Therapists in Merchantville, NJ

Photo of Beverly Walton, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC, ICADC, SAP, CCS
Beverly Walton
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC, ICADC, SAP, CCS
2 Endorsed
Merchantville, NJ 08109
I am a compassionate and highly qualified therapist, with more than a decade of experience dedicated to aiding individuals on their path to recovery and overall well-being. My extensive qualifications include certifications in the realm of addiction and mental health counseling, such as LACDC, CCS, and ICADC, in addition to specialized expertise in Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) services and EMDR. I have honed my skills in providing essential support to first responders, including corrections officers, police, and fire/EMS personnel, recognizing the unique challenges they face in their demanding roles.
I am a compassionate and highly qualified therapist, with more than a decade of experience dedicated to aiding individuals on their path to recovery and overall well-being. My extensive qualifications include certifications in the realm of addiction and mental health counseling, such as LACDC, CCS, and ICADC, in addition to specialized expertise in Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) services and EMDR. I have honed my skills in providing essential support to first responders, including corrections officers, police, and fire/EMS personnel, recognizing the unique challenges they face in their demanding roles.
(609) 547-3442 View (609) 547-3442
Photo of Maria Gregorio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFA
Maria Gregorio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFA
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I am a licensed therapist with more than two decades of experience providing counseling, therapy and consultation to people struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss. I help people develop confidence, identify strategies for coping, and develop inner strength. My expertise is in childhood trauma and complex PTSD. My practice is founded on psychodynamic, relational, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) treatments. As an Asian woman of color, immigrant citizen, I have a holistic perspective of how race, culture, gender, economic history and systematic oppression impacts mental health and wellness.
I am a licensed therapist with more than two decades of experience providing counseling, therapy and consultation to people struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss. I help people develop confidence, identify strategies for coping, and develop inner strength. My expertise is in childhood trauma and complex PTSD. My practice is founded on psychodynamic, relational, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) treatments. As an Asian woman of color, immigrant citizen, I have a holistic perspective of how race, culture, gender, economic history and systematic oppression impacts mental health and wellness.
(347) 580-5894 View (347) 580-5894
Photo of Don Harris, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Don Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Even strong men struggle. And most times, we struggle in silence and suffer alone because we have not been taught the language of emotions. So we lock them away. We bury them under work, under anger, under addictions. We retreat into our caves—isolated and disconnected—hoping that time alone will heal us. But it doesn’t. In the dark, that pain festers. It erodes our confidence. It destroys relationships. Wounds our wives and partners. It teaches our sons to hide their emotions and our daughters to normalize absence and neglect. And that pathology becomes our legacy.
Even strong men struggle. And most times, we struggle in silence and suffer alone because we have not been taught the language of emotions. So we lock them away. We bury them under work, under anger, under addictions. We retreat into our caves—isolated and disconnected—hoping that time alone will heal us. But it doesn’t. In the dark, that pain festers. It erodes our confidence. It destroys relationships. Wounds our wives and partners. It teaches our sons to hide their emotions and our daughters to normalize absence and neglect. And that pathology becomes our legacy.
(856) 432-1029 View (856) 432-1029
Photo of Miguelina Fernandez, Pastoral Counselor
Miguelina Fernandez
Pastoral Counselor
Online Only
Are you navigating deep emotional pain, betrayal, or identity issues? I work with individuals who feel stuck in patterns of shame, grief, or family dysfunction—especially those seeking to understand their experiences through the lens of biblical truth. Whether you're a new believer, returning to faith, or simply longing for emotional healing grounded in God’s Word, you are welcome here.
Are you navigating deep emotional pain, betrayal, or identity issues? I work with individuals who feel stuck in patterns of shame, grief, or family dysfunction—especially those seeking to understand their experiences through the lens of biblical truth. Whether you're a new believer, returning to faith, or simply longing for emotional healing grounded in God’s Word, you are welcome here.
(856) 280-9540 View (856) 280-9540
Photo of Judyann McCarthy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSSW
Judyann McCarthy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSSW
Merchantville, NJ 08109
