Therapists in Hamilton, NY

Photo of Amy Mlasgar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Amy Mlasgar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Online Only
My name is Amy Mlasgar. I am a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-R). I provide short and long term psychotherapy in a safe therapeutic setting.
My name is Amy Mlasgar. I am a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-R). I provide short and long term psychotherapy in a safe therapeutic setting.
(315) 366-8249 View (315) 366-8249
Photo of Ashley Ludwinski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ashley Ludwinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am a trauma-informed provider who supports individuals and couples navigating grief/loss, trauma, conflict, and transition. I am affirming of all members of the LGBTQ+ community and am passionate about supporting folks identifying as neurodiverse (eg. autistic, AuDH, diagnosed with ADHD, etc ). Clients I support often struggle with the impact of stories about who they "should be", wondering, "Do I matter?" or shedding pieces of themselves to create a sense of belonging. Understanding our stories is one of the bravest things we can do. Together we can explore yours, identify your strengths and values, and pursue healing and growth.
I am a trauma-informed provider who supports individuals and couples navigating grief/loss, trauma, conflict, and transition. I am affirming of all members of the LGBTQ+ community and am passionate about supporting folks identifying as neurodiverse (eg. autistic, AuDH, diagnosed with ADHD, etc ). Clients I support often struggle with the impact of stories about who they "should be", wondering, "Do I matter?" or shedding pieces of themselves to create a sense of belonging. Understanding our stories is one of the bravest things we can do. Together we can explore yours, identify your strengths and values, and pursue healing and growth.
(332) 244-0328 View (332) 244-0328
Photo of Paige Stone - Next Chapter Mental Health Counseling, PLLC, Counselor, LMHC-D
Next Chapter Mental Health Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC-D
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life transitions can be challenging. Together we will navigate your life's challenges and find a path to healing and growth. Our goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, develop coping skills, and ultimately, thrive. Whether you’re facing a significant life change or seeking support for emotional well-being, we're here to be a sounding board as you go through your life experiences.
Life transitions can be challenging. Together we will navigate your life's challenges and find a path to healing and growth. Our goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, develop coping skills, and ultimately, thrive. Whether you’re facing a significant life change or seeking support for emotional well-being, we're here to be a sounding board as you go through your life experiences.
(607) 325-8537 View (607) 325-8537
Photo of Lena M DeLeo, Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Lena M DeLeo
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi there! I’m so glad you found my page. I look forward to helping you navigate whatever might currently be keeping you from feeling fulfilled. Together with my clients, I use a person-centered, strength-based approach to identify and practice coping skills and expand emotional awareness and resilience. Life is stressful and full of difficult experiences, and through art therapy directives as well as talk therapy techniques, I partner with my clients to help them identify what it is that they would like to change and make a plan of action.
Hi there! I’m so glad you found my page. I look forward to helping you navigate whatever might currently be keeping you from feeling fulfilled. Together with my clients, I use a person-centered, strength-based approach to identify and practice coping skills and expand emotional awareness and resilience. Life is stressful and full of difficult experiences, and through art therapy directives as well as talk therapy techniques, I partner with my clients to help them identify what it is that they would like to change and make a plan of action.
(680) 200-9712 View (680) 200-9712
Photo of Sarah Law, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sarah Law
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
The relationship between a Client and their Therapist is a partnership based on trust, respect and the continued belief that people can make meaningful and lasting change in their lives. I approach my practice with positivity and humor, with an understanding that we are all doing our best to feel and do better. I am seeking clients that are motivated and ready to put steps into action. I aim to act as a coach and guide as you embark on the changes you hope to see in your life, whether it be addressing feelings of depression and anxiety, or by developing behaviors that support your continued growth and recovery.
The relationship between a Client and their Therapist is a partnership based on trust, respect and the continued belief that people can make meaningful and lasting change in their lives. I approach my practice with positivity and humor, with an understanding that we are all doing our best to feel and do better. I am seeking clients that are motivated and ready to put steps into action. I aim to act as a coach and guide as you embark on the changes you hope to see in your life, whether it be addressing feelings of depression and anxiety, or by developing behaviors that support your continued growth and recovery.
