Therapists in Westfield, NJ

Photo of Zuleika Hernández, Counselor in Westfield, NJ
Zuleika Hernández
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
My ideal client would be a middle-aged woman struggling with depression and anxiety and grieving the loss of a child, husband, or a close family member. I would start by assessing her needs and using the Beck depression inventory scale and the Beck depression anxiety inventory scale. I would use grounding techniques and CBT, such as scheduling activities, positive affirmations, and psycho-education on depression and anxiety. I would also encourage journaling, writing five things for which they are thankful daily, and writing letters to the deceased person.
My ideal client would be a middle-aged woman struggling with depression and anxiety and grieving the loss of a child, husband, or a close family member. I would start by assessing her needs and using the Beck depression inventory scale and the Beck depression anxiety inventory scale. I would use grounding techniques and CBT, such as scheduling activities, positive affirmations, and psycho-education on depression and anxiety. I would also encourage journaling, writing five things for which they are thankful daily, and writing letters to the deceased person.
(908) 224-3799 View (908) 224-3799
Photo of Marissa Fernandez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westfield, NJ
Marissa Fernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090  (Online Only)
It's normal to experience feelings of anxiety, worry and overall dissatisfaction in your life. They key is to find a comforting environment in which you can work toward reducing those unwanted thoughts or behaviors and replacing them with results-driven, goal-oriented actions.
It's normal to experience feelings of anxiety, worry and overall dissatisfaction in your life. They key is to find a comforting environment in which you can work toward reducing those unwanted thoughts or behaviors and replacing them with results-driven, goal-oriented actions.
(908) 663-5444 View (908) 663-5444
Photo of Richard Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westfield, NJ
Richard Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
(908) 258-6462 View (908) 258-6462
Photo of Josephine Costanzo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westfield, NJ
Josephine Costanzo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
Are you experiencing a challenging situation in your life at this time? People often seek therapy at vulnerable times in their lives. I work with individuals, couples and families to help them overcome these difficult times. I believe that everyone has the potential to be happy and make positive improvements in their life. I provide support, assistance, and encouragement in a warm, nonjudgmental environment to empower each person to resolve concerns impeding them from living a fulfilling life. In this comfortable setting, my goal is to assist clients to set achievable goals that build on their strengths.
Are you experiencing a challenging situation in your life at this time? People often seek therapy at vulnerable times in their lives. I work with individuals, couples and families to help them overcome these difficult times. I believe that everyone has the potential to be happy and make positive improvements in their life. I provide support, assistance, and encouragement in a warm, nonjudgmental environment to empower each person to resolve concerns impeding them from living a fulfilling life. In this comfortable setting, my goal is to assist clients to set achievable goals that build on their strengths.
(908) 304-9320 View (908) 304-9320
Photo of Meredith Shufeld Perrone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Meredith Shufeld Perrone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090  (Online Only)
We live in a world of uncertainty and with that often comes a feeling of uneasiness or increase in anxiety. This feeling can often make people feel alone. I am here to help this process not seem as lonely and help you to get on a better path. I have extensive experience working in the field of oncology and helping individuals work through challenging, life-altering experiences. I help individuals cope with the many challenges that arise during these major life transitions. Having someone involved to help you navigate the many emotions that arise during this time can make the process less overwhelming.
We live in a world of uncertainty and with that often comes a feeling of uneasiness or increase in anxiety. This feeling can often make people feel alone. I am here to help this process not seem as lonely and help you to get on a better path. I have extensive experience working in the field of oncology and helping individuals work through challenging, life-altering experiences. I help individuals cope with the many challenges that arise during these major life transitions. Having someone involved to help you navigate the many emotions that arise during this time can make the process less overwhelming.
(973) 988-4587 View (973) 988-4587
Photo of Michele R Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westfield, NJ
Michele R Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
Discover the real reasons behind your eating, weight, and body image issues. Do you hate your job and binge eat at night? Are you compensating for poor relationships with food? Do you hate getting dressed each morning? It's time to take a deeper look. As a Psychological Counselor, I am trained to get to the root of your eating and body image challenges. We all turn to food for so many reasons that have nothing to do with hunger. Make peace with food and your body. Learn to cope with your emotions and discover what you're really hungry for!
