Therapists in Broomall, PA

Photo of Natalie Merlino, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Natalie Merlino
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Broomall, PA 19008
I believe in the importance of establishing strong trust and open communication when forming the foundation of any relationship, including a therapeutic one. As our unique life experience and backgrounds shape our identities today, mine has inspired me to assist others in overcoming mental health barriers. My background consists in treating children, adults, and couples in an office setting as well as virtually. My approach is fairly integrative as I pull from various theories such as CBT, Psychodynamic, and Client-Centered Therapy.
I believe in the importance of establishing strong trust and open communication when forming the foundation of any relationship, including a therapeutic one. As our unique life experience and backgrounds shape our identities today, mine has inspired me to assist others in overcoming mental health barriers. My background consists in treating children, adults, and couples in an office setting as well as virtually. My approach is fairly integrative as I pull from various theories such as CBT, Psychodynamic, and Client-Centered Therapy.
(610) 980-8031 View (610) 980-8031
Photo of Brianna Bernardo - Hopewell Psychology, Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, MD, DO
Hopewell Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, MD, DO
Broomall, PA 19008
At Hopewell Psychology, we serve individuals across the lifespan with compassionate care tailored to their unique developmental stage and needs. Children and adolescents: developmentally appropriate support for challenges such as anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, school-related stress, and social-emotional development. Adults: personalized care for a wide range of emotional, relational, and psychological challenges, including stress, life transitions, and mental health concerns. Older adults: supporting the mental health and emotional well-being of older adults through thoughtful, specialized care.
At Hopewell Psychology, we serve individuals across the lifespan with compassionate care tailored to their unique developmental stage and needs. Children and adolescents: developmentally appropriate support for challenges such as anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, school-related stress, and social-emotional development. Adults: personalized care for a wide range of emotional, relational, and psychological challenges, including stress, life transitions, and mental health concerns. Older adults: supporting the mental health and emotional well-being of older adults through thoughtful, specialized care.
(610) 467-2354 View (610) 467-2354
Photo of Tom Meredith, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC
Tom Meredith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC
Broomall, PA 19008
Are you looking for someone with whom you can have an open, honest, direct, and thoughtful conversation about whatever matters most to you? Someone who will listen carefully and attentively to you? Someone who will engage you in warm, candid, and supportive dialogue in ways that encourage you and help you to grow as a person? Someone who will help you to repair whatever has been ruptured in your life? If so, we would likely work well together! At the most basic level, therapy is an opportunity to make an intentional connection with each other in order to bring about greater awareness and understanding, and, ultimately, healing.
Are you looking for someone with whom you can have an open, honest, direct, and thoughtful conversation about whatever matters most to you? Someone who will listen carefully and attentively to you? Someone who will engage you in warm, candid, and supportive dialogue in ways that encourage you and help you to grow as a person? Someone who will help you to repair whatever has been ruptured in your life? If so, we would likely work well together! At the most basic level, therapy is an opportunity to make an intentional connection with each other in order to bring about greater awareness and understanding, and, ultimately, healing.
(610) 995-6734 View (610) 995-6734
Photo of Sarah Lynch, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Sarah Lynch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Broomall, PA 19008
Let's take a journey together! You're the driver on this road trip that we will take together; as the therapist/co-pilot, I will help you navigate and explore, work through those bumps and winding curves in the road, and maybe find alternative ways to get to the destination. Maybe you're finding yourself stuck in the "mud," just spinning your wheels with the same patterns of thinking? Or maybe you're approaching a detour or having difficulty navigating all the potholes along the same road? These potholes being relationship issues, cycles of anxiety and/or depression, or just low self-esteem.
Let's take a journey together! You're the driver on this road trip that we will take together; as the therapist/co-pilot, I will help you navigate and explore, work through those bumps and winding curves in the road, and maybe find alternative ways to get to the destination. Maybe you're finding yourself stuck in the "mud," just spinning your wheels with the same patterns of thinking? Or maybe you're approaching a detour or having difficulty navigating all the potholes along the same road? These potholes being relationship issues, cycles of anxiety and/or depression, or just low self-esteem.
