Therapists in East Setauket, NY

Photo of Donna E Friedman, Psychologist in East Setauket, NY
Donna E Friedman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
East Setauket, NY 11733
I view therapy as a collaborative process that facilitates communication, problem-solving and self-exploration, which leads to lasting change in relationships and life. As a clinical psychologist in practice for over 27 years, I have learned that while no single type of therapy works for everyone, a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship is essential to achieving growth and change. We use this relationship to learn about how you feel and behave in other significant relationships. Therapy becomes a place to try new ways of communicating and to develop new ways of seeing things. Ultimately, therapy leads to taking healthy risks in relationships and life.
I view therapy as a collaborative process that facilitates communication, problem-solving and self-exploration, which leads to lasting change in relationships and life. As a clinical psychologist in practice for over 27 years, I have learned that while no single type of therapy works for everyone, a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship is essential to achieving growth and change. We use this relationship to learn about how you feel and behave in other significant relationships. Therapy becomes a place to try new ways of communicating and to develop new ways of seeing things. Ultimately, therapy leads to taking healthy risks in relationships and life.
(631) 352-4278 View (631) 352-4278
Photo of JoAnn Rosen, Counselor in East Setauket, NY
JoAnn Rosen
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
East Setauket, NY 11733
Do you feel anxious, sad, depressed or unhappy? Are you repeating ineffective, self-defeating behaviors in relationships, work or other important areas of your life? Do you want to experience greater self-confidence? If you are struggling with these issues, I would like to help you. Asking for help is courageous, and reading this site suggests that you are taking the initial step towards positive change. My therapeutic style is friendly, engaging, and respectful. Together we will explore and better understand your painful past and present experiences, behaviors and feelings. Clarity, self-appreciation, skillfulness and true happiness can be yours!
Do you feel anxious, sad, depressed or unhappy? Are you repeating ineffective, self-defeating behaviors in relationships, work or other important areas of your life? Do you want to experience greater self-confidence? If you are struggling with these issues, I would like to help you. Asking for help is courageous, and reading this site suggests that you are taking the initial step towards positive change. My therapeutic style is friendly, engaging, and respectful. Together we will explore and better understand your painful past and present experiences, behaviors and feelings. Clarity, self-appreciation, skillfulness and true happiness can be yours!
(631) 594-8281 View (631) 594-8281
Photo of Amy Gironda, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Setauket, NY
Amy Gironda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
East Setauket, NY 11733
Are you often overwhelmed with all of your responsibilities or feel you "should be" happier?" Do you feel inadequate in your career, parenting, or marriage or filled with inner self doubt that interferes with your happiness? I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping you identify and manage those life stressors that may be preventing you from feeling satisfied and joyful. My goal is to help you find greater satisfaction while you navigate your life and to help you recognize your strengths and ability for positive change.
Are you often overwhelmed with all of your responsibilities or feel you "should be" happier?" Do you feel inadequate in your career, parenting, or marriage or filled with inner self doubt that interferes with your happiness? I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping you identify and manage those life stressors that may be preventing you from feeling satisfied and joyful. My goal is to help you find greater satisfaction while you navigate your life and to help you recognize your strengths and ability for positive change.
(516) 774-1312 View (516) 774-1312
Photo of Jacqueline German, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Setauket, NY
Jacqueline German
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Setauket, NY 11733  (Online Only)
Throughout her career, Jacqueline has focused on working with individuals dealing with challenges such as depression, social and general anxiety, ADHD, and emotion regulation difficulties. Her professional passion lies in assisting adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Drawing from her own life experiences, including anxiety, depression, and relationship trauma, Jacqueline approaches her clients' world with a realistic lens and genuine understanding. She has expertise in working with individuals who have experienced significant traumas, struggle with relationship and familial issues, ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, etc.
