Therapists in East Stroudsburg, PA

Photo of Ollie Lumby, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Ollie Lumby
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
1 Endorsed
East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
Life can feel overwhelming at times—whether it’s stress at work, challenges at home, relationship struggles, or questions about who you are and where you’re headed. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Therapy can be a supportive space to slow down, feel heard, and start making sense of what you’re experiencing.
Life can feel overwhelming at times—whether it’s stress at work, challenges at home, relationship struggles, or questions about who you are and where you’re headed. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Therapy can be a supportive space to slow down, feel heard, and start making sense of what you’re experiencing.
(717) 922-4308 View (717) 922-4308
Photo of Emily Sartori - Emily Sartori, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Emily Sartori, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
I enjoy forming a strong alliance with my clients and encourage them to recognize their strength and resiliency. Everyone has the capacity to heal and make positive change. Therapy helps us find the necessary tools and practices, and gives us the encouragement, validation, and guidance needed to achieve our goals. My ideal client is someone who understands what it's like to struggle and wants to heal and take steps for change. I work with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, self-esteem issues, etc.
I enjoy forming a strong alliance with my clients and encourage them to recognize their strength and resiliency. Everyone has the capacity to heal and make positive change. Therapy helps us find the necessary tools and practices, and gives us the encouragement, validation, and guidance needed to achieve our goals. My ideal client is someone who understands what it's like to struggle and wants to heal and take steps for change. I work with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, self-esteem issues, etc.
(570) 539-9822 View (570) 539-9822
Photo of Cindy Pilcher, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, CSTIP, LPC
Cindy Pilcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, CSTIP, LPC
1 Endorsed
East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
Many men I work with look “fine” on the outside—reliable, hardworking, holding it together—yet feel overwhelmed or stuck in the same conflict at home. You might shut down during tough conversations, feel criticized no matter what you do, or notice anger, defensiveness, or distance show up when you actually want closeness. If you were taught to push feelings down and handle them alone, it can start costing you connection. In therapy, we’ll get beneath the reactions—stress, pressure, past experiences, and the parts of you that learned to protect by going quiet, getting sharp, or checking out.
Many men I work with look “fine” on the outside—reliable, hardworking, holding it together—yet feel overwhelmed or stuck in the same conflict at home. You might shut down during tough conversations, feel criticized no matter what you do, or notice anger, defensiveness, or distance show up when you actually want closeness. If you were taught to push feelings down and handle them alone, it can start costing you connection. In therapy, we’ll get beneath the reactions—stress, pressure, past experiences, and the parts of you that learned to protect by going quiet, getting sharp, or checking out.
(272) 385-0498 View (272) 385-0498
Photo of Tremayne Butler, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Tremayne Butler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I have vast experience working with individuals, couples, and families in a variety of settings. As a Veteran, I also understand the unique perspectives and experiences of military personnel and their families. My approach to therapy is client-focused and based on your individual goals. I strive to be collaborative and understand that you are the expert on your life. I specialize in clients who need support with high anxiety, OCD, substance abuse, and family therapy. I like to create a welcoming environment where clients feel open in discussing their concerns
I have vast experience working with individuals, couples, and families in a variety of settings. As a Veteran, I also understand the unique perspectives and experiences of military personnel and their families. My approach to therapy is client-focused and based on your individual goals. I strive to be collaborative and understand that you are the expert on your life. I specialize in clients who need support with high anxiety, OCD, substance abuse, and family therapy. I like to create a welcoming environment where clients feel open in discussing their concerns
(717) 966-6431 View (717) 966-6431
Photo of Latoya Smalls, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Latoya Smalls
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I am Latoya Smalls, Ph.D., LPC, BSL, NCC. I am a counseling professional holding licenses and certification in mental health counseling, I hold a Doctorate Degree in Counselor Education and Supervision. As a counseling professional, it is essential to challenge my clients in a supportive and encouraging way that will not present as overly critical of their knowledge and experience, and that will assist with promoting personal growth. As a therapist, I work to build trust in my clients, as this will allow them to feel safe and comfortable reaching outside of their comforts of growing and healing.
I am Latoya Smalls, Ph.D., LPC, BSL, NCC. I am a counseling professional holding licenses and certification in mental health counseling, I hold a Doctorate Degree in Counselor Education and Supervision. As a counseling professional, it is essential to challenge my clients in a supportive and encouraging way that will not present as overly critical of their knowledge and experience, and that will assist with promoting personal growth. As a therapist, I work to build trust in my clients, as this will allow them to feel safe and comfortable reaching outside of their comforts of growing and healing.
(717) 905-4519 View (717) 905-4519
Photo of Jason Miller - Jason Miller, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jason Miller, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