(610) 956-4433 View (610) 956-4433
Photo of Dr. Patrick Mullen, Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Dr. Patrick Mullen
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
1 Endorsed
Broomall, PA 19008
My approach balances two essential needs: creating space to actively listen and understand with compassion—and delivering practical, evidence-based tools you can use to get unstuck and move forward. I specialize in mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, addiction (substance use and behavioral), trauma, stress, and mood instability in adults. I also work with young adults (18-30+) and offer family therapy services.
My approach balances two essential needs: creating space to actively listen and understand with compassion—and delivering practical, evidence-based tools you can use to get unstuck and move forward. I specialize in mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, addiction (substance use and behavioral), trauma, stress, and mood instability in adults. I also work with young adults (18-30+) and offer family therapy services.
(484) 930-3013 View (484) 930-3013
Photo of Lee Renee Lucas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS
Lee Renee Lucas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS
1 Endorsed
Broomall, PA 19008
Cultivating Connection and Growth. At its core, therapy is about connection—authentic, human connection that creates space for healing and growth. My approach blends clinical expertise with a deep respect for the individual story each client brings, recognizing that therapy isn’t about fixing people—it’s about helping them rediscover their capacity for self-understanding and change. At the end of the day, therapy is a conversation—and I’m here not just to listen, but to walk alongside clients as they navigate the tough stuff, celebrate the wins, and learn to live with more clarity and courage.
Cultivating Connection and Growth. At its core, therapy is about connection—authentic, human connection that creates space for healing and growth. My approach blends clinical expertise with a deep respect for the individual story each client brings, recognizing that therapy isn’t about fixing people—it’s about helping them rediscover their capacity for self-understanding and change. At the end of the day, therapy is a conversation—and I’m here not just to listen, but to walk alongside clients as they navigate the tough stuff, celebrate the wins, and learn to live with more clarity and courage.
(610) 569-9788 View (610) 569-9788
Photo of Beth Toler - The Wellness Center at Grace Lutheran Church, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
The Wellness Center at Grace Lutheran Church
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Broomall, PA 19008
At the Wellness Center of Grace Lutheran Church, we help people from all backgrounds navigate life's turning points and challenges. We are licensed and professionally trained clinicians who combine the wisdom, insights, and best evidence based practices of psychological and spiritual care in order to provide holistic healing and care for your mind, body, and spirit. We are an inclusive practice where everyone can discover a renewed sense of identity, belonging, and purpose.
At the Wellness Center of Grace Lutheran Church, we help people from all backgrounds navigate life's turning points and challenges. We are licensed and professionally trained clinicians who combine the wisdom, insights, and best evidence based practices of psychological and spiritual care in order to provide holistic healing and care for your mind, body, and spirit. We are an inclusive practice where everyone can discover a renewed sense of identity, belonging, and purpose.
(610) 859-4162 View (610) 859-4162
Photo of Patricia Gonzalez - Spectra: Mental Health Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor
Spectra: Mental Health Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor
Broomall, PA 19008
At Spectra Support Services, LLC, we blend creativity and clinical expertise to support your growth. Our psychotherapists use evidence-based approaches alongside expressive modalities such as mandala work, sand tray, and music therapy to create meaningful opportunities for healing. Whether you’re seeking one-on-one therapy or group experiences, we’re here to help you reach your behavioral health goals.
At Spectra Support Services, LLC, we blend creativity and clinical expertise to support your growth. Our psychotherapists use evidence-based approaches alongside expressive modalities such as mandala work, sand tray, and music therapy to create meaningful opportunities for healing. Whether you’re seeking one-on-one therapy or group experiences, we’re here to help you reach your behavioral health goals.