Discover the real reasons behind your eating, weight, and body image issues. Do you hate your job and binge eat at night? Are you compensating for poor relationships with food? Do you hate getting dressed each morning? It's time to take a deeper look. As a Psychological Counselor, I am trained to get to the root of your eating and body image challenges. We all turn to food for so many reasons that have nothing to do with hunger. Make peace with food and your body. Learn to cope with your emotions and discover what you're really hungry for!
(908) 386-4571 View (908) 386-4571
Photo of Gail E Winbury, Psychologist in Westfield, NJ
Gail E Winbury
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a psychologist of 30 years, I offer a safe space to be heard, to be known and to make change. Together we work towards understanding your self, and what it is you want from therapy and life. With compassion and humor, we consider your strengths and weaknesses. We look at what blocks your happiness and satisfaction in work and love and move towards change. It is important to find a therapist who feels right to you. I have extensive experience as a coach and therapist of women and men in the financial, health care and creative professions. I provide virtual and telephone therapy .
As a psychologist of 30 years, I offer a safe space to be heard, to be known and to make change. Together we work towards understanding your self, and what it is you want from therapy and life. With compassion and humor, we consider your strengths and weaknesses. We look at what blocks your happiness and satisfaction in work and love and move towards change. It is important to find a therapist who feels right to you. I have extensive experience as a coach and therapist of women and men in the financial, health care and creative professions. I provide virtual and telephone therapy .
(908) 304-9099 View (908) 304-9099
Photo of Trish Dooley Budsock, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westfield, NJ
Trish Dooley Budsock
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I welcome individuals who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, maladaptive coping, chronic pain, low self-esteem, complex trauma, and grief. Formal training in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy, and EMDR have been integral tools in my development as a therapist. I have the ability to engage with clients who are in distress, and my goal is to create a safe, nurturing environment where growth and solutions can emerge. I also have extensive experience in training mental health and other healthcare providers in a variety of therapeutic approaches.
I welcome individuals who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, maladaptive coping, chronic pain, low self-esteem, complex trauma, and grief. Formal training in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy, and EMDR have been integral tools in my development as a therapist. I have the ability to engage with clients who are in distress, and my goal is to create a safe, nurturing environment where growth and solutions can emerge. I also have extensive experience in training mental health and other healthcare providers in a variety of therapeutic approaches.
(908) 965-8272 View (908) 965-8272
Photo of Allison Peters, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westfield, NJ
Allison Peters
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
Hello! My name is Allie, and I am a professional counselor. I decided to become a counselor because I enjoy being a support system. I have worked in partial care transitional housing facilities and have an extensive background in providing outpatient counseling services. I use a trauma-informed, holistic, and strengths-based approach with all my clients. I also commonly use CBT, MI, expressive therapy, and solution-focused strategies in sessions. Most recently, I was trained in TF-CBT by the CARES institute for adolescent survivors of abuse.
Hello! My name is Allie, and I am a professional counselor. I decided to become a counselor because I enjoy being a support system. I have worked in partial care transitional housing facilities and have an extensive background in providing outpatient counseling services. I use a trauma-informed, holistic, and strengths-based approach with all my clients. I also commonly use CBT, MI, expressive therapy, and solution-focused strategies in sessions. Most recently, I was trained in TF-CBT by the CARES institute for adolescent survivors of abuse.
(908) 498-7042 View (908) 498-7042
Photo of Samantha Merse, Counselor in Westfield, NJ
Samantha Merse
Counselor, LAC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
My ideal client is someone who is motivated and ready to work on themselves. They are a client who attends each session as scheduled and on time, coming into it with an open mind and willingness to grow. The client would ideally be an adult who is within the LGBTQIA+ community and is coming to me to work on bettering themselves. Their issues would include depression, anxiety, and questioning their gender and sexual identity.
My ideal client is someone who is motivated and ready to work on themselves. They are a client who attends each session as scheduled and on time, coming into it with an open mind and willingness to grow. The client would ideally be an adult who is within the LGBTQIA+ community and is coming to me to work on bettering themselves. Their issues would include depression, anxiety, and questioning their gender and sexual identity.
(908) 845-8876 View (908) 845-8876
