Therapists in West Brighton, Staten Island, NY

Patricia Dunphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
West Brighton, Staten Island, NY 10310
My name is Pat Dunphy and I'm a clinical therapist whom has been in the field for 25+ years. I graduated with a BA in Psychology and Juvenile Justice from West Virginia Wesleyan College in 1988. I went on to obtain my Master's in Social Work degree from New York University in 1992. I have experience working with children and adults in Mental Health outpatient settings and with children in school settings. I joined the Blue Skies Psychological Services in 2021 and provide services through the group practice.
My name is Pat Dunphy and I'm a clinical therapist whom has been in the field for 25+ years. I graduated with a BA in Psychology and Juvenile Justice from West Virginia Wesleyan College in 1988. I went on to obtain my Master's in Social Work degree from New York University in 1992. I have experience working with children and adults in Mental Health outpatient settings and with children in school settings. I joined the Blue Skies Psychological Services in 2021 and provide services through the group practice.
(718) 550-2625 View (718) 550-2625
Photo of Judy F Scher, Psychologist, PsyD
Judy F Scher
Psychologist, PsyD
West Brighton, Staten Island, NY 10310
I believe that treatment works best when it is tailored to the personality and individual needs of each client. Rather than relying on one theoretical perspective, I use a multi-modal approach, utilizing interpersonal, behavioral, and solution-focused techniques. I have extensive experience dealing with a variety of psychological problems, including depression, anxiety, as well as work-related, phase of life, marital, and family issues. In addition, I specialize in focusing on parenting concerns, divorce issues, infertility issues, and dealing with special needs children. I provide individual, couple, family, and group counseling for adults
I believe that treatment works best when it is tailored to the personality and individual needs of each client. Rather than relying on one theoretical perspective, I use a multi-modal approach, utilizing interpersonal, behavioral, and solution-focused techniques. I have extensive experience dealing with a variety of psychological problems, including depression, anxiety, as well as work-related, phase of life, marital, and family issues. In addition, I specialize in focusing on parenting concerns, divorce issues, infertility issues, and dealing with special needs children. I provide individual, couple, family, and group counseling for adults
(718) 673-9703 View (718) 673-9703
Photo of Lori Faicco, Counselor, LMHC
Lori Faicco
Counselor, LMHC
1 Endorsed
West Brighton, Staten Island, NY 10310
Decisions like this can be so difficult. You may feel overwhelmed. You may feel anxious and stressed. It’s what led you here to this very page. Together, we can walk a path to find peace. We can help find direction and purpose. If you are struggling with managing your emotions, increased anxiety, depression, anger, relationship concerns, feelings of loss and hopelessness, loneliness, or trauma, I can provide a safe space for you to express yourself. We can create an evidence based treatment plan that fits you or your child’s needs.
Decisions like this can be so difficult. You may feel overwhelmed. You may feel anxious and stressed. It’s what led you here to this very page. Together, we can walk a path to find peace. We can help find direction and purpose. If you are struggling with managing your emotions, increased anxiety, depression, anger, relationship concerns, feelings of loss and hopelessness, loneliness, or trauma, I can provide a safe space for you to express yourself. We can create an evidence based treatment plan that fits you or your child’s needs.
(917) 540-5533 View (917) 540-5533
Photo of Janice Gross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Janice Gross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
West Brighton, Staten Island, NY 10310
I address all clients in a supportive manner, validating and understanding the life experiences that bring them to my office. I try to empower clients to understand their patterns and create change in a secure accepting environment. I customize a treatment approach for each person and situation.I incorporate Pyschodymics, family background and identify attachment styles. I work with Cognitive Thoughts and Beliefs; encouraging more rational thoughts and helpful coping mechanisms. I am extensively trained in Couples Therapy and Trauma Therapy.
I address all clients in a supportive manner, validating and understanding the life experiences that bring them to my office. I try to empower clients to understand their patterns and create change in a secure accepting environment. I customize a treatment approach for each person and situation.I incorporate Pyschodymics, family background and identify attachment styles. I work with Cognitive Thoughts and Beliefs; encouraging more rational thoughts and helpful coping mechanisms. I am extensively trained in Couples Therapy and Trauma Therapy.
