Therapists in Ambler, PA

Photo of Erica B. Bucci, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Erica B. Bucci
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Ambler, PA 19002
Making the decision to begin or restart therapy is tough. We get messages from all around us that we should be independent or "strong," so asking for support can feel like somehow, we've failed. Maybe it gives you anxiety just imagining how you would squeeze one more appointment into your already packed schedule. Less than optimal experiences in therapy might have you tired of searching and worried about who you'll be able to trust. Or maybe you're waiting for the 'right time' to begin. Whatever has brought you to this point right now though, has taken a lot of strength.
Making the decision to begin or restart therapy is tough. We get messages from all around us that we should be independent or "strong," so asking for support can feel like somehow, we've failed. Maybe it gives you anxiety just imagining how you would squeeze one more appointment into your already packed schedule. Less than optimal experiences in therapy might have you tired of searching and worried about who you'll be able to trust. Or maybe you're waiting for the 'right time' to begin. Whatever has brought you to this point right now though, has taken a lot of strength.
(267) 214-6039 View (267) 214-6039
Photo of Jill Hahn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jill Hahn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ambler, PA 19002
Women with PMOS (formerly PCOS) are significantly more likely to experience anxiety and depression — driven in part by the hormonal imbalances at the core of the condition itself. For many, that's compounded by physical symptoms that impact their confidence, a complicated relationship with food and their bodies, and uncertainty around fertility and ovulation. On top of that, they’re carrying the ongoing mental load of managing a chronic condition: tracking symptoms, navigating conflicting advice, advocating for care from several specialists, and trying to make sense of it all. It's not one thing — it's all of it, at once.
Women with PMOS (formerly PCOS) are significantly more likely to experience anxiety and depression — driven in part by the hormonal imbalances at the core of the condition itself. For many, that's compounded by physical symptoms that impact their confidence, a complicated relationship with food and their bodies, and uncertainty around fertility and ovulation. On top of that, they’re carrying the ongoing mental load of managing a chronic condition: tracking symptoms, navigating conflicting advice, advocating for care from several specialists, and trying to make sense of it all. It's not one thing — it's all of it, at once.
(484) 559-7585 View (484) 559-7585
Photo of Madelyn Reilly - Madelyn Reilly Counseling, LLC, LPC
Madelyn Reilly Counseling, LLC
Verified Verified
Ambler, PA 19002
At Madelyn Reilly Counseling, our team of multidisciplinary professionals work together to support both emotional and physical healing. At MRC we take a family based counseling approach to substance abuse, disordered eating and more-inviting parents, spouses, and children to participate in the healing process. We support families of individuals in higher levels of care in order to ensure preparedness and confidence for their loved ones return home. Our Registered Dietitians guide clients and their families-restoring nutrition, body trust and family connection through challenges of disordered eating and more.
At Madelyn Reilly Counseling, our team of multidisciplinary professionals work together to support both emotional and physical healing. At MRC we take a family based counseling approach to substance abuse, disordered eating and more-inviting parents, spouses, and children to participate in the healing process. We support families of individuals in higher levels of care in order to ensure preparedness and confidence for their loved ones return home. Our Registered Dietitians guide clients and their families-restoring nutrition, body trust and family connection through challenges of disordered eating and more.
(267) 708-6603 View (267) 708-6603
Photo of Natalie Corapi, Counselor, MS, LAPC, ICGP-I
Natalie Corapi
Counselor, MS, LAPC, ICGP-I
Ambler, PA 19002
You may be feeling overwhelmed by stress, trauma, or major life changes. Perhaps you’ve spent a long time taking care of others and now realize you need support yourself. After many years serving as a first responder, I have deep respect for people who carry a lot while still showing up for others. Some clients I work with are navigating trauma, burnout, addiction, or challenges with eating and their relationship with food. Many are looking for a place where they can slow down, feel heard, and begin to make sense of what they’ve been carrying.
