towards the desired goals.
She concentrates in working with adults and coming of age teens who are struggling with depression, anxiety, anger, domestic violence, grief/loss, trauma, relationships, substance misuse or individuals who are seeking life balance during difficult transitions or dealing with an overwhelming life changing event. Jessica brings a person-centered and trauma informed approach to therapy. She closely listens and acknowledges where an individual wants to be in their life and helps them identify the changes needed to move towards the desired goals.
(855) 950-1252 View (855) 950-1252
Photo of Kara Poland, Counselor, LMHC
Kara Poland
Counselor, LMHC
Salem, NH 03079
Kara is a licensed mental health counselor in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Her counseling approach emphasizes building a trusting connection and creating a warm, judgment-free environment infused with a healthy dose of humor. Kara employs an eclectic style of treatment, predominantly using psychodynamic theory, while also integrating other therapeutic modalities. These include trauma-informed care, mindfulness practices, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, solution-focused techniques, Person-Centered theory, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory.
Kara is a licensed mental health counselor in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Her counseling approach emphasizes building a trusting connection and creating a warm, judgment-free environment infused with a healthy dose of humor. Kara employs an eclectic style of treatment, predominantly using psychodynamic theory, while also integrating other therapeutic modalities. These include trauma-informed care, mindfulness practices, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, solution-focused techniques, Person-Centered theory, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory.
(833) 304-2152 View (833) 304-2152
Photo of Kimberly Krasowski, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Kimberly Krasowski
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Salem, NH 03079
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or weighed down by past experiences? You’re not alone, and you don’t have to navigate it alone, either. I specialize in helping individuals heal from anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and abuse. My goal is simple: to support you in learning how to live your best, most balanced life. Many of my clients come to me feeling stuck — unsure how to move forward after a loss, trauma, or period of prolonged stress. You might feel constantly on edge, exhausted, overly sad, or haunted by your past. These are deeply human experiences, and together, we’ll work through them with compassion and care.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or weighed down by past experiences? You’re not alone, and you don’t have to navigate it alone, either. I specialize in helping individuals heal from anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and abuse. My goal is simple: to support you in learning how to live your best, most balanced life. Many of my clients come to me feeling stuck — unsure how to move forward after a loss, trauma, or period of prolonged stress. You might feel constantly on edge, exhausted, overly sad, or haunted by your past. These are deeply human experiences, and together, we’ll work through them with compassion and care.
(888) 644-0845 View (888) 644-0845
Photo of Aaron Pawelek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, MTS
Aaron Pawelek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, MTS
Salem, NH 03079
Are you or a loved one suffering from stress, anxiety, depression, or addiction? Has something traumatic happened, such as illness, injury, a family member's death, or abuse? Are you having difficulty with your relationships? These are just some of life's many challenges that can leave us feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, angry, or ashamed. If you are tired of feeling this way and ready to make changes that will lead to more fulfillment, joy, and peace in your life, then allow me to put my decade's worth of experience working with adults, couples, and teens to work for you!
Are you or a loved one suffering from stress, anxiety, depression, or addiction? Has something traumatic happened, such as illness, injury, a family member's death, or abuse? Are you having difficulty with your relationships? These are just some of life's many challenges that can leave us feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, angry, or ashamed. If you are tired of feeling this way and ready to make changes that will lead to more fulfillment, joy, and peace in your life, then allow me to put my decade's worth of experience working with adults, couples, and teens to work for you!
(781) 350-5194 View (781) 350-5194
Photo of Barry Pietrantonio, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCMHC, LDAC
Barry Pietrantonio
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCMHC, LDAC
Salem, NH 03079
Crossroads offers Individual counseling for both mental health and addiction. We also offer both Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient Treatment group therapy. We provide Aftercare, Medication Management, Interventions and Evidence Based Treatment. We are In-Network with most insurances and are an approved NH Medicaid Provider. Here at Crossroads we understand the physical. emotional and psychological impact that active addiction can have on individuals and their loved ones.
Crossroads offers Individual counseling for both mental health and addiction. We also offer both Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient Treatment group therapy. We provide Aftercare, Medication Management, Interventions and Evidence Based Treatment. We are In-Network with most insurances and are an approved NH Medicaid Provider. Here at Crossroads we understand the physical. emotional and psychological impact that active addiction can have on individuals and their loved ones.
(603) 912-4490 View (603) 912-4490
Photo of Shirley McBurnett, Counselor, LCMHC
Shirley McBurnett
Counselor, LCMHC
Salem, NH 03079
Shirley McBurnett is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in New Hampshire with 14 years of experience in several settings such as Outpatient, Inpatient, partial, intensive in-home therapy, crisis management and community support. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Bible in 2008 and her Master of Science In Counseling in 2017. Shirley believes that every person is valuable and deserves to be treated with respect and honor, and that creating a safe and healthy environment within therapy will assist her clients in unlocking the answers to their current struggles.
Shirley McBurnett is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in New Hampshire with 14 years of experience in several settings such as Outpatient, Inpatient, partial, intensive in-home therapy, crisis management and community support. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Bible in 2008 and her Master of Science In Counseling in 2017. Shirley believes that every person is valuable and deserves to be treated with respect and honor, and that creating a safe and healthy environment within therapy will assist her clients in unlocking the answers to their current struggles.
(888) 839-3856 View (888) 839-3856
Photo of Kristine Anthony, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCMHC
Kristine Anthony
