Therapists in Bala Cynwyd, PA

Photo of Jummy M. Kirby - Relinquish & Transcend Counseling + Consulting, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, PMH-C, CMIP
Relinquish & Transcend Counseling + Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, PMH-C, CMIP
Online Only
You're at a pivotal moment, ready to embrace change and chart a new path forward. You might be grappling with anxiety, depression, past trauma, or relationship struggles. Your heart yearns for healing, clarity, and fulfillment. You want to rediscover your inner strength, navigate life's challenges, and cultivate resilience. Together, we'll embark on a journey of self-discovery, empowering you to embrace your authenticity, find your voice, and thrive in a life of purpose and joy.
You're at a pivotal moment, ready to embrace change and chart a new path forward. You might be grappling with anxiety, depression, past trauma, or relationship struggles. Your heart yearns for healing, clarity, and fulfillment. You want to rediscover your inner strength, navigate life's challenges, and cultivate resilience. Together, we'll embark on a journey of self-discovery, empowering you to embrace your authenticity, find your voice, and thrive in a life of purpose and joy.
(484) 497-2238 View (484) 497-2238
Photo of Anika Khan, Psychologist, PhD
Anika Khan
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
I work with children (ages 3 and up), adolescents, adults and families utilizing evidence based principles to help you deal with anxiety or other life stressors. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure and response prevention, dialectical behavioral therapy, habit reversal training and mindfulness techniques to create a unique plan for each individual. I am an anxiety and OCD specialist and have experience treating generalized anxiety, OCD, panic disorder, social anxiety, separation anxiety, tic disorders, and trichotillomania. I also have experience with GI challenges, and other chronic medical conditions.
I work with children (ages 3 and up), adolescents, adults and families utilizing evidence based principles to help you deal with anxiety or other life stressors. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure and response prevention, dialectical behavioral therapy, habit reversal training and mindfulness techniques to create a unique plan for each individual. I am an anxiety and OCD specialist and have experience treating generalized anxiety, OCD, panic disorder, social anxiety, separation anxiety, tic disorders, and trichotillomania. I also have experience with GI challenges, and other chronic medical conditions.
(484) 739-9600 View (484) 739-9600
Photo of Stephanie H Felgoise, Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Stephanie H Felgoise
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Online Only
I am experienced and eager to help individuals and couples who want to make positive changes in their lives or cope with life stressors more effectively by use of cognitive-behavioral and problem-solving therapy and positive psychology. Therapy is intended to be goal-oriented and short-term. Couples are guided to regain intimate and personal connections they once had that may have been compromised by life stressors, infidelity, chronic or acute illness, parenting, age, sexual dysfunction, or simply growing apart. I aim to help people decrease distress, improve communication and problem solving, increase intimacy, and improve quality of life.
I am experienced and eager to help individuals and couples who want to make positive changes in their lives or cope with life stressors more effectively by use of cognitive-behavioral and problem-solving therapy and positive psychology. Therapy is intended to be goal-oriented and short-term. Couples are guided to regain intimate and personal connections they once had that may have been compromised by life stressors, infidelity, chronic or acute illness, parenting, age, sexual dysfunction, or simply growing apart. I aim to help people decrease distress, improve communication and problem solving, increase intimacy, and improve quality of life.
(215) 960-9204 View (215) 960-9204
Photo of Jennifer Denholm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jennifer Denholm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
I believe that change happens within the context of a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship. Whether you're struggling with relationships, managing worries or navigating a life transition, therapy can help. I work to create a supportive, collaborative space to empower my clients to create positive change in their lives.
I believe that change happens within the context of a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship. Whether you're struggling with relationships, managing worries or navigating a life transition, therapy can help. I work to create a supportive, collaborative space to empower my clients to create positive change in their lives.
