Therapists in Plymouth, MA

Photo of Lynn Roy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Lynn Roy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients: Do you find yourself struggling, unsure of yourself, not knowing which way to turn for help? Life can be difficult at times, be it related to the impact of daily stressors, changes in health, work, loss, or relationship issues. These changes can create feelings that can leave you anxious, overwhelmed, or even saddened by your life circumstances. Because I believe that one’s path is unique to the individual, beginning "where you are at" allows us to focus on how we can work together in a safe and trusting environment to help you recognize your own strengths.
Accepting New Clients: Do you find yourself struggling, unsure of yourself, not knowing which way to turn for help? Life can be difficult at times, be it related to the impact of daily stressors, changes in health, work, loss, or relationship issues. These changes can create feelings that can leave you anxious, overwhelmed, or even saddened by your life circumstances. Because I believe that one’s path is unique to the individual, beginning "where you are at" allows us to focus on how we can work together in a safe and trusting environment to help you recognize your own strengths.
(781) 499-6034 View (781) 499-6034
Photo of Amber Bakeman, Counselor in Plymouth, MA
Amber Bakeman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plymouth, MA 02360
Not accepting new clients
Therapy can be an overwhelming experience. I seek to help clients work through difficult life experiences and develop positive ways of coping. Often, clients may feel apprehensive about seeking support from others, however, I hope to restore your faith in your ability to be a pioneer of your own experience. I have found that a cognitive behavioral approach is effective in working with adults struggling with issues related to trauma, depression, anxiety, and interpersonal issues.
Therapy can be an overwhelming experience. I seek to help clients work through difficult life experiences and develop positive ways of coping. Often, clients may feel apprehensive about seeking support from others, however, I hope to restore your faith in your ability to be a pioneer of your own experience. I have found that a cognitive behavioral approach is effective in working with adults struggling with issues related to trauma, depression, anxiety, and interpersonal issues.
(339) 888-9866 View (339) 888-9866
Photo of Harry Pappas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Harry Pappas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, MA 02360  (Online Only)
Are you ready for change? Every journey begins with a step. Let's take that step, together! I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with over 8 years of experience working with youth, the elderly, and adult populations who are dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, alcohol and drug abuse, or just looking for a more fulfilled life. I am currently offering services via Telehealth and accept most major insurance.
Are you ready for change? Every journey begins with a step. Let's take that step, together! I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with over 8 years of experience working with youth, the elderly, and adult populations who are dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, alcohol and drug abuse, or just looking for a more fulfilled life. I am currently offering services via Telehealth and accept most major insurance.
(781) 630-5690 View (781) 630-5690
Photo of Robert Collins, Counselor in Plymouth, MA
Robert Collins
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Not accepting new clients
My ideal client is looking for a partner on their mental health journey. They are someone that is curious how to address behavioral challenges or emotional disorders in a sustainable way. They might be someone with substance use problems, family dynamic issues or simply trying to figure out their career aspirations. My ideal client will likely benefit from confidence enhancements as their goals are attained and coping techniques are gained. Most importantly, my ideal client will be honest with themselves to address the sources for symptoms of their mental health challenges powerfully and directly.
My ideal client is looking for a partner on their mental health journey. They are someone that is curious how to address behavioral challenges or emotional disorders in a sustainable way. They might be someone with substance use problems, family dynamic issues or simply trying to figure out their career aspirations. My ideal client will likely benefit from confidence enhancements as their goals are attained and coping techniques are gained. Most importantly, my ideal client will be honest with themselves to address the sources for symptoms of their mental health challenges powerfully and directly.
(339) 345-2759 View (339) 345-2759
Photo of Maggie Glennon in Plymouth, MA
Maggie Glennon
MEd, Coach
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Are you are constantly juggling tasks and putting out fires without addressing your own needs? Would you label yourself a caretaker, teacher, or maybe even the "responsible friend" everyone relies on? Do you find it challenging to express yourself, struggling to prioritize your own needs and feeling suffocated by responsibilities and leaving you feeling drained and overlooked? How about wondering where your own dreams and desires went amidst the chaos of daily routines? It's a struggle many of us face.
Are you are constantly juggling tasks and putting out fires without addressing your own needs? Would you label yourself a caretaker, teacher, or maybe even the "responsible friend" everyone relies on? Do you find it challenging to express yourself, struggling to prioritize your own needs and feeling suffocated by responsibilities and leaving you feeling drained and overlooked? How about wondering where your own dreams and desires went amidst the chaos of daily routines? It's a struggle many of us face.
