Therapists in Forest Hills, NY

Photo of Lisa M Hoffman, Psychologist, PhD
Lisa M Hoffman
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe that therapy should be both a comforting yet challenging experience for individuals. This type of environment is essential for individuals to feel both secure enough and able to tackle major life stressors. A meaningful, genuine therapeutic experience is what I strive to provide for my patients, as well as a safe place where you will be treated with respect regardless of your difficulties.
I believe that therapy should be both a comforting yet challenging experience for individuals. This type of environment is essential for individuals to feel both secure enough and able to tackle major life stressors. A meaningful, genuine therapeutic experience is what I strive to provide for my patients, as well as a safe place where you will be treated with respect regardless of your difficulties.
(917) 791-3237 View (917) 791-3237
Photo of Helena DeLuca, Psychologist, PsyD
Helena DeLuca
Psychologist, PsyD
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Welcome to my practice. I strive to create a safe and relaxed environment for clients to comfortably explore issues they are experiencing. The goal of therapy is to gain clearer insight into how your thoughts and feelings influence your behavior. Some of the most common treatment issues I encounter include anxiety, depression, relationship, family, career issues and life transitions. Through consistent sessions, you will discover your strengths, develop potentials and ultimately live a more fulfilling life.
Welcome to my practice. I strive to create a safe and relaxed environment for clients to comfortably explore issues they are experiencing. The goal of therapy is to gain clearer insight into how your thoughts and feelings influence your behavior. Some of the most common treatment issues I encounter include anxiety, depression, relationship, family, career issues and life transitions. Through consistent sessions, you will discover your strengths, develop potentials and ultimately live a more fulfilling life.
(718) 215-9681 View (718) 215-9681
Nikki Abbadessa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Forest Hills, NY 11375
I have a warm, relational style. Although together we will explore influences from the past, we will address your concerns and find solutions to real life problems that you are experiencing now. Research indicates that healing in therapy is connected to the relationship with client/ therapist. I create a safe and warm environment so you will be able to freely explore your thoughts and feelings. An exploration of what aspects of self and life that can be changed and ones that we can develop acceptance with if we cannot change them. I love my work and enjoy supporting others. My practice is rooted in diversity and inclusion
I have a warm, relational style. Although together we will explore influences from the past, we will address your concerns and find solutions to real life problems that you are experiencing now. Research indicates that healing in therapy is connected to the relationship with client/ therapist. I create a safe and warm environment so you will be able to freely explore your thoughts and feelings. An exploration of what aspects of self and life that can be changed and ones that we can develop acceptance with if we cannot change them. I love my work and enjoy supporting others. My practice is rooted in diversity and inclusion
(646) 762-1140 View (646) 762-1140
Photo of Alejandra Espinal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Alejandra Espinal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Alejandra Espinal is a bilingual (Spanish) therapist at Wellness Psychotherapy Services. Alejandra employs a systemic perspective in her therapeutic practice, emphasizing the significance of cultural contexts, systemic influences, and interpersonal relationships that contribute to individuals' challenges. She is committed to establishing a therapeutic atmosphere that is non-judgmental, warm, and supportive, characterized by empathy, collaboration, and authenticity. Alejandra aims to assist clients in recognizing their inherent resilience and strengths while equipping them with effective coping strategies.
Alejandra Espinal is a bilingual (Spanish) therapist at Wellness Psychotherapy Services. Alejandra employs a systemic perspective in her therapeutic practice, emphasizing the significance of cultural contexts, systemic influences, and interpersonal relationships that contribute to individuals' challenges. She is committed to establishing a therapeutic atmosphere that is non-judgmental, warm, and supportive, characterized by empathy, collaboration, and authenticity. Alejandra aims to assist clients in recognizing their inherent resilience and strengths while equipping them with effective coping strategies.
(929) 323-2671 View (929) 323-2671
Photo of Michael Levi, MHC-LP
Michael Levi
