Therapists in Mechanicsburg, PA

Photo of Evie R Telfer, Counselor, LPC, MS, MDiv
Evie R Telfer
Counselor, LPC, MS, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The biggest hurdle when we hurt is often not the struggle itself but feeing alone in it. Whether that struggle is depression or anxiety, a relational or vocational challenge or just feeling overwhelmed, I'm glad you have taken the first step to get someone in your corner as you face it. I will walk around the contours of that roadblock with you, finding the keys to unlock the places where you're getting blocked. In therapy we will collaborate together to create corrective emotional experiences, change stuck patterns and help you discover new, healthy ways of facing the challenges in your life.
The biggest hurdle when we hurt is often not the struggle itself but feeing alone in it. Whether that struggle is depression or anxiety, a relational or vocational challenge or just feeling overwhelmed, I'm glad you have taken the first step to get someone in your corner as you face it. I will walk around the contours of that roadblock with you, finding the keys to unlock the places where you're getting blocked. In therapy we will collaborate together to create corrective emotional experiences, change stuck patterns and help you discover new, healthy ways of facing the challenges in your life.
(717) 716-6158 View (717) 716-6158
Photo of Lauren Royer, Associate Professional Counselor, MS, LAPC, NCSP
Lauren Royer
Associate Professional Counselor, MS, LAPC, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
I believe that healing is rooted in connection—with ourselves, between parents and children, and throughout our relationships. I aim to offer a compassionate and authentic space built on safety and trust that encourages self-reflection and skill development as you move towards greater clarity, acceptance, and well-being. I'm a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified School Psychologist. I support children, adolescents, and adults navigating life's challenges. Whether you're seeking support for yourself or your child, I work alongside you to develop tools while exploring what's beneath the surface.
I believe that healing is rooted in connection—with ourselves, between parents and children, and throughout our relationships. I aim to offer a compassionate and authentic space built on safety and trust that encourages self-reflection and skill development as you move towards greater clarity, acceptance, and well-being. I'm a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified School Psychologist. I support children, adolescents, and adults navigating life's challenges. Whether you're seeking support for yourself or your child, I work alongside you to develop tools while exploring what's beneath the surface.
(717) 563-6452 View (717) 563-6452
Photo of Nicki Decker, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Nicki Decker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Our lives are filled with challenges that impact us and those around us. It could be issues with work, school or family relationships that strain our mental health and have you feeling stressed, overwhelmed or anxious. No matter your issues, I believe that every client has the ability to make positive changes in their life. Together we can find a way to overcome them and live the life you desire.
Our lives are filled with challenges that impact us and those around us. It could be issues with work, school or family relationships that strain our mental health and have you feeling stressed, overwhelmed or anxious. No matter your issues, I believe that every client has the ability to make positive changes in their life. Together we can find a way to overcome them and live the life you desire.
(717) 899-9573 View (717) 899-9573
Photo of Dr. Marcelle Giovannetti, Licensed Professional Counselor, ACS, LPC, NCC, CADC, CCTP-II
Dr. Marcelle Giovannetti
Licensed Professional Counselor, ACS, LPC, NCC, CADC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
I am a full-time Assistant Professor in Messiah University’s Graduate Counseling Program. I also works part-time as a clinician and am the owner of Courageous Hope Counseling LLC. I identify as an immigrant woman of Indian decent and have lived in several countries. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Elizabethtown College, a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Shippensburg University, a doctoral degree from Shippensburg University in Counselor Education and Supervision. and a postgraduate certificate in Social Justice from Harvard University.
I am a full-time Assistant Professor in Messiah University’s Graduate Counseling Program. I also works part-time as a clinician and am the owner of Courageous Hope Counseling LLC. I identify as an immigrant woman of Indian decent and have lived in several countries. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Elizabethtown College, a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Shippensburg University, a doctoral degree from Shippensburg University in Counselor Education and Supervision. and a postgraduate certificate in Social Justice from Harvard University.
(717) 775-6704 View (717) 775-6704
Photo of Michael Phillips - Alcove Counseling Services, LCSW, LSW
Alcove Counseling Services
LCSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Congratulations on your first step to feeling better! Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, or intense emotions? Does life seem unfair and difficult? Do unwanted thoughts and feelings invade your peace? Do you have professional, personal or life goals that are unfulfilled? Life is hard and having a caring and competent therapist can help manage life difficulties and make life more meaningful. We have an accepting and affirming approach to counseling. We can help you work through your struggles.
Congratulations on your first step to feeling better! Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, or intense emotions? Does life seem unfair and difficult? Do unwanted thoughts and feelings invade your peace? Do you have professional, personal or life goals that are unfulfilled? Life is hard and having a caring and competent therapist can help manage life difficulties and make life more meaningful. We have an accepting and affirming approach to counseling. We can help you work through your struggles.