(315) 220-9982 View (315) 220-9982
Photo of Emily Ganshaw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Emily Ganshaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a therapist, I am deeply committed to helping clients navigate life’s challenges in a way that honors their unique experiences. I have experience working with both adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and addiction. I am dedicated to helping individuals understand themselves better, while developing skills to tackle life’s challenges. My approach is grounded in the belief that every person has inherent strengths, and my goal is to empower individuals to recognize and utilize those strengths to obtain their goals.
As a therapist, I am deeply committed to helping clients navigate life’s challenges in a way that honors their unique experiences. I have experience working with both adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and addiction. I am dedicated to helping individuals understand themselves better, while developing skills to tackle life’s challenges. My approach is grounded in the belief that every person has inherent strengths, and my goal is to empower individuals to recognize and utilize those strengths to obtain their goals.
(516) 842-9497 View (516) 842-9497
Photo of Jim Goldstein, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MAC, CASAC, LMFT
Jim Goldstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MAC, CASAC, LMFT
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I have over 40 years of experience in the counseling field and I bring an integrated approach to my work that incorporates the unique experience of the client/family matched with the appropriate treatment plan and approaches in a collaborative manner. My specialties are families, couples, children and adolescents, and addiction issues. I work with blended families, grandparents raising grandchildren and am trained in treatment of anxiety and depression through CBT. I am licensed and credentialed as a Marriage and Family Therapist and Addictions Counselor
I have over 40 years of experience in the counseling field and I bring an integrated approach to my work that incorporates the unique experience of the client/family matched with the appropriate treatment plan and approaches in a collaborative manner. My specialties are families, couples, children and adolescents, and addiction issues. I work with blended families, grandparents raising grandchildren and am trained in treatment of anxiety and depression through CBT. I am licensed and credentialed as a Marriage and Family Therapist and Addictions Counselor
(315) 801-2190 View (315) 801-2190
Photo of Elizabeth (Betty Ann) Liddell - Human Nature Counseling, Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Human Nature Counseling
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Serves Area
Human Nature provides child, adolescent, and family counseling in a natural setting at Trinity Glen Farm.
Human Nature provides child, adolescent, and family counseling in a natural setting at Trinity Glen Farm.
(315) 562-0369 View (315) 562-0369
Photo of Kelsey Mooney, Counselor, LMHC, CASAC
Kelsey Mooney
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I offer a fully telehealth practice designed to support working professionals, college students, faculty & staff. With over 10 years of experience as a trauma-informed therapist, I provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and LGBTQIA+ affirming space where you can feel seen and supported. My work focuses on helping individuals navigate mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ issues, including exploring sexuality and gender identity. Many of my clients are also dealing with life transitions, relationship challenges, and self-esteem concerns.
I offer a fully telehealth practice designed to support working professionals, college students, faculty & staff. With over 10 years of experience as a trauma-informed therapist, I provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and LGBTQIA+ affirming space where you can feel seen and supported. My work focuses on helping individuals navigate mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ issues, including exploring sexuality and gender identity. Many of my clients are also dealing with life transitions, relationship challenges, and self-esteem concerns.
(315) 740-1194 View (315) 740-1194
Photo of Rachael Gibney, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Rachael Gibney
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
This work is for couples who feel the pull toward something more. More depth, more intimacy, more aliveness. My clients are curious, emotionally intelligent, or aspiring to become so, and willing to explore one another’s inner worlds with presence, courage, and care. Therapy with me is experiential and relational, blending conversation, play, movement and guided reflection. As couples slow down, tune in, and truly feel one another again, desire, clarity and connection often reawaken naturally.
This work is for couples who feel the pull toward something more. More depth, more intimacy, more aliveness. My clients are curious, emotionally intelligent, or aspiring to become so, and willing to explore one another’s inner worlds with presence, courage, and care. Therapy with me is experiential and relational, blending conversation, play, movement and guided reflection. As couples slow down, tune in, and truly feel one another again, desire, clarity and connection often reawaken naturally.
(929) 810-1139 View (929) 810-1139