I have close to 30 years of experience as a therapist, clinical supervisor and social worker. After all of these years, I remain 100% motivated in assisting my clients with getting them to where they want to be their in lives. I have had a very interesting and diverse career serving families, adolescents/children and couples in various settings. My extensive professional experience, training, and skill sets help my clients achieve their treatment goals which leads them to having healthier and happier lives. Also, I was previously in the military and love working with that population and their families.
I have close to 30 years of experience as a therapist, clinical supervisor and social worker. After all of these years, I remain 100% motivated in assisting my clients with getting them to where they want to be their in lives. I have had a very interesting and diverse career serving families, adolescents/children and couples in various settings. My extensive professional experience, training, and skill sets help my clients achieve their treatment goals which leads them to having healthier and happier lives. Also, I was previously in the military and love working with that population and their families.
(856) 644-3793 View (856) 644-3793
Photo of Jack Colyar, Psychologist, PhD, MFT
Jack Colyar
Psychologist, PhD, MFT
Online Only
I am a Licensed Psychologist (NJ & PA) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (NJ & FL), Certified Telemental Health Provider (FL) with over 35 years of experience providing mental health services to diverse individuals and families. My expertise includes treating major psychiatric disorders using supportive and empowering approaches. I assist clients with coping skills for grief, anxiety, and mood disorders, and focus on communication, conflict resolution, and parenting in family therapy. I also counsel professionals on workplace challenges, confidence, communication, and work-life balance to thrive in organizational settings.
I am a Licensed Psychologist (NJ & PA) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (NJ & FL), Certified Telemental Health Provider (FL) with over 35 years of experience providing mental health services to diverse individuals and families. My expertise includes treating major psychiatric disorders using supportive and empowering approaches. I assist clients with coping skills for grief, anxiety, and mood disorders, and focus on communication, conflict resolution, and parenting in family therapy. I also counsel professionals on workplace challenges, confidence, communication, and work-life balance to thrive in organizational settings.
(904) 664-0093 View (904) 664-0093
Photo of Alethea Domico, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Alethea Domico
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Sometimes we just need rest—not to work to be heard or validated, but to be met exactly where we are, supported through our struggles and our emotions. Maybe you're an overachiever trying to carve out time for yourself. Maybe you're navigating a difficult relationship and searching for a place to turn. Or maybe you're facing ghosts of the past or present. If any of this resonates with you, keep reading.
Sometimes we just need rest—not to work to be heard or validated, but to be met exactly where we are, supported through our struggles and our emotions. Maybe you're an overachiever trying to carve out time for yourself. Maybe you're navigating a difficult relationship and searching for a place to turn. Or maybe you're facing ghosts of the past or present. If any of this resonates with you, keep reading.
(856) 212-0403 View (856) 212-0403
Photo of Rasheeda Nichole Dale, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Rasheeda Nichole Dale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am Rasheeda Dale, Licensed Clinical Social Worker who supports teens, adults, and families as they navigate life’s challenges and reconnect with their inner strength. With a background in trauma-informed care, mental health, and strength based modalities. I help clients move from feeling overwhelmed to feeling grounded, empowered, and capable of creating meaningful change. I offer a compassionate, faith-based approach to therapy that integrates Christian principles with evidence-based practices for holistic healing.
I am Rasheeda Dale, Licensed Clinical Social Worker who supports teens, adults, and families as they navigate life’s challenges and reconnect with their inner strength. With a background in trauma-informed care, mental health, and strength based modalities. I help clients move from feeling overwhelmed to feeling grounded, empowered, and capable of creating meaningful change. I offer a compassionate, faith-based approach to therapy that integrates Christian principles with evidence-based practices for holistic healing.
(856) 386-5187 View (856) 386-5187
Photo of Debbie Chisolm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Debbie Chisolm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Professional Counselor, and Certified Addiction Specialist with over 30 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults. My practice is rooted in wellness and guided by each client’s self-identified goals. I meet individuals where they are, offering compassionate therapy, evidence-based treatment, and personalized guidance to help them navigate life’s challenges and build meaningful change.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Professional Counselor, and Certified Addiction Specialist with over 30 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults. My practice is rooted in wellness and guided by each client’s self-identified goals. I meet individuals where they are, offering compassionate therapy, evidence-based treatment, and personalized guidance to help them navigate life’s challenges and build meaningful change.
(856) 420-3146 View (856) 420-3146