(508) 978-5447 View (508) 978-5447
Photo of Josclyn Masterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Josclyn Masterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Josclyn Masterson is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Massachusetts who has been practicing since 2008. She has a Master's in Social Work from Simmons University and a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology from Northeastern University. Josclyn's approach to therapy is to be a guide to help patients navigate challenges. She works from a holistic framework and integrative approach to develop practical solutions. Josclyn specializes in mindfulness-based stress reduction and is certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and trauma informed care.
Josclyn Masterson is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Massachusetts who has been practicing since 2008. She has a Master's in Social Work from Simmons University and a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology from Northeastern University. Josclyn's approach to therapy is to be a guide to help patients navigate challenges. She works from a holistic framework and integrative approach to develop practical solutions. Josclyn specializes in mindfulness-based stress reduction and is certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and trauma informed care.
(339) 356-2415 View (339) 356-2415
Photo of Mikayla Bousquet, Pre-Licensed Professional in Plymouth, MA
Mikayla Bousquet
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, MA 02360
Not accepting new clients
Do you believe you or your child is suffering from anxiety, depression, or difficulties with school or behavioral issues? I’m here to help those who are ready to accomplish their goals and make strides to living a life they deserve!
Do you believe you or your child is suffering from anxiety, depression, or difficulties with school or behavioral issues? I’m here to help those who are ready to accomplish their goals and make strides to living a life they deserve!
(781) 630-6284 View (781) 630-6284
Photo of Eliezer Bercuson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Plymouth, MA
Eliezer Bercuson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, MA 02360
My extensive journey as a counselor has taught me that, wherever one finds oneself in life, lasting change is not only possible, but within reach. Embracing an integrative approach to psychotherapy, I draw upon a rich tapestry of modalities in order to tailor a treatment plan to each individual's unique circumstances. I encourage clients to build upon their own strengths and to tap into their innate desire to flourish. I create a therapeutic space free of judgment or prejudice. I believe that treatment is fundamentally an interactive process in which the client will develop and foster the skills to live fully and with meaning.
My extensive journey as a counselor has taught me that, wherever one finds oneself in life, lasting change is not only possible, but within reach. Embracing an integrative approach to psychotherapy, I draw upon a rich tapestry of modalities in order to tailor a treatment plan to each individual's unique circumstances. I encourage clients to build upon their own strengths and to tap into their innate desire to flourish. I create a therapeutic space free of judgment or prejudice. I believe that treatment is fundamentally an interactive process in which the client will develop and foster the skills to live fully and with meaning.
(781) 742-1954 View (781) 742-1954
Photo of Ronald Dranetz, Counselor in Plymouth, MA
Ronald Dranetz
Counselor, LMHC, MaMHC
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Southeastern Massachusetts, including Cape Cod. I see patients in person and via telehealth for a range of concerns. I hold a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and have experience working with adults of all ages and stages of life. I provide a safe and confidential space and an empathic listening environment in which the you can feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and feelings. Psychotherapy is transformative. Our work together will support your awareness, increase your choices, improve your enjoyment of life and find meaning and value for all of your feelings.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Southeastern Massachusetts, including Cape Cod. I see patients in person and via telehealth for a range of concerns. I hold a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and have experience working with adults of all ages and stages of life. I provide a safe and confidential space and an empathic listening environment in which the you can feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and feelings. Psychotherapy is transformative. Our work together will support your awareness, increase your choices, improve your enjoyment of life and find meaning and value for all of your feelings.
(508) 684-2468 View (508) 684-2468
Photo of Jillian C Scribi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Jillian C Scribi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Currently accepting new clients on self-pay basis only, IF any appts are available at the time you reach out. No waitlist. No sliding scale. Cash/check payments. There may only be limited telehealth (phone) appts open. I only work with clients a minimum of once every other week (weekly if possible). Available appts, clinical assessment and client needs will determine frequency and if working together is appropriate. No high risk or crisis situations. I have an outgoing and energetic therapeutic style. I am empathic, supportive, and willing to meet my clients where they are at. I offer Individual and Couples Therapy to adult clients.
Currently accepting new clients on self-pay basis only, IF any appts are available at the time you reach out. No waitlist. No sliding scale. Cash/check payments. There may only be limited telehealth (phone) appts open. I only work with clients a minimum of once every other week (weekly if possible). Available appts, clinical assessment and client needs will determine frequency and if working together is appropriate. No high risk or crisis situations. I have an outgoing and energetic therapeutic style. I am empathic, supportive, and willing to meet my clients where they are at. I offer Individual and Couples Therapy to adult clients.
(339) 309-0175 View (339) 309-0175
Photo of Dr. Melissa Samartano, Counselor in Plymouth, MA
Dr. Melissa Samartano
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, RYT
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Dr. Melissa received her Ph.D. in Holistic Counseling from the University of Sedona in 2013. She brings a creative approach to healing the mind, body,and spirit by incorporating different holistic modalities into the therapeutic counseling process. Melissa also received her Master's Degree in Clinical Counseling Psychology in 1997 from Lesley University. She has been practicing as a licensed psychotherapist for over 25 years. Melissa is also a Certified Yoga Teacher and received her RYT from Maha Yoga Center in Bridgewater, MA in 2017.
