Therapists in Plymouth, MA

Photo of Erica St Germain, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Erica St Germain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Plymouth, MA 02360
Not accepting new clients
I am not accepting new clients at this time. Deciding to seek therapy can be scary and overwhelming! But in therapy, we can together transform those worries and challenges into insights and growth. My style is collaborative, strengths-based, and supportive while being direct and challenging when needed. Techniques I will use in my work with you include mindfulness-based practices, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy. I will teach you better ways toward healthy boundaries and positive communication in your relationships which will lead to more positive feelings about yourself.
I am not accepting new clients at this time. Deciding to seek therapy can be scary and overwhelming! But in therapy, we can together transform those worries and challenges into insights and growth. My style is collaborative, strengths-based, and supportive while being direct and challenging when needed. Techniques I will use in my work with you include mindfulness-based practices, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy. I will teach you better ways toward healthy boundaries and positive communication in your relationships which will lead to more positive feelings about yourself.
(508) 570-4157 View (508) 570-4157
Photo of Melissa Goldbach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Melissa Goldbach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking help in the form of therapy takes courage. I view my role in therapy as embarking on a journey with my client towards greater life fulfillment, improved quality in their relationships and in their overall quality of life. I work with adults struggling with mood and anxiety issues, grief and loss, codependency, marital issues, trauma and life cycle/life adjustment issues, inner child work and family of origin issues. I work with preteens and adolescents and include parenting and family therapy in that work when needed. I enjoy working with couples and have been trained in The Developmental Model of Couples Therapy.
Seeking help in the form of therapy takes courage. I view my role in therapy as embarking on a journey with my client towards greater life fulfillment, improved quality in their relationships and in their overall quality of life. I work with adults struggling with mood and anxiety issues, grief and loss, codependency, marital issues, trauma and life cycle/life adjustment issues, inner child work and family of origin issues. I work with preteens and adolescents and include parenting and family therapy in that work when needed. I enjoy working with couples and have been trained in The Developmental Model of Couples Therapy.
(508) 717-3588 View (508) 717-3588
Photo of Samantha Lawson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Samantha Lawson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Not accepting new clients
Whether you struggle with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or just experience stress that sometimes feels too much to handle, speaking to a therapist can help. Sometimes life is hard, sometimes our words don't always come out right, sometimes we feel we cant communicate well with the ones we love, sometimes we feel overwhelmed and misunderstood, and sometimes we just don't feel happy. Having a safe, non-judgmental space, to discuss your life stressors, and be provided with support and tools to utilize in your own life, and to find your balance, is vital to a happy, healthy life.
Whether you struggle with symptoms of depression, anxiety, or just experience stress that sometimes feels too much to handle, speaking to a therapist can help. Sometimes life is hard, sometimes our words don't always come out right, sometimes we feel we cant communicate well with the ones we love, sometimes we feel overwhelmed and misunderstood, and sometimes we just don't feel happy. Having a safe, non-judgmental space, to discuss your life stressors, and be provided with support and tools to utilize in your own life, and to find your balance, is vital to a happy, healthy life.
(508) 503-6930 View (508) 503-6930
Photo of Angela Wilbur, Psychologist in Plymouth, MA
Angela Wilbur
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience providing individual & couples therapy. I am passionate about my work and respect each of the paths my clients bring to therapy. My clinical interests include trauma & PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief & loss, relationship struggles, self-esteem/body image, stress and anger management. I utilize techniques and theories from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Relational Therapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI), Attachment-based and trauma-informed treatment modalities.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience providing individual & couples therapy. I am passionate about my work and respect each of the paths my clients bring to therapy. My clinical interests include trauma & PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief & loss, relationship struggles, self-esteem/body image, stress and anger management. I utilize techniques and theories from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Relational Therapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI), Attachment-based and trauma-informed treatment modalities.
(508) 719-7764 View (508) 719-7764
Photo of EMDR Therapy Solutions and Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
EMDR Therapy Solutions and Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Hey there! I'm Natasha Bourgoin, and I'm thrilled to be able to help you out. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with years of experience in community health, I specialize in supporting individuals dealing with trauma as my number one focus. But that's not all - I'm also here to help you tackle depression, anxiety, substance use, and couple conflict. I've opened my private practice because I want to be able to give you the personalized care and attention that you deserve. So whether you're looking for in-person or virtual sessions, I'm here to help you achieve your goals with compassion and support.