Throughout her career, Jacqueline has focused on working with individuals dealing with challenges such as depression, social and general anxiety, ADHD, and emotion regulation difficulties. Her professional passion lies in assisting adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Drawing from her own life experiences, including anxiety, depression, and relationship trauma, Jacqueline approaches her clients' world with a realistic lens and genuine understanding. She has expertise in working with individuals who have experienced significant traumas, struggle with relationship and familial issues, ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, etc.
(631) 817-3733 View (631) 817-3733
Photo of Alexandra Rulli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Setauket, NY
Alexandra Rulli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
East Setauket, NY 11733
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with individuals who experience anxiety, mood challenges, overwhelming thoughts, low motivation and depression. I view therapy as a collaborative process - my role is to help my clients identify ways they want to see things change, and encourage change in a way that feels meaningful and lasting. Currently I have availability for in-person sessions in the East Setauket area in the evenings, as well as virtual availability.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with individuals who experience anxiety, mood challenges, overwhelming thoughts, low motivation and depression. I view therapy as a collaborative process - my role is to help my clients identify ways they want to see things change, and encourage change in a way that feels meaningful and lasting. Currently I have availability for in-person sessions in the East Setauket area in the evenings, as well as virtual availability.
(516) 990-1774 View (516) 990-1774
Photo of Roger Keizerstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Setauket, NY
Roger Keizerstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
East Setauket, NY 11733
I have been working with children and adolescents and their families for over 41 years. Therapy includes sessions with child and consultations with parents. When appropriate and with the parents' permission, consultations with teachers and other school personnel are conducted. I will speak with any person that impacts your child's life. Ultimately, the goal of therapy is to create conditions in your child's life that will lead to their growth and development. Recently, I have had success with young children experiencing anxiety due to sensory integration over-load and separation anxiety.
I have been working with children and adolescents and their families for over 41 years. Therapy includes sessions with child and consultations with parents. When appropriate and with the parents' permission, consultations with teachers and other school personnel are conducted. I will speak with any person that impacts your child's life. Ultimately, the goal of therapy is to create conditions in your child's life that will lead to their growth and development. Recently, I have had success with young children experiencing anxiety due to sensory integration over-load and separation anxiety.
(631) 449-7836 View (631) 449-7836
Photo of Christopher James Kearney, Psychologist in East Setauket, NY
Christopher James Kearney
Psychologist, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Setauket, NY 11733
I believe in a counseling approach that is built upon trust and empathy. I have 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults. Individuals continue to evolve throughout their lives and I enjoy working with clients whom encounter challenges and pressure in daily life. I have taught Counseling courses, Adolescent Psychology and Abnormal Psychology. I have experience with patients with anxiety, depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disabilities and ADHD.
I believe in a counseling approach that is built upon trust and empathy. I have 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults. Individuals continue to evolve throughout their lives and I enjoy working with clients whom encounter challenges and pressure in daily life. I have taught Counseling courses, Adolescent Psychology and Abnormal Psychology. I have experience with patients with anxiety, depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disabilities and ADHD.
(631) 651-1763 View (631) 651-1763
Photo of Julian Pessier, Psychologist in East Setauket, NY
Julian Pessier
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
East Setauket, NY 11733
Not accepting new clients
My professional experience and background working with University (undergraduate, graduate and medical/health professions) students makes me an excellent fit for people looking to make changes in their lives, often starting with the reduction of emotional distress, followed by identifying new and meaningful goals in the areas of relationships and work.
My professional experience and background working with University (undergraduate, graduate and medical/health professions) students makes me an excellent fit for people looking to make changes in their lives, often starting with the reduction of emotional distress, followed by identifying new and meaningful goals in the areas of relationships and work.