(718) 569-7594 View (718) 569-7594
Anna Lorusso-Moramarco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
West Brighton, Staten Island, NY 10310
I firmly believe clinicians can provide good treatment if they approach the therapeutic work with compassion, patience, empathy, skills & commitment to growth. In treatment, there can not be effective emotional connectedness without understanding. I attempt to enter my clients inner worlds not solely from an impassive theoretical arena but to actually walk, see & feel their pains and traumas. Hold my hand, TOGETHER we can successfully walk through this journey. My practice delves into client stressors such as depression, anxiety, family issues & social problems as well as specializing in traumatic issues such as incest, rape, panic disorders, PTSD, grief & loss.
I firmly believe clinicians can provide good treatment if they approach the therapeutic work with compassion, patience, empathy, skills & commitment to growth. In treatment, there can not be effective emotional connectedness without understanding. I attempt to enter my clients inner worlds not solely from an impassive theoretical arena but to actually walk, see & feel their pains and traumas. Hold my hand, TOGETHER we can successfully walk through this journey. My practice delves into client stressors such as depression, anxiety, family issues & social problems as well as specializing in traumatic issues such as incest, rape, panic disorders, PTSD, grief & loss.
(718) 838-9377 View (718) 838-9377
Photo of Robert Morrison, Psychologist, PsyD
Robert Morrison
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
West Brighton, Staten Island, NY 10310
Greetings! My name is Rob Morrison and I am a clinical psychologist with over 20 years of professional experience and training. I graduated with a BA in Psychology from the University of Delaware in 1984, and from the Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology in 1996 with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. I am also the director of services for Blue Skies Psychological Services, P.C.; a group practice offering counseling, psychiatric services, medication assisted therapy, and psychological assessments.
Greetings! My name is Rob Morrison and I am a clinical psychologist with over 20 years of professional experience and training. I graduated with a BA in Psychology from the University of Delaware in 1984, and from the Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology in 1996 with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. I am also the director of services for Blue Skies Psychological Services, P.C.; a group practice offering counseling, psychiatric services, medication assisted therapy, and psychological assessments.
(347) 464-5550 View (347) 464-5550
Photo of Jay Corbo, Counselor, MSEd, LMHC
Jay Corbo
Counselor, MSEd, LMHC
2 Endorsed
West Brighton, Staten Island, NY 10310
Led by Jay Corbo LMHC, MSEd, Staten Island Speech and Counseling offers compassionate mental health services in a supportive environment. We specialize in individual, couples, and family therapy, tailoring approaches to each client’s needs. Our team includes Danielle, MHC-LP, MSEd with 16+ years of school counseling experience Kylie & Allyssa both licensed mental health interns from CSI. We all work together to provide comprehensive care for anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions.
Led by Jay Corbo LMHC, MSEd, Staten Island Speech and Counseling offers compassionate mental health services in a supportive environment. We specialize in individual, couples, and family therapy, tailoring approaches to each client’s needs. Our team includes Danielle, MHC-LP, MSEd with 16+ years of school counseling experience Kylie & Allyssa both licensed mental health interns from CSI. We all work together to provide comprehensive care for anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions.
(347) 846-2418 View (347) 846-2418
Photo of Phyllis A Brown, Psychologist, PsyD
Phyllis A Brown
Psychologist, PsyD
West Brighton, Staten Island, NY 10310
I have an interpersonal style, and believe in treating the whole family unit. It is most important to create an atmosphere of trust and comfort, along with the clear boundaries of practice. However, the most important aspect of treatment is all parties working together to achieve the goal. No therapist, without cooperation of all parties, will be able to achieve goals.
I have an interpersonal style, and believe in treating the whole family unit. It is most important to create an atmosphere of trust and comfort, along with the clear boundaries of practice. However, the most important aspect of treatment is all parties working together to achieve the goal. No therapist, without cooperation of all parties, will be able to achieve goals.
