Therapists in Pennington, NJ

Photo of Joana Couto, Counselor in Pennington, NJ
Joana Couto
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Often times we seek therapy because of struggles in relationships, adjusting to a new phase in life, uncertainty about the future, family stress, anxiety, & depression. You don't need to wait until you are in crisis to get help. Learning the balance between self-care & community care is a practice. Together we can explore different tools that can support you to work through emotions & patterns that may have happened in the past, but are playing a part in your desire to grow now. We don't choose what happens to us, but it is part of our journey to work through them. Our work together is to increase your choices and awareness.
Often times we seek therapy because of struggles in relationships, adjusting to a new phase in life, uncertainty about the future, family stress, anxiety, & depression. You don't need to wait until you are in crisis to get help. Learning the balance between self-care & community care is a practice. Together we can explore different tools that can support you to work through emotions & patterns that may have happened in the past, but are playing a part in your desire to grow now. We don't choose what happens to us, but it is part of our journey to work through them. Our work together is to increase your choices and awareness.
(609) 336-3012 x701 View (609) 336-3012 x701
Photo of Patricia M Hart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennington, NJ
Patricia M Hart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
Looking to find the peacefulness that comes from feeling empowered, to learn and grow through the process of partnering in this journey of psychotherapy? As a licensed clinical social worker for the past 30 years, I have been fortunate to work in so many arenas and with so many amazing people. I am always in awe of the human spirit and the capacity to grow, change and achieve personal goals. Life can be stressful and can sometimes feel overwhelming. It can feel difficult to find a path forward, that is when therapy can help.
Looking to find the peacefulness that comes from feeling empowered, to learn and grow through the process of partnering in this journey of psychotherapy? As a licensed clinical social worker for the past 30 years, I have been fortunate to work in so many arenas and with so many amazing people. I am always in awe of the human spirit and the capacity to grow, change and achieve personal goals. Life can be stressful and can sometimes feel overwhelming. It can feel difficult to find a path forward, that is when therapy can help.
(609) 793-8960 View (609) 793-8960
Photo of Ariel Susman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennington, NJ
Ariel Susman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
I work collaboratively with individuals to help them succeed beyond their barriers and overcome their mental health challenges. Whether someone is reluctant or ready to start the work, I meet them where they are in their journey.
I work collaboratively with individuals to help them succeed beyond their barriers and overcome their mental health challenges. Whether someone is reluctant or ready to start the work, I meet them where they are in their journey.
(609) 739-8399 View (609) 739-8399
Photo of Sheronda Howard, Counselor in Pennington, NJ
Sheronda Howard
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
How you feel is valid, your story matters, and you deserve to be heard. It can be hard to listen to that healthy voice inside of you that desires guidance and support. I want to take a moment to acknowledge your bravery for taking the first step in your journey. Together we will explore areas of your life where you may feel challenged, anxious and/or stuck. We will identify old patterns of beliefs and behaviors that may have been limiting you and begin to move forward in your life by creating new understanding that leads to curiosity, self-awareness, and self-compassion.
How you feel is valid, your story matters, and you deserve to be heard. It can be hard to listen to that healthy voice inside of you that desires guidance and support. I want to take a moment to acknowledge your bravery for taking the first step in your journey. Together we will explore areas of your life where you may feel challenged, anxious and/or stuck. We will identify old patterns of beliefs and behaviors that may have been limiting you and begin to move forward in your life by creating new understanding that leads to curiosity, self-awareness, and self-compassion.
(609) 469-3770 x705 View (609) 469-3770 x705
Photo of Robert Watts, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennington, NJ
Robert Watts
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, MA, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Counseling is available for individuals faced with the challenges of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, dual diagnosis, trauma and relationship challenges. Counseling is provided within the warm and professional space at South Main Street Counseling Center in a therapeutic environment which allows individuals to maximize their abilities to create meaningful changes and enhance their independence and peace. Clients are encouraged and supported to explore those issues which are impacting relationships and well being.
Counseling is available for individuals faced with the challenges of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, dual diagnosis, trauma and relationship challenges. Counseling is provided within the warm and professional space at South Main Street Counseling Center in a therapeutic environment which allows individuals to maximize their abilities to create meaningful changes and enhance their independence and peace. Clients are encouraged and supported to explore those issues which are impacting relationships and well being.
(267) 777-8949 View (267) 777-8949
Photo of Phil Lane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennington, NJ
Phil Lane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
I am a passionate and devoted advocate for mental health. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I aim to help clients through challenges and always approach therapy and the therapeutic relationship from a position of empathy and understanding. I believe that all clients have a unique life story and that it is within this story that healing begins. Using a client-centered approach, my goal is to be a fellow traveler with you through whatever unique challenges or problems present themselves.