(631) 201-5432 View (631) 201-5432
Photo of Jessica Carlucci, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Setauket, NY
Jessica Carlucci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Setauket, NY 11733
Sometimes parts of our life can feel overwhelming and debilitating. It can be difficult to know who to turn to and what to do. I strive to build a collaborative relationship built on respect and trust, meeting each client exactly where they are. I work to foster a safe, supportive and non-judgmental environment where we can effectively work together to resolve problems. I believe that most individuals possess the innate capacity to heal themselves, but may lack insight due to emotional or psychological distress.
Sometimes parts of our life can feel overwhelming and debilitating. It can be difficult to know who to turn to and what to do. I strive to build a collaborative relationship built on respect and trust, meeting each client exactly where they are. I work to foster a safe, supportive and non-judgmental environment where we can effectively work together to resolve problems. I believe that most individuals possess the innate capacity to heal themselves, but may lack insight due to emotional or psychological distress.
(631) 364-0403 View (631) 364-0403
Photo of Alice Miriam Marjorie Woodson White, LCSW, P.C., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Setauket, NY
Alice Miriam Marjorie Woodson White, LCSW, P.C.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
East Setauket, NY 11733  (Online Only)
Restore your strength and resilience. Maximize your emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual ability. Affirm your inner greatness. Children, teens, adults, military veterans, their families, substance abusers, and the seriously and persistently mentally ill receive help. I am a certified Gottman Seven Principles of Marriage Program Educator, and a NYS Impaired Driver Assessment and Evaluation Provider. Receive the mature experience of a former preschool teacher, home school teacher, police detective, patrol supervisor, bereavement coordinator, college Psychology instructor, substance abuse counselor, and mental health therapist.
Restore your strength and resilience. Maximize your emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual ability. Affirm your inner greatness. Children, teens, adults, military veterans, their families, substance abusers, and the seriously and persistently mentally ill receive help. I am a certified Gottman Seven Principles of Marriage Program Educator, and a NYS Impaired Driver Assessment and Evaluation Provider. Receive the mature experience of a former preschool teacher, home school teacher, police detective, patrol supervisor, bereavement coordinator, college Psychology instructor, substance abuse counselor, and mental health therapist.
(631) 772-9997 View (631) 772-9997
Photo of Christine Colavito, Counselor in East Setauket, NY
Christine Colavito
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Setauket, NY 11733
I am a strong believer in people's ability to make positive changes in their lives. Whether that be in regards to depression, anxiety, relationship issues, anger, trauma issues, mood instability, substance abuse problems, grief/loss issues or any other problem. You can make changes and feel better, and I can help you with this process. It's time to have a good quality of life and stop suffering.
I am a strong believer in people's ability to make positive changes in their lives. Whether that be in regards to depression, anxiety, relationship issues, anger, trauma issues, mood instability, substance abuse problems, grief/loss issues or any other problem. You can make changes and feel better, and I can help you with this process. It's time to have a good quality of life and stop suffering.
(631) 651-6070 View (631) 651-6070
Photo of Melinda Clarke, Nurse Practitioner in Family Health in East Setauket, NY
Melinda Clarke
Nurse Practitioner in Family Health, MS, NP
Verified Verified
East Setauket, NY 11733
As a health practitioner, my ideal client is someone who's navigating through tough times in their life, and feeling stuck amidst it all. They're keen on learning coping skills to tackle life's curveballs, and are open to medication management if it fits their needs. Their goal? To find happiness and wellness, with a guiding hand to help them through.
As a health practitioner, my ideal client is someone who's navigating through tough times in their life, and feeling stuck amidst it all. They're keen on learning coping skills to tackle life's curveballs, and are open to medication management if it fits their needs. Their goal? To find happiness and wellness, with a guiding hand to help them through.
(631) 900-2636 View (631) 900-2636
Photo of Mitchel Wayne Eisenstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Setauket, NY
Mitchel Wayne Eisenstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DC, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Setauket, NY 11733
Are you anxious, depressed, or troubled? Upset, stuck, or struggling with thoughts and emotions that keep you from feeling good about yourself? Unhappy in a relationship and unsure how to make it better? I'd like to help. Adults and couples today deal with many sources of stress. When you don't have healthy coping skills, depression, anxiety, difficulties with others, and damage to your self-esteem can set in. If you want to remove obstacles to happiness and success, my empowering style of therapy will help you see better choices and change sabotaging habits.