Photo of Rodney Washington (adolescent/teen specialist), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Rodney Washington (adolescent/teen specialist)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I am an LSW with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. My areas of specialty and focus are depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, mood disorders, and trauma. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am an LSW with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. My areas of specialty and focus are depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, mood disorders, and trauma. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
(908) 829-6989 View (908) 829-6989
Photo of Sydnee VanDyke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Sydnee VanDyke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I thrive when working with young women. Whether they’re struggling with school-related stress or struggling to process a breakup, I can quickly build rapport with folks in this demographic. My treatment plans include goals dedicated to helping people identify their triggers for emotional dysregulation. I believe in the importance of somatic and cognitive level wellness strategies and work to have my clients learn and implement both sets of skills. I have enjoyed working with a variety of diagnoses, including adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
I thrive when working with young women. Whether they’re struggling with school-related stress or struggling to process a breakup, I can quickly build rapport with folks in this demographic. My treatment plans include goals dedicated to helping people identify their triggers for emotional dysregulation. I believe in the importance of somatic and cognitive level wellness strategies and work to have my clients learn and implement both sets of skills. I have enjoyed working with a variety of diagnoses, including adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
(908) 680-0414 View (908) 680-0414
Photo of Karen Altman Steinfield, Psychologist in Westfield, NJ
Karen Altman Steinfield
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
Beginning therapy can be a difficult process, and selecting the “right” therapist is an important and positive first step. In a safe and supportive environment, I bring 30-plus years of experience and ongoing training in cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, parenting and family therapies. I work in a highly effective results-oriented manner with children (4 years and older), adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, developmental disorders, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges and performance-related stress in the workplace, classroom or home.
Beginning therapy can be a difficult process, and selecting the “right” therapist is an important and positive first step. In a safe and supportive environment, I bring 30-plus years of experience and ongoing training in cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, parenting and family therapies. I work in a highly effective results-oriented manner with children (4 years and older), adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, developmental disorders, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges and performance-related stress in the workplace, classroom or home.
(908) 768-3942 View (908) 768-3942
Photo of Caneel Schipper, Counselor in Westfield, NJ
Caneel Schipper
Counselor, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
My ideal client is curious about themselves and the world and actively participates in the therapeutic process. I enjoy working with young adults and older adults, but I'm not limited to these populations. My ideal client is at a place of feeling "stuck" in their life. Whether that be a career transition, deciding on a college major, feeling lost in a relationship, or a new onset of symptoms. I am also comfortable with helping individuals unpack their past to understand their current habits. My ideal client wants to understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to develop self-awareness and self-compassion along the way.
My ideal client is curious about themselves and the world and actively participates in the therapeutic process. I enjoy working with young adults and older adults, but I'm not limited to these populations. My ideal client is at a place of feeling "stuck" in their life. Whether that be a career transition, deciding on a college major, feeling lost in a relationship, or a new onset of symptoms. I am also comfortable with helping individuals unpack their past to understand their current habits. My ideal client wants to understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to develop self-awareness and self-compassion along the way.
(908) 946-2972 View (908) 946-2972
Photo of Lauren Duek in Westfield, NJ
Lauren Duek
BCBA, MS
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I work with children and their families using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). My practice focuses on children with special needs, including autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety and other behavioral challenges. I provide ABA direct services for children, supervision of these direct services, school consultation and parent training. These services are provided using evidence based treatments with the goal of increasing socially significant behaviors and skill acquisitions. I work with families to address struggles at home and to generalize skill building to parents through parent training. ABA Therapy.
I work with children and their families using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). My practice focuses on children with special needs, including autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety and other behavioral challenges. I provide ABA direct services for children, supervision of these direct services, school consultation and parent training. These services are provided using evidence based treatments with the goal of increasing socially significant behaviors and skill acquisitions. I work with families to address struggles at home and to generalize skill building to parents through parent training. ABA Therapy.
