Therapists in Royersford, PA

Photo of Avery Wasmanski, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Avery Wasmanski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Royersford, PA 19468
You were always able to handle life’s responsibilities without issue, but then you became a mom & what happened? This is not exactly how you pictured it. You feel like you were sold a lie that you could do it all, be it all, & have it all, but now you’re chronically overwhelmed & feel like you're never good enough. Not at being a mom, not in your career, & certainly not in your relationship with your partner. You tell yourself that you should just try harder & put in more effort. But let’s be honest, shaming & guilting yourself isn’t helping, & you still feel like you’re falling behind in every area of your life.
You were always able to handle life’s responsibilities without issue, but then you became a mom & what happened? This is not exactly how you pictured it. You feel like you were sold a lie that you could do it all, be it all, & have it all, but now you’re chronically overwhelmed & feel like you're never good enough. Not at being a mom, not in your career, & certainly not in your relationship with your partner. You tell yourself that you should just try harder & put in more effort. But let’s be honest, shaming & guilting yourself isn’t helping, & you still feel like you’re falling behind in every area of your life.
(610) 795-9052 View (610) 795-9052
Photo of Amanda Malcolm, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Malcolm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Royersford, PA 19468
My ideal client wants something better, has no idea what "better" is or looks like, and has no idea where to start. They are still determining if they are ready to start or commit to that change. What they need is a person and a space to figure it out. Deep down, they know where they are right now can be better, whether in relationships, emotions, daily habits, major life goals, or anything in-between. But, most importantly, they want a space where they can process and grow from that place and build a sustainable life.
My ideal client wants something better, has no idea what "better" is or looks like, and has no idea where to start. They are still determining if they are ready to start or commit to that change. What they need is a person and a space to figure it out. Deep down, they know where they are right now can be better, whether in relationships, emotions, daily habits, major life goals, or anything in-between. But, most importantly, they want a space where they can process and grow from that place and build a sustainable life.
(267) 282-6221 View (267) 282-6221
Photo of Rachel Weaverling, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Weaverling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royersford, PA 19468
After graduating with my masters degree in clinical mental health counseling, I have worked in various mental health settings such as, outpatient, schools, partial hospitalization, residential and provided in-home therapy. I have therapy experience with individuals of all ages struggling with anxiety, self esteem, depression, SI, self-harm, behavioral problems, relationship and social issues, severe mental illnesses and behavioral problems. I have a passion for working with adolescents, tweens, teens and young adults. I take a client centered approach integrating evidenced based methods to individualize treatment to each client.
After graduating with my masters degree in clinical mental health counseling, I have worked in various mental health settings such as, outpatient, schools, partial hospitalization, residential and provided in-home therapy. I have therapy experience with individuals of all ages struggling with anxiety, self esteem, depression, SI, self-harm, behavioral problems, relationship and social issues, severe mental illnesses and behavioral problems. I have a passion for working with adolescents, tweens, teens and young adults. I take a client centered approach integrating evidenced based methods to individualize treatment to each client.
(484) 939-9861 View (484) 939-9861
Photo of Alexandra D. Pomponio - reNEW YOU Counseling and Wellness LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
reNEW YOU Counseling and Wellness LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Royersford, PA 19468
There is help for you, your child, teen, young adult, and family! We passionately serve all of our clients with the goal to help them reach their highest potential. We believe in early intervention and supporting people through their feelings, thoughts, transitions, and adversities as early as possible in order to reduce the onset of more serious psychopathology in later years. We also believe in compassionately supporting the family system and educating parents on childhood development, parenting strategies, healthier ways to manage their own emotions, breaking generational trauma, and learn healthier communication and connection.
There is help for you, your child, teen, young adult, and family! We passionately serve all of our clients with the goal to help them reach their highest potential. We believe in early intervention and supporting people through their feelings, thoughts, transitions, and adversities as early as possible in order to reduce the onset of more serious psychopathology in later years. We also believe in compassionately supporting the family system and educating parents on childhood development, parenting strategies, healthier ways to manage their own emotions, breaking generational trauma, and learn healthier communication and connection.
(484) 593-7979 View (484) 593-7979
Photo of Kathleen Martinez, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathleen Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Royersford, PA 19468
My ideal client struggles with Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Trauma, and/or related conditions. They are motivated for change or at least open to the possibility of change. They are open to feedback and willing to lean into the therapeutic process. They do not need to have clear goals for the therapeutic process right away but are willing to work to identify these goals in the treatment process. They would want to improve their life in some way, or even just their relationship with themselves.