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Mitch Lisa - Dr. Mitch-Lisa Marriage/Couple Workshop Specialist, PsyD, MSW, Life, Coach
Dr. Mitch PsyD & Lisa Couples Relationship Life Coach, Specialize in Marriage/Couples, Communication, Alcohol, Infidelity, Narcissism & Parenting. We have 35 Years of Co-Leading our Workshops (Male/Female Perspective). Our Workshops are Not Traditional Counseling (We Don't Obsess about your Past). We Provide: Two Professionals that Specialize in the Treatment of Relationships and Communication. We are Opened: Days, Eve's & Weekends. These Workshops are Designed for a Rapid Recovery and are Powerful & Comprehensive. Our Marriage/Couples, Alcohol & Communication Workshops have an 85% Rate of Success when you Complete our Program.
Dr. Mitch PsyD & Lisa Couples Relationship Life Coach, Specialize in Marriage/Couples, Communication, Alcohol, Infidelity, Narcissism & Parenting. We have 35 Years of Co-Leading our Workshops (Male/Female Perspective). Our Workshops are Not Traditional Counseling (We Don't Obsess about your Past). We Provide: Two Professionals that Specialize in the Treatment of Relationships and Communication. We are Opened: Days, Eve's & Weekends. These Workshops are Designed for a Rapid Recovery and are Powerful & Comprehensive. Our Marriage/Couples, Alcohol & Communication Workshops have an 85% Rate of Success when you Complete our Program.
(315) 902-7675 View (315) 902-7675
Photo of Elizabeth E McCarthy, Mental Health Counselor, NCC, LMHC
Elizabeth E McCarthy
Mental Health Counselor, NCC, LMHC
Manlius, NY 13104
Accepting in-person clients in Manlius in January! As an experienced clinician, I am comfortable supporting clients with a variety of concerns. Working collaboratively, we will address and explore symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, overuse of alcohol, women's wellness, life transition, interpersonal relationship challenges, and family support needs. I work with adolescents and adults in a supportive environment, using a cognitive behavioral, solution-focused approach. Thank you for the opportunity to support you in creating the change and personal growth that you're seeking. I look forward to working with you.
Accepting in-person clients in Manlius in January! As an experienced clinician, I am comfortable supporting clients with a variety of concerns. Working collaboratively, we will address and explore symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, overuse of alcohol, women's wellness, life transition, interpersonal relationship challenges, and family support needs. I work with adolescents and adults in a supportive environment, using a cognitive behavioral, solution-focused approach. Thank you for the opportunity to support you in creating the change and personal growth that you're seeking. I look forward to working with you.
(315) 895-8014 View (315) 895-8014
Photo of Lynn Stormon, Psychologist, PhD
Lynn Stormon
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Cazenovia, NY 13035
I offer brief and long-term intensive psychodynamic psychotherapy to individuals struggling with anxiety and depression, family of origin issues, and identity, personality, attachment, and adjustment disorders. I help patients identify and work through the underlying and often hidden causes of self defeating behaviors, lack of fulfillment in love and sexual life, work inhibition, and chronic health problems. Patients find that greater self-understanding improves everyday functioning, relieves symptoms of emotional distress, and helps them have better relationships in their personal and professional lives.
I offer brief and long-term intensive psychodynamic psychotherapy to individuals struggling with anxiety and depression, family of origin issues, and identity, personality, attachment, and adjustment disorders. I help patients identify and work through the underlying and often hidden causes of self defeating behaviors, lack of fulfillment in love and sexual life, work inhibition, and chronic health problems. Patients find that greater self-understanding improves everyday functioning, relieves symptoms of emotional distress, and helps them have better relationships in their personal and professional lives.
(315) 314-2058 View (315) 314-2058
Photo of Jill Boyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Jill Boyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new clients: 1/13/2026 Anxiety and daily stressors can make the simplest parts of life feel overwhelming and heavy. From overthinking to a lapse in self-care, it can be exhausting to manage your day. But, you are not alone! My approach is grounded in empathy, validation, and practical strategies that empower you to build insight and manage your anxious thoughts and feelings - as well as your behavioral and emotional responses to them. Using evidence-based techniques, we will work as a team to uncover the root causes of your anxiety and develop the necessary skills needed to restore your life balance and peace of mind.
