Therapists in Ridgefield, CT

Photo of Clifford LaMotta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ridgefield, CT
Clifford LaMotta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, CT 06877
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Stressed? Anxious, Depressed? Perhaps you feel undervalued, unappreciated, or feel 'less than'. You may be struggling with a life change, divorce, separation, or a blended family. Perhaps you want to improve relationships with friends or family, or with yourself! Student facing academic or social challenges? You might feel like you are overthinking everything. You may not know what’s wrong, but you just feel ‘off’. At every age, life will challenge you and I, there is no escaping it. The skills we use, or DO NOT use, and the view we have of ourselves and others affects our quality of life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Stressed? Anxious, Depressed? Perhaps you feel undervalued, unappreciated, or feel 'less than'. You may be struggling with a life change, divorce, separation, or a blended family. Perhaps you want to improve relationships with friends or family, or with yourself! Student facing academic or social challenges? You might feel like you are overthinking everything. You may not know what’s wrong, but you just feel ‘off’. At every age, life will challenge you and I, there is no escaping it. The skills we use, or DO NOT use, and the view we have of ourselves and others affects our quality of life.
(475) 224-3845 x701 View (475) 224-3845 x701
Photo of Elizabeth Engelberg, Psychologist in Ridgefield, CT
Elizabeth Engelberg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, CT 06877
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience treating adolescents, adults, couples and families in private practice. The work I do focuses on how to help my clients make sense of their internal lives and the issues that trouble them. I help create an environment where people can safely explore their thoughts, feelings and patterns of behavior--especially those that have brought them to treatment. I work to provide effective coping strategies to live in the complex world of adolescence and adulthood. Understanding ourselves is the key to living a healthier, happier, independent and meaningful life.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience treating adolescents, adults, couples and families in private practice. The work I do focuses on how to help my clients make sense of their internal lives and the issues that trouble them. I help create an environment where people can safely explore their thoughts, feelings and patterns of behavior--especially those that have brought them to treatment. I work to provide effective coping strategies to live in the complex world of adolescence and adulthood. Understanding ourselves is the key to living a healthier, happier, independent and meaningful life.
(475) 231-3219 View (475) 231-3219
Photo of Laura Craighead, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ridgefield, CT
Laura Craighead
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgefield, CT 06877
After years of working with children and their families in both home and school settings, I am well versed in issues of parenting and behavior mangagement. Children with difficulties have an impact on the entire family. My treatment strives is to maximize the individual functioning of the family member in need, as well support the overall functioning of the family; goals are to increase insight/understanding of behavioral challenges while providing practical solutions. This includes increasing the confidence/ability of parents to meet the many challenges of parenting. My approach is empathetic and supportive, while offering practical, effective intervention strategies.
After years of working with children and their families in both home and school settings, I am well versed in issues of parenting and behavior mangagement. Children with difficulties have an impact on the entire family. My treatment strives is to maximize the individual functioning of the family member in need, as well support the overall functioning of the family; goals are to increase insight/understanding of behavioral challenges while providing practical solutions. This includes increasing the confidence/ability of parents to meet the many challenges of parenting. My approach is empathetic and supportive, while offering practical, effective intervention strategies.
(203) 763-4182 View (203) 763-4182
Photo of Paolo Morena, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ridgefield, CT
Paolo Morena, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCHMC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, CT 06877
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have experience working with diverse populations, consisting of different economic, cultural, ethnic, spiritual, racial, sexual and gender identities, as well as individuals with chronic and severe mental illness. In my practice, I utilize an eclectic therapeutic approach deriving from several theoretical models. I integrate evidence based methods and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to individual needs. I draw upon various aspects of Psychodynamic, Couples and Family Systems, Client Centered, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies. My approach to couples therapy combines elements of many schools of thought as well, depending upon the needs of the couple.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have experience working with diverse populations, consisting of different economic, cultural, ethnic, spiritual, racial, sexual and gender identities, as well as individuals with chronic and severe mental illness. In my practice, I utilize an eclectic therapeutic approach deriving from several theoretical models. I integrate evidence based methods and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to individual needs. I draw upon various aspects of Psychodynamic, Couples and Family Systems, Client Centered, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies. My approach to couples therapy combines elements of many schools of thought as well, depending upon the needs of the couple.
(203) 648-9414 View (203) 648-9414
Photo of Karen B Walant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ridgefield, CT
Karen B Walant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, CT 06877