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCMHC
Salem, NH 03079
Kristine Anthony, LCMHC Kristine Anthony is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Bachelor's in Psychology and Sociology from SNHU and a Master's in Clinical Mental Health from Rivier University. Kristine specializes in working with young adults. She offers a safe and inviting space for them to work on symptom management, emotion regulation, and building insight and coping techniques to improve their mental health and overall wellness.
Kristine Anthony, LCMHC Kristine Anthony is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Bachelor's in Psychology and Sociology from SNHU and a Master's in Clinical Mental Health from Rivier University. Kristine specializes in working with young adults. She offers a safe and inviting space for them to work on symptom management, emotion regulation, and building insight and coping techniques to improve their mental health and overall wellness.
(888) 491-5017 View (888) 491-5017
Photo of Dr. Alyssa Faro, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Alyssa Faro
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder and depression with ERP, ACT and CBT. I honed my expertise in treating severe OCD and training clinicians in evidence based treatments serving as the previous Clinical Director of OCD Institute for Children and Adolescents (ODCI Jr.) at McLean Hospital for several years.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder and depression with ERP, ACT and CBT. I honed my expertise in treating severe OCD and training clinicians in evidence based treatments serving as the previous Clinical Director of OCD Institute for Children and Adolescents (ODCI Jr.) at McLean Hospital for several years.
(617) 398-0052 View (617) 398-0052
Photo of Kimberly Gendron-Finnegan, Counselor, MS, LMHC, LCMHC
Kimberly Gendron-Finnegan
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LCMHC
Salem, NH 03079
Welcome! I believe therapy should be a supportive, empowering space—one where your individual goals, whether big or small, are at the heart of our work together. My practice is rooted in person-centered therapy, which means I see you as the expert in your own life, and I’m here to help you move toward the growth and healing you’re looking for. I work primarily with individual adults who are navigating a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting struggles, and life transitions.
Welcome! I believe therapy should be a supportive, empowering space—one where your individual goals, whether big or small, are at the heart of our work together. My practice is rooted in person-centered therapy, which means I see you as the expert in your own life, and I’m here to help you move toward the growth and healing you’re looking for. I work primarily with individual adults who are navigating a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting struggles, and life transitions.
(603) 932-6065 x36 View (603) 932-6065 x36
Photo of Sheila Bryan - Sheila Bryan, LICSW, Psychotherapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Sheila Bryan, LICSW, Psychotherapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Salem, NH 03079
I like to provide a warm and inviting atmosphere when you come to my office. Soft lighting, comfortable seating, with a nice scent filling the air and a relaxed feeling as if you were at home in your living room. I see people for individual and couples/marital therapy. I treat anxiety, depression, PTSD - particularly childhood related trauma, anger management, and life stage transitions such as high school/college graduation, retirement, and early exit from the workforce due to disability. My work hours are M-F from 12-8 pm, 7 pm is my last appointment time of the day. Please note, I do not see children under the age of 13.
I like to provide a warm and inviting atmosphere when you come to my office. Soft lighting, comfortable seating, with a nice scent filling the air and a relaxed feeling as if you were at home in your living room. I see people for individual and couples/marital therapy. I treat anxiety, depression, PTSD - particularly childhood related trauma, anger management, and life stage transitions such as high school/college graduation, retirement, and early exit from the workforce due to disability. My work hours are M-F from 12-8 pm, 7 pm is my last appointment time of the day. Please note, I do not see children under the age of 13.
(603) 785-2948 View (603) 785-2948
Photo of Jennifer Williams - Just For You Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Just For You Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Salem, NH 03079
TAKING NEW CLIENT. We work in the office and telehealth. We have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Informed, and many other types of therapeutic approaches. A therapist should never be one that judges you, makes you feel less than when you walked in, or lead from their own agenda. At Just For You Counseling, PLLC we welcome all clients, we strive to assist you based on your needs and meet you where you are at from day one. Therapy is your space to look at your deeper self, get inspired, and lay your challenges and concerns down in front of a non-judgmental therapist.
TAKING NEW CLIENT. We work in the office and telehealth. We have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Informed, and many other types of therapeutic approaches. A therapist should never be one that judges you, makes you feel less than when you walked in, or lead from their own agenda. At Just For You Counseling, PLLC we welcome all clients, we strive to assist you based on your needs and meet you where you are at from day one. Therapy is your space to look at your deeper self, get inspired, and lay your challenges and concerns down in front of a non-judgmental therapist.
(351) 333-4967 View (351) 333-4967
Photo of Daniel J Hannon, Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Daniel J Hannon
Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Salem, NH 03079
Are you struggling to figure out your place in the world? No one seems to understand? School is not working for you, you aren't getting along with your family, you and your spouse or ex-partner aren't on the same page when it comes to raising the children, or you aren't able to decide how to move forward in your life? There are no easy answers to these problems and sometimes it is helpful to have someone you can talk to who is there just for you.
Are you struggling to figure out your place in the world? No one seems to understand? School is not working for you, you aren't getting along with your family, you and your spouse or ex-partner aren't on the same page when it comes to raising the children, or you aren't able to decide how to move forward in your life? There are no easy answers to these problems and sometimes it is helpful to have someone you can talk to who is there just for you.
(844) 902-3179 View (844) 902-3179

See more therapy options for Salem

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Salem, NH

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Salem, NH who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
85% Depression
67% Self Esteem
65% Coping Skills
60% Trauma and PTSD
59% Stress
58% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% BlueCross and BlueShield
86% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
86% Optum

How Therapists in Salem, NH see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Salem?

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.