Accepting new clients: 1/13/2026 Anxiety and daily stressors can make the simplest parts of life feel overwhelming and heavy. From overthinking to a lapse in self-care, it can be exhausting to manage your day. But, you are not alone! My approach is grounded in empathy, validation, and practical strategies that empower you to build insight and manage your anxious thoughts and feelings - as well as your behavioral and emotional responses to them. Using evidence-based techniques, we will work as a team to uncover the root causes of your anxiety and develop the necessary skills needed to restore your life balance and peace of mind.
(315) 840-1465 View (315) 840-1465
Photo of Erin C Hayes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Erin C Hayes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
If you are a woman ready to tap into your inner strength and move in a new direction in life, I would be honored to walk alongside you on that journey. My name is Erin C. Hayes, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University (2003). My passion and mission are centered on empowering women of all ages to recognize their strengths, overcome challenges, and build the confidence they need to navigate the stressors of everyday life. I believe that every woman has the ability to create meaningful change in her life with the right support and tools.
If you are a woman ready to tap into your inner strength and move in a new direction in life, I would be honored to walk alongside you on that journey. My name is Erin C. Hayes, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University (2003). My passion and mission are centered on empowering women of all ages to recognize their strengths, overcome challenges, and build the confidence they need to navigate the stressors of everyday life. I believe that every woman has the ability to create meaningful change in her life with the right support and tools.
(631) 502-4021 View (631) 502-4021
Photo of Megan Nugent, Counselor, LMHC-D, CCPT
Megan Nugent
Counselor, LMHC-D, CCPT
5 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NY 13066
Seasoned trauma therapist and heart-centered human offering mind-body focused therapy and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I specialize in healing complex trauma, anxiety, attachment wounding, dissociation, and relational difficulties. My clients often come to me living in a state of fight or flight, experiencing overwhelming anxiety or a sense of stuckness that results in shame or unrelenting self-criticism. Often, they feel disconnected, trapped in a cycle of wanting to create change but feeling unable to make that happen. If this resonates with you, I hear you. I am confident I can help you move towards emotional healing.
Seasoned trauma therapist and heart-centered human offering mind-body focused therapy and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I specialize in healing complex trauma, anxiety, attachment wounding, dissociation, and relational difficulties. My clients often come to me living in a state of fight or flight, experiencing overwhelming anxiety or a sense of stuckness that results in shame or unrelenting self-criticism. Often, they feel disconnected, trapped in a cycle of wanting to create change but feeling unable to make that happen. If this resonates with you, I hear you. I am confident I can help you move towards emotional healing.
(315) 873-2778 View (315) 873-2778
Photo of Katherine C. Mackey - Katherine C. Mackey, Ph.D., Psychologist, PhD
Katherine C. Mackey, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
East Syracuse, NY 13057
Hello, I'm a licensed Psychologist and have been practicing for over 20 years. I tailor supportive therapy to each person emphasizing insight, understanding, as well as, changing thinking and modifying behavior for life improvement. I work with adults who are managing: stress, life changes, anger, grief, anxiety, worry, panic, depression, trauma, crisis events, relationship issues, or making life decisions. I use a mix of Telehealth and in- person sessions (most are in- person) with established clients. I am very happy to talk with you to see how I can be of help.
Hello, I'm a licensed Psychologist and have been practicing for over 20 years. I tailor supportive therapy to each person emphasizing insight, understanding, as well as, changing thinking and modifying behavior for life improvement. I work with adults who are managing: stress, life changes, anger, grief, anxiety, worry, panic, depression, trauma, crisis events, relationship issues, or making life decisions. I use a mix of Telehealth and in- person sessions (most are in- person) with established clients. I am very happy to talk with you to see how I can be of help.