(484) 222-4957 View (484) 222-4957
Photo of Mineela J Chand, Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, LMFT
Mineela J Chand
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You’ve achieved what most people can’t - yet your ADHD still hijacks your time, energy, and focus like it owns the place. I work with high-performing executives and entrepreneurs who are tired of running their success through chaos. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or long aware, we’ll use an executive functions framework I’ve refined over 25 years to turn friction into flow. My clients learn to lead without burnout, plan without panic, and execute without the constant mental tug-of-war that drains their edge. Structure meets ambition here - and both win.
You’ve achieved what most people can’t - yet your ADHD still hijacks your time, energy, and focus like it owns the place. I work with high-performing executives and entrepreneurs who are tired of running their success through chaos. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or long aware, we’ll use an executive functions framework I’ve refined over 25 years to turn friction into flow. My clients learn to lead without burnout, plan without panic, and execute without the constant mental tug-of-war that drains their edge. Structure meets ambition here - and both win.
(610) 697-9440 View (610) 697-9440
Photo of Inger Colzie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Inger Colzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Are you living the life you really want? Sometimes it's hard to believe you will feel better when you are struggling. It's important to understand the ways which your present emotions and outlooks are guided by your past experiences. I can help how you see your life and empower you to create your own change and move forward to get the full life you want in a successful and effective way. We will discover where you are and where you want to go. I will provide tools; strategies and support that help you accomplish healing and create happiness.
Are you living the life you really want? Sometimes it's hard to believe you will feel better when you are struggling. It's important to understand the ways which your present emotions and outlooks are guided by your past experiences. I can help how you see your life and empower you to create your own change and move forward to get the full life you want in a successful and effective way. We will discover where you are and where you want to go. I will provide tools; strategies and support that help you accomplish healing and create happiness.
(484) 282-3830 View (484) 282-3830
Photo of Leslie N Becton - Murrell Community Counseling Services LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, THTC
Murrell Community Counseling Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, THTC
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
You’re on a plane. Ready for departure. Terror shoots from the bottom of your feet to the top of your head. “Why is it so hot in here?” Suddenly your hands are sweaty and you feel like you are about to faint. You’d be humiliated if anyone knew what you you’re going through, but you’re too frightened to hold it together. Your thoughts turn on you. “Am I having a heart attack? Am I dying? Heart is thumping violently. Throat feels like its closing. You shake uncontrollably. When the plane lands, you are being escorted off in a wheelchair. You have just experienced your first anxiety attack!
You’re on a plane. Ready for departure. Terror shoots from the bottom of your feet to the top of your head. “Why is it so hot in here?” Suddenly your hands are sweaty and you feel like you are about to faint. You’d be humiliated if anyone knew what you you’re going through, but you’re too frightened to hold it together. Your thoughts turn on you. “Am I having a heart attack? Am I dying? Heart is thumping violently. Throat feels like its closing. You shake uncontrollably. When the plane lands, you are being escorted off in a wheelchair. You have just experienced your first anxiety attack!
(267) 710-7224 View (267) 710-7224
Photo of Isabella Ianncelli, LSW
Isabella Ianncelli
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Isabella and I am a licensed social worker dedicated to helping clients navigate anxiety, stress, and moments of crisis with compassion and clarity. My experience in hospital settings and crisis intervention work has shaped my grounded, empathetic style-meeting clients where they are and guiding them toward practical, meaningful change. My goal is to make therapy feel approachable, collaborative, and centered on the client's unique story and goals, all while creating a supportive environment that values strength, honesty, and healing.
My name is Isabella and I am a licensed social worker dedicated to helping clients navigate anxiety, stress, and moments of crisis with compassion and clarity. My experience in hospital settings and crisis intervention work has shaped my grounded, empathetic style-meeting clients where they are and guiding them toward practical, meaningful change. My goal is to make therapy feel approachable, collaborative, and centered on the client's unique story and goals, all while creating a supportive environment that values strength, honesty, and healing.