My ideal client struggles with Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Trauma, and/or related conditions. They are motivated for change or at least open to the possibility of change. They are open to feedback and willing to lean into the therapeutic process. They do not need to have clear goals for the therapeutic process right away but are willing to work to identify these goals in the treatment process. They would want to improve their life in some way, or even just their relationship with themselves.
(484) 265-9769 View (484) 265-9769
Photo of Katlyn Walters, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katlyn Walters
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royersford, PA 19468
Empathy for the realities of human suffering and trauma in our world, drew me to devote my career to therapy. I have a passion for helping children, teens, young adults, parents and families understand the patterns of harm that are contributing to their suffering. I believe each individual who enters the therapy process possesses the ability to explore the roots of their suffering and begin the journey toward healing.
Empathy for the realities of human suffering and trauma in our world, drew me to devote my career to therapy. I have a passion for helping children, teens, young adults, parents and families understand the patterns of harm that are contributing to their suffering. I believe each individual who enters the therapy process possesses the ability to explore the roots of their suffering and begin the journey toward healing.
(484) 255-8725 View (484) 255-8725
Photo of Danielle Bickert, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Bickert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royersford, PA 19468
In our sessions, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of being judged. I believe that you are the expert of your own life and my role is to actively listen, empathize, and help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself. Each person has their own unique journey and my role is to walk alongside you as you navigate challenges and work towards discovering and identifying your strengths.
In our sessions, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of being judged. I believe that you are the expert of your own life and my role is to actively listen, empathize, and help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself. Each person has their own unique journey and my role is to walk alongside you as you navigate challenges and work towards discovering and identifying your strengths.
(484) 878-5883 View (484) 878-5883
Photo of Kaitlin Nowrey, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kaitlin Nowrey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Royersford, PA 19468
Kaitlin is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, AAMFT approved supervisor, and Practice Owner at Tri-County Counseling Services. Kaitlin specializes in working with individuals, couples, and families. Kaitlin takes a warm, direct, and active stance in working with her clients to support a shared and collaborative vision, tailoring her therapeutic approach to best fit the unique needs of each client. Kaitlin strives to help clients gain awareness into their patterns of behavior, as well as implement change to achieve the relationships and life they desire.
Kaitlin is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, AAMFT approved supervisor, and Practice Owner at Tri-County Counseling Services. Kaitlin specializes in working with individuals, couples, and families. Kaitlin takes a warm, direct, and active stance in working with her clients to support a shared and collaborative vision, tailoring her therapeutic approach to best fit the unique needs of each client. Kaitlin strives to help clients gain awareness into their patterns of behavior, as well as implement change to achieve the relationships and life they desire.
(610) 421-0170 View (610) 421-0170
Photo of Neetu K. Anand, PsyD
Neetu K. Anand
PsyD
Verified Verified
Royersford, PA 19468
With a focus on deep client connection, precise diagnosis, and effective therapeutic interventions, my practice stands out. I specialize in psychotherapy and psychological testing for diverse diagnoses. Additionally, I offer evaluations for medication management or alternative treatments like medicinal marijuana. Since 2007, I’ve been dedicated to providing psychotherapy for individuals of all ages, couples, and families, striving to alleviate psychological distress symptoms.
With a focus on deep client connection, precise diagnosis, and effective therapeutic interventions, my practice stands out. I specialize in psychotherapy and psychological testing for diverse diagnoses. Additionally, I offer evaluations for medication management or alternative treatments like medicinal marijuana. Since 2007, I’ve been dedicated to providing psychotherapy for individuals of all ages, couples, and families, striving to alleviate psychological distress symptoms.
(610) 819-4697 View (610) 819-4697
Photo of Alexandra Pomponio, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexandra Pomponio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Royersford, PA 19468
There's hope for you, your child, teen, or young adult! If they are tired of chaos or can't find a way out of the tunnel, I am here. You or your child are not lost, only misguided by outside stress, traumatic events, judgments and invalidation. Everyone's a moment away from being rediscovered. I specialize in treating children through young adults (5- 26+) and hope to guide them on their journey. I identify key coping skills to manage rollercoaster emotions, chaotic relationships, impulsive/destructive behaviors, and connect mind-body through somatic practices. This stabilization allows space for processing of adverse experiences.
There's hope for you, your child, teen, or young adult! If they are tired of chaos or can't find a way out of the tunnel, I am here. You or your child are not lost, only misguided by outside stress, traumatic events, judgments and invalidation. Everyone's a moment away from being rediscovered. I specialize in treating children through young adults (5- 26+) and hope to guide them on their journey. I identify key coping skills to manage rollercoaster emotions, chaotic relationships, impulsive/destructive behaviors, and connect mind-body through somatic practices. This stabilization allows space for processing of adverse experiences.