Everyone experiences challenges in life which can be difficult to navigate; leaving one feeling anxious, depressed or simply unable to cope. Feeling heard, understood and respected is essential to overcoming these life changes and obstacles. I provide counseling services that couple a supportive client-counselor relationship with strength and evidence-based treatments in order to reach your goals. Sometimes ones’ challenges involve those closest to us; in these situations I will provide counseling for family relationships that is geared at improving communication and increasing family unity.
Everyone experiences challenges in life which can be difficult to navigate; leaving one feeling anxious, depressed or simply unable to cope. Feeling heard, understood and respected is essential to overcoming these life changes and obstacles. I provide counseling services that couple a supportive client-counselor relationship with strength and evidence-based treatments in order to reach your goals. Sometimes ones’ challenges involve those closest to us; in these situations I will provide counseling for family relationships that is geared at improving communication and increasing family unity.
(570) 258-8743 View (570) 258-8743
Photo of Katie Marchand, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LAPC, NCC
Katie Marchand
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LAPC, NCC
2 Endorsed
East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
You don’t have it all figured out to start therapy. I work with individuals and couples who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or emotionally exhausted—often functioning well on the outside while struggling internally. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and practical, blending evidence-based techniques with a client-centered style. Therapy is a space to slow down, feel understood, explore emotions, and break unhelpful patterns. Together, we’ll build tools that support meaningful, sustainable change in everyday life.
You don’t have it all figured out to start therapy. I work with individuals and couples who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or emotionally exhausted—often functioning well on the outside while struggling internally. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and practical, blending evidence-based techniques with a client-centered style. Therapy is a space to slow down, feel understood, explore emotions, and break unhelpful patterns. Together, we’ll build tools that support meaningful, sustainable change in everyday life.
(272) 999-2164 View (272) 999-2164
Photo of Karen Conner-Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Karen Conner-Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Good Day. I'm Karen. Learning how to cope with change can be difficult. Are there times where you feel as if friends and family misunderstand you? Do you find yourself struggling with change making it hard to adapt to new environments? If so, I am here to help! have worked in social services and mental health for over 10 years. As a Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor for over 7 years, I have collaborated with agencies and organizations within New York City area to address the needs of individuals and families.
Good Day. I'm Karen. Learning how to cope with change can be difficult. Are there times where you feel as if friends and family misunderstand you? Do you find yourself struggling with change making it hard to adapt to new environments? If so, I am here to help! have worked in social services and mental health for over 10 years. As a Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor for over 7 years, I have collaborated with agencies and organizations within New York City area to address the needs of individuals and families.
(570) 665-6702 View (570) 665-6702
Photo of Julie Bergstresser - Julie Bergstresser, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Julie Bergstresser, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have been a practicing Clinical Social Worker for 15+ years and enjoy helping my clients to fully realize their potential and to successfully cope with a variety of life's challenges to include transitions, depression, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress, addiction, & general challenges to living successfully. I use a collaborative approach to meet each client where they are and to assist in setting goals and determining what steps they would like to take. We will work together to track progress and make adjustments. All people deserve the opportunity to live the fullest life available to them. I am taking online clients in PA & NJ
I have been a practicing Clinical Social Worker for 15+ years and enjoy helping my clients to fully realize their potential and to successfully cope with a variety of life's challenges to include transitions, depression, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress, addiction, & general challenges to living successfully. I use a collaborative approach to meet each client where they are and to assist in setting goals and determining what steps they would like to take. We will work together to track progress and make adjustments. All people deserve the opportunity to live the fullest life available to them. I am taking online clients in PA & NJ
(717) 546-8914 View (717) 546-8914
Photo of Leslie Wilson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Leslie Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
Life can feel overwhelming when stress, anxiety, or difficult life transitions start to pile up—and sometimes just talking about it isn’t enough. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who are ready for more than insight alone. Together, we focus on building practical strategies that lead to real, lasting change. I have experience supporting clients through anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral challenges, substance use, and major life transitions. My background includes work in outpatient, school-based, and community settings, which allows me to understand how mental health concerns show up not just in therapy.
Life can feel overwhelming when stress, anxiety, or difficult life transitions start to pile up—and sometimes just talking about it isn’t enough. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who are ready for more than insight alone. Together, we focus on building practical strategies that lead to real, lasting change. I have experience supporting clients through anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral challenges, substance use, and major life transitions. My background includes work in outpatient, school-based, and community settings, which allows me to understand how mental health concerns show up not just in therapy.