I believe in the power of therapy and mindfulness meditation. I've been witness to the growth and flourishing of so many people, as they discover and release themselves from age-old blockages and fear. I know the power of releasing the 'inner critic' and the value of discovering 'wise mind.' My psychotherapy home office is a refuge, where you will have the space to look within, and free yourself from whatever inner cognition(s) are holding you back. I promise to bring you the most effective, evidence-based strategies, including advances in neuroscience, to increase your overall wellbeing and whole-heartedness.
I believe in the power of therapy and mindfulness meditation. I've been witness to the growth and flourishing of so many people, as they discover and release themselves from age-old blockages and fear. I know the power of releasing the 'inner critic' and the value of discovering 'wise mind.' My psychotherapy home office is a refuge, where you will have the space to look within, and free yourself from whatever inner cognition(s) are holding you back. I promise to bring you the most effective, evidence-based strategies, including advances in neuroscience, to increase your overall wellbeing and whole-heartedness.
(203) 463-4111 View (203) 463-4111
Photo of Insight Counseling, LLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Ridgefield, CT
Insight Counseling, LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, CT 06877
The Insight Counseling Mission is to provide highly effective assessment and counseling services to clients in a warm and compassionate environment. We seek to make the entire process of seeking help, open and helpful. We offer the correct environment, education and encouragement for lasting positive changes to begin.
The Insight Counseling Mission is to provide highly effective assessment and counseling services to clients in a warm and compassionate environment. We seek to make the entire process of seeking help, open and helpful. We offer the correct environment, education and encouragement for lasting positive changes to begin.
(475) 231-4402 View (475) 231-4402
Linda Anderson Rost
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, CT 06877
I have over 35 years of experience in providing psychotherapy to adults, couples and adolescents who are dealing with anxiety , depression and psychological trauma. I try to build on the health of each individual client, maximizing their strengths and encouraging them to believe in their innate abilities in order to function more productively in their lives and relationships. I am especially interested in working with clients who suffer from traumatic incidents and who have not been able to achieve resolution from past therapies.
I have over 35 years of experience in providing psychotherapy to adults, couples and adolescents who are dealing with anxiety , depression and psychological trauma. I try to build on the health of each individual client, maximizing their strengths and encouraging them to believe in their innate abilities in order to function more productively in their lives and relationships. I am especially interested in working with clients who suffer from traumatic incidents and who have not been able to achieve resolution from past therapies.
(203) 529-4428 View (203) 529-4428
Photo of Patricia Bragdon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ridgefield, CT
Patricia Bragdon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, CT 06877
I am a compassionate and dedicated advocate for individuals and families struggling with complex issues. I have a special area of expertise and interest in death and dying, and bereavement. I earned a certificate of completion at Columbia University’s Center for Complicated Grief and I am a certified grief counselor. I have worked in High Schools for 25 years and I am extremely skilled at inter-facing with schools to help teens who have been academically impacted by their social, emotional and behavioral issues.
I am a compassionate and dedicated advocate for individuals and families struggling with complex issues. I have a special area of expertise and interest in death and dying, and bereavement. I earned a certificate of completion at Columbia University’s Center for Complicated Grief and I am a certified grief counselor. I have worked in High Schools for 25 years and I am extremely skilled at inter-facing with schools to help teens who have been academically impacted by their social, emotional and behavioral issues.
(475) 222-1176 View (475) 222-1176
Photo of Kathy Hayes-Bloch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ridgefield, CT
Kathy Hayes-Bloch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, CT 06877
Are you a busy parent feeling stressed by the demands of work and family? Perhaps you're facing the prospect of an empty nest and it is overwhelming. Maybe your mood is easily changeable, or life has become difficult, and you need someone to talk to. I am a seasoned psychotherapist who has accompanied many people on their healing journeys over the past 20 years. I find that mindfulness practices and hypnosis are additional tools that support people’s movement toward empowerment and freedom as they learn to heal and create a lasting sense of well-being.
Are you a busy parent feeling stressed by the demands of work and family? Perhaps you're facing the prospect of an empty nest and it is overwhelming. Maybe your mood is easily changeable, or life has become difficult, and you need someone to talk to. I am a seasoned psychotherapist who has accompanied many people on their healing journeys over the past 20 years. I find that mindfulness practices and hypnosis are additional tools that support people’s movement toward empowerment and freedom as they learn to heal and create a lasting sense of well-being.
(203) 920-4321 View (203) 920-4321
Photo of Carole Doorley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ridgefield, CT
Carole Doorley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, CT 06877  (Online Only)
I have 25 years of experience working with women of all ages. I provide a non-judgmental safe environment to share your thoughts and feelings. Together we establish a treatment plan to help identify and overcome barriers that are interfering with personal growth and happiness. I believe that women are resilient and have within themselves, even in difficult times, the strength to solve problems and meet challenges.
I have 25 years of experience working with women of all ages. I provide a non-judgmental safe environment to share your thoughts and feelings. Together we establish a treatment plan to help identify and overcome barriers that are interfering with personal growth and happiness. I believe that women are resilient and have within themselves, even in difficult times, the strength to solve problems and meet challenges.