(484) 946-3814 View (484) 946-3814
Photo of Julie Williams - Life in Balance Services PLLC, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Life in Balance Services PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Royersford, PA 19468
Trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationships, has been keeping you from your life. Your negative self-talk is really hard on you. Everyone can be hard on themselves. It’s exhausting trying to anticipate when these feelings will come back again. You can’t trust your own thoughts. It could be that your painful past or current stress isn’t going away on its own. On most days it takes more than that. Feeling stuck in a vicious cycle with no end in sight, you know you can’t handle this alone anymore. Maybe something happened, something very upsetting occurred, and it changed you. You’ll feel calm You’ll breathe again!
Trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationships, has been keeping you from your life. Your negative self-talk is really hard on you. Everyone can be hard on themselves. It’s exhausting trying to anticipate when these feelings will come back again. You can’t trust your own thoughts. It could be that your painful past or current stress isn’t going away on its own. On most days it takes more than that. Feeling stuck in a vicious cycle with no end in sight, you know you can’t handle this alone anymore. Maybe something happened, something very upsetting occurred, and it changed you. You’ll feel calm You’ll breathe again!
(484) 214-2661 View (484) 214-2661
Photo of Jordan Zuber - Empowering Change LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Empowering Change LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Royersford, PA 19468
Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers, and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life. If you're looking to overcome a challenge, new or old, in a judgment-free and supportive space, you'll find that here.
Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers, and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life. If you're looking to overcome a challenge, new or old, in a judgment-free and supportive space, you'll find that here.
(484) 766-4167 View (484) 766-4167
Photo of Julie Williams, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Royersford, PA 19468
I always wanted to be a therapist and knew I was on the path I had envisioned. I attended Old Dominion University in Virginia and played on an NCAA Division One field hockey team. Along the way, I had to balance many new areas: being a full-time therapist, mother of two, mother to dog children, and financial manager. I used various skills I teach in my own life. I would never ask someone to do something I couldn’t see myself doing.
I always wanted to be a therapist and knew I was on the path I had envisioned. I attended Old Dominion University in Virginia and played on an NCAA Division One field hockey team. Along the way, I had to balance many new areas: being a full-time therapist, mother of two, mother to dog children, and financial manager. I used various skills I teach in my own life. I would never ask someone to do something I couldn’t see myself doing.
(717) 807-7701 View (717) 807-7701
Photo of Raine Aslan, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Raine Aslan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royersford, PA 19468
My goal is to create an accepting and non-judgmental space where people feel safe, heard, and understood. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems therapy/parts work, and dialectical behavioral therapy skills to work with adults, teens, and children ages 10 and above.
My goal is to create an accepting and non-judgmental space where people feel safe, heard, and understood. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems therapy/parts work, and dialectical behavioral therapy skills to work with adults, teens, and children ages 10 and above.
(484) 552-9628 View (484) 552-9628
Photo of Jennifer Candelario, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Candelario
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Royersford, PA 19468
Are you struggling with difficult life transitions, depression, & anxiety? I enjoy working with clients who feel motivated to take that first step of exploring reasons why they are feeling unhappy or dissatisfied with their lives right now. I work with clients who want to gain insight & learn tangible skills that they can practice outside of the therapeutic sessions to change their lives for the better. My role as a Licensed Professional Counselor is to help individuals gain insight and feel empowered to create positive change in their lives. I offer a collaborative approach to create a unique treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Are you struggling with difficult life transitions, depression, & anxiety? I enjoy working with clients who feel motivated to take that first step of exploring reasons why they are feeling unhappy or dissatisfied with their lives right now. I work with clients who want to gain insight & learn tangible skills that they can practice outside of the therapeutic sessions to change their lives for the better. My role as a Licensed Professional Counselor is to help individuals gain insight and feel empowered to create positive change in their lives. I offer a collaborative approach to create a unique treatment plan tailored to your needs.
(484) 613-3909 View (484) 613-3909
Photo of Caylin Jenkins, MS, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caylin Jenkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Royersford, PA 19468
Does it ever feel like you’re stuck in a loop—arguing with a partner over the same issues, or going on dates that leave you feeling more alone than before? Maybe you’re worried that you’ll repeat old family patterns, or you’re trying to figure out how to handle nagging phone calls and expectations from back home. If you’re in your late 20s or 30s, juggling career goals & personal dreams can be exhausting—especially when it feels like anxiety or depression is always lurking in the background. I help people who feel overwhelmed by the pressure to ‘have it all together.’ You might want to feel closer to loved ones, but you’re stuck.