(917) 750-7522 View (917) 750-7522
Photo of Jason L Cunningham, Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Jason L Cunningham
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
West Brighton, Staten Island, NY 10310
Esoterics Counseling was founded by a Black male therapist to provide quality mental health care by credentialed practitioners who recognize the unique challenges, transitions, and actualities of navigating life as a marginalized individual. We provide mental health support through a decidedly anti-racist and queer -friendly perspective while embedding cultural humility, awareness, and responsiveness into our practice. We strive to build a therapeutic alliance based less on diagnosis and more on uncovering effective strategies to assist with clarity, agency, and purpose. Insurance accepted through Alma or Headway only.
Esoterics Counseling was founded by a Black male therapist to provide quality mental health care by credentialed practitioners who recognize the unique challenges, transitions, and actualities of navigating life as a marginalized individual. We provide mental health support through a decidedly anti-racist and queer -friendly perspective while embedding cultural humility, awareness, and responsiveness into our practice. We strive to build a therapeutic alliance based less on diagnosis and more on uncovering effective strategies to assist with clarity, agency, and purpose. Insurance accepted through Alma or Headway only.
(347) 527-4937 View (347) 527-4937
Photo of Tina-Suzette G Millare, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Tina-Suzette G Millare
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
West Brighton, Staten Island, NY 10310
I believe that every individual is inherently equipped with resilience. When life stressors, trauma, or challenging experiences weaken that resilience, emotional and mental health concerns can arise. Resilience is central not only to navigating life’s stressors and emotional challenges, but also to withstanding adversity and regaining balance after difficult life events.
I believe that every individual is inherently equipped with resilience. When life stressors, trauma, or challenging experiences weaken that resilience, emotional and mental health concerns can arise. Resilience is central not only to navigating life’s stressors and emotional challenges, but also to withstanding adversity and regaining balance after difficult life events.
(929) 605-5290 View (929) 605-5290
Photo of Teresa Giammella-deBoer, Counselor, LMFT, LMHC
Teresa Giammella-deBoer
Counselor, LMFT, LMHC
West Brighton, Staten Island, NY 10301
Teresa has worked for years helping Adult Childrenand their family that are or have lived with someones's alcohol and drug abuse & feels like the addiction has made their lives unmanagable.It is important to talk honestly with family members about what is happening in the family and to help them express their concerns and feelings.Families with alcohol and drug problems usually have high levels of stress and confusion.These family memebers need to have their experiences validated and learn that they did not cause it they cannot control the addiction, and they cannot cure the addiction.
Teresa has worked for years helping Adult Childrenand their family that are or have lived with someones's alcohol and drug abuse & feels like the addiction has made their lives unmanagable.It is important to talk honestly with family members about what is happening in the family and to help them express their concerns and feelings.Families with alcohol and drug problems usually have high levels of stress and confusion.These family memebers need to have their experiences validated and learn that they did not cause it they cannot control the addiction, and they cannot cure the addiction.
(718) 569-8727 View (718) 569-8727
Photo of Patrick Mele, Psychologist, MA, PhD
Patrick Mele
Psychologist, MA, PhD
1 Endorsed
West Brighton, Staten Island, NY 10310
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming. It may feel unnatural to confide in a stranger, admit vulnerabilities, or ask for help. You may even feel lost and confused, alone to shoulder the burden of your worries or most painful secrets. Psychotherapy can be a powerful tool, where you can become free from the suffering created by these burdens. Therapy is a space where you begin to explore the questions that escape us on the day-to-day: who am I? where do I find meaning? Is this path right for me? These questions may seem daunting, but you won’t face them alone—together we will take the plunge and, hopefully, find clarity and wellness.
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming. It may feel unnatural to confide in a stranger, admit vulnerabilities, or ask for help. You may even feel lost and confused, alone to shoulder the burden of your worries or most painful secrets. Psychotherapy can be a powerful tool, where you can become free from the suffering created by these burdens. Therapy is a space where you begin to explore the questions that escape us on the day-to-day: who am I? where do I find meaning? Is this path right for me? These questions may seem daunting, but you won’t face them alone—together we will take the plunge and, hopefully, find clarity and wellness.