Hey there! I'm Natasha Bourgoin, and I'm thrilled to be able to help you out. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with years of experience in community health, I specialize in supporting individuals dealing with trauma as my number one focus. But that's not all - I'm also here to help you tackle depression, anxiety, substance use, and couple conflict. I've opened my private practice because I want to be able to give you the personalized care and attention that you deserve. So whether you're looking for in-person or virtual sessions, I'm here to help you achieve your goals with compassion and support.
(508) 290-5615 View (508) 290-5615
Photo of Michelle Goodwin, Counselor in Plymouth, MA
Michelle Goodwin
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Life can be hard, and we all need help sometimes. Have you been feeling a general lack of enjoyment in your life? Are you worrying more and feeling helpless? Have you felt less motivated as well as sad or hopeless? My intent is to offer and provide a caring, supportive, and non judgmental space. We can work together to address any issues and goals you may have. If you think that I might be a good fit, please reach out and we can talk further. I would love to connect and help. -Currently I only have morning and early afternoon appointments available.
Life can be hard, and we all need help sometimes. Have you been feeling a general lack of enjoyment in your life? Are you worrying more and feeling helpless? Have you felt less motivated as well as sad or hopeless? My intent is to offer and provide a caring, supportive, and non judgmental space. We can work together to address any issues and goals you may have. If you think that I might be a good fit, please reach out and we can talk further. I would love to connect and help. -Currently I only have morning and early afternoon appointments available.
(508) 466-7966 View (508) 466-7966
Photo of Anna Kulmatiski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Anna Kulmatiski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, MA 02360  (Online Only)
Accepting Aetna and Cigna Insurance (I will soon be accepting BCBS, Oscar Health, Point32 Healthcare, United and Oxford). Life can be stressful and painful at times. I provide a caring and non-judgmental place to explore why you are currently suffering. Together we will find ways to help you feel better quickly. I can help you see your situation from a new perspective, learn new healthy coping skills and create stronger relationships. There is a future where you wake up energized, joyful and excited for the day ahead.
Accepting Aetna and Cigna Insurance (I will soon be accepting BCBS, Oscar Health, Point32 Healthcare, United and Oxford). Life can be stressful and painful at times. I provide a caring and non-judgmental place to explore why you are currently suffering. Together we will find ways to help you feel better quickly. I can help you see your situation from a new perspective, learn new healthy coping skills and create stronger relationships. There is a future where you wake up energized, joyful and excited for the day ahead.
(508) 474-7861 View (508) 474-7861
Photo of Ronald Dranetz, Counselor in Plymouth, MA
Ronald Dranetz
Counselor, LMHC, MaMHC
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Southeastern Massachusetts, including Cape Cod. I see patients in person and via telehealth for a range of concerns. I hold a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and have experience working with adults of all ages and stages of life. I provide a safe and confidential space and an empathic listening environment in which the you can feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and feelings. Psychotherapy is transformative. Our work together will support your awareness, increase your choices, improve your enjoyment of life and find meaning and value for all of your feelings.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Southeastern Massachusetts, including Cape Cod. I see patients in person and via telehealth for a range of concerns. I hold a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and have experience working with adults of all ages and stages of life. I provide a safe and confidential space and an empathic listening environment in which the you can feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and feelings. Psychotherapy is transformative. Our work together will support your awareness, increase your choices, improve your enjoyment of life and find meaning and value for all of your feelings.
(508) 684-2468 View (508) 684-2468
Photo of Sarah Howroyd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Sarah Howroyd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
I AM accepting new clients in person and via telehealth, email is best for initial correspondence with me. I am incredibly proud of you for taking steps to find a therapist. Finding the “right fit,” is imperative. I view therapy as a collaborative process between two humans. I always offer ample respect, dignity and compassion to everyone I encounter. I am a strengths based clinician, which means I will focus on positives when helping you identify and overcome difficulties in your life. Life happens in ways we often cannot control, but I believe it’s how we respond that counts most.
I AM accepting new clients in person and via telehealth, email is best for initial correspondence with me. I am incredibly proud of you for taking steps to find a therapist. Finding the “right fit,” is imperative. I view therapy as a collaborative process between two humans. I always offer ample respect, dignity and compassion to everyone I encounter. I am a strengths based clinician, which means I will focus on positives when helping you identify and overcome difficulties in your life. Life happens in ways we often cannot control, but I believe it’s how we respond that counts most.
(508) 978-3290 View (508) 978-3290
Photo of Jennifer Zarou-Abraham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Jennifer Zarou-Abraham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360  (Online Only)