I am a passionate and devoted advocate for mental health. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I aim to help clients through challenges and always approach therapy and the therapeutic relationship from a position of empathy and understanding. I believe that all clients have a unique life story and that it is within this story that healing begins. Using a client-centered approach, my goal is to be a fellow traveler with you through whatever unique challenges or problems present themselves.
(908) 402-1026 View (908) 402-1026
Photo of Sandy Gibson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennington, NJ
Sandy Gibson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Life can be tough sometimes, whether it be a challenging life transition, processing trauma, or contemplating if your current relationship is your best path forward. Working together to develop a plan for your own wellness, without judgment, is the goal. For people who are uncertain about their relationship to alcohol and other drugs, we can explore this together without the expectation for abstinence. I understand people ebb and flow with their use and not everyone needs to give it up to recover from problematic use. Families of people who use drugs often feel scared and powerless, but you are powerful, you can make a difference.
Life can be tough sometimes, whether it be a challenging life transition, processing trauma, or contemplating if your current relationship is your best path forward. Working together to develop a plan for your own wellness, without judgment, is the goal. For people who are uncertain about their relationship to alcohol and other drugs, we can explore this together without the expectation for abstinence. I understand people ebb and flow with their use and not everyone needs to give it up to recover from problematic use. Families of people who use drugs often feel scared and powerless, but you are powerful, you can make a difference.
(609) 336-3012 View (609) 336-3012
Photo of Vincent Conte, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennington, NJ
Vincent Conte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
Taking the leap to seek out therapy is a big deal, and I really admire you for starting on this path to put your mental well being first. It’s super important to have a strong connection with your therapist – it’s the heart of what makes therapy work. I look forward to being a part of your private support system and providing a space where you feel heard as we untangle ANY complexities of your life, together. Whether you're facing career changes, navigating workplace stress, or any other challenge, know that I am here to walk with you every step of the way, celebrating your uniqueness and the complex world you interact with.
Taking the leap to seek out therapy is a big deal, and I really admire you for starting on this path to put your mental well being first. It’s super important to have a strong connection with your therapist – it’s the heart of what makes therapy work. I look forward to being a part of your private support system and providing a space where you feel heard as we untangle ANY complexities of your life, together. Whether you're facing career changes, navigating workplace stress, or any other challenge, know that I am here to walk with you every step of the way, celebrating your uniqueness and the complex world you interact with.
(609) 697-2137 View (609) 697-2137
Photo of Jonathan H. Mack, Psychologist in Pennington, NJ
Jonathan H. Mack
Psychologist, PsyD , ABN, FACPN
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
Our practice specializes in neuropsychological and psychological assessment for learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, traumatic brain injury and medical legal and forensic assessment, including child custody, fitness for duty and psychological and neuropsychological damages evaluations. We also specialize in treatment of PTSD, anxiety, dissociative disorders and traumatic brain injury. As well as testing we do psychotherapy, biofeedback, neurofeedback, EMDR, cognitive rehabilitation, and medical referral as appropriate and as needed.
Our practice specializes in neuropsychological and psychological assessment for learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, traumatic brain injury and medical legal and forensic assessment, including child custody, fitness for duty and psychological and neuropsychological damages evaluations. We also specialize in treatment of PTSD, anxiety, dissociative disorders and traumatic brain injury. As well as testing we do psychotherapy, biofeedback, neurofeedback, EMDR, cognitive rehabilitation, and medical referral as appropriate and as needed.
(609) 554-1237 View (609) 554-1237
Photo of Mark R Dell, Psychologist in Pennington, NJ
Mark R Dell
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
I have decided to focus my efforts on those disillusioned, displaced, and depressed individuals who struggle with three attributes that are necessary (if not imperative) to live a fulfilling life: Self-reliance, Self-sufficiency, and Self-governance. I believe that the facilitation of these realistic, accountable, and disciplined attributes will only create a much more valuable and enlightening existence for all of us. I also address the dangers of SELF-censorship which have increased tenfold in the united states. We see it at work, our academic institutions, and within close relationships. People are afraid to speak.
I have decided to focus my efforts on those disillusioned, displaced, and depressed individuals who struggle with three attributes that are necessary (if not imperative) to live a fulfilling life: Self-reliance, Self-sufficiency, and Self-governance. I believe that the facilitation of these realistic, accountable, and disciplined attributes will only create a much more valuable and enlightening existence for all of us. I also address the dangers of SELF-censorship which have increased tenfold in the united states. We see it at work, our academic institutions, and within close relationships. People are afraid to speak.