Dr. Melissa received her Ph.D. in Holistic Counseling from the University of Sedona in 2013. She brings a creative approach to healing the mind, body,and spirit by incorporating different holistic modalities into the therapeutic counseling process. Melissa also received her Master's Degree in Clinical Counseling Psychology in 1997 from Lesley University. She has been practicing as a licensed psychotherapist for over 25 years. Melissa is also a Certified Yoga Teacher and received her RYT from Maha Yoga Center in Bridgewater, MA in 2017.
(508) 372-0956 View (508) 372-0956
Photo of Amy O'Connor in Plymouth, MA
Amy O'Connor
CPC, RLT, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, MA 02360
Do you want to feel confident in a loving and securely attached relationship? I will teach you relational skills and healthy communication to bridge the gap for you and your partner. Together we'll strengthen your emotional & physical intimacy and apply relational skills to unearth long-standing behavior patterns that may be holding you back from experiencing a more meaningful life. As a relationship coach, trained by Terrence Real in RLT, my goal is to help you uncover relational happiness. While we can't change circumstances from our past, we can look to enhance today's reality to create a fulfilling life and relationship.
Do you want to feel confident in a loving and securely attached relationship? I will teach you relational skills and healthy communication to bridge the gap for you and your partner. Together we'll strengthen your emotional & physical intimacy and apply relational skills to unearth long-standing behavior patterns that may be holding you back from experiencing a more meaningful life. As a relationship coach, trained by Terrence Real in RLT, my goal is to help you uncover relational happiness. While we can't change circumstances from our past, we can look to enhance today's reality to create a fulfilling life and relationship.
(781) 694-1095 View (781) 694-1095
Photo of Nancy Sgarzi-Norris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Nancy Sgarzi-Norris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
I am an LICSW with extensive training and experience in providing treatment to adolescents, adults, families and couples. My expertise is in working with mental illness,substance use disorders, trauma, postpartum and suicide prevention. I take a holistic approach to health and wellness and believe in building on strengths. My practice is culturally sensitive, with a value on a person's race, ethnicity, sexuality and gender identity. From assessment through ongoing treatment, we will work together to manage whatever needs you may have.
I am an LICSW with extensive training and experience in providing treatment to adolescents, adults, families and couples. My expertise is in working with mental illness,substance use disorders, trauma, postpartum and suicide prevention. I take a holistic approach to health and wellness and believe in building on strengths. My practice is culturally sensitive, with a value on a person's race, ethnicity, sexuality and gender identity. From assessment through ongoing treatment, we will work together to manage whatever needs you may have.
(508) 882-6238 View (508) 882-6238
Photo of Stephanie Curran, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Stephanie Curran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360  (Online Only)
As humans we strive for understanding, support, and connection, to be able to grow through reflection and conscious awareness of how our experiences and beliefs shape our reality and potential. I enjoy working alongside clients to help them learn new strategies for improving mindset, motivation, and taking steps towards creating positive change.
As humans we strive for understanding, support, and connection, to be able to grow through reflection and conscious awareness of how our experiences and beliefs shape our reality and potential. I enjoy working alongside clients to help them learn new strategies for improving mindset, motivation, and taking steps towards creating positive change.
(508) 503-6433 View (508) 503-6433
Alice A Johnson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Tired of living with anxiety, anger, sadness? Tired of feeling stuck or depressed? Using alcohol to cope? I am an interactive, pragmatic therapist that will challenge you in a warm, supportive, safe environment. I have been working with individuals (adults & adolescents), families and couples for over 16 years. I use a variety of tools and methods that include: motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic techniques.
Tired of living with anxiety, anger, sadness? Tired of feeling stuck or depressed? Using alcohol to cope? I am an interactive, pragmatic therapist that will challenge you in a warm, supportive, safe environment. I have been working with individuals (adults & adolescents), families and couples for over 16 years. I use a variety of tools and methods that include: motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic techniques.
(508) 928-3738 View (508) 928-3738
Photo of Emily Browder Melville in Plymouth, MA
Emily Browder Melville
RSMT, MT-BC, MM
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Need help finding your voice in relationships? Feeling adrift from your sense of self? Want to engage more fully with your life energy? I am here to support you in the healing process of connecting with your body and voice to lead a fuller and more satisfying life. Many of us receive messages that we are supposed to stay quiet, or only present certain acceptable parts of ourselves, in order to be loved and accepted. We stifle our feelings and thoughts, and then start feeling disconnected from ourselves and the relationships we value.