(717) 691-1090 View (717) 691-1090
Photo of Donald D Anklam, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Donald D Anklam
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
Aiding others in examining their lives for areas of change has been the focus of my career for 10 + years. I have experience in many areas of mental health including crisis management, outpatient therapy, inpatient and partial hospitalizations. This experience has allowed me to utilize diverse approaches to therapy to assist clients in achieving their individual goals and desired results. I have treated a wide range of mental health diagnosis and conditions such as depression, anxiety, grief, ADHD, PTSD among others. I approach therapy from a trauma informed care aspect.
Aiding others in examining their lives for areas of change has been the focus of my career for 10 + years. I have experience in many areas of mental health including crisis management, outpatient therapy, inpatient and partial hospitalizations. This experience has allowed me to utilize diverse approaches to therapy to assist clients in achieving their individual goals and desired results. I have treated a wide range of mental health diagnosis and conditions such as depression, anxiety, grief, ADHD, PTSD among others. I approach therapy from a trauma informed care aspect.
(717) 219-9903 View (717) 219-9903
Photo of David A Gordon, Associate Professional Counselor , LAPC, LMLP-T
David A Gordon
Associate Professional Counselor , LAPC, LMLP-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
Waitlist for new clients
What will you get out of therapy? You will feel heard and safe. You will not be shamed or judged. You will get to the root of your issues and your true self. You will get a changed life - a choice of different thoughts and behaviors, and a chance at different relationships. You are worth having this experience of transformation!
What will you get out of therapy? You will feel heard and safe. You will not be shamed or judged. You will get to the root of your issues and your true self. You will get a changed life - a choice of different thoughts and behaviors, and a chance at different relationships. You are worth having this experience of transformation!
(717) 470-5318 View (717) 470-5318
Photo of Delyara Della Becker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, C-DBT
Delyara Della Becker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Does it feel like a vague, lonely experience that is difficult to describe --let alone understand--even though you are experiencing this "internal discomfort" of inexpressible feelings and moods? Perhaps, you fit the general description of the "average, well-adjusted" adult; however, on the inside, it feels as if you are emotionally or mentally "stuck" somewhere in your past? If this resonates with you, please know that there is hope and that this "internal discomfort" stems from a very valid inner emotional space.
Does it feel like a vague, lonely experience that is difficult to describe --let alone understand--even though you are experiencing this "internal discomfort" of inexpressible feelings and moods? Perhaps, you fit the general description of the "average, well-adjusted" adult; however, on the inside, it feels as if you are emotionally or mentally "stuck" somewhere in your past? If this resonates with you, please know that there is hope and that this "internal discomfort" stems from a very valid inner emotional space.
(717) 670-6027 View (717) 670-6027
Photo of Shaunaca James, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, BSC
Shaunaca James
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, BSC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Hello! My name is Shaunaca. (Pronounced like Hanukkah but with the "sh" sound) I graduated with a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Shippensburg University. I am nationally certified by the NBCC, as well as, licensed as a Behavior Specialist by the State Board of Medicine. I have worked in many different environments such as, schools, residential facilities, and outpatient clinics with all sorts of people and personalities. I enjoy working with teens and adults.
Hello! My name is Shaunaca. (Pronounced like Hanukkah but with the "sh" sound) I graduated with a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Shippensburg University. I am nationally certified by the NBCC, as well as, licensed as a Behavior Specialist by the State Board of Medicine. I have worked in many different environments such as, schools, residential facilities, and outpatient clinics with all sorts of people and personalities. I enjoy working with teens and adults.
(717) 316-0918 View (717) 316-0918
Photo of Nicole Woods, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW, CEDS
Nicole Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Welcome. At Northeastern Counseling Services we understand that life can sometimes be overwhelming, stressful, and challenging. From experiencing everyday stress to feelings of anxiety and depression- our skilled and experienced licensed counselors can help provide you with the client-centered, tailored support you need to achieve emotional and behavioral well-being. At Northeastern Counseling Services we pride ourselves on taking a complete and thoughtful approach to your emotional and behavioral wellness goals. We look forward to assisting you in enhancing the life you ideally imagine living.
Welcome. At Northeastern Counseling Services we understand that life can sometimes be overwhelming, stressful, and challenging. From experiencing everyday stress to feelings of anxiety and depression- our skilled and experienced licensed counselors can help provide you with the client-centered, tailored support you need to achieve emotional and behavioral well-being. At Northeastern Counseling Services we pride ourselves on taking a complete and thoughtful approach to your emotional and behavioral wellness goals. We look forward to assisting you in enhancing the life you ideally imagine living.
