Therapists in Manasquan, NJ

Photo of Deirdre Herman - Deirdre Herman LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deirdre Herman LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manasquan, NJ 08736
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and other anxiety disorders in adults and children ages thirteen and up. I utilize evidence based therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) including Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and other anxiety disorders in adults and children ages thirteen and up. I utilize evidence based therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) including Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP).
(732) 978-3434 View (732) 978-3434
Photo of Adrienne Serafin - Innovative Psychotherapy Services, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Innovative Psychotherapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manasquan, NJ 08736
Are you disappointed with your adult child's choices in life? Are you feeling a deep sadness that expectations for his/ her future may not come to pass? Do you avoid confiding in family and friends due to embarrassment and fear of being judged as a "bad" parent? Are you an adult who has always felt less favored, less accepted, and unheard by your parents? Do you continue to seek your parents' approval, but fall short? Do you think it's best to cut ties rather than endure the hurt of disapproval? Are you in conflict with your sibling, partner, or boss? Relationships are complicated! Imagine the pain resolved and finding peace....
Are you disappointed with your adult child's choices in life? Are you feeling a deep sadness that expectations for his/ her future may not come to pass? Do you avoid confiding in family and friends due to embarrassment and fear of being judged as a "bad" parent? Are you an adult who has always felt less favored, less accepted, and unheard by your parents? Do you continue to seek your parents' approval, but fall short? Do you think it's best to cut ties rather than endure the hurt of disapproval? Are you in conflict with your sibling, partner, or boss? Relationships are complicated! Imagine the pain resolved and finding peace....
(732) 782-9021 View (732) 782-9021
Photo of Dr. Silvia Stark, PsyD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Silvia Stark
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manasquan, NJ 08736  (Online Only)
Realistically, we all struggle with something at some point in our lives. Anxiety, depression, interpersonal and familial conflict, PTSD, grief, trauma, and substance use/misuse/abuse can intercept and hijack our lives at any given moment. Navigating the path to wellness can be difficult. Adjusting to change in your life can also be challenging and overwhelming. You don't have to navigate it alone. As an educated and experienced mental health professional, I will provide you with creative, caring, and compassionate care to support and guide you through life's adverse events.
Realistically, we all struggle with something at some point in our lives. Anxiety, depression, interpersonal and familial conflict, PTSD, grief, trauma, and substance use/misuse/abuse can intercept and hijack our lives at any given moment. Navigating the path to wellness can be difficult. Adjusting to change in your life can also be challenging and overwhelming. You don't have to navigate it alone. As an educated and experienced mental health professional, I will provide you with creative, caring, and compassionate care to support and guide you through life's adverse events.
(732) 785-4405 View (732) 785-4405
Photo of Jenna Siciliano, MA, LPC, NCC, ASDCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenna Siciliano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Manasquan, NJ 08736
I've worked as a therapist for fifteen years in multiple formats: Intensive In-Home Counseling, Schools for children with academic/behavior/psychiatric issues, group homes, on-site trainer for Rutgers UBHC, and private practice. I’m pleased to now work exclusively in private practice where I offer individual and group therapy; I currently run three social skills groups for people with Autism: 2 for Adults, and 1 for HS teens. I believe in working with the family as well as the child when working with adolescents. I enjoy working with adolescents as well as adults, and appreciate the unique differences of each client.
I've worked as a therapist for fifteen years in multiple formats: Intensive In-Home Counseling, Schools for children with academic/behavior/psychiatric issues, group homes, on-site trainer for Rutgers UBHC, and private practice. I’m pleased to now work exclusively in private practice where I offer individual and group therapy; I currently run three social skills groups for people with Autism: 2 for Adults, and 1 for HS teens. I believe in working with the family as well as the child when working with adolescents. I enjoy working with adolescents as well as adults, and appreciate the unique differences of each client.
(732) 479-7406 View (732) 479-7406
Photo of Seton E. Cuccio, LCSW, LCADC, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seton E. Cuccio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manasquan, NJ 08736
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy helping people learn to express their feelings, process their feelings without judgment, and look for solutions to move forward toward their goals, both in therapy and beyond. I work with adult men and women looking to empower themselves and create positive change in their lives.
I enjoy helping people learn to express their feelings, process their feelings without judgment, and look for solutions to move forward toward their goals, both in therapy and beyond. I work with adult men and women looking to empower themselves and create positive change in their lives.
(732) 517-3841 View (732) 517-3841
Meghan Aldarelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manasquan, NJ 08736
Finding the right therapist can be challenging, but I look forward to helping you, or your teen, navigate many of life’s ups and downs in an empathetic and judgement-free space. With over 10 years of experience in treating adolescents, young adults, and adults, I am both passionate and confident in my work. I will pull from different therapeutic concepts and treatment modalities to tailor to your specific concerns and goals, ensuring you get the most out of your time.
Finding the right therapist can be challenging, but I look forward to helping you, or your teen, navigate many of life’s ups and downs in an empathetic and judgement-free space. With over 10 years of experience in treating adolescents, young adults, and adults, I am both passionate and confident in my work. I will pull from different therapeutic concepts and treatment modalities to tailor to your specific concerns and goals, ensuring you get the most out of your time.