You may be feeling overwhelmed by stress, trauma, or major life changes. Perhaps you’ve spent a long time taking care of others and now realize you need support yourself. After many years serving as a first responder, I have deep respect for people who carry a lot while still showing up for others. Some clients I work with are navigating trauma, burnout, addiction, or challenges with eating and their relationship with food. Many are looking for a place where they can slow down, feel heard, and begin to make sense of what they’ve been carrying.
(267) 627-6357 View (267) 627-6357
Photo of Ernest R Flores, PhD
Ernest R Flores
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ambler, PA 19002
I have extensive experience counseling married couples through a number of problems such as infidelity, conflict resolution, blended families, impact of early childhood trauma, and other issues. I integrate modern psychological techniques and therapies with Biblical values and concepts. Psychological techniques such as Solutions Focused Brief Therapy, Family Systems, Emotionally Focused, and Trauma Therapy are highly compatible with Biblical teaching. Couples are affirmed in their Biblical beliefs and encouraged to integrate them with modern psychological understandings.
I have extensive experience counseling married couples through a number of problems such as infidelity, conflict resolution, blended families, impact of early childhood trauma, and other issues. I integrate modern psychological techniques and therapies with Biblical values and concepts. Psychological techniques such as Solutions Focused Brief Therapy, Family Systems, Emotionally Focused, and Trauma Therapy are highly compatible with Biblical teaching. Couples are affirmed in their Biblical beliefs and encouraged to integrate them with modern psychological understandings.
(267) 481-7964 View (267) 481-7964
Photo of Carmen Altopiedi - Carmen Altopiedi LCSW Therapy Works , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Carmen Altopiedi LCSW Therapy Works
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ambler, PA 19002
Carmen Altopiedi L.C.S.W. Therapy Works During Difficult times in life, we may experience feelings of loneliness, isolation and sadness; these are very normal reactions to situations and traumas we encounter. I would like to assist in coping with some of these feelings. Part of my experience as a seasoned therapist is to assist and listen, and together we can tackle life’s challenges, leading to a healthier outlook on life. Please feel free to contact me email or call 484-401-9130 I will typically answer all messages in a 24hr. period
Carmen Altopiedi L.C.S.W. Therapy Works During Difficult times in life, we may experience feelings of loneliness, isolation and sadness; these are very normal reactions to situations and traumas we encounter. I would like to assist in coping with some of these feelings. Part of my experience as a seasoned therapist is to assist and listen, and together we can tackle life’s challenges, leading to a healthier outlook on life. Please feel free to contact me email or call 484-401-9130 I will typically answer all messages in a 24hr. period
(215) 398-1930 View (215) 398-1930
Photo of Emily Freedman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Emily Freedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ambler, PA 19002
I believe therapy is a personal journey that helps people develop insight into past and present experiences to ensure a more positive and healthy present and future. I have significant experience helping people manage feelings of anxiety and depression. I help people develop coping skills and strategies to manage anxiety and feel a sense of control over their thoughts and actions. Depression, lack of motivation, and hopelessness can feel overwhelming, so I feel committed to helping people develop and foster feelings of empowerment and fulfillment.
I believe therapy is a personal journey that helps people develop insight into past and present experiences to ensure a more positive and healthy present and future. I have significant experience helping people manage feelings of anxiety and depression. I help people develop coping skills and strategies to manage anxiety and feel a sense of control over their thoughts and actions. Depression, lack of motivation, and hopelessness can feel overwhelming, so I feel committed to helping people develop and foster feelings of empowerment and fulfillment.
(267) 651-8712 View (267) 651-8712
Photo of Sarah Pachler Journey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-IAYT
Sarah Pachler Journey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-IAYT
Ambler, PA 19002
Not accepting new clients
Throughout life, we are met with challenges and stressors that can seem beyond our capacity to manage. No one should have to weather this adversity alone, and if you are ready to heal and find peace with yourself, I would be honored to join you on that adventure. My collaborative approach is rooted in compassion and a strong belief in each person's inherent strength and abilities. Traumatic experiences, anxiety, and depression have an enormous impact on mental, physical, and emotional well being, and I believe that addressing the whole self allows you to heal.