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lauren Emma-Burmylo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lauren Emma-Burmylo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Welcome! I’m Lauren. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, especially when life feels overwhelming or uncertain. I’m here to meet you with warmth & curiosity, helping you better understand yourself & build tools to manage emotions. I welcome clients from all backgrounds & strive to create a space where you can show up fully as yourself. My work is collaborative, compassionate, & grounded in evidence-based approaches, including CBT, DBT, ACT, the Daring Way model, & Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Welcome! I’m Lauren. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, especially when life feels overwhelming or uncertain. I’m here to meet you with warmth & curiosity, helping you better understand yourself & build tools to manage emotions. I welcome clients from all backgrounds & strive to create a space where you can show up fully as yourself. My work is collaborative, compassionate, & grounded in evidence-based approaches, including CBT, DBT, ACT, the Daring Way model, & Internal Family Systems (IFS).
(856) 242-8785 View (856) 242-8785
Photo of Tara Palma Vourazeris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
Tara Palma Vourazeris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
If you are hurting, feeling lost, going through difficult life transitions, experiencing mental health issues, among other things; change is possible! Therapy doesn’t have to feel scary or unattainable. It can be fun and exciting to discover yourself! Sometimes people just need a little help and motivation to realize that they are capable of reaching their upmost potential.
If you are hurting, feeling lost, going through difficult life transitions, experiencing mental health issues, among other things; change is possible! Therapy doesn’t have to feel scary or unattainable. It can be fun and exciting to discover yourself! Sometimes people just need a little help and motivation to realize that they are capable of reaching their upmost potential.
(856) 523-2295 View (856) 523-2295
Photo of Leah C Donato, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Leah C Donato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Congratulations on taking the first step- it’s often the hardest! We all seek happiness, self-gratification and inner peace; and at times we all need support getting there. I have been practicing as a clinician in the field for over 15 years. I’ve built my career on developing mental health programs and providing clinical counseling for the most vulnerable youth and adults. I have worked in various professional settings helping clients with issues of trauma, stress, anxiety, loss, grief, chronic illness, and relationship and interpersonal issues. Additionally, I have a passion for working with LGBTQ youth and their families.
Congratulations on taking the first step- it’s often the hardest! We all seek happiness, self-gratification and inner peace; and at times we all need support getting there. I have been practicing as a clinician in the field for over 15 years. I’ve built my career on developing mental health programs and providing clinical counseling for the most vulnerable youth and adults. I have worked in various professional settings helping clients with issues of trauma, stress, anxiety, loss, grief, chronic illness, and relationship and interpersonal issues. Additionally, I have a passion for working with LGBTQ youth and their families.
(609) 474-0067 View (609) 474-0067
Photo of Maren Alisa Masino, Counselor, MS
Maren Alisa Masino
Counselor, MS
Lambertville, NJ 08530
You may be someone who feels deeply and senses patterns in people and relationships that others often miss. Many of my clients are thoughtful, intuitive people who have done years of personal work yet still feel caught in cycles of anxiety, people-pleasing, relationship pain, or emotional overwhelm. Some carry the impact of trauma, betrayal, or childhood experiences that continue to shape how safe the world feels. Most are seeking something simple but powerful: to feel more at home in themselves, more free in their relationships, and less controlled by the past.
You may be someone who feels deeply and senses patterns in people and relationships that others often miss. Many of my clients are thoughtful, intuitive people who have done years of personal work yet still feel caught in cycles of anxiety, people-pleasing, relationship pain, or emotional overwhelm. Some carry the impact of trauma, betrayal, or childhood experiences that continue to shape how safe the world feels. Most are seeking something simple but powerful: to feel more at home in themselves, more free in their relationships, and less controlled by the past.
View
Photo of Nicole Kearns, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Nicole Kearns
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Columbus, NJ 08022
Life often gives us overwhelming challenges. Do you ever wish that you had a non-judgmental safe space to express your feelings? I can help you not just feel better, but get better at feeling your feelings so you can heal. While these challenges might seem extremely difficult, and hard to overcome, we can develop coping skills that will make them much more manageable. Wherever you are starting, it is important to treat yourself with acceptance and compassion.
Life often gives us overwhelming challenges. Do you ever wish that you had a non-judgmental safe space to express your feelings? I can help you not just feel better, but get better at feeling your feelings so you can heal. While these challenges might seem extremely difficult, and hard to overcome, we can develop coping skills that will make them much more manageable. Wherever you are starting, it is important to treat yourself with acceptance and compassion.
(609) 928-7783 View (609) 928-7783
Photo of Dr. Briana Gaines, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, CCTP
Dr. Briana Gaines
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, CCTP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to Brave Beginnings Therapy! As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I work from an integrative perspective with a solid foundation in humanism. In session, I utilize active listening skills, validation, and understanding to better understand clients' worldviews while also helping them to gain insight into their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that feels warm and brave, to help clients explore themselves and their circumstances, and where the therapeutic process can unfold. I also invite my clients to tell their stories as storytelling can be freeing, redemptive, and cathartic.