(631) 212-0410 View (631) 212-0410
Photo of Diana Cofsky, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westfield, NJ
Diana Cofsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
(908) 498-9794 View (908) 498-9794
Photo of Tara Colandrea, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westfield, NJ
Tara Colandrea
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, SAC, ACS
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
Hi! I am extremely passionate about helping each and every client through caring & empathetic counseling, with a focus on reaching solutions and your highest potential. I strive to create the most comfortable and kindest environment for my clients. I specialize in working with Adolescents who are struggling with fitting in, bullying, self-esteem, body image, behavioral issues, organizational skills, academic issues, eating disorders, family conflict, Obsessive-Compulsive, Peer Relationships, Substance Abuse, Teen Violence, Addiction, Anger Management, Impulsivity, Depression, Grief, Oppositional Defiance, Relationship Issues, Self-Harming, Suicidal Ideation, & Anxiety. I also work with adults in the areas mentioned above as well as Career Counseling.
Hi! I am extremely passionate about helping each and every client through caring & empathetic counseling, with a focus on reaching solutions and your highest potential. I strive to create the most comfortable and kindest environment for my clients. I specialize in working with Adolescents who are struggling with fitting in, bullying, self-esteem, body image, behavioral issues, organizational skills, academic issues, eating disorders, family conflict, Obsessive-Compulsive, Peer Relationships, Substance Abuse, Teen Violence, Addiction, Anger Management, Impulsivity, Depression, Grief, Oppositional Defiance, Relationship Issues, Self-Harming, Suicidal Ideation, & Anxiety. I also work with adults in the areas mentioned above as well as Career Counseling.
(908) 884-1198 View (908) 884-1198
Photo of Lila Redmount, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Lila Redmount
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
Sometimes life throws us challenges that seem insurmountable. A loved child diagnosed with autism, a spouse who seems out of sync with us, problems with school or work, worries about the future... I have more than 20 years' experience working with children, teens and adults, and helping them improve the quality of their lives. My approach is rooted on psychodynamic psychotherapy, and I provide a warm and caring environment that promotes growth and emotional fulfillment. The goal is to help my clients live a more authentic life, improved honesty, empathy, and playfulness.
Sometimes life throws us challenges that seem insurmountable. A loved child diagnosed with autism, a spouse who seems out of sync with us, problems with school or work, worries about the future... I have more than 20 years' experience working with children, teens and adults, and helping them improve the quality of their lives. My approach is rooted on psychodynamic psychotherapy, and I provide a warm and caring environment that promotes growth and emotional fulfillment. The goal is to help my clients live a more authentic life, improved honesty, empathy, and playfulness.
(908) 428-9620 View (908) 428-9620
Photo of Andrea Papa (adolescent/teen specialist) in Westfield, NJ
Andrea Papa (adolescent/teen specialist)
DO
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I am a Psychiatrist with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a Psychiatrist with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. I focus on treating the whole individual with psychotherapy and medication when appropriate, and after careful assessment. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
(908) 774-8978 View (908) 774-8978
Photo of Lisa R Grossi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Lisa R Grossi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I have been in private practice in Westfield since 1995 with an emphasis on adolescents and adults in need of help coping with life's stressors. These stressors include, but are certainly not limited to depression and anxiety, developmental issues,school anxiety and school refusal, women's issues, parenting difficulties and social issues to name a few. Women in particular often cope with a great deal of stress related to work, family,loss and from time to time, serious illness. These strains can become overwhelming and coping may become difficult and sometimes impossible to do alone.
I have been in private practice in Westfield since 1995 with an emphasis on adolescents and adults in need of help coping with life's stressors. These stressors include, but are certainly not limited to depression and anxiety, developmental issues,school anxiety and school refusal, women's issues, parenting difficulties and social issues to name a few. Women in particular often cope with a great deal of stress related to work, family,loss and from time to time, serious illness. These strains can become overwhelming and coping may become difficult and sometimes impossible to do alone.
(908) 349-1047 View (908) 349-1047

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Westfield, NJ

300+

Average cost per session

$180

Therapists in Westfield, NJ who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
91% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
74% Coping Skills
64% Stress
60% Grief

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
71% Cigna and Evernorth
71% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Westfield, NJ see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Westfield?

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.