(732) 226-1804 View (732) 226-1804
Photo of Cheryl M. Manfredi Lcsw-R, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheryl M. Manfredi Lcsw-R
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manasquan, NJ 08736
Cheryl Manfredi, LCSW has over 20 years experience working with adults and couples. She is a certified psychotherapist and psychoanalyst with four years post graduate training in Object Relations Therapy. "Therapy frequently promotes a more deeply experienced sense of self and others through gradual awareness and honesty with ourselves. "Through listening, witnessing, recognizing and understanding, therapy becomes a greenhouse for the self to develop more fully."
Cheryl Manfredi, LCSW has over 20 years experience working with adults and couples. She is a certified psychotherapist and psychoanalyst with four years post graduate training in Object Relations Therapy. "Therapy frequently promotes a more deeply experienced sense of self and others through gradual awareness and honesty with ourselves. "Through listening, witnessing, recognizing and understanding, therapy becomes a greenhouse for the self to develop more fully."
(848) 371-0750 View (848) 371-0750
Photo of Rebecca Tefera, MSW, LSW, LCADCI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Tefera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCADCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manasquan, NJ 08736
As a therapist I am committed to helping individuals explore the obstacles that may be holding them back in life. My passion lies in supporting clients through a variety of challenges, including addiction, self-esteem issues, relationship difficulties, codependency, impulse control, anger management, anxiety, depression, trauma, and developing effective coping skills. My approach is centered around creating a warm and collaborative environment where you feel safe to explore your experiences and build on your strengths. Together, we’ll develop strategies that empower you to lead a more fulfilling and balanced life.
As a therapist I am committed to helping individuals explore the obstacles that may be holding them back in life. My passion lies in supporting clients through a variety of challenges, including addiction, self-esteem issues, relationship difficulties, codependency, impulse control, anger management, anxiety, depression, trauma, and developing effective coping skills. My approach is centered around creating a warm and collaborative environment where you feel safe to explore your experiences and build on your strengths. Together, we’ll develop strategies that empower you to lead a more fulfilling and balanced life.
(732) 455-9807 View (732) 455-9807
Photo of Susan Nolan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Nolan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manasquan, NJ 08736
" Happiness is not the absence of conflict, but the ability to cope with it." As women, we tend to think we can handle all difficulties on our own. Sometimes it's important to take a step back and ask for help. My practice focuses on women and the struggles they face in their demanding lives. I strive to support you on your journey to health and renewed happiness. Let me help you work through some of life's difficult challenges, such as depression (both generalized and postpartum), adjustment to change, relationship issues, anxiety, struggles with weight, or life coaching.
" Happiness is not the absence of conflict, but the ability to cope with it." As women, we tend to think we can handle all difficulties on our own. Sometimes it's important to take a step back and ask for help. My practice focuses on women and the struggles they face in their demanding lives. I strive to support you on your journey to health and renewed happiness. Let me help you work through some of life's difficult challenges, such as depression (both generalized and postpartum), adjustment to change, relationship issues, anxiety, struggles with weight, or life coaching.
(732) 709-4609 View (732) 709-4609
Photo of Amy Geyer - Insightful Release Counseling, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Insightful Release Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Manasquan, NJ 08736
Amy is a dedicated therapist specializing in guiding individuals through transformative growth using a holistic wellness approach. With a deep understanding of the complexities of personal and existential challenges, Amy emphasizes the journey of moving through adversity to reach an expansive place. Believing in the power of active participation, Amy encourages clients to take an active role in their self-growth process, integrating therapeutic activities that promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
Amy is a dedicated therapist specializing in guiding individuals through transformative growth using a holistic wellness approach. With a deep understanding of the complexities of personal and existential challenges, Amy emphasizes the journey of moving through adversity to reach an expansive place. Believing in the power of active participation, Amy encourages clients to take an active role in their self-growth process, integrating therapeutic activities that promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
View
Photo of Kathleen Cable - Camp Excel, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Camp Excel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Manasquan, NJ 08736
Building friendships that last! At Camp Excel, we focus on developing social skills and the social awareness necessary for better relationships with other children and adults. Camp Excel offers social skills group programs for children ages 5-17 with mild special needs that have social skill challenges. Many of our children have a diagnosis of ADHD, high functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, Social Communication Disorder, Tourette’s, Auditory Processing Disorder, Learning Disorders, and more. We focus on developing social skills and the social awareness necessary for better relationships.
Building friendships that last! At Camp Excel, we focus on developing social skills and the social awareness necessary for better relationships with other children and adults. Camp Excel offers social skills group programs for children ages 5-17 with mild special needs that have social skill challenges. Many of our children have a diagnosis of ADHD, high functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, Social Communication Disorder, Tourette’s, Auditory Processing Disorder, Learning Disorders, and more. We focus on developing social skills and the social awareness necessary for better relationships.