(315) 314-4018 View (315) 314-4018
Photo of Russell Beebe, Counselor, LCMHC, CSAT
Russell Beebe
Counselor, LCMHC, CSAT
Online Only
Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) helping men struggling with sex addiction and porn addiction regain control and build healthier, more productive lives. When unwanted sexual behaviors feel hard to stop, it can be painful, discouraging, and damaging to relationships. Many men find themselves stuck despite a genuine desire to change. If you or someone you care about is struggling, I offer a free consultation to explore whether working together may be a good fit.
Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) helping men struggling with sex addiction and porn addiction regain control and build healthier, more productive lives. When unwanted sexual behaviors feel hard to stop, it can be painful, discouraging, and damaging to relationships. Many men find themselves stuck despite a genuine desire to change. If you or someone you care about is struggling, I offer a free consultation to explore whether working together may be a good fit.
(518) 662-3215 View (518) 662-3215
Photo of Barbara Goldsmith Fillips, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Barbara Goldsmith Fillips
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Whitesboro, NY 13492
Not accepting new clients
People seeking to become who they really are---that is, whole, balanced, resilient, contented---seek me out. I support kind, healthy, authentic relationship with all aspects of oneself because such relationship is key to kind, healthy, authentic relationships with others. It's also key to expressing ourselves most fully, both creatively and pragmatically. Whether working with individuals or couples, these principles apply. I try to make our work together as fun, co-creative, and as low in stress as possible. I intend for clients to leave therapy with personalized skills and skillful means for ongoing lifetime growth and resiliency.
People seeking to become who they really are---that is, whole, balanced, resilient, contented---seek me out. I support kind, healthy, authentic relationship with all aspects of oneself because such relationship is key to kind, healthy, authentic relationships with others. It's also key to expressing ourselves most fully, both creatively and pragmatically. Whether working with individuals or couples, these principles apply. I try to make our work together as fun, co-creative, and as low in stress as possible. I intend for clients to leave therapy with personalized skills and skillful means for ongoing lifetime growth and resiliency.
(315) 567-4701 View (315) 567-4701
Photo of Jeffrey Aulisi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jeffrey Aulisi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Utica, NY 13502
I believe that everyone has the strength within themselves to overcome obstacles in their lives, but sometimes need a safe place and an outside view to help them through this process. Everybody could use support as they handle life, and therefore I believe everybody deserves a space where they can feel comfortable to explore their emotions and express themselves. Through strength-based models and solution focused techniques I work to help people increase their self-awareness of the situations they are dealing with, and find what is in their control to improve themselves.
I believe that everyone has the strength within themselves to overcome obstacles in their lives, but sometimes need a safe place and an outside view to help them through this process. Everybody could use support as they handle life, and therefore I believe everybody deserves a space where they can feel comfortable to explore their emotions and express themselves. Through strength-based models and solution focused techniques I work to help people increase their self-awareness of the situations they are dealing with, and find what is in their control to improve themselves.
(315) 897-5375 View (315) 897-5375

See more therapy options for Hamilton

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Hamilton, NY

10+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Hamilton, NY who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
90% Trauma and PTSD
80% Relationship Issues
80% Depression
80% Grief
80% Family Conflict
80% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

63% Aetna
63% Cigna and Evernorth
38% Carelon Behavioral Health

How Therapists in Hamilton, NY see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

90% Female
10% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Hamilton?

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.