(484) 779-6796 View (484) 779-6796
Photo of Dr. Erin Stafford, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Erin Stafford
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Therapy can be a space for healing, empowerment, and growth, but starting that process can be difficult and takes a lot of courage. As a therapist, I believe that building a strong therapeutic relationship is a key component to creating a safe, accepting environment from which you can heal and grow. I work together with my clients to relieve the pain that has brought them to this moment, while also helping promote true healing through deeper reflection of their life experiences while incorporating history, culture, and identity.
Therapy can be a space for healing, empowerment, and growth, but starting that process can be difficult and takes a lot of courage. As a therapist, I believe that building a strong therapeutic relationship is a key component to creating a safe, accepting environment from which you can heal and grow. I work together with my clients to relieve the pain that has brought them to this moment, while also helping promote true healing through deeper reflection of their life experiences while incorporating history, culture, and identity.
(484) 443-4714 View (484) 443-4714
Photo of Gail Serruya - Gail Serruya MD, MD
Gail Serruya MD
Verified Verified
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Find hope and alternative healing at Voyage Healing - a ketamine and wellness clinic. We are a psychiatrist, nurse, and therapist group offering traditional medication management, talk therapy, IV ketamine infusions, intramuscular ketamine injections, Spravato (intranasal esketamine), and ketamine assisted psychotherapy. We now are in network with United, Aetna, Highmark, and Cigna for many services.
Find hope and alternative healing at Voyage Healing - a ketamine and wellness clinic. We are a psychiatrist, nurse, and therapist group offering traditional medication management, talk therapy, IV ketamine infusions, intramuscular ketamine injections, Spravato (intranasal esketamine), and ketamine assisted psychotherapy. We now are in network with United, Aetna, Highmark, and Cigna for many services.
(215) 770-3096 View (215) 770-3096
Photo of Carly Chodosh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, PMH-C
Carly Chodosh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, PMH-C
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Just because you carry it well, doesn't mean it isn't heavy. You deserve more than just being seen. The world is a scary and ever-changing place. Dealing with uncertainty, transition, and challenges puts stress on relationships, and on personal values. Curiosity, mindfulness, and a dialectical approach makes it possible to find meaning, and even pleasure, in some of the most bleak situations, with the right support.
Just because you carry it well, doesn't mean it isn't heavy. You deserve more than just being seen. The world is a scary and ever-changing place. Dealing with uncertainty, transition, and challenges puts stress on relationships, and on personal values. Curiosity, mindfulness, and a dialectical approach makes it possible to find meaning, and even pleasure, in some of the most bleak situations, with the right support.
(484) 214-2795 View (484) 214-2795
Photo of Steven B Glazier, Psychologist, MA
Steven B Glazier
Psychologist, MA
2 Endorsed
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Are you worried about your child's development? Is he/she struggling in social, emotional and/or academic areas? Is discipline a problem? I am a Psychologist with 25 years of experience in helping children and families flourish and I am confident that I can help. Parenting is probably the most challenging thing we will ever do and there is no "how to" book that could possibly cover the complexity of situations that arise. When our children struggle to meet the demands of our world, assistance may be needed.
Are you worried about your child's development? Is he/she struggling in social, emotional and/or academic areas? Is discipline a problem? I am a Psychologist with 25 years of experience in helping children and families flourish and I am confident that I can help. Parenting is probably the most challenging thing we will ever do and there is no "how to" book that could possibly cover the complexity of situations that arise. When our children struggle to meet the demands of our world, assistance may be needed.
(215) 378-9162 View (215) 378-9162
Photo of Terry Sturmer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Terry Sturmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Welcome to my practice - Passion Flowers LLC! Are you struggling? Unsure of what you are feeling? Afraid to reach out? Feeling isolated and alone? I applaud your courage and strength as you search for a path to wellness and wellbeing. My clients face deeply personal losses and traumas, recent or in the past. I understand their feelings of anxiety, depression, fear, confusion, and sadness. I offer my clients a variety of healing techniques that include talk and trauma focused therapies, guided imagery and parts work. Together, we work to heal and resolve problems and challenges with new skills and abilities.