Are you anxious, depressed, or troubled? Upset, stuck, or struggling with thoughts and emotions that keep you from feeling good about yourself? Unhappy in a relationship and unsure how to make it better? I'd like to help. Adults and couples today deal with many sources of stress. When you don't have healthy coping skills, depression, anxiety, difficulties with others, and damage to your self-esteem can set in. If you want to remove obstacles to happiness and success, my empowering style of therapy will help you see better choices and change sabotaging habits.
(516) 916-5456 View (516) 916-5456
Photo of Kristin Amber Scher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Setauket, NY
Kristin Amber Scher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Setauket, NY 11733
Waitlist for new clients
Our thoughts have the ability to impact the quality of our life. "Change your thoughts and you change your world" Norman Vincent Peale. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, we will focus on solutions, challenge distorted thinking and work towards changing destructive patterns of behavior. As a psychotherapist, I will assist you in achieving your goals and work with you to establish positive coping mechanisms to help manage your symptoms.
Our thoughts have the ability to impact the quality of our life. "Change your thoughts and you change your world" Norman Vincent Peale. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, we will focus on solutions, challenge distorted thinking and work towards changing destructive patterns of behavior. As a psychotherapist, I will assist you in achieving your goals and work with you to establish positive coping mechanisms to help manage your symptoms.
(516) 226-7620 View (516) 226-7620
Photo of Alyse J Parise, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Setauket, NY
Alyse J Parise
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
East Setauket, NY 11733
If you’re frustrated having spent lots of time and money on quick fix programs that promised the world, I get it. Life is messy and uncertain. Does it seem like many of the ways you feel inadequate are hard to hide, especially from yourself? What’s holding you back? Are you trying to improve or leave difficult relationships? Are you stressed and want to overcome the hidden affects of trauma and family secrets? If you answered yes, often the answers are in the shadows. When you shine light on your darkness, anxiety and not feeling enough recede. Then you can reclaim your confidence having a vibrant and fulfilling life.
If you’re frustrated having spent lots of time and money on quick fix programs that promised the world, I get it. Life is messy and uncertain. Does it seem like many of the ways you feel inadequate are hard to hide, especially from yourself? What’s holding you back? Are you trying to improve or leave difficult relationships? Are you stressed and want to overcome the hidden affects of trauma and family secrets? If you answered yes, often the answers are in the shadows. When you shine light on your darkness, anxiety and not feeling enough recede. Then you can reclaim your confidence having a vibrant and fulfilling life.
(631) 317-2123 View (631) 317-2123
Photo of Joy Bolger, Counselor in East Setauket, NY
Joy Bolger
Counselor, MS, LMHC, EdD
Verified Verified
East Setauket, NY 11733
Therapy is a guided journey of learning how to manage life's difficulties, and overcome obstacles blocking one from leading a fulfilling and enriching life. I provide assessment and treatment of mental issues, in a confidential and comfortable enviornment.
Therapy is a guided journey of learning how to manage life's difficulties, and overcome obstacles blocking one from leading a fulfilling and enriching life. I provide assessment and treatment of mental issues, in a confidential and comfortable enviornment.
(631) 319-3915 View (631) 319-3915
Photo of Jannine Pergola, Counselor in East Setauket, NY
Jannine Pergola
Counselor, MS, LMHC, BCPC, CCH, RYT
Verified Verified
East Setauket, NY 11733
Life can be challenging. Relationships, finances, personal satisfaction, can create imbalance in our lives. At Sattva Wellness & Counseling, Jannine Pergola MS, LMHC, BCPC, CCH, RYT, assists individuals and couples to reduce problematic symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress, helping clients regain their sense personal balance. Using an integrated approach of Mindfulness Based Therapy (MBSR), Relaxation Therapy, Yoga techniques, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Positive Psychological applications, clients have been successful in achieving personal empowerment, inner balance and creating positive change.