(272) 999-1160 View (272) 999-1160
Photo of Heather M. Snell - Heather M. Sportelli, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, CCMHC, LPC
Heather M. Sportelli, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, CCMHC, LPC
2 Endorsed
East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
Waitlist for new clients
The list of topics I work with is nearly all encompassing. We are all human, and on that level, I'm able to relate to the emotional aspect of your human experience and support your journey. My primary focus with any client is to build rapport. This means taking the time to understand your past challenges, your present circumstances, and future endeavors. Some of the most important aspects of therapy are to be heard, to be understood, and to have a supportive space to speak without fear of judgement.
The list of topics I work with is nearly all encompassing. We are all human, and on that level, I'm able to relate to the emotional aspect of your human experience and support your journey. My primary focus with any client is to build rapport. This means taking the time to understand your past challenges, your present circumstances, and future endeavors. Some of the most important aspects of therapy are to be heard, to be understood, and to have a supportive space to speak without fear of judgement.
(570) 536-9657 View (570) 536-9657
Photo of Denise E. Shaw - Denise E. Shaw, MSW, LSW, Counselor, MSW, LSW
Denise E. Shaw, MSW, LSW
Counselor, MSW, LSW
1 Endorsed
East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
Denise is equipped to offer insight and guidance or to simply use active listening skills while you process and work through your challenges. You may let her know the type of support you need during your initial appointment.
Denise is equipped to offer insight and guidance or to simply use active listening skills while you process and work through your challenges. You may let her know the type of support you need during your initial appointment.
(570) 676-1676 View (570) 676-1676
Photo of Katie Ionescu - Water Gap Wellness Center, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Water Gap Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
Water Gap Wellness offers the most comprehensive and intense mental health and substance use treatment program in the Northeast. Water Gap Wellness is an outpatient provider that accepts private insurance. Water Gap Wellness is located 75 miles from New York City and less than 100 miles from Philadelphia and Connecticut.
Water Gap Wellness offers the most comprehensive and intense mental health and substance use treatment program in the Northeast. Water Gap Wellness is an outpatient provider that accepts private insurance. Water Gap Wellness is located 75 miles from New York City and less than 100 miles from Philadelphia and Connecticut.
(570) 740-3846 View (570) 740-3846
Photo of Ilene M. Bustos - Creative Solution Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC®, ATCS, LPC
Creative Solution Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC®, ATCS, LPC
5 Endorsed
East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
Conveniently located in East Stroudsburg. Focus of my practice is assisting clients, ages 15 to 65+, in coping with problems in their daily lives and dealing with inner conflicts which may hinder personal satisfaction and functioning. Together we will identify goals for treatment, barriers that may keep you from accomplishing your goals and develop strategies to overcome these barriers. Available for Pennsylvania LPC Supervision and ATR-BC.
Conveniently located in East Stroudsburg. Focus of my practice is assisting clients, ages 15 to 65+, in coping with problems in their daily lives and dealing with inner conflicts which may hinder personal satisfaction and functioning. Together we will identify goals for treatment, barriers that may keep you from accomplishing your goals and develop strategies to overcome these barriers. Available for Pennsylvania LPC Supervision and ATR-BC.
(570) 232-4749 View (570) 232-4749
Photo of Joy Richardson, MSW
Joy Richardson
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
I am a masters level therapist that enjoys supporting individuals in reaching their personal goals. I believe in meeting a person where they are. In my therapeutic approach, I take a strength-based approach. I would like each of my clients to feel empowered and confident in their ability to maneuver through their therapeutic journey. I believe the things that we go through in life do not define us; they just shape us. People are resilient and have the ability and strength to overcome obstacles. With support, a desire to overcome/work through your challenges, and positive coping mechanisms, you can succeed.
I am a masters level therapist that enjoys supporting individuals in reaching their personal goals. I believe in meeting a person where they are. In my therapeutic approach, I take a strength-based approach. I would like each of my clients to feel empowered and confident in their ability to maneuver through their therapeutic journey. I believe the things that we go through in life do not define us; they just shape us. People are resilient and have the ability and strength to overcome obstacles. With support, a desire to overcome/work through your challenges, and positive coping mechanisms, you can succeed.
(272) 422-1352 View (272) 422-1352
Photo of Brandon Christopher Fisher - Water Gap Wellness Center, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, CCTP-II, LPC
Water Gap Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, CCTP-II, LPC
East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
PLEASE NOTE – INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE. DO NOT CONTACT UNLESS YOU ARE INTERESTED. Water Gap Wellness offers the most comprehensive and intensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Program in the Northeast. The Program requires a continuous commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Preferred housing is available. The Program includes 1 weekly session with a psychiatrist, 2 sessions with your primary therapist, and daily group sessions. Water Gap Wellness is an outpatient provider that accepts all private insurance. Located 75 miles from NYC and less than 100 miles from Philadelphia and Connecticut.