(610) 753-4783 View (610) 753-4783
Photo of Samantha A Duranti, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Samantha A Duranti
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Online Only
Are you struggling in your relationships? Maybe disruptive behavior is making it difficult to connect with your child or teenager. Maybe you are struggling in your relationship with your partner or even in the relationship you have with yourself. Hi! I’m Samantha and I work together with my clients, who include children, adolescents, adults, and families, to find realistic and creative solutions to the struggles they are facing. I enjoy drawing on the strengths of my clients and being a part of their journey of making the changes they want in their lives.
Are you struggling in your relationships? Maybe disruptive behavior is making it difficult to connect with your child or teenager. Maybe you are struggling in your relationship with your partner or even in the relationship you have with yourself. Hi! I’m Samantha and I work together with my clients, who include children, adolescents, adults, and families, to find realistic and creative solutions to the struggles they are facing. I enjoy drawing on the strengths of my clients and being a part of their journey of making the changes they want in their lives.
(610) 486-7362 View (610) 486-7362
Photo of Brianna Bernardo, Psychologist, PsyD
Brianna Bernardo
Psychologist, PsyD
Broomall, PA 19008
As a part of the Hopewell Psychology practice, I work with teens, adults, and older adults who are navigating challenges like stress, relationships, anxiety, depression, parenting struggles, self-confidence, grief, and more. Many people come to gain insight into how their life experiences shape them and to imagine a healthier future. My role is to support them in letting go of unhelpful thought patterns, building self-understanding, and growing in confidence and empowerment.
As a part of the Hopewell Psychology practice, I work with teens, adults, and older adults who are navigating challenges like stress, relationships, anxiety, depression, parenting struggles, self-confidence, grief, and more. Many people come to gain insight into how their life experiences shape them and to imagine a healthier future. My role is to support them in letting go of unhelpful thought patterns, building self-understanding, and growing in confidence and empowerment.
(610) 894-7121 View (610) 894-7121
Photo of Lori Peta, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Lori Peta
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Broomall, PA 19008
As part of the Hopewell Psychology Team, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who provides individual, couples, and family therapy for clients ages 14 and up. As a relational therapist, I believe that healthy relationships are central to human well-being and positive mental health. I pledge to provide a space for clients that fosters trust, empathy, and a sense of understanding. My work focuses on relationship challenges, intimacy concerns, and communication issues. Using a trauma-informed approach, I help clients explore how past experiences and attachment styles impact their relationships.
As part of the Hopewell Psychology Team, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who provides individual, couples, and family therapy for clients ages 14 and up. As a relational therapist, I believe that healthy relationships are central to human well-being and positive mental health. I pledge to provide a space for clients that fosters trust, empathy, and a sense of understanding. My work focuses on relationship challenges, intimacy concerns, and communication issues. Using a trauma-informed approach, I help clients explore how past experiences and attachment styles impact their relationships.
(610) 298-1806 x114 View (610) 298-1806 x114
Photo of Sophia Pazmino-Buckbee, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Sophia Pazmino-Buckbee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Broomall, PA 19008
I bring a deep experience in both outpatient and intensive group settings for individuals managing alcohol and other drug use disorders. I have experience working with complex challenges including mandated treatment within substance use, grief, life transitions, anxiety, trauma, and the deeply human desire to feel more at ease in our own lives. Being a Licensed Professional Counselor, I draw from evidence-based practices like trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), CBT, solution-focused therapy, person-centered therapy, and motivational interviewing.
I bring a deep experience in both outpatient and intensive group settings for individuals managing alcohol and other drug use disorders. I have experience working with complex challenges including mandated treatment within substance use, grief, life transitions, anxiety, trauma, and the deeply human desire to feel more at ease in our own lives. Being a Licensed Professional Counselor, I draw from evidence-based practices like trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), CBT, solution-focused therapy, person-centered therapy, and motivational interviewing.