Throughout life, we are met with challenges and stressors that can seem beyond our capacity to manage. No one should have to weather this adversity alone, and if you are ready to heal and find peace with yourself, I would be honored to join you on that adventure. My collaborative approach is rooted in compassion and a strong belief in each person's inherent strength and abilities. Traumatic experiences, anxiety, and depression have an enormous impact on mental, physical, and emotional well being, and I believe that addressing the whole self allows you to heal.
(267) 369-2859 View (267) 369-2859
Photo of Ryan Fay, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Ryan Fay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
1 Endorsed
Ambler, PA 19002
Hi, I'm Ryan, I help young adults, families and teens who are are in the midst of conflict or struggling with their mental health. I use an eclectic approach with a person centered mentality, I also have vast experience in family systems and systemic work. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been in the field for ten years. Hoping to help bring healing to you and your teen, connect with me today. I offer supervision for licensure as well.
Hi, I'm Ryan, I help young adults, families and teens who are are in the midst of conflict or struggling with their mental health. I use an eclectic approach with a person centered mentality, I also have vast experience in family systems and systemic work. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been in the field for ten years. Hoping to help bring healing to you and your teen, connect with me today. I offer supervision for licensure as well.
(215) 273-9836 View (215) 273-9836
Photo of Marianne E Intoccia, Psychologist, PhD
Marianne E Intoccia
Psychologist, PhD
Ambler, PA 19002
Namaste! I'm "Dr.Marianne" Intoccia. Welcome! As a Licensed Psychologist, I take great care to combine the knowledge and skills of Traditional Western Psychology, with the wisdom of Eastern Traditions. In creating a safe and sacred therapeutic environment, I honor the courage it takes to begin the healing process. I utilize a number of treatment modalities, including: meditation, mindfulness therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, havening, tapping and self-compassion practice. My intent is to teach life skills that can be beneficial to you, as you navigate through this difficult time, as well as long after our work is complete.
Namaste! I'm "Dr.Marianne" Intoccia. Welcome! As a Licensed Psychologist, I take great care to combine the knowledge and skills of Traditional Western Psychology, with the wisdom of Eastern Traditions. In creating a safe and sacred therapeutic environment, I honor the courage it takes to begin the healing process. I utilize a number of treatment modalities, including: meditation, mindfulness therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, havening, tapping and self-compassion practice. My intent is to teach life skills that can be beneficial to you, as you navigate through this difficult time, as well as long after our work is complete.
(484) 696-1778 View (484) 696-1778
Photo of Ashley Brenner, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Ashley Brenner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Ambler, PA 19002
I help children, teens, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, social skills, emotional regulation, self-esteem, executive functioning, school-related challenges, and life transitions. I also enjoy supporting neurodivergent individuals, including those with ADHD and Autism, as they learn to navigate with greater confidence. Parents seeking practical support and guidance for their child are also an important part of my work. Together, we'll build practical skills, strengthen confidence, and create positive changes that carry over into everyday life.
I help children, teens, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, social skills, emotional regulation, self-esteem, executive functioning, school-related challenges, and life transitions. I also enjoy supporting neurodivergent individuals, including those with ADHD and Autism, as they learn to navigate with greater confidence. Parents seeking practical support and guidance for their child are also an important part of my work. Together, we'll build practical skills, strengthen confidence, and create positive changes that carry over into everyday life.
(267) 458-3458 View (267) 458-3458
Photo of Danielle West, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Danielle West
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I am Danielle, and I am an LCSW who specializes in supporting children struggling with emotional regulation, as well as women navigating trauma and people-pleasing patterns. I am passionate about helping clients build healthier relationships with themselves, process difficult experiences, and develop the tools needed to thrive emotionally. What makes my practice unique is my background in education. Before becoming a therapist, I worked as a teacher and later transitioned into counseling within a school setting. This experience allows me to understand the academic, emotional, and social challenges children and families may face.