Life can be challenging. Relationships, finances, personal satisfaction, can create imbalance in our lives. At Sattva Wellness & Counseling, Jannine Pergola MS, LMHC, BCPC, CCH, RYT, assists individuals and couples to reduce problematic symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress, helping clients regain their sense personal balance. Using an integrated approach of Mindfulness Based Therapy (MBSR), Relaxation Therapy, Yoga techniques, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Positive Psychological applications, clients have been successful in achieving personal empowerment, inner balance and creating positive change.
(631) 392-7063 View (631) 392-7063
Photo of Alanna Donach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Setauket, NY
Alanna Donach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
East Setauket, NY 11733
Are you feeling anxious? Do you find it difficult to make friends? Are you experiencing loneliness? Struggling in school? Relationship difficulties? Life is hard. Come talk to me. Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root causes of your difficulties and build meaningful social connections.
Are you feeling anxious? Do you find it difficult to make friends? Are you experiencing loneliness? Struggling in school? Relationship difficulties? Life is hard. Come talk to me. Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root causes of your difficulties and build meaningful social connections.
(516) 588-6828 View (516) 588-6828
Photo of Dr. Tara Bulin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Setauket, NY
Dr. Tara Bulin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-R, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
East Setauket, NY 11733  (Online Only)
Are YOU ready to transform your life? Are you feeling overwhelmed by consuming thoughts, feelings, and repeating circumstances in your life? Are you feeling stuck, and not where you imagined you would be? Have you tried to make changes before, but for some reason, it just didn't work? If you answered YES to these questions, it's time for you to stop doing the same thing over and over and expecting the outcome to be different. It's time for you to start healing and move closer to the life you've always imagined you could have. It's time to make the change..now. YOU can do this, and I am here to support you.
Are YOU ready to transform your life? Are you feeling overwhelmed by consuming thoughts, feelings, and repeating circumstances in your life? Are you feeling stuck, and not where you imagined you would be? Have you tried to make changes before, but for some reason, it just didn't work? If you answered YES to these questions, it's time for you to stop doing the same thing over and over and expecting the outcome to be different. It's time for you to start healing and move closer to the life you've always imagined you could have. It's time to make the change..now. YOU can do this, and I am here to support you.
(631) 337-8275 View (631) 337-8275
Photo of Gina Zorn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in East Setauket, NY
Gina Zorn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
East Setauket, NY 11733
Have you been feeling stressed, anxious, or depressed? Do you feel that it is becoming more difficult to manage school, work, and friends? Or are you finding it difficult to transition into college? These everyday struggles can lead us to become withdrawn, overwhelmed, unmotivated, and stuck. I understand that speaking with a therapist can seem intimidating, but asking for help is the first step toward living a more enjoyable life. My goal is to help you learn ways to cope with these feelings and create your own success and happiness.
Have you been feeling stressed, anxious, or depressed? Do you feel that it is becoming more difficult to manage school, work, and friends? Or are you finding it difficult to transition into college? These everyday struggles can lead us to become withdrawn, overwhelmed, unmotivated, and stuck. I understand that speaking with a therapist can seem intimidating, but asking for help is the first step toward living a more enjoyable life. My goal is to help you learn ways to cope with these feelings and create your own success and happiness.
(516) 715-2386 View (516) 715-2386

See more therapy options for East Setauket

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in East Setauket, NY

50+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in East Setauket, NY who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
86% Relationship Issues
86% Depression
84% Self Esteem
78% Coping Skills
74% Family Conflict
72% Stress

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

61% Aetna
56% Cigna and Evernorth
47% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in East Setauket, NY see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in East Setauket?

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.