I am a certified licensed social worker specializing in the integrative holistic approach to psychotherapy, counseling and nutritional wellness with twenty-four years in private practice. I utilize my experience and applied knowledge of family systems theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, nutritional wellness, weight loss and holistic healing to help create lasting and meaningful change. Treatment and healing can only be achieved by working on the entire mind body soul connection and my role is a facilitator providing a safe and comfortable space at which the healing can begin.
I am a certified licensed social worker specializing in the integrative holistic approach to psychotherapy, counseling and nutritional wellness with twenty-four years in private practice. I utilize my experience and applied knowledge of family systems theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, nutritional wellness, weight loss and holistic healing to help create lasting and meaningful change. Treatment and healing can only be achieved by working on the entire mind body soul connection and my role is a facilitator providing a safe and comfortable space at which the healing can begin.
(508) 503-6713 View (508) 503-6713
Photo of Dr. Beth A. Walters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Dr. Beth A. Walters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Thank you for visiting my profile. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief from loss, a recent life transition, relationship issues, family issues, or trauma from a catastrophic event, I can help you. My approach with individuals centers around helping you to review emotions, thoughts, life experiences and beliefs to gain insight into your present-day challenges. We can begin to evaluate the problematic patterns you may have developed over time and work together on ways to change those patterns. I do not use a one-size-fits-all approach and will often integrate different treatment methods into our work.
Thank you for visiting my profile. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief from loss, a recent life transition, relationship issues, family issues, or trauma from a catastrophic event, I can help you. My approach with individuals centers around helping you to review emotions, thoughts, life experiences and beliefs to gain insight into your present-day challenges. We can begin to evaluate the problematic patterns you may have developed over time and work together on ways to change those patterns. I do not use a one-size-fits-all approach and will often integrate different treatment methods into our work.
View
Photo of Gwen Watchorn, Counselor in Plymouth, MA
Gwen Watchorn
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Transitioning into adulthood can be a stressful time, I am here to help. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe and welcoming environment filled with mutual trust and respect. I designs therapeutic treatment based on the individual persons needs, some modalities include CBT, DBT, Person Centered, Solution Focused, EMDR, Play Therapy, and more.
Transitioning into adulthood can be a stressful time, I am here to help. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe and welcoming environment filled with mutual trust and respect. I designs therapeutic treatment based on the individual persons needs, some modalities include CBT, DBT, Person Centered, Solution Focused, EMDR, Play Therapy, and more.
(339) 333-7999 View (339) 333-7999
Photo of Kelly Pearson, Counselor in Plymouth, MA
Kelly Pearson
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
My ideal client is someone who is motivated to live their best life; they may come to me feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, confused or simply aware that they want and/or need to make a change. Together, we will sort through what change needs to be made, what's getting in the way, what supports and resources are available, and we'll formulate goals to help track progress. In the process, we'll work to develop coping skills and strategies to support the process of change, while also identifying the old patterns that are no longer productive.
My ideal client is someone who is motivated to live their best life; they may come to me feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, confused or simply aware that they want and/or need to make a change. Together, we will sort through what change needs to be made, what's getting in the way, what supports and resources are available, and we'll formulate goals to help track progress. In the process, we'll work to develop coping skills and strategies to support the process of change, while also identifying the old patterns that are no longer productive.
(508) 422-5533 View (508) 422-5533
Photo of Elizabeth Pothier, Counselor in Plymouth, MA
Elizabeth Pothier
Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
As a licensed mental health counselor and registered art therapist, my work involves the interplay of talk therapy and the use of visual art for expression and reflection. I am dedicated to using creative expression to promote mental health and personal growth. I adapt a person-centered approach, focusing on the unique needs, strengths and potentials of clients to support them in exploring their inner selves and developing healthy strategies to achieve therapeutic goals within the areas of mental health, social-emotional skills and overall well being.
As a licensed mental health counselor and registered art therapist, my work involves the interplay of talk therapy and the use of visual art for expression and reflection. I am dedicated to using creative expression to promote mental health and personal growth. I adapt a person-centered approach, focusing on the unique needs, strengths and potentials of clients to support them in exploring their inner selves and developing healthy strategies to achieve therapeutic goals within the areas of mental health, social-emotional skills and overall well being.
(508) 717-3116 View (508) 717-3116
Photo of Josclyn Masterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Josclyn Masterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Navigating the ups and downs of life can make you feel like you are out to sea all alone. Life can be intense, and the waves of emotions can feel overwhelming. I am here to tell you that you are not alone on this crazy trip called LIFE. My approach to therapy is to be a guide to help you navigate life's challenges. We will look holistically at anything that might be contributing to your emotional state and work together to develop practical solutions.