Welcome to my practice - Passion Flowers LLC! Are you struggling? Unsure of what you are feeling? Afraid to reach out? Feeling isolated and alone? I applaud your courage and strength as you search for a path to wellness and wellbeing. My clients face deeply personal losses and traumas, recent or in the past. I understand their feelings of anxiety, depression, fear, confusion, and sadness. I offer my clients a variety of healing techniques that include talk and trauma focused therapies, guided imagery and parts work. Together, we work to heal and resolve problems and challenges with new skills and abilities.
(610) 686-7772 View (610) 686-7772
Photo of Ashley Hennessey, Psychologist, PsyD
Ashley Hennessey
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
Hello! I’m Dr. Ashley Hennessey, a clinical psychologist who works with individuals who feel overwhelmed, stuck, and drained by the constant pressures of daily life. Many of my clients struggle to stay focused, manage responsibilities, or quiet the mental noise that keeps them spinning. They often feel on edge, caught in cycles of overthinking, worry, or perfectionism that make it hard to rest or feel at ease. I have particular experience working with physicians and other medical professionals who face unique stressors—the emotional toll of patient care, long hours, high stakes, and a culture that often discourages vulnerability.
Hello! I’m Dr. Ashley Hennessey, a clinical psychologist who works with individuals who feel overwhelmed, stuck, and drained by the constant pressures of daily life. Many of my clients struggle to stay focused, manage responsibilities, or quiet the mental noise that keeps them spinning. They often feel on edge, caught in cycles of overthinking, worry, or perfectionism that make it hard to rest or feel at ease. I have particular experience working with physicians and other medical professionals who face unique stressors—the emotional toll of patient care, long hours, high stakes, and a culture that often discourages vulnerability.
(484) 312-5849 View (484) 312-5849
Photo of Erin Elizabeth McCarthy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Erin Elizabeth McCarthy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
5 Endorsed
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
As a therapist, my clearest purpose is to help clients to alleviate debilitating symptoms of anxiety, depression and confusion. We do that in two major ways: one, finding the sources of the symptom and exploring the origins together and two, treating the symptoms with personally tailored, evidence-based interventions. As we participate in the treasure hunt of therapy, we battle pirates, feel the rain on our faces and build new structures for shelter along the way. Imagine building a map together where X marks the spot. What is your X? If you don't know, let's find out together.
As a therapist, my clearest purpose is to help clients to alleviate debilitating symptoms of anxiety, depression and confusion. We do that in two major ways: one, finding the sources of the symptom and exploring the origins together and two, treating the symptoms with personally tailored, evidence-based interventions. As we participate in the treasure hunt of therapy, we battle pirates, feel the rain on our faces and build new structures for shelter along the way. Imagine building a map together where X marks the spot. What is your X? If you don't know, let's find out together.
(267) 458-7808 View (267) 458-7808
Photo of Frank Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Frank Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you challenged with maintaining perspective during heated situations with colleagues, family, and friends? Does it negatively affect your work performance or personal relationships?  The pressure of building or maintaining a successful professional career while trying to stay healthy and juggling the demands of a personal life, can leave us feeling stressed, depressed, and even burned out.
Are you challenged with maintaining perspective during heated situations with colleagues, family, and friends? Does it negatively affect your work performance or personal relationships?  The pressure of building or maintaining a successful professional career while trying to stay healthy and juggling the demands of a personal life, can leave us feeling stressed, depressed, and even burned out.
(484) 729-8538 View (484) 729-8538
Photo of Daniel Kulper, Psychologist, PhD
Daniel Kulper
Psychologist, PhD
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Most individuals come by their problems honestly and often need new perspectives and coping skills to help navigate the inevitable problems of life. I combine evidence-based therapy practices with an empathetic and understanding attitude to develop a treatment tailor-fit to you as an individual. I help individuals with a variety of mental health issues with specialties in anger/aggression, trauma, PTSD, sexual behavior problems, personality issues, and mood disorders.