(609) 439-4175 View (609) 439-4175
Photo of Camille A Bloomberg, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennington, NJ
Camille A Bloomberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, SAC, CPS
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
Issues: Behavioral issues, Coping Skills, Divorce, Family Conflict, Grief, Peer relationships, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self esteem, Stress, Codependency, Addiction issues, Depression, Anxiety, Life transitions, Martial and Premarital, Parenting, Substance Abuse and Career counseling.
Issues: Behavioral issues, Coping Skills, Divorce, Family Conflict, Grief, Peer relationships, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self esteem, Stress, Codependency, Addiction issues, Depression, Anxiety, Life transitions, Martial and Premarital, Parenting, Substance Abuse and Career counseling.
(609) 483-4940 View (609) 483-4940
Photo of Emily Anne Mattek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennington, NJ
Emily Anne Mattek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
I believe in meeting clients where they are at! Every person is resilient. I intend our collaboration to remind you of your strengths, provide you tools to weather the storms of life, and a safe space to gain insight into your truest self. I come to social work from a social justice background and recognize that trauma and oppression are often intertwined. Acknowledging systemic issues is a vital part of my practice, particularly for youth and families directly impacted by it. Teaching you to advocate successfully on your own behalf, whether it be in your relationships or larger systems, is also essential.
I believe in meeting clients where they are at! Every person is resilient. I intend our collaboration to remind you of your strengths, provide you tools to weather the storms of life, and a safe space to gain insight into your truest self. I come to social work from a social justice background and recognize that trauma and oppression are often intertwined. Acknowledging systemic issues is a vital part of my practice, particularly for youth and families directly impacted by it. Teaching you to advocate successfully on your own behalf, whether it be in your relationships or larger systems, is also essential.
(609) 303-5875 View (609) 303-5875
Photo of Hazel Jamieson LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennington, NJ
Hazel Jamieson LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534  (Online Only)
I provide supportive empathy in a safe space for treatment that helps healing from trauma, depression, anxiety, and dependence that affects mood, self-worth, self-care, and relationships that perhaps negatively impact your daily life. I offer a safe therapeutic partnership with the intention of reducing suffering and recovery that balances acceptance and change.
I provide supportive empathy in a safe space for treatment that helps healing from trauma, depression, anxiety, and dependence that affects mood, self-worth, self-care, and relationships that perhaps negatively impact your daily life. I offer a safe therapeutic partnership with the intention of reducing suffering and recovery that balances acceptance and change.
(609) 372-2117 View (609) 372-2117
Photo of Ashley M. Kussman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennington, NJ
Ashley M. Kussman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Often individuals who have experienced on-going internal or relational conflict feel stuck in a cycle that they can't seem to control no matter how many attempts or strategies they try. In the confusion and exhaustion, they give up and give in to hopelessness, low self-worth, shame, anger, and fear. This leads into more alienation, suffering, and despair. Those who want to heal the relationship with themselves and with those they love can rediscover the self that is trapped under all of the pain, anger, and fear. With empathic support, knowledge, and adequate resources, healing is possible.
Often individuals who have experienced on-going internal or relational conflict feel stuck in a cycle that they can't seem to control no matter how many attempts or strategies they try. In the confusion and exhaustion, they give up and give in to hopelessness, low self-worth, shame, anger, and fear. This leads into more alienation, suffering, and despair. Those who want to heal the relationship with themselves and with those they love can rediscover the self that is trapped under all of the pain, anger, and fear. With empathic support, knowledge, and adequate resources, healing is possible.
(609) 622-4204 View (609) 622-4204
Photo of Matthew Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennington, NJ
Matthew Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, DRCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
Finding a therapist for you or your child can be a difficult task. Purposeful Pathways hopes to help with that. Personally, much of my experience is centered around working with adolescents in multiple levels of care settings (e.g., outpatient to partial hospitalization) with things like mood disorders, self-esteem issues, interpersonal effectiveness needs, and parent-child relational issues to name a few of areas I have helped clients navigate. With my young adult-adult clients, much of what I have seen is a need for support through transitions, assessing and increasing life satisfaction, and overall short/long term goal setting.
Finding a therapist for you or your child can be a difficult task. Purposeful Pathways hopes to help with that. Personally, much of my experience is centered around working with adolescents in multiple levels of care settings (e.g., outpatient to partial hospitalization) with things like mood disorders, self-esteem issues, interpersonal effectiveness needs, and parent-child relational issues to name a few of areas I have helped clients navigate. With my young adult-adult clients, much of what I have seen is a need for support through transitions, assessing and increasing life satisfaction, and overall short/long term goal setting.