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal client feels stuck in survival mode. They may struggle with anxiety, emotional numbness, overthinking, or patterns in relationships that trace back to earlier experiences. They often appear high-functioning but feel overwhelmed internally, constantly bracing for something to go wrong. Triggers feel bigger than they “should,” and rest rarely feels restful. They want to understand why their nervous system reacts so strongly and learn how to move through life feeling steadier, more present, and less shaped by the past.
My ideal client feels stuck in survival mode. They may struggle with anxiety, emotional numbness, overthinking, or patterns in relationships that trace back to earlier experiences. They often appear high-functioning but feel overwhelmed internally, constantly bracing for something to go wrong. Triggers feel bigger than they “should,” and rest rarely feels restful. They want to understand why their nervous system reacts so strongly and learn how to move through life feeling steadier, more present, and less shaped by the past.
(646) 466-7687 View (646) 466-7687
Photo of Ilysa Davidson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ilysa Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Are you experiencing a life transition or difficulty managing day to day stressors? Are you looking to work through your emotions in a productive, positive, affirming manner that makes you feel stronger? Are you looking to strengthen your relationships with others and to better understand yourself? In addition to psychotherapy, I am also available for psychotherapy supervision and consultation to other clinicians.
Are you experiencing a life transition or difficulty managing day to day stressors? Are you looking to work through your emotions in a productive, positive, affirming manner that makes you feel stronger? Are you looking to strengthen your relationships with others and to better understand yourself? In addition to psychotherapy, I am also available for psychotherapy supervision and consultation to other clinicians.
(929) 284-7887 View (929) 284-7887
Photo of Dr. Nicole Pison, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Nicole Pison
Psychologist, PhD
20 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Dr Nikki Pison. I'm a licensed psychologist who focuses on helping clients experience greater fulfillment in life. I offer a supportive, collaborative space where we can look at the challenges you’re facing and find the patterns that may be holding you back. Together, we’ll build practical skills to help you feel better and develop new ways of relating to your thoughts and emotions. You don’t have to navigate this alone. I’ll be here to guide and support you throughout.
Hi, I'm Dr Nikki Pison. I'm a licensed psychologist who focuses on helping clients experience greater fulfillment in life. I offer a supportive, collaborative space where we can look at the challenges you’re facing and find the patterns that may be holding you back. Together, we’ll build practical skills to help you feel better and develop new ways of relating to your thoughts and emotions. You don’t have to navigate this alone. I’ll be here to guide and support you throughout.
(845) 622-7885 View (845) 622-7885
Photo of Keisha Sando, Counselor, LMHC
Keisha Sando
Counselor, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I enjoy helping people discover their purpose and find joy and peace in their lives. I’m passionate about supporting individuals managing depression, anxiety, and the impact of past experiences, especially when rebuilding self-confidence. I truly enjoy seeing the transformation in my clients. My welcoming and understanding approach helps people feel relaxed, and I focus on shifting negative thinking patterns into more positive, empowering ones to help clients feel better.
I enjoy helping people discover their purpose and find joy and peace in their lives. I’m passionate about supporting individuals managing depression, anxiety, and the impact of past experiences, especially when rebuilding self-confidence. I truly enjoy seeing the transformation in my clients. My welcoming and understanding approach helps people feel relaxed, and I focus on shifting negative thinking patterns into more positive, empowering ones to help clients feel better.
(929) 717-3804 View (929) 717-3804
Photo of Yilin Chen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Yilin Chen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Yilin Chen, LCSW, is a dedicated therapist at LifeStance Health, providing compassionate and evidence-based mental health care to individuals and families across New York. She works with children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, helping clients navigate life’s challenges with practical skills and emotional support. Yilin specializes in treating anxiety, ADHD, and depression, guiding individuals toward greater self-awareness and resilience. Yilin is particularly passionate about supporting clients through major life transitions, including midlife changes, later-life adjustments, and managing medical conditions.
Yilin Chen, LCSW, is a dedicated therapist at LifeStance Health, providing compassionate and evidence-based mental health care to individuals and families across New York. She works with children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, helping clients navigate life’s challenges with practical skills and emotional support. Yilin specializes in treating anxiety, ADHD, and depression, guiding individuals toward greater self-awareness and resilience. Yilin is particularly passionate about supporting clients through major life transitions, including midlife changes, later-life adjustments, and managing medical conditions.