Hi! I am Danielle, and I am an LCSW who specializes in supporting children struggling with emotional regulation, as well as women navigating trauma and people-pleasing patterns. I am passionate about helping clients build healthier relationships with themselves, process difficult experiences, and develop the tools needed to thrive emotionally. What makes my practice unique is my background in education. Before becoming a therapist, I worked as a teacher and later transitioned into counseling within a school setting. This experience allows me to understand the academic, emotional, and social challenges children and families may face.
(267) 429-4618 View (267) 429-4618
Photo of Esther Kamisar, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCP
Esther Kamisar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCP
Online Only
Hello! My name is Esther Kamisar, Ph.D. I am a licensed Psychologist and have been practicing for over 40 years. I enjoy working with clients who are facing phases of life challenges throughout their adult, both younger and older years. I also enjoy working with clients who have been struggling with ADHD and are able to make dramatic changes in their lives when diagnosed and treated successfully. I am also interested in working with patients struggling with Bipolar, Depression, and Anxiety.
Hello! My name is Esther Kamisar, Ph.D. I am a licensed Psychologist and have been practicing for over 40 years. I enjoy working with clients who are facing phases of life challenges throughout their adult, both younger and older years. I also enjoy working with clients who have been struggling with ADHD and are able to make dramatic changes in their lives when diagnosed and treated successfully. I am also interested in working with patients struggling with Bipolar, Depression, and Anxiety.
(717) 694-6351 View (717) 694-6351
Photo of Erika Korenblit, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Erika Korenblit
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Ambler, PA 19002
I work with children, teens, and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, emotional regulation, eating disorders, relationship concerns, life transitions, and other challenges that can make it difficult to feel like themselves. My goal is to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow. One of the most rewarding parts of my work is helping clients recognize their strengths, build confidence, and develop practical coping skills they can use long after they leave the therapy room.
I work with children, teens, and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, emotional regulation, eating disorders, relationship concerns, life transitions, and other challenges that can make it difficult to feel like themselves. My goal is to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow. One of the most rewarding parts of my work is helping clients recognize their strengths, build confidence, and develop practical coping skills they can use long after they leave the therapy room.
(267) 609-9274 View (267) 609-9274
Photo of Dan Boe, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Dan Boe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Ambler, PA 19002
Not accepting new clients
Greetings! No matter what kind of hardships people are facing, I believe there are always opportunities to identify strengths and take steps towards growth and healing. I’ve walked alongside children, teens, and adults as they’ve navigated incredible difficulties, and I find great joy in celebrating the wins in each person’s journey. I am patient, compassionate, and non-judgmental in my care and utilize a trauma-informed and multi-modal approach that includes CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, and Strengths-Based Therapy, among others.
Greetings! No matter what kind of hardships people are facing, I believe there are always opportunities to identify strengths and take steps towards growth and healing. I’ve walked alongside children, teens, and adults as they’ve navigated incredible difficulties, and I find great joy in celebrating the wins in each person’s journey. I am patient, compassionate, and non-judgmental in my care and utilize a trauma-informed and multi-modal approach that includes CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, and Strengths-Based Therapy, among others.
(267) 719-2874 View (267) 719-2874
Photo of Andrea Kirsch, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Andrea Kirsch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My professional passion is to help people heal from the effects of attachment trauma and overcome symptoms associated with personality disorders. I also find it fulfilling to help clients who are experiencing symptoms associated with PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, eating disorders, and substance-related disorders. Lastly, I am devoted to creating a safe space for identity-related growth and affirmation.
My professional passion is to help people heal from the effects of attachment trauma and overcome symptoms associated with personality disorders. I also find it fulfilling to help clients who are experiencing symptoms associated with PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, eating disorders, and substance-related disorders. Lastly, I am devoted to creating a safe space for identity-related growth and affirmation.