Most individuals come by their problems honestly and often need new perspectives and coping skills to help navigate the inevitable problems of life. I combine evidence-based therapy practices with an empathetic and understanding attitude to develop a treatment tailor-fit to you as an individual. I help individuals with a variety of mental health issues with specialties in anger/aggression, trauma, PTSD, sexual behavior problems, personality issues, and mood disorders.
(484) 255-8480 View (484) 255-8480
Photo of Kathryn (Kathy) E. Angell, Psychologist, PhD
Kathryn (Kathy) E. Angell
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Do you have intrusive thoughts? no energy? a lot of fights with your partner? too much stress? problems sleeping? a lot of distress and you don't know why? traumatic events that really bother you? or just feel really down? Regardless of the source of your distress, I would like to help you. I have specialized expertise in top-rated individual and couples therapy approaches that science has demonstrated to be effective: Cognitive Behavior Therapy for depression, anxiety, eating disorders and insomnia (CBT, CBT-E, CBT-I), Exposure Response-Prevention (ERP, ExRP) for OCD; Prolonged Exposure (PE),for trauma, & Gottman Couples Therapy.
Do you have intrusive thoughts? no energy? a lot of fights with your partner? too much stress? problems sleeping? a lot of distress and you don't know why? traumatic events that really bother you? or just feel really down? Regardless of the source of your distress, I would like to help you. I have specialized expertise in top-rated individual and couples therapy approaches that science has demonstrated to be effective: Cognitive Behavior Therapy for depression, anxiety, eating disorders and insomnia (CBT, CBT-E, CBT-I), Exposure Response-Prevention (ERP, ExRP) for OCD; Prolonged Exposure (PE),for trauma, & Gottman Couples Therapy.
(610) 347-5273 View (610) 347-5273
Photo of Amanda White - Therapy for Kids, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Therapy for Kids
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
As a parent, it can be difficult to know if or why your child is struggling. For younger kids, behavioral issues such as tantrums, extreme shyness, aggression, defiance, social or school issues are actually signs of anxiety, depression, grief, or low self esteem. We work with kids ages 5 and up, using play therapy and other engaging techniques to connect with your child on their level. Similarly, for adolescents, too mental health struggles can be dismissed as "teen angst." We work with adolescents ages 10-19 struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, ADHD, eating disorders, self esteem and more.
As a parent, it can be difficult to know if or why your child is struggling. For younger kids, behavioral issues such as tantrums, extreme shyness, aggression, defiance, social or school issues are actually signs of anxiety, depression, grief, or low self esteem. We work with kids ages 5 and up, using play therapy and other engaging techniques to connect with your child on their level. Similarly, for adolescents, too mental health struggles can be dismissed as "teen angst." We work with adolescents ages 10-19 struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, ADHD, eating disorders, self esteem and more.
(484) 734-1712 View (484) 734-1712
Photo of Justine Fox - Fox Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Fox Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
I hope together we can create a safe space to explore life’s challenges, successes and everything in between. I recognize coming to therapy can be difficult, so I strive to provide a comfortable environment filled with empathy and support. I specialize in working collaboratively with young adults and adults experiencing a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, body image, eating disorders, unhealthy relationships and mood disorders.
I hope together we can create a safe space to explore life’s challenges, successes and everything in between. I recognize coming to therapy can be difficult, so I strive to provide a comfortable environment filled with empathy and support. I specialize in working collaboratively with young adults and adults experiencing a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, body image, eating disorders, unhealthy relationships and mood disorders.
(856) 644-1260 View (856) 644-1260

See more therapy options for Bala Cynwyd

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bala Cynwyd, PA

200+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Bala Cynwyd, PA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
89% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
71% Self Esteem
68% Trauma and PTSD
62% Grief
61% Stress

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

68% Aetna
57% Highmark
48% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Bala Cynwyd, PA see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
26% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bala Cynwyd?

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.