(347) 580-6569 View (347) 580-6569
Photo of Marie Di Benedetto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR
Marie Di Benedetto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Shopping for a therapist is not as easy as shopping for a dress or a pair of pants. You need to find a therapist that makes you feel emotionally safe and able to share what you’re thinking and feeling. I’m that person. I am a seasoned clinician that is here to help make changes in your life that will make you thrive and be happy. Come for a consultation session and see if you feel emotionally safe enough to engage in the therapeutic process.
Shopping for a therapist is not as easy as shopping for a dress or a pair of pants. You need to find a therapist that makes you feel emotionally safe and able to share what you’re thinking and feeling. I’m that person. I am a seasoned clinician that is here to help make changes in your life that will make you thrive and be happy. Come for a consultation session and see if you feel emotionally safe enough to engage in the therapeutic process.
(347) 594-5528 View (347) 594-5528
Photo of Tracy M Norris - Sirron Psychodynamic Wellness, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW-R
Sirron Psychodynamic Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW-R
Online Only
I earned my Masters of Social Work (M.S.W.) from the Columbia University School of Social Work at Columbia University, and my Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) from the Rutgers University School of Social Work. I am currently undergoing advanced training at the National Institute for the Psychotherapies (NIP), a progressive psychoanalytic training institute. I have worked in community mental health centers, inpatient psychiatric units, and jails. I have extensive experience with trauma, depression, LGBTQIA+, race/cultural identity, anxiety, couples, CPTSD, substance use, life transitions, codependency, and personality disorders.
I earned my Masters of Social Work (M.S.W.) from the Columbia University School of Social Work at Columbia University, and my Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) from the Rutgers University School of Social Work. I am currently undergoing advanced training at the National Institute for the Psychotherapies (NIP), a progressive psychoanalytic training institute. I have worked in community mental health centers, inpatient psychiatric units, and jails. I have extensive experience with trauma, depression, LGBTQIA+, race/cultural identity, anxiety, couples, CPTSD, substance use, life transitions, codependency, and personality disorders.
(347) 652-1969 View (347) 652-1969
Photo of Olga Fridman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Olga Fridman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Waitlist for new clients
As a psychotherapist, I am passionate about my work and consider myself privileged to assist individuals on their journey towards self-discovery and healing. I have over two decades of experience working with individuals who present with distressing emotions such as anxiety and depression, loss/grief, self-defeating patterns, and relationship difficulties. Over time, with consistent and collaborative work in therapy, my patients develop self-reflection, which impacts an individual's ability to make informed, positive, and lasting changes. I consider an individual’s cultural background, identity, and specific concerns.
As a psychotherapist, I am passionate about my work and consider myself privileged to assist individuals on their journey towards self-discovery and healing. I have over two decades of experience working with individuals who present with distressing emotions such as anxiety and depression, loss/grief, self-defeating patterns, and relationship difficulties. Over time, with consistent and collaborative work in therapy, my patients develop self-reflection, which impacts an individual's ability to make informed, positive, and lasting changes. I consider an individual’s cultural background, identity, and specific concerns.
(929) 577-3127 View (929) 577-3127
Photo of Olusola Togun-Butler - Butterfly Counseling Services, LCSW, P.C., Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LISW-S
Butterfly Counseling Services, LCSW, P.C.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LISW-S
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to Butterfly Counseling Services! A therapeutic experience in which you begin, believe, and become. I am a firm believer that all people should have access to therapy and therapy should be affordable. I provide virtual (live video) therapy sessions. The therapeutic experience takes place in a HIPAA-compliant, safe environment that is empathetic, non-judgmental, culturally sensitive, and competent. I have been conducting therapy for over 15 years with a diverse client population. I love working with my clients to help them achieve their therapeutic goals.