Navigating the ups and downs of life can make you feel like you are out to sea all alone. Life can be intense, and the waves of emotions can feel overwhelming. I am here to tell you that you are not alone on this crazy trip called LIFE. My approach to therapy is to be a guide to help you navigate life's challenges. We will look holistically at anything that might be contributing to your emotional state and work together to develop practical solutions.
(339) 329-7772 View (339) 329-7772
Photo of Kristen Crociati in Plymouth, MA
Kristen Crociati
MA, CAGS, MHCA
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
I am not currently accepting new clients at this time. I have gone through multiple experiences in my life and know what it's like to need a little help along the way. I can give you my ear and help give you some coping skills for your toolbox of life. I typically work with individuals, couples, and families. I enjoy assisting my clients in reaching their life goals using various methods, coping skills, and therapeutic approaches. I am person-centered and desire to alleviate distress and optimize wellness. My goal is to help clients feel empowered to make positive changes in their lives.
I am not currently accepting new clients at this time. I have gone through multiple experiences in my life and know what it's like to need a little help along the way. I can give you my ear and help give you some coping skills for your toolbox of life. I typically work with individuals, couples, and families. I enjoy assisting my clients in reaching their life goals using various methods, coping skills, and therapeutic approaches. I am person-centered and desire to alleviate distress and optimize wellness. My goal is to help clients feel empowered to make positive changes in their lives.
(401) 246-7967 View (401) 246-7967
Photo of Elizabeth R Whittaker, Counselor in Plymouth, MA
Elizabeth R Whittaker
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, MA 02360
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes life throws us into a place that we can't seem to navigate. Perhaps you are feeling lonely, afraid, sad or confused and need a counselor to talk to in a private, compassionate and understanding setting.
Sometimes life throws us into a place that we can't seem to navigate. Perhaps you are feeling lonely, afraid, sad or confused and need a counselor to talk to in a private, compassionate and understanding setting.
(508) 503-6651 View (508) 503-6651
Photo of Mona Hartley, LMHC. Open your heart counseling, Counselor in Plymouth, MA
Mona Hartley, LMHC. Open your heart counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, MA 02360
I have been in practice for over 30 years helping many people feel better through using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other coping skills. At this difficult time in our world I want you to know that I am here to help in any way I can. Telehealth or in person is available. I specialize in many areas. Trauma, Learning Disabilities, Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, and interpersonal relationship issues.
I have been in practice for over 30 years helping many people feel better through using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other coping skills. At this difficult time in our world I want you to know that I am here to help in any way I can. Telehealth or in person is available. I specialize in many areas. Trauma, Learning Disabilities, Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, and interpersonal relationship issues.
(774) 241-9603 View (774) 241-9603
Photo of George Svajian, Psychologist in Plymouth, MA
George Svajian
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360  (Online Only)
NOW ACCPTING TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS. I have been a Clinical Psychologist for over thirty years. Living a professional life in service to others is something I value and enjoy. I work with older adolescents,couples, and families. I received an award from Harvard Pilgrim Health Care for Outstanding Service. I feel my greatest assets are my ability to focus on my patient's needs and my ability to be empathic.
NOW ACCPTING TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS. I have been a Clinical Psychologist for over thirty years. Living a professional life in service to others is something I value and enjoy. I work with older adolescents,couples, and families. I received an award from Harvard Pilgrim Health Care for Outstanding Service. I feel my greatest assets are my ability to focus on my patient's needs and my ability to be empathic.
(508) 951-2070 View (508) 951-2070
Photo of Debbie Grace, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Debbie Grace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Not accepting new clients
I am not accepting new clients at this time. Deciding to enter therapy is not always an easy one. My goal is to assist you in understanding what made you make the call as well as help you to gain hope that it can get better. I enjoy working with FEMALES ages 17 to 99. Creating a warm and nurturing office environment is one of my strengths. I take great pride in developing a supportive therapeutic relationship with each of my clients.
I am not accepting new clients at this time. Deciding to enter therapy is not always an easy one. My goal is to assist you in understanding what made you make the call as well as help you to gain hope that it can get better. I enjoy working with FEMALES ages 17 to 99. Creating a warm and nurturing office environment is one of my strengths. I take great pride in developing a supportive therapeutic relationship with each of my clients.
(339) 201-2154 View (339) 201-2154

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Plymouth, MA

200+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Plymouth, MA who prioritize treating:

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

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

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

How Therapists in Plymouth, MA see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Plymouth?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.

Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.