(475) 405-2456 View (475) 405-2456
Photo of Alex Boianghu, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ridgefield, CT
Alex Boianghu
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, CT 06877
In the heart of every problem lies its solution. Alex Boianghu, LPC, EMDR is a gifted therapist who works with individuals and couples. He has more than 25 years of experience of clinical work utilizing an integrative holistic approach with an emphasis healing trauma through integrative somatic therapy, EMDR, and nonduality therapy. He also uses EMDR, a technique that is effective in the treatment of PTSD, flashbacks, nightmares, trauma, abuse & anxiety. Alex knows that healing happens when people integrate their past into the present.
In the heart of every problem lies its solution. Alex Boianghu, LPC, EMDR is a gifted therapist who works with individuals and couples. He has more than 25 years of experience of clinical work utilizing an integrative holistic approach with an emphasis healing trauma through integrative somatic therapy, EMDR, and nonduality therapy. He also uses EMDR, a technique that is effective in the treatment of PTSD, flashbacks, nightmares, trauma, abuse & anxiety. Alex knows that healing happens when people integrate their past into the present.
(475) 252-9020 View (475) 252-9020
Photo of Brook Pieri, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ridgefield, CT
Brook Pieri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, CT 06877
I have learned that regardless of approach, therapy works when there is a foundation built on trust, curiosity, empathy and honesty. Therapy is not prescriptive nor one size fits all. It's a process that necessitates vulnerability, and it can be difficult and painful -- as trust, honesty, change and vulnerability are. That doesn't translate into you leaving the session falling apart; my job is to create a safe space to facilitate growth at a pace you can tolerate.
I have learned that regardless of approach, therapy works when there is a foundation built on trust, curiosity, empathy and honesty. Therapy is not prescriptive nor one size fits all. It's a process that necessitates vulnerability, and it can be difficult and painful -- as trust, honesty, change and vulnerability are. That doesn't translate into you leaving the session falling apart; my job is to create a safe space to facilitate growth at a pace you can tolerate.
(917) 983-3815 View (917) 983-3815
Photo of Jaclyn M Semmeles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ridgefield, CT
Jaclyn M Semmeles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ridgefield, CT 06877
Welcome to my page! I've been practicing social work for almost 10 years. I graduated from Fordham University with a Masters in Social Work. My clinical experience ranges from individual therapy, group therapy, intensive outpatient therapy, to working with families in-home. My areas of specialty include working individually with patients with Anxiety, Depression, Bi-polar D/O, and Borderline Personality D/O from ages 20-65+.
Welcome to my page! I've been practicing social work for almost 10 years. I graduated from Fordham University with a Masters in Social Work. My clinical experience ranges from individual therapy, group therapy, intensive outpatient therapy, to working with families in-home. My areas of specialty include working individually with patients with Anxiety, Depression, Bi-polar D/O, and Borderline Personality D/O from ages 20-65+.
(203) 896-8888 View (203) 896-8888
Photo of Michele Conklin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ridgefield, CT
Michele Conklin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, ATR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ridgefield, CT 06877
You put in a lot of effort to find fulfillment at work and in your relationships. You are wondering why it doesn't feel like enough and try even harder. You worry that the hard things that have happened to you in the past might always hold you back. Uncomfortable emotions crop up and last too long: anxiety, sadness, hurt, shame and anger. It can be overwhelming. You feel less energized and less creative. Maybe you blame yourself or others. Sometimes you might make unhealthy choices, followed by regret. You are ready to do the work to make things better, to go below the surface because, in your heart, you know you deserve more.
You put in a lot of effort to find fulfillment at work and in your relationships. You are wondering why it doesn't feel like enough and try even harder. You worry that the hard things that have happened to you in the past might always hold you back. Uncomfortable emotions crop up and last too long: anxiety, sadness, hurt, shame and anger. It can be overwhelming. You feel less energized and less creative. Maybe you blame yourself or others. Sometimes you might make unhealthy choices, followed by regret. You are ready to do the work to make things better, to go below the surface because, in your heart, you know you deserve more.
(203) 439-5522 View (203) 439-5522
Photo of Andrea MacGilpin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ridgefield, CT
Andrea MacGilpin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, CT 06877
It takes courage to try something new and I am glad you are seeking that support. I engage each client in a compassionate and individualized manner. I believe in the power of connection and collaboration. As our relationship develops, we will create an environment that not only supports you, but also empowers you to reach your goals. Together, we can set the stage for a stronger sense of self, and be proactive in creating a more secure and self-aware path.
It takes courage to try something new and I am glad you are seeking that support. I engage each client in a compassionate and individualized manner. I believe in the power of connection and collaboration. As our relationship develops, we will create an environment that not only supports you, but also empowers you to reach your goals. Together, we can set the stage for a stronger sense of self, and be proactive in creating a more secure and self-aware path.
(203) 349-6706 View (203) 349-6706
Photo of Gillian Tanz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ridgefield, CT
Gillian Tanz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ridgefield, CT 06877