PLEASE NOTE – INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE. DO NOT CONTACT UNLESS YOU ARE INTERESTED. Water Gap Wellness offers the most comprehensive and intensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Program in the Northeast. The Program requires a continuous commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Preferred housing is available. The Program includes 1 weekly session with a psychiatrist, 2 sessions with your primary therapist, and daily group sessions. Water Gap Wellness is an outpatient provider that accepts all private insurance. Located 75 miles from NYC and less than 100 miles from Philadelphia and Connecticut.
(272) 435-8157 View (272) 435-8157
Photo of Darlene Nicks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Darlene Nicks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
As a healer with both lived and professional experience, I employ a strength-based, holistic approach to therapy. I adapt various theories and techniques to suit each individual's unique personality and needs. Additionally, I have experience counseling other therapists, recognizing that clinicians also require support and guidance. Everyone possesses the innate ability to reach their most evolved and emotionally intelligent self. It is my privilege to assist others in discovering and nurturing their core values, boundaries, strengths, and resources. These are the primary concepts of achieving Dynamic Total Wellness.
As a healer with both lived and professional experience, I employ a strength-based, holistic approach to therapy. I adapt various theories and techniques to suit each individual's unique personality and needs. Additionally, I have experience counseling other therapists, recognizing that clinicians also require support and guidance. Everyone possesses the innate ability to reach their most evolved and emotionally intelligent self. It is my privilege to assist others in discovering and nurturing their core values, boundaries, strengths, and resources. These are the primary concepts of achieving Dynamic Total Wellness.
(570) 715-5217 View (570) 715-5217
Photo of Karen Schelling - Karen Schelling, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Schelling, MS, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
1 Endorsed
East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
There are many models of counseling with underlying philosophies of treatment. I use a model that believes healing occurs when we become aware of our issues, increase our insight and learn how to put alternative coping strategies into practice. I use traditional methodology as well as creative activities, including guided meditation, relaxation techniques and humor. I have an interest in animal assisted therapy. My approach is strength-based, using a person's natural skills, talents and abilities in the service of their own healing. It is a respectful, positive approach designed to support an individual's journey toward balance.
There are many models of counseling with underlying philosophies of treatment. I use a model that believes healing occurs when we become aware of our issues, increase our insight and learn how to put alternative coping strategies into practice. I use traditional methodology as well as creative activities, including guided meditation, relaxation techniques and humor. I have an interest in animal assisted therapy. My approach is strength-based, using a person's natural skills, talents and abilities in the service of their own healing. It is a respectful, positive approach designed to support an individual's journey toward balance.
(570) 689-8192 View (570) 689-8192
Photo of Kerry-Ann Barrett - Birch Light Perspective LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Birch Light Perspective LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
East Stroudsburg, PA 18301
Dealing with infidelity, constant arguments, disconnection can be hard in any relationship. Feelings of insecurity, worry, stress, sadness, confused or feeling stuck in life can affect you mentally, physically and socially. With the right support you can learn how to rebuild trust, manage conflict, deepen intimacy and connection. You can begin to feel confident, manage stress and negative emotions, get clarity and direction to live life in a way that is healthier, happier and lively!
Dealing with infidelity, constant arguments, disconnection can be hard in any relationship. Feelings of insecurity, worry, stress, sadness, confused or feeling stuck in life can affect you mentally, physically and socially. With the right support you can learn how to rebuild trust, manage conflict, deepen intimacy and connection. You can begin to feel confident, manage stress and negative emotions, get clarity and direction to live life in a way that is healthier, happier and lively!
(646) 867-3617 View (646) 867-3617
Photo of Holly Selepouchin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Holly Selepouchin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If anxiety, life transitions or even self doubt feel like everyday life feels heavier than it should, you do not have to explore it out alone. I work with young adults who are balancing school, responsibilities, and big questions about the future. My style is down to earth and collaborative, with warmth, humor, and gentle accountability. Together building confidence, coping skills, structure, and insight using evidence based approaches that help you function day to day.
If anxiety, life transitions or even self doubt feel like everyday life feels heavier than it should, you do not have to explore it out alone. I work with young adults who are balancing school, responsibilities, and big questions about the future. My style is down to earth and collaborative, with warmth, humor, and gentle accountability. Together building confidence, coping skills, structure, and insight using evidence based approaches that help you function day to day.
(570) 365-5318 View (570) 365-5318

See more therapy options for East Stroudsburg

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in East Stroudsburg, PA

60+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in East Stroudsburg, PA who prioritize treating:

88% Anxiety
88% Social Anxiety
88% Health Anxiety
88% Driving Anxiety
86% Depression
72% Trauma and PTSD
72% Complex PTSD

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% BlueCross and BlueShield
85% Highmark
83% Aetna

How Therapists in East Stroudsburg, PA see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in East Stroudsburg?

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.