Welcome to Butterfly Counseling Services! A therapeutic experience in which you begin, believe, and become. I am a firm believer that all people should have access to therapy and therapy should be affordable. I provide virtual (live video) therapy sessions. The therapeutic experience takes place in a HIPAA-compliant, safe environment that is empathetic, non-judgmental, culturally sensitive, and competent. I have been conducting therapy for over 15 years with a diverse client population. I love working with my clients to help them achieve their therapeutic goals.
(917) 540-3183 View (917) 540-3183
Photo of Jean Carlos Osorio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDBT
Jean Carlos Osorio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDBT
3 Endorsed
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Se habla Español. I am Hispanic Male Social Worker with over 14 years of experienced and the founder of Minds Together a Private group outpatient mental health clinics located in Forest Hills, Jackson Heights and Astoria, Queens. I pecialize in trauma/abuse and unresolved childhood issues My approach is based on a combination of theories from unresolved childhood traumas to the here and now approach. Client-center approach and empowered clients to make their own desicions in life. I utilize humor and strength perspective to creat client autonomy.
Se habla Español. I am Hispanic Male Social Worker with over 14 years of experienced and the founder of Minds Together a Private group outpatient mental health clinics located in Forest Hills, Jackson Heights and Astoria, Queens. I pecialize in trauma/abuse and unresolved childhood issues My approach is based on a combination of theories from unresolved childhood traumas to the here and now approach. Client-center approach and empowered clients to make their own desicions in life. I utilize humor and strength perspective to creat client autonomy.
(347) 934-8209 View (347) 934-8209
Photo of Lynette Miller-Volel - Lynette Miller-Volel, LCSW Anxiety + OCD Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lynette Miller-Volel, LCSW Anxiety + OCD Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you experience unwanted thoughts and fears that are distressing? Life can feel overwhelming when intrusive thoughts and doubts take over. It can feel like your mind is betraying you. I specialize in helping ambitious professionals who feel stuck in cycles of worry to rebuild trust in themselves, so they can feel more in control of their life and reconnect with what brings them the most fulfillment. If you’re struggling with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), persistent worries, or behaviors you feel like you have to do to feel okay, we’ll work together to help you find relief and lasting change.
Do you experience unwanted thoughts and fears that are distressing? Life can feel overwhelming when intrusive thoughts and doubts take over. It can feel like your mind is betraying you. I specialize in helping ambitious professionals who feel stuck in cycles of worry to rebuild trust in themselves, so they can feel more in control of their life and reconnect with what brings them the most fulfillment. If you’re struggling with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), persistent worries, or behaviors you feel like you have to do to feel okay, we’ll work together to help you find relief and lasting change.
(516) 518-2561 View (516) 518-2561
Photo of Augustin John Lianzo, Counselor, LMHC
Augustin John Lianzo
Counselor, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I have experience working in private group practices, hospitals, and a community mental health clinic. Along the way in my clinical career, I honed a specialty for working with young adults of all backgrounds, particularly those struggling with finding their place in the world or appreciating themselves more. Identity, purpose, and meaning are pillars of existence that I believe all people deserve to solidify and manifest in positive ways. Many young people struggle from internal or external factors that confuse or weigh down their endeavor to find their happy life.
I have experience working in private group practices, hospitals, and a community mental health clinic. Along the way in my clinical career, I honed a specialty for working with young adults of all backgrounds, particularly those struggling with finding their place in the world or appreciating themselves more. Identity, purpose, and meaning are pillars of existence that I believe all people deserve to solidify and manifest in positive ways. Many young people struggle from internal or external factors that confuse or weigh down their endeavor to find their happy life.
(347) 431-0063 View (347) 431-0063
Photo of Hena Ali-Bernard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hena Ali-Bernard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Life can be overwhelming, often leading to struggles with confidence, mood, and navigating personal or professional challenges. If you’re feeling stuck or uncertain, finding a therapist you can trust is essential for healing. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space where we can address your unique needs, whether you’re seeking relief from anxiety, improving self-esteem, or working through life transitions. Together, we’ll form a partnership, with you as the expert in your own life. My role is to support your growth, helping you use your strengths and insights to achieve your goals and thrive.