(718) 866-3496 View (718) 866-3496
Photo of Christine O'Neill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Christine O'Neill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
West Brighton, Staten Island, NY 10310
How many times have you heard the statement “Your Mental Health Matters” ? And how many times have you agreed with that statement but have no idea how to fully prioritize it due to your busy work schedule, school schedule, events, and just life itself?Sometimes, it feels easier to just power through and say “I’ll deal with it later.” But what happens when later just keeps getting pushed aside? We can begin to feel lonely, resentful, anxious, depressed, angry, and overwhelmed. Well, I am here to tell you that you do not need to just power through alone, and that there are ways to prioritize you!
How many times have you heard the statement “Your Mental Health Matters” ? And how many times have you agreed with that statement but have no idea how to fully prioritize it due to your busy work schedule, school schedule, events, and just life itself?Sometimes, it feels easier to just power through and say “I’ll deal with it later.” But what happens when later just keeps getting pushed aside? We can begin to feel lonely, resentful, anxious, depressed, angry, and overwhelmed. Well, I am here to tell you that you do not need to just power through alone, and that there are ways to prioritize you!
(718) 395-5927 View (718) 395-5927
Photo of Eleanor McCabe, Psychologist, PhD
Eleanor McCabe
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a therapist, I encourage you to bring the “messiest” parts of yourself into the room during our sessions. I strive to create a safe, yet empowering space for all my clients, especially for those who hold marginalized identities in our current socio-political climate. I let you set the pace of treatment and help you build confidence in your innate abilities to persevere and heal during difficult seasons of life. I also encourage you to provide feedback throughout our time together, so that we can make treatment as impactful and positive as possible.
As a therapist, I encourage you to bring the “messiest” parts of yourself into the room during our sessions. I strive to create a safe, yet empowering space for all my clients, especially for those who hold marginalized identities in our current socio-political climate. I let you set the pace of treatment and help you build confidence in your innate abilities to persevere and heal during difficult seasons of life. I also encourage you to provide feedback throughout our time together, so that we can make treatment as impactful and positive as possible.
(267) 458-2575 View (267) 458-2575
Photo of Victor H Llerena - Journey Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Journey Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Victor Llerena provides individual, relationship, and family counseling in the NJ/NY tri-state area to persons who are in need of these services. For this reason we have established our services and our desire is to assist you. Our motto, "Walking life with you" describes our approach to our style in counseling. We think that everyone needs support in life at any given time.
Victor Llerena provides individual, relationship, and family counseling in the NJ/NY tri-state area to persons who are in need of these services. For this reason we have established our services and our desire is to assist you. Our motto, "Walking life with you" describes our approach to our style in counseling. We think that everyone needs support in life at any given time.
(201) 243-6109 View (201) 243-6109
Photo of Catherine Putkowski-O'Brien, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR II
Catherine Putkowski-O'Brien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR II
Serves Area
Are you feeling anxious/depressed or grieving the loss of a loved one? Have you been diagnosed with PTSD or experienced traumas in your past that are still affecting you today? Are you receiving or have you completed medical treatment for cancer or another devastating illness? As an EMDR, Level II traumatologist, I treat the whole person utilizing compassionate evidence-based psychotherapies/techniques in combination with other healing modalities. While we navigate your road to recovery, you will learn stress management tools to use in between therapy sessions as we address past wounds/traumas and plan for the future.
Are you feeling anxious/depressed or grieving the loss of a loved one? Have you been diagnosed with PTSD or experienced traumas in your past that are still affecting you today? Are you receiving or have you completed medical treatment for cancer or another devastating illness? As an EMDR, Level II traumatologist, I treat the whole person utilizing compassionate evidence-based psychotherapies/techniques in combination with other healing modalities. While we navigate your road to recovery, you will learn stress management tools to use in between therapy sessions as we address past wounds/traumas and plan for the future.
(347) 708-8975 View (347) 708-8975
Photo of Rebecca Schuster, LMHC
Rebecca Schuster
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Congratulations on starting your therapy journey! I am so excited to partner with you to reach your goals and actualize the life you want to lead. I like to practice with empathy, understanding, and a true belief that my clients are capable of making positive changes toward growth. Ever since I can remember, I have loved talking to people about their lives, their hopes, and their struggles. I continue this passion with my clients and within my practice of therapy.