Welcome to Brave Beginnings Therapy! As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I work from an integrative perspective with a solid foundation in humanism. In session, I utilize active listening skills, validation, and understanding to better understand clients' worldviews while also helping them to gain insight into their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that feels warm and brave, to help clients explore themselves and their circumstances, and where the therapeutic process can unfold. I also invite my clients to tell their stories as storytelling can be freeing, redemptive, and cathartic.
(856) 702-2557 View (856) 702-2557
Photo of Louise Doucette - DBT at Village Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DO, DrNP, PhD, LCSW, LPC
DBT at Village Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DO, DrNP, PhD, LCSW, LPC
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
Welcome! Village Counseling Services provides comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) treatment by maintaining a small therapist-to-client ratio and by offering DBT skills training in small groups. DBT is a highly structured and evidence-based therapy which emphasizes working toward the life you want to live by integrating acceptance and change with cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and mindfulness. This approach is highly effective for those who have difficulty regulating intense emotions. We are now offering DBT in our new Cape May Court House location.
Welcome! Village Counseling Services provides comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) treatment by maintaining a small therapist-to-client ratio and by offering DBT skills training in small groups. DBT is a highly structured and evidence-based therapy which emphasizes working toward the life you want to live by integrating acceptance and change with cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and mindfulness. This approach is highly effective for those who have difficulty regulating intense emotions. We are now offering DBT in our new Cape May Court House location.
(609) 844-0452 x713 View (609) 844-0452 x713
Photo of Laura Roth - Laura Roth - Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Laura Roth - Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lambertville, NJ 08530
Not accepting new clients
I provide counseling services to children and adults with the goal of helping people work through concerns, reduce distress, and find satisfying resolutions. My counseling style is insight oriented, collaborative, and supportive, aiming towards recognizing and mobilizing personal strengths, reducing symptoms, and increasing coping skills.
I provide counseling services to children and adults with the goal of helping people work through concerns, reduce distress, and find satisfying resolutions. My counseling style is insight oriented, collaborative, and supportive, aiming towards recognizing and mobilizing personal strengths, reducing symptoms, and increasing coping skills.
(609) 546-4485 View (609) 546-4485
Photo of Michael L Raskind - Serenity Psychotherapy LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serenity Psychotherapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Getting to the root of your pain: learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events, takes a mindfulness that I will help you develop. I have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Trauma, and more. My approach is to work with my client’s strengths; help them develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works for them in obtaining their goals. I also have associates through my group Serenity Psychotherapy LLC to provide the best match for you. I
Getting to the root of your pain: learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events, takes a mindfulness that I will help you develop. I have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Trauma, and more. My approach is to work with my client’s strengths; help them develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works for them in obtaining their goals. I also have associates through my group Serenity Psychotherapy LLC to provide the best match for you. I
(856) 658-1248 View (856) 658-1248
Photo of Jenny DeLorme, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BCBA, LBA, ACS
Jenny DeLorme
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BCBA, LBA, ACS
West Deptford, NJ 08051
Waitlist for new clients
I am dually licensed as a Professional Counselor (LPC) and Behavior Analyst (LBA) with over 12 years of experience in hospitals, schools, and clinics. My passion lies in supporting neurodivergent children, teens, and young adults as they navigate their world, manage emotions, and build meaningful connections. I also support parents in navigating behavioral challenges that may be impacting their daily lives.
I am dually licensed as a Professional Counselor (LPC) and Behavior Analyst (LBA) with over 12 years of experience in hospitals, schools, and clinics. My passion lies in supporting neurodivergent children, teens, and young adults as they navigate their world, manage emotions, and build meaningful connections. I also support parents in navigating behavioral challenges that may be impacting their daily lives.
(856) 924-6692 View (856) 924-6692
Photo of Jennifer M Owens, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, NCC
Jennifer M Owens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, NCC
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life can feel like a rollercoaster ride you never stood in line for. One moment you’re managing, and the next everything feels unfamiliar. You may feel overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or unsure of what you’re feeling and what to do with it. These moments can leave you stuck in survival mode functioning on the outside, but drained, anxious, or numb on the inside. I specialize in helping individuals make sense of their emotions, reconnect with their inner strength, and find alignment again.
Life can feel like a rollercoaster ride you never stood in line for. One moment you’re managing, and the next everything feels unfamiliar. You may feel overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or unsure of what you’re feeling and what to do with it. These moments can leave you stuck in survival mode functioning on the outside, but drained, anxious, or numb on the inside. I specialize in helping individuals make sense of their emotions, reconnect with their inner strength, and find alignment again.
(856) 733-4809 View (856) 733-4809

See more therapy options for Merchantville

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Merchantville, NJ

< 10

Therapists in Merchantville, NJ who prioritize treating:

89% Depression
89% Self Esteem
78% Relationship Issues
78% Addiction
78% Stress
67% Anxiety
67% Grief

Average years in practice

27 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
50% Cigna and Evernorth
50% Optum

How Therapists in Merchantville, NJ see their clients

67% Online Only
33% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Merchantville?

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.