(610) 426-1956 View (610) 426-1956
Photo of Sarah Sweda, Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Sarah Sweda
Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Broomall, PA 19008
Not accepting new clients
First of all, if no one has told you yet today, you’re here and you’re doing a great job. Hi, my name is Sarah and I get it - at any given moment life can be complicated, frustrating, hilarious, heartbreaking, chaotic, or beautiful. Maybe you’re feeling all of it at once. Through the beauty, chaos, joy, or pain, I think it’s important to remember that you don’t have to walk this ever changing road alone. As a licensed practical counselor (LPC) and nationally certified counselor (NCC) practicing in the state of Pennsylvania,
First of all, if no one has told you yet today, you’re here and you’re doing a great job. Hi, my name is Sarah and I get it - at any given moment life can be complicated, frustrating, hilarious, heartbreaking, chaotic, or beautiful. Maybe you’re feeling all of it at once. Through the beauty, chaos, joy, or pain, I think it’s important to remember that you don’t have to walk this ever changing road alone. As a licensed practical counselor (LPC) and nationally certified counselor (NCC) practicing in the state of Pennsylvania,
(484) 292-2294 View (484) 292-2294
Photo of Diann Frescoln, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Diann Frescoln
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Therapy can be an uplifting experience that can assist you in gaining perspective in life. Challenges are inevitable. It can be years in the making or come on suddenly without warning. Life can be overwhelming but the good news is that you do not have to face it alone. Whether it is exploring the past, coping with your current stressors or planning for future successes...Therapy can help! In a safe and non-judgmental setting, therapy can provide an outlet for self exploration.
Therapy can be an uplifting experience that can assist you in gaining perspective in life. Challenges are inevitable. It can be years in the making or come on suddenly without warning. Life can be overwhelming but the good news is that you do not have to face it alone. Whether it is exploring the past, coping with your current stressors or planning for future successes...Therapy can help! In a safe and non-judgmental setting, therapy can provide an outlet for self exploration.
(610) 600-6054 View (610) 600-6054
Photo of Angela York Crane, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Angela York Crane
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Broomall, PA 19008
I work with those who feel disconnected from their original self, to reconnect and experience full-body, heartfelt, vibrancy in their life. I work from the perspective that our psyche is purposeful and always working to heal us. Often, our inner voice, innate wisdom, and desire to move toward greater connection with ourselves and others gets lost in the pain and struggle of life. Instead of being a strength, we lose contact with our deepest, truest self. I seek to co-create a therapeutic space where clients can explore their lives, deepen their self-awareness, create a sense of inner spaciousness, and reconnect with forgotten parts
I work with those who feel disconnected from their original self, to reconnect and experience full-body, heartfelt, vibrancy in their life. I work from the perspective that our psyche is purposeful and always working to heal us. Often, our inner voice, innate wisdom, and desire to move toward greater connection with ourselves and others gets lost in the pain and struggle of life. Instead of being a strength, we lose contact with our deepest, truest self. I seek to co-create a therapeutic space where clients can explore their lives, deepen their self-awareness, create a sense of inner spaciousness, and reconnect with forgotten parts
(610) 595-4812 View (610) 595-4812
Photo of Erin Camp Buscham, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Erin Camp Buscham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Broomall, PA 19008
Erin Buscham is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2007. Erin uses an integrative approach to therapy that utilizes a variety of interventions from modalities to find the best fit for each individual client. In her personal time, Erin loves nature, especially the woods. She is also passionate about art and enjoys sketching, painting, and photography.
Erin Buscham is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2007. Erin uses an integrative approach to therapy that utilizes a variety of interventions from modalities to find the best fit for each individual client. In her personal time, Erin loves nature, especially the woods. She is also passionate about art and enjoys sketching, painting, and photography.
(484) 779-7956 View (484) 779-7956
Photo of Taylor Farr, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Taylor Farr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Broomall, PA 19008
Taylor uses interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness techniques to guide clients toward meaningful change. She is particularly skilled in helping first responders, military personnel, and veterans manage the mental health impacts of high-stress occupations. Her work also extends to supporting men and women facing transitions, trauma, or persistent stressors, offering individualized care tailored to each person’s unique needs.