(609) 483-4831 View (609) 483-4831
Photo of Gretel J. LaVieri, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennington, NJ
Gretel J. LaVieri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
Not accepting new clients
I offer a hybrid practice: house calls & telehealth. I started my home visit practice to make therapy accessible to those who can't get to an office, and I remain deeply committed to that value. Chronic or progressive illness, chronic pain, physical disability, & even just an aging body can make travel to an office out of reach. Certainly telehealth has been a life saver. Yet being able to meet safely in person to address worries & fears, sadness, grief, loneliness, isolation, and loss of meaning in life can be transformative. Are you willing to explore ways to be with life as it is, and act based on what's in your heart?
I offer a hybrid practice: house calls & telehealth. I started my home visit practice to make therapy accessible to those who can't get to an office, and I remain deeply committed to that value. Chronic or progressive illness, chronic pain, physical disability, & even just an aging body can make travel to an office out of reach. Certainly telehealth has been a life saver. Yet being able to meet safely in person to address worries & fears, sadness, grief, loneliness, isolation, and loss of meaning in life can be transformative. Are you willing to explore ways to be with life as it is, and act based on what's in your heart?
(609) 474-6272 View (609) 474-6272
Photo of Lindsey Bell - Lily Counseling And Art Therapy Llc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennington, NJ
Lindsey Bell - Lily Counseling And Art Therapy Llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC, ACS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Welcome! I'm Lindsey, a counselor & art therapist. Life can be difficult sometimes and I'm here to help create realistic and healthy goals, while guiding you through the therapeutic process. I work to empower clients in using resources and tools gained in sessions. I encourage honesty & willingness during sessions and understand it takes time for some to get there. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, poor emotional regulation, communication difficulties, time management difficulties, work/school stress, and more.
Welcome! I'm Lindsey, a counselor & art therapist. Life can be difficult sometimes and I'm here to help create realistic and healthy goals, while guiding you through the therapeutic process. I work to empower clients in using resources and tools gained in sessions. I encourage honesty & willingness during sessions and understand it takes time for some to get there. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, poor emotional regulation, communication difficulties, time management difficulties, work/school stress, and more.
(609) 604-5920 View (609) 604-5920
Photo of Catarina Martins, Counselor in Pennington, NJ
Catarina Martins
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Some of the scariest moments in life are when we feel as though we are losing or have lost control, and I hope to assist you in getting through the chaos. By providing a safe, non-judgmental, and encouraging environment, my goal is to support you in creating a life in alignment with your values and who you would like to be.
Some of the scariest moments in life are when we feel as though we are losing or have lost control, and I hope to assist you in getting through the chaos. By providing a safe, non-judgmental, and encouraging environment, my goal is to support you in creating a life in alignment with your values and who you would like to be.
(609) 474-3991 View (609) 474-3991
Photo of Jessica Levy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennington, NJ
Jessica Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Immediate openings! The relationship between a client and their therapist is one of the most important factors in achieving therapeutic success. I place an emphasis on empathy, compassion, and humor to build our rapport. Before work can begin, a client must be comfortable with and trust their therapist. I pride myself on being able to achieve a strong, trusting, safe connection with my clients.
Immediate openings! The relationship between a client and their therapist is one of the most important factors in achieving therapeutic success. I place an emphasis on empathy, compassion, and humor to build our rapport. Before work can begin, a client must be comfortable with and trust their therapist. I pride myself on being able to achieve a strong, trusting, safe connection with my clients.
(609) 793-9522 View (609) 793-9522
Photo of Leah C Donato, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennington, NJ
Leah C Donato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Congratulations on taking the first step- it’s often the hardest! We all seek happiness, self-gratification and inner peace; and at times we all need support getting there. I have been practicing as a clinician in the field for over 15 years. I’ve built my career on developing mental health programs and providing clinical counseling for the most vulnerable youth and adults. I have worked in various professional settings helping clients with issues of trauma, stress, anxiety, loss, grief, chronic illness, and relationship and interpersonal issues. Additionally, I have a passion for working with LGBTQ youth and their families.
Congratulations on taking the first step- it’s often the hardest! We all seek happiness, self-gratification and inner peace; and at times we all need support getting there. I have been practicing as a clinician in the field for over 15 years. I’ve built my career on developing mental health programs and providing clinical counseling for the most vulnerable youth and adults. I have worked in various professional settings helping clients with issues of trauma, stress, anxiety, loss, grief, chronic illness, and relationship and interpersonal issues. Additionally, I have a passion for working with LGBTQ youth and their families.
(609) 474-0067 View (609) 474-0067

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Pennington, NJ

100+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Pennington, NJ who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
90% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
77% Self Esteem
71% Coping Skills
69% Stress
64% Grief

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

62% Aetna
50% Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield
36% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Pennington, NJ see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Pennington?

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.