(267) 214-0374 View (267) 214-0374
Photo of Bethany Kassar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bethany Kassar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Ambler, PA 19002
With over 30 years of experience, I create a safe environment to be heard, accepted, and challenged for true growth and happiness. My passion is working with individuals, families, and parents struggling with daily parenting and relationship issues. With a strong background in treating those with addictive behaviors, such as substance use, disordered eating, gaming, and relationship dependencies, I use an individualized, eclectic approach to treat everyone and their families individually, with care, compassion and understanding.
With over 30 years of experience, I create a safe environment to be heard, accepted, and challenged for true growth and happiness. My passion is working with individuals, families, and parents struggling with daily parenting and relationship issues. With a strong background in treating those with addictive behaviors, such as substance use, disordered eating, gaming, and relationship dependencies, I use an individualized, eclectic approach to treat everyone and their families individually, with care, compassion and understanding.
(215) 688-5597 View (215) 688-5597
Photo of Sandy Cini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd
Sandy Cini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You've always been "the strong one" - the person everyone depends on. Capable, responsible, the one who gets things done and holds everyone else together. To those on the outside, it looks effortless. But on the inside, you feel anxious, exhausted, resentful and alone with your stress. At night, your brain won't shut off - replaying all the things you could have done better or differently. Saying "no" brings intense guilt and the fear of disappointing others is heavy. You're tired of carrying everyone else's emotional load. You want a quieter mind, less pressure, and the ability to finally relax and breathe. You just don't know how.
You've always been "the strong one" - the person everyone depends on. Capable, responsible, the one who gets things done and holds everyone else together. To those on the outside, it looks effortless. But on the inside, you feel anxious, exhausted, resentful and alone with your stress. At night, your brain won't shut off - replaying all the things you could have done better or differently. Saying "no" brings intense guilt and the fear of disappointing others is heavy. You're tired of carrying everyone else's emotional load. You want a quieter mind, less pressure, and the ability to finally relax and breathe. You just don't know how.
(215) 999-6359 View (215) 999-6359
Photo of Erin Deal, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Erin Deal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
2 Endorsed
Ambler, PA 19002
I came into this field with my own personal experience with mental health. To have personal experience, on top of being a clinician, it allows me to create an environment that allows clients to feel seen, and not just someone sitting in front of a textbook. Therapy is not just for the things we’re having a difficult time with, it’s to have a safe space, specific for you, where you can be yourself and confide in someone without fear of judgement or consequence. If you’re looking to better understand yourself, figure out what makes you feel alive, and co-exist with feelings, I'm right here ready when you are!
I came into this field with my own personal experience with mental health. To have personal experience, on top of being a clinician, it allows me to create an environment that allows clients to feel seen, and not just someone sitting in front of a textbook. Therapy is not just for the things we’re having a difficult time with, it’s to have a safe space, specific for you, where you can be yourself and confide in someone without fear of judgement or consequence. If you’re looking to better understand yourself, figure out what makes you feel alive, and co-exist with feelings, I'm right here ready when you are!
(267) 551-5892 View (267) 551-5892
Photo of Emily Masko, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Emily Masko
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Ambler, PA 19002
I am taking new clients! I can generally schedule new clients for a session within 2 business days. I offer both telehealth sessions as well as outdoor, nature therapy sessions in which we can talk on a park bench or walk along a trail. If you have been struggling to find a therapist, please reach out.
I am taking new clients! I can generally schedule new clients for a session within 2 business days. I offer both telehealth sessions as well as outdoor, nature therapy sessions in which we can talk on a park bench or walk along a trail. If you have been struggling to find a therapist, please reach out.
(215) 437-3849 View (215) 437-3849

See more therapy options for Ambler

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Ambler, PA

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Ambler, PA who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
96% Social Anxiety
96% Health Anxiety
96% Driving Anxiety
93% Depression
77% Self Esteem
72% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
67% Highmark
59% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Ambler, PA see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
19% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Ambler?

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.