Does it ever feel like you’re stuck in a loop—arguing with a partner over the same issues, or going on dates that leave you feeling more alone than before? Maybe you’re worried that you’ll repeat old family patterns, or you’re trying to figure out how to handle nagging phone calls and expectations from back home. If you’re in your late 20s or 30s, juggling career goals & personal dreams can be exhausting—especially when it feels like anxiety or depression is always lurking in the background. I help people who feel overwhelmed by the pressure to ‘have it all together.’ You might want to feel closer to loved ones, but you’re stuck.
(484) 956-7173 View (484) 956-7173
Photo of Christina Calkins, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Calkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Royersford, PA 19468
Are you feeling overwhelmed by emotional challenges, struggling with past trauma, or navigating complex relationships? I’m here to help. As an LPC specializing in Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, and Trauma/PTSD, my passion lies in supporting individuals who have experienced traumatic events. I create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your feelings, identify triggers, and develop positive coping skills. Together, we'll address your unique needs and work towards a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by emotional challenges, struggling with past trauma, or navigating complex relationships? I’m here to help. As an LPC specializing in Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, and Trauma/PTSD, my passion lies in supporting individuals who have experienced traumatic events. I create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your feelings, identify triggers, and develop positive coping skills. Together, we'll address your unique needs and work towards a more balanced, fulfilling life.
(267) 309-2636 View (267) 309-2636
Photo of A Sascha Baello, MEd, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
A Sascha Baello
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royersford, PA 19468
Are you currently in a toxic relationship? Have you gotten out of a toxic relationship and don't know where to go from here? Do you feel isolated or like no one understands what you are going through? My passion centers around helping clients to find their inner strength to heal from these relationships, understand their experience, and empower them to move forward into a new, healthier life.
Are you currently in a toxic relationship? Have you gotten out of a toxic relationship and don't know where to go from here? Do you feel isolated or like no one understands what you are going through? My passion centers around helping clients to find their inner strength to heal from these relationships, understand their experience, and empower them to move forward into a new, healthier life.
(610) 998-3758 View (610) 998-3758
Photo of Katie Konyves, LCSW, ADHD-, CCSP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Konyves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ADHD-, CCSP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Royersford, PA 19468
Finding a therapist and beginning therapy can be an intimidating process, but I am here to assure you we can tackle this together. I have direct experience working with cancer patients, traumatic brain injury survivors and those with chronic illness. I enjoy working with individuals with these health issues, as well as college students, parents, teens and adults working to improve their quality of life. I also am knowledgeable about neurodiversity and ADHD and currently offer ADHD assessments for adults (18+) in the state of Pennsylvania.
Finding a therapist and beginning therapy can be an intimidating process, but I am here to assure you we can tackle this together. I have direct experience working with cancer patients, traumatic brain injury survivors and those with chronic illness. I enjoy working with individuals with these health issues, as well as college students, parents, teens and adults working to improve their quality of life. I also am knowledgeable about neurodiversity and ADHD and currently offer ADHD assessments for adults (18+) in the state of Pennsylvania.
(484) 283-2158 View (484) 283-2158
Photo of Laurie Strunk, MA , Pre-Licensed Professional
Laurie Strunk
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Royersford, PA 19468
Therapy is about you, and the therapeutic relationship is everything to me. When it comes to therapy, I believe it is very important that the client and therapist develop a good therapeutic relationship, so that they can work well together and establish client-based needs and goals. Everybody’s journey is so very individual, and I will work with you on what you need, and we will go at your pace. We will work together as a team to make sure you are getting what you need out of therapy, and that you are walking away feeling a little bit better than when you came in.
Therapy is about you, and the therapeutic relationship is everything to me. When it comes to therapy, I believe it is very important that the client and therapist develop a good therapeutic relationship, so that they can work well together and establish client-based needs and goals. Everybody’s journey is so very individual, and I will work with you on what you need, and we will go at your pace. We will work together as a team to make sure you are getting what you need out of therapy, and that you are walking away feeling a little bit better than when you came in.
(484) 669-8273 View (484) 669-8273
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Royersford, PA

80+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Royersford, PA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
92% Depression
70% Trauma and PTSD
69% Relationship Issues
69% Self Esteem
69% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
76% Cigna and Evernorth
67% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Royersford, PA see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

93% Female
7% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Royersford?

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.