(717) 402-6524 View (717) 402-6524
Photo of Dr. Shawn Geraty, Pastoral Counselor, DMin, MA
Dr. Shawn Geraty
Pastoral Counselor, DMin, MA
Verified Verified
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Feeling worn down by constant overwhelm, stress, depression, or anxiety? It's frustrating when efforts for change don't stick, and negative thoughts persist. Certain situations keep triggering you, stealing your peace. You're left with emptiness and worry, feeling like life's slipping away. But here's the thing: it's time for a new journey. It takes courage to reach out again, to push past hopelessness. And guess what? There's hope, beyond the struggles and pain. Let's take this step together.
Feeling worn down by constant overwhelm, stress, depression, or anxiety? It's frustrating when efforts for change don't stick, and negative thoughts persist. Certain situations keep triggering you, stealing your peace. You're left with emptiness and worry, feeling like life's slipping away. But here's the thing: it's time for a new journey. It takes courage to reach out again, to push past hopelessness. And guess what? There's hope, beyond the struggles and pain. Let's take this step together.
(717) 931-7645 View (717) 931-7645
Photo of Megan Cavanaugh, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Megan Cavanaugh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I’m so glad you’re here! Regardless of what brings you to therapy, I am here to help you feel better, feel accepted, and feel heard. Finding the right fit between therapist and client is very important. I am a collaborative therapist that provides a safe and supportive space to learn about yourself, your relationships and how your life experiences impact you.
Hi, I’m so glad you’re here! Regardless of what brings you to therapy, I am here to help you feel better, feel accepted, and feel heard. Finding the right fit between therapist and client is very important. I am a collaborative therapist that provides a safe and supportive space to learn about yourself, your relationships and how your life experiences impact you.
(717) 563-7495 View (717) 563-7495
Photo of DeAnna Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT, NCC
DeAnna Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Sometimes you want someone who understands your unique situation and can help you see that there is a way through. Experiences in life shape who we are. Whether it is navigating depression/anxiety, relationship challenges, or figuring out why you react the way you do (and what to do about it), I am here to help. With the belief that everyone's needs and path to change are different, I offer two areas of specialization: (1) Counseling women, teenagers, and those from diverse backgrounds and (2) Helping service providers process personal and work-related trauma; therefore being the “therapist’s therapist."
Sometimes you want someone who understands your unique situation and can help you see that there is a way through. Experiences in life shape who we are. Whether it is navigating depression/anxiety, relationship challenges, or figuring out why you react the way you do (and what to do about it), I am here to help. With the belief that everyone's needs and path to change are different, I offer two areas of specialization: (1) Counseling women, teenagers, and those from diverse backgrounds and (2) Helping service providers process personal and work-related trauma; therefore being the “therapist’s therapist."
(717) 510-1215 View (717) 510-1215
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Brillon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, CCTP-II
Dr. Elizabeth Brillon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Online Only
Find Balance & Healing with Dr. Brillon – Compassionate Online Therapy Are anxiety, stress, or past experiences weighing you down? Do you feel disconnected in your life, struggling to find the peace and fulfillment you deserve? You’re not alone. As a licensed mental health therapist, I provide compassionate, solution-focused therapy tailored to your unique needs—all from the comfort of your own space. Whether you're facing anxiety, life challenges, or personal struggles, I’m here to help you regain clarity, confidence, and inner peace. Start your journey today - schedule your first session.
Find Balance & Healing with Dr. Brillon – Compassionate Online Therapy Are anxiety, stress, or past experiences weighing you down? Do you feel disconnected in your life, struggling to find the peace and fulfillment you deserve? You’re not alone. As a licensed mental health therapist, I provide compassionate, solution-focused therapy tailored to your unique needs—all from the comfort of your own space. Whether you're facing anxiety, life challenges, or personal struggles, I’m here to help you regain clarity, confidence, and inner peace. Start your journey today - schedule your first session.
(717) 905-0256 View (717) 905-0256
Photo of Rosemarie Holland, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, BCPC
Rosemarie Holland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, BCPC
Verified Verified
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Are you overwhelmed with your life? Feeling like life is too much for you to handle?Do you feel helpless and alone with no where to turn? I'm here to help you overcome anxiety and depression using mindfulness based cognitive therapy and focusing on the whole person. Let me show you how to build on your strengths and manage life more successfully by removing the blocks that are preventing you from living the life you were meant to live! I'll show you how to make those shifts in a very private, confidential setting along the Yellow Breeches Creek.
Are you overwhelmed with your life? Feeling like life is too much for you to handle?Do you feel helpless and alone with no where to turn? I'm here to help you overcome anxiety and depression using mindfulness based cognitive therapy and focusing on the whole person. Let me show you how to build on your strengths and manage life more successfully by removing the blocks that are preventing you from living the life you were meant to live! I'll show you how to make those shifts in a very private, confidential setting along the Yellow Breeches Creek.