Life can be overwhelming, often leading to struggles with confidence, mood, and navigating personal or professional challenges. If you’re feeling stuck or uncertain, finding a therapist you can trust is essential for healing. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space where we can address your unique needs, whether you’re seeking relief from anxiety, improving self-esteem, or working through life transitions. Together, we’ll form a partnership, with you as the expert in your own life. My role is to support your growth, helping you use your strengths and insights to achieve your goals and thrive.
(646) 798-5259 View (646) 798-5259
Photo of Ruthie Westmeier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ruthie Westmeier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Forest Hills, NY 11375
I am a Christian Counselor. I believe that psychotherapy is more effective when Christ is central to the process. Since God created the child, adolescent and his/her parents, He is the one with the wisdom to bring healing and restoration to the family. Though I have specialized with children and adolescents many adults have requested to see me and now my practice is expanding to include adults. Christian Counseling unites Biblical values with the power of the Holy Spirit, together with the knowledge base of psychology and social work to bring emotional and mental health healing to people.
I am a Christian Counselor. I believe that psychotherapy is more effective when Christ is central to the process. Since God created the child, adolescent and his/her parents, He is the one with the wisdom to bring healing and restoration to the family. Though I have specialized with children and adolescents many adults have requested to see me and now my practice is expanding to include adults. Christian Counseling unites Biblical values with the power of the Holy Spirit, together with the knowledge base of psychology and social work to bring emotional and mental health healing to people.
(718) 569-8897 View (718) 569-8897
Photo of Donna Roca, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Donna Roca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Online Only
Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression? Trying to address challenges with your self-esteem or sense of identity? Seeking support and hoping to more effectively utilize coping strategies that will help in your daily life? You could benefit from an outlet to explore your feelings and relationships. During sessions, we will work together and expand your skills to navigate relationships and improve your overall mental health and well-being.
Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression? Trying to address challenges with your self-esteem or sense of identity? Seeking support and hoping to more effectively utilize coping strategies that will help in your daily life? You could benefit from an outlet to explore your feelings and relationships. During sessions, we will work together and expand your skills to navigate relationships and improve your overall mental health and well-being.
(347) 234-5587 View (347) 234-5587
Photo of Malika Latchman, Counselor, LMHC
Malika Latchman
Counselor, LMHC
7 Endorsed
Online Only
If you live with anxiety and it shows up loudest in your relationships you know how exhausting it is to feel so much and say so little. You learned that being dependable meant being loved. So you became low-maintenance, capable, easy. Now you're the one people call but rarely the one who gets held. In dating, you shrink to keep the peace. With family, conversations leave you feeling small. You're functioning but intimacy feels fragile. I help Black women break cycles of attachment anxiety and people-pleasing so connection feels steadier.
If you live with anxiety and it shows up loudest in your relationships you know how exhausting it is to feel so much and say so little. You learned that being dependable meant being loved. So you became low-maintenance, capable, easy. Now you're the one people call but rarely the one who gets held. In dating, you shrink to keep the peace. With family, conversations leave you feeling small. You're functioning but intimacy feels fragile. I help Black women break cycles of attachment anxiety and people-pleasing so connection feels steadier.
(917) 451-5930 View (917) 451-5930

See more therapy options for Forest Hills

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Forest Hills, NY

300+

Average cost per session

$153

Therapists in Forest Hills, NY who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
92% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
77% Self Esteem
69% Trauma and PTSD
67% Stress
64% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
79% Cigna and Evernorth
68% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Forest Hills, NY see their clients

53% Online Only
47% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Forest Hills?

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.