I believe in and am continually inspired by the resilience of human beings. In working with clients, I strive to truly listen, to help people come to understand themselves better and to accept things as they are while setting and achieving reasonable goals. I utilize a variety of therapeutic interventions and techniques depending on the needs and personality of each client. Whether you are going through a difficult life transition, coping with anxiety or depression, or struggling in a relationship, let's work it out together so you can find health and balance in life.
I believe in and am continually inspired by the resilience of human beings. In working with clients, I strive to truly listen, to help people come to understand themselves better and to accept things as they are while setting and achieving reasonable goals. I utilize a variety of therapeutic interventions and techniques depending on the needs and personality of each client. Whether you are going through a difficult life transition, coping with anxiety or depression, or struggling in a relationship, let's work it out together so you can find health and balance in life.
(475) 219-6861 View (475) 219-6861
Photo of Clorinda Bulfamante, Psychologist in Ridgefield, CT
Clorinda Bulfamante
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, CT 06877
I am a clinical psychologist providing therapy and assessment services in Scarsdale and Greenwich. I treat various conditions, such as depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, social anxiety, and school/work issues. I also focus on life transitions, whether that be a recent move, transition from college, changes in family dynamics, or changes in significant relationships. Furthermore, I have extensive experience in conducting psychological assessments. Therapeutically, I focus on developing teens and adults, where as I provide assessments for all ages.
I am a clinical psychologist providing therapy and assessment services in Scarsdale and Greenwich. I treat various conditions, such as depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, social anxiety, and school/work issues. I also focus on life transitions, whether that be a recent move, transition from college, changes in family dynamics, or changes in significant relationships. Furthermore, I have extensive experience in conducting psychological assessments. Therapeutically, I focus on developing teens and adults, where as I provide assessments for all ages.
View
Photo of Lorraine Lazarus-Morley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ridgefield, CT
Lorraine Lazarus-Morley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, CT 06877
It takes strength and courage to look inside yourself, talk openly about your feelings, and acknowledge a need for change. When you are struggling with finding new direction, I will listen with warmth and empathy as we establish a kind, and caring relationship. Through the collaborative and therapeutic process, you will gain insight and increased awareness of who you are and how you want to move forward in your life. I am committed to understanding and helping you without judgment. Change is possible when you find respect, support, and validation.
It takes strength and courage to look inside yourself, talk openly about your feelings, and acknowledge a need for change. When you are struggling with finding new direction, I will listen with warmth and empathy as we establish a kind, and caring relationship. Through the collaborative and therapeutic process, you will gain insight and increased awareness of who you are and how you want to move forward in your life. I am committed to understanding and helping you without judgment. Change is possible when you find respect, support, and validation.
(203) 529-7518 View (203) 529-7518
Photo of Wallace Stacy, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ridgefield, CT
Wallace Stacy, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, CT 06877
My ideal client may need help navigating their emotions, relationships, and responsibilities in a healthy manner. They may have already begun a therapuetic process but may need help understanding and processing it. They may also need a psychological perspective on how it applies to them personally.
My ideal client may need help navigating their emotions, relationships, and responsibilities in a healthy manner. They may have already begun a therapuetic process but may need help understanding and processing it. They may also need a psychological perspective on how it applies to them personally.
(203) 274-8628 View (203) 274-8628
Photo of Olivia Mandelbaum, Psychologist in Ridgefield, CT
Olivia Mandelbaum
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, CT 06877
I am a NY and CT state licensed psychologist with private practices in Manhattan and Fairfield County. I specialize in therapy for children, adolescents, and younger adults suffering from past traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, and low self-worth. My intention is to create a safe and compassionate space to help individuals better understand and overcome blocks in self-acceptance and interpersonal difficulties. I also help people set and achieve goals related to academic or professional development. Former clients have found me to be perceptive, helpful, and warm.
I am a NY and CT state licensed psychologist with private practices in Manhattan and Fairfield County. I specialize in therapy for children, adolescents, and younger adults suffering from past traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, and low self-worth. My intention is to create a safe and compassionate space to help individuals better understand and overcome blocks in self-acceptance and interpersonal difficulties. I also help people set and achieve goals related to academic or professional development. Former clients have found me to be perceptive, helpful, and warm.
(475) 242-0926 View (475) 242-0926

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Ridgefield, CT

200+

Average cost per session

$182

Therapists in Ridgefield, CT who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
88% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
70% Coping Skills
66% Trauma and PTSD
63% Stress

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

70% Aetna
68% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
62% Anthem | Elevance

How Therapists in Ridgefield, CT see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Ridgefield?

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.