Taylor uses interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness techniques to guide clients toward meaningful change. She is particularly skilled in helping first responders, military personnel, and veterans manage the mental health impacts of high-stress occupations. Her work also extends to supporting men and women facing transitions, trauma, or persistent stressors, offering individualized care tailored to each person’s unique needs.
(484) 917-0858 View (484) 917-0858
Photo of Benjamin Daniels - Equilibria Psychological & Consultation Services, Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, LPC
Equilibria Psychological & Consultation Services
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, LPC
4 Endorsed
Broomall, PA 19008
Since 2005, Equilibria Psychological and Consultation Services has provided a safe and supportive space for children, teens, adults, couples, and families in the Philadelphia area. Our team of psychologists and mental health professionals use evidence-based approaches to help clients navigate emotional, social, behavioral, and relationship challenges. We offer therapy, consultation, and assessment services, working together to help clients achieve growth, insight, and lasting change.
Since 2005, Equilibria Psychological and Consultation Services has provided a safe and supportive space for children, teens, adults, couples, and families in the Philadelphia area. Our team of psychologists and mental health professionals use evidence-based approaches to help clients navigate emotional, social, behavioral, and relationship challenges. We offer therapy, consultation, and assessment services, working together to help clients achieve growth, insight, and lasting change.
(267) 861-3685 x1 View (267) 861-3685 x1
Joanne Kaminski
Psychologist
Broomall, PA 19008
I am a PA licensed psychologist with a broad-based practice consisting of treatment for several mental health disorders, substance abuse/dependence, palliative care for clients with chronic medical disorders, bereavement, family and marital therapy, academic stressors, professional impairment, transferring from military to civilian life, as well as psychophysiological retraining through biofeedback. Cultural and religious beliefs are considered in all treatment approaches. Treatment approaches consist of cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic and mind-body approaches.
I am a PA licensed psychologist with a broad-based practice consisting of treatment for several mental health disorders, substance abuse/dependence, palliative care for clients with chronic medical disorders, bereavement, family and marital therapy, academic stressors, professional impairment, transferring from military to civilian life, as well as psychophysiological retraining through biofeedback. Cultural and religious beliefs are considered in all treatment approaches. Treatment approaches consist of cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic and mind-body approaches.
(484) 436-2080 View (484) 436-2080
Photo of Dr. Blair Scribner-Weiss, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Blair Scribner-Weiss
Psychologist, PsyD
Broomall, PA 19008
Dr. Blair K. Scribner-Weiss is a Clinical Neuropsychologist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2023. She earned her Doctorate of Psychology from Widener University, where she specialized in neuropsychology and biofeedback. Dr. Scribner-Weiss completed her postdoctoral fellowship at the Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center in Philadelphia, PA. Her predoctoral internships were completed at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (Penn Memory Center) and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. She completed additional pre-doctoral training at Temple University Hospital and Bancroft Neurorehab. Dr.
Dr. Blair K. Scribner-Weiss is a Clinical Neuropsychologist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2023. She earned her Doctorate of Psychology from Widener University, where she specialized in neuropsychology and biofeedback. Dr. Scribner-Weiss completed her postdoctoral fellowship at the Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center in Philadelphia, PA. Her predoctoral internships were completed at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (Penn Memory Center) and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. She completed additional pre-doctoral training at Temple University Hospital and Bancroft Neurorehab. Dr.
(484) 469-9431 View (484) 469-9431

See more therapy options for Broomall

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Broomall, PA

60+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Broomall, PA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
83% Depression
71% Grief
65% Trauma and PTSD
58% Self Esteem
55% Relationship Issues
55% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% Aetna
89% Highmark
70% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Broomall, PA see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Broomall?

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.