Need help finding your voice in relationships? Feeling adrift from your sense of self? Want to engage more fully with your life energy? I am here to support you in the healing process of connecting with your body and voice to lead a fuller and more satisfying life. Many of us receive messages that we are supposed to stay quiet, or only present certain acceptable parts of ourselves, in order to be loved and accepted. We stifle our feelings and thoughts, and then start feeling disconnected from ourselves and the relationships we value.
(781) 808-2370 View (781) 808-2370
Photo of Dr. Beth A. Walters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Dr. Beth A. Walters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Thank you for visiting my profile. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief from loss, a recent life transition, relationship issues, family issues, or trauma from a catastrophic event, I can help you. My approach with individuals centers around helping you to review emotions, thoughts, life experiences and beliefs to gain insight into your present-day challenges. We can begin to evaluate the problematic patterns you may have developed over time and work together on ways to change those patterns. I do not use a one-size-fits-all approach and will often integrate different treatment methods into our work.
Thank you for visiting my profile. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief from loss, a recent life transition, relationship issues, family issues, or trauma from a catastrophic event, I can help you. My approach with individuals centers around helping you to review emotions, thoughts, life experiences and beliefs to gain insight into your present-day challenges. We can begin to evaluate the problematic patterns you may have developed over time and work together on ways to change those patterns. I do not use a one-size-fits-all approach and will often integrate different treatment methods into our work.
View
Photo of Tracy Kasper, Counselor in Plymouth, MA
Tracy Kasper
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Not accepting new clients
I have been working as a psychotherapist for over 20 years. My goal is to help clients gain the insight and tools necessary to reach their fullest potential. The journey is different for each of us, so I use a variety of approaches in the therapeutic process. My hope is that through self exploration, clients will learn to develop healthier patterns of communication, maintain healthier boundaries, improve self care, and develop/utilize healthier coping skills. I'm in the office Tuesday through Thursday and currently have a waiting list.
I have been working as a psychotherapist for over 20 years. My goal is to help clients gain the insight and tools necessary to reach their fullest potential. The journey is different for each of us, so I use a variety of approaches in the therapeutic process. My hope is that through self exploration, clients will learn to develop healthier patterns of communication, maintain healthier boundaries, improve self care, and develop/utilize healthier coping skills. I'm in the office Tuesday through Thursday and currently have a waiting list.
(508) 315-6675 View (508) 315-6675
Photo of LeaAnne Stunkel-Doyle, Counselor in Plymouth, MA
LeaAnne Stunkel-Doyle
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02362  (Online Only)
I have been working as a licensed clinician in a variety of settings for over 25 years. My philosophy is to help individuals to identify their personal strengths, and to use those strengths to address their weaknesses or identified issues. I believe that all people have the right to feel happy and to be successful in this world, and I strive to help them to remove the obstacles that are threatening this goal. I use a variety of techniques to help my patients, including CBT, Mindfulness, Relaxation, Mind/Body Connection and Collaborative Problem Solving to support my patients as individuals.
I have been working as a licensed clinician in a variety of settings for over 25 years. My philosophy is to help individuals to identify their personal strengths, and to use those strengths to address their weaknesses or identified issues. I believe that all people have the right to feel happy and to be successful in this world, and I strive to help them to remove the obstacles that are threatening this goal. I use a variety of techniques to help my patients, including CBT, Mindfulness, Relaxation, Mind/Body Connection and Collaborative Problem Solving to support my patients as individuals.
(339) 201-9504 View (339) 201-9504
Photo of Lisa Massaro, Marriage & Family Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Lisa Massaro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Lisa Massaro, LMFT, is a licensed trauma therapist and a Certified Life Coach, with a practice based in Massachusetts. Lisa has a passion for helping people heal from the trauma as they discover who they are apart from what they've been through. With a kind, compassionate therapeutic approach, and gentle spirit, she helps people find the truest versions of themselves under the pain that they've endured. Lisa has years of experience and a particular interest in working with adult women who have experienced trauma.
Lisa Massaro, LMFT, is a licensed trauma therapist and a Certified Life Coach, with a practice based in Massachusetts. Lisa has a passion for helping people heal from the trauma as they discover who they are apart from what they've been through. With a kind, compassionate therapeutic approach, and gentle spirit, she helps people find the truest versions of themselves under the pain that they've endured. Lisa has years of experience and a particular interest in working with adult women who have experienced trauma.
(339) 330-0751 View (339) 330-0751

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Plymouth, MA

200+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Plymouth, MA who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
88% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
73% Coping Skills
72% Self Esteem
68% Stress
64% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% BlueCross and BlueShield
76% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
73% Optum

How Therapists in Plymouth, MA see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
16% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Plymouth?

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.