Congratulations on starting your therapy journey! I am so excited to partner with you to reach your goals and actualize the life you want to lead. I like to practice with empathy, understanding, and a true belief that my clients are capable of making positive changes toward growth. Ever since I can remember, I have loved talking to people about their lives, their hopes, and their struggles. I continue this passion with my clients and within my practice of therapy.
(929) 561-6176 View (929) 561-6176
Photo of Alexa Inserra-DelPrete, Counselor, LMHC, MS
Alexa Inserra-DelPrete
Counselor, LMHC, MS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Therapy is a journey and I strive to create a comfortable and safe space for my clients to experience that journey and grow throughout. Therapy is a partnership, between client and therapist, and should remain transparent, respectful and safe. Therapy is a space to be your true and unapologetic self and to feel support with no judgement. The foundation of my therapy practice is always person first. I am dedicated to provide clients with the skills and resources to promote healing and self-exploration. I encourage holistic treatment modalities and work intimately with my clients to learn coping techniques to apply in daily life.
Therapy is a journey and I strive to create a comfortable and safe space for my clients to experience that journey and grow throughout. Therapy is a partnership, between client and therapist, and should remain transparent, respectful and safe. Therapy is a space to be your true and unapologetic self and to feel support with no judgement. The foundation of my therapy practice is always person first. I am dedicated to provide clients with the skills and resources to promote healing and self-exploration. I encourage holistic treatment modalities and work intimately with my clients to learn coping techniques to apply in daily life.
(929) 456-5835 View (929) 456-5835
Photo of Shakiya Gadson, MS
Shakiya Gadson
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I specialize in providing support to clients who are exiting or have exited long term relationships or marriages by providing a safe space to discuss and unpack their unfiltered struggles. I empower my clients to: -find their voice, -establish safe boundaries, -struggles with provider/protector roles -exploring parenting/coparenting - effectively communicate wants and needs We explore how situations or relationships are impacted by shame, guilt, trauma, religious/ social conflicts, health restrictions, aging, misinformation. Seeing beyond the mask is my “Super Power”. It helps people to feel seen, safe and supported.
I specialize in providing support to clients who are exiting or have exited long term relationships or marriages by providing a safe space to discuss and unpack their unfiltered struggles. I empower my clients to: -find their voice, -establish safe boundaries, -struggles with provider/protector roles -exploring parenting/coparenting - effectively communicate wants and needs We explore how situations or relationships are impacted by shame, guilt, trauma, religious/ social conflicts, health restrictions, aging, misinformation. Seeing beyond the mask is my “Super Power”. It helps people to feel seen, safe and supported.
(210) 796-6645 View (210) 796-6645
Photo of Selena Ramirez, Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Selena Ramirez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life’s challenges can look different at every stage—whether you’re a parent seeking support for your child, a teen navigating emotions and identity, or an adult feeling overwhelmed by daily stressors or life transitions. You don’t have to face it alone. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families, offering compassionate, individualized support through emotional, behavioral, and life challenges. My goal is to create a safe, affirming space where clients of all ages feel understood, supported, and empowered—while ensuring parents and caregivers feel included and guided throughout the therapeutic process.
Life’s challenges can look different at every stage—whether you’re a parent seeking support for your child, a teen navigating emotions and identity, or an adult feeling overwhelmed by daily stressors or life transitions. You don’t have to face it alone. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families, offering compassionate, individualized support through emotional, behavioral, and life challenges. My goal is to create a safe, affirming space where clients of all ages feel understood, supported, and empowered—while ensuring parents and caregivers feel included and guided throughout the therapeutic process.
(929) 566-7870 View (929) 566-7870

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in West Brighton, Staten Island, NY

40+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in West Brighton, Staten Island, NY who prioritize treating:

86% Depression
86% Anxiety
79% Relationship Issues
72% Self Esteem
58% Stress
56% Marriage Counseling
53% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Aetna
74% Cigna and Evernorth
71% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in West Brighton, Staten Island, NY see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in West Brighton?

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.