(717) 253-9792 View (717) 253-9792
Photo of Alair A. Altiero, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Alair A. Altiero
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I see psychotherapy as a process of discovery between two people that can yield great personal growth and transformation. I aim to promote a safe, supportive and trusting psychotherapeutic relationship that facilitates the exploration of areas of difficulty, hurt, and vulnerability. I work to guide my clients to have insights into their own unproductive behaviors from new perspectives, have increased confidence, and gain self-acceptance. I ask probing questions and point out inconsistencies while providing feedback, advice, insights, and observations.
I see psychotherapy as a process of discovery between two people that can yield great personal growth and transformation. I aim to promote a safe, supportive and trusting psychotherapeutic relationship that facilitates the exploration of areas of difficulty, hurt, and vulnerability. I work to guide my clients to have insights into their own unproductive behaviors from new perspectives, have increased confidence, and gain self-acceptance. I ask probing questions and point out inconsistencies while providing feedback, advice, insights, and observations.
(717) 276-4841 View (717) 276-4841
Photo of Derik Comperatore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Derik Comperatore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Life continually brings new challenges and work, family, school, and relationships may have you feeling anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed. You might be feeling depressed or have been through a traumatic experience that has left you not feeling like yourself. Collaboratively, I'll help you to identify the root cause of your struggles and learn skills that can help you overcome these issues and live the life you want.
Life continually brings new challenges and work, family, school, and relationships may have you feeling anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed. You might be feeling depressed or have been through a traumatic experience that has left you not feeling like yourself. Collaboratively, I'll help you to identify the root cause of your struggles and learn skills that can help you overcome these issues and live the life you want.
(717) 527-7812 View (717) 527-7812
Photo of Ellie Brautigam, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Ellie Brautigam
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Ellie is passionate about holistic healing. Her diverse professional experience spans schools, community mental health agencies, and university counseling centers, allowing her to support clients across a variety of settings. Ellie is committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where clients can explore life’s challenges. She employs a counseling approach rooted in person-centered and Gestalt perspectives, blending humanistic, developmental, and cognitive theories to empower clients on their journey toward growth and healing.
Ellie is passionate about holistic healing. Her diverse professional experience spans schools, community mental health agencies, and university counseling centers, allowing her to support clients across a variety of settings. Ellie is committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where clients can explore life’s challenges. She employs a counseling approach rooted in person-centered and Gestalt perspectives, blending humanistic, developmental, and cognitive theories to empower clients on their journey toward growth and healing.
(717) 910-6912 View (717) 910-6912
Photo of Tori Garber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tori Garber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
I love helping children, teens and families from all walks of life with whatever issues they face. I utilize a strength-based and person-centered approach in a supportive manner to help you work through your challenges. My goal is to create a comfortable space to safely process, without judgement, and nurtures the courage to be imperfect. I work with clients experiencing a wide range of challenges including anxiety, depression, behavior concerns, trauma, co-parenting and more.
I love helping children, teens and families from all walks of life with whatever issues they face. I utilize a strength-based and person-centered approach in a supportive manner to help you work through your challenges. My goal is to create a comfortable space to safely process, without judgement, and nurtures the courage to be imperfect. I work with clients experiencing a wide range of challenges including anxiety, depression, behavior concerns, trauma, co-parenting and more.
(717) 229-0293 View (717) 229-0293
Photo of Tiayra Villafane, MS, MA, LAPC
Tiayra Villafane
MS, MA, LAPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can be full of challenges and it can be a greater battle to ask for help. At times we may not know how to ask for help and that is okay. Sometimes the only thing we may need is someone to talk to or to find some guidance. One of the most common goals that most people have is to feel okay and what that may look like for you. As a therapist I am here to help you on that journey of achieving your goals.
Life can be full of challenges and it can be a greater battle to ask for help. At times we may not know how to ask for help and that is okay. Sometimes the only thing we may need is someone to talk to or to find some guidance. One of the most common goals that most people have is to feel okay and what that may look like for you. As a therapist I am here to help you on that journey of achieving your goals.
(717) 899-1720 View (717) 899-1720

See more therapy options for Mechanicsburg

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Mechanicsburg, PA

100+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Mechanicsburg, PA who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
91% Depression
82% Coping Skills
81% Self Esteem
75% Relationship Issues
75% Trauma and PTSD
74% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% Highmark
73% Aetna
69% Capital Blue Cross

How Therapists in Mechanicsburg, PA see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
23% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Mechanicsburg?

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.