(732) 392-7629 View (732) 392-7629
Photo of Kristen Henshaw (Formerly Rivera), LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristen Henshaw (Formerly Rivera)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Manasquan, NJ 08736
Sometimes in life, we become so focused on the finish line that we fail to find joy in the journey." - Dieter F. Uchtdorf Do you feel your mind getting in the way of reaching your fullest potential? I work towards creating a warm, positive environment in which clients can embrace the journey to change and healing. I have extensive experience working in Substance Abuse and Eating Disorder programs. I empower my clients to find courage within themselves to make positive changes in their lives.
Sometimes in life, we become so focused on the finish line that we fail to find joy in the journey." - Dieter F. Uchtdorf Do you feel your mind getting in the way of reaching your fullest potential? I work towards creating a warm, positive environment in which clients can embrace the journey to change and healing. I have extensive experience working in Substance Abuse and Eating Disorder programs. I empower my clients to find courage within themselves to make positive changes in their lives.
(908) 356-4374 View (908) 356-4374
Photo of Meaghan Hughes, MA, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Meaghan Hughes
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Manasquan, NJ 08736
Often times, the hardest part of therapy can be making that first appointment and showing up. I commend you for taking the first step and seeking a therapist that feels like a good fit for you. Life can bring so many unexpected and painful challenges that can cause us to feel anxious, stressed, overwhelmed and sometimes even numb. When it feels like it is all too much, therapy can help. Whether it be social stressors, grief and loss, major life transitions, work-life balance, anxiety, relationship issues, or something else, my goal is to provide you with a safe and comfortable space to share and work it through.
Often times, the hardest part of therapy can be making that first appointment and showing up. I commend you for taking the first step and seeking a therapist that feels like a good fit for you. Life can bring so many unexpected and painful challenges that can cause us to feel anxious, stressed, overwhelmed and sometimes even numb. When it feels like it is all too much, therapy can help. Whether it be social stressors, grief and loss, major life transitions, work-life balance, anxiety, relationship issues, or something else, my goal is to provide you with a safe and comfortable space to share and work it through.
(732) 631-8770 View (732) 631-8770
Photo of Amanda L Westrich, EdS, LAC, LCADC, NCC, CCATP, Counselor
Amanda L Westrich
Counselor, EdS, LAC, LCADC, NCC, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manasquan, NJ 08736  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor in NJ, a sober/moderation coach, and a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. I believe in supporting and encouraging clients through difficulties using various evidence-based techniques in order to facilitate a safe space for growth. I am direct, empathetic, and understand how to meet people where they are at to help them find solutions that work with their lives.
I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor in NJ, a sober/moderation coach, and a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. I believe in supporting and encouraging clients through difficulties using various evidence-based techniques in order to facilitate a safe space for growth. I am direct, empathetic, and understand how to meet people where they are at to help them find solutions that work with their lives.
(732) 385-9007 View (732) 385-9007
Photo of Jerusha Hull - Virtue Counseling, LLC, LCSW-C, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Virtue Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manasquan, NJ 08736
I help moms who are struggling with managing it all feel more in control and less reactive by clarifying their values and learning new coping strategies. I help pregnant women with a history of fertility struggles manage their anxiety and fear during pregnancy by building a toolbox together that builds your confidence in your ability to do more than just survive this experience. If you need strategies for adjusting to your new role in parenthood. If you need help processing your experiences while pregnant or postpartum. If you worry about what type of mom you are. I am here to help.
I help moms who are struggling with managing it all feel more in control and less reactive by clarifying their values and learning new coping strategies. I help pregnant women with a history of fertility struggles manage their anxiety and fear during pregnancy by building a toolbox together that builds your confidence in your ability to do more than just survive this experience. If you need strategies for adjusting to your new role in parenthood. If you need help processing your experiences while pregnant or postpartum. If you worry about what type of mom you are. I am here to help.
(571) 635-5855 View (571) 635-5855
Photo of Regina Stanley, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Regina Stanley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Manasquan, NJ 08736
Making the choice to seek support means that you have already considered the ways that you may like to see things change or improve.
Making the choice to seek support means that you have already considered the ways that you may like to see things change or improve.
(856) 474-1189 View (856) 474-1189
Photo of Kristen Accisano, MSW, LCSW, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Accisano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
Manasquan, NJ 08736
We experience life transitions and periods of loss and grief throughout our lives. I am particularly interested helping you with the issues that we experience as we grow older and also in helping families cope with those issues that we face as our loved ones age. Caring for loved ones with aging disorders such as dementia can create chronic stress, anxiety, depression and burnout for even the most capable. You may be feeling unable to care for yourself, your own family and career. If you are feeling depleted and overwhelmed we can work collaboratively to discover a story of change, resilience, and hope.
We experience life transitions and periods of loss and grief throughout our lives. I am particularly interested helping you with the issues that we experience as we grow older and also in helping families cope with those issues that we face as our loved ones age. Caring for loved ones with aging disorders such as dementia can create chronic stress, anxiety, depression and burnout for even the most capable. You may be feeling unable to care for yourself, your own family and career. If you are feeling depleted and overwhelmed we can work collaboratively to discover a story of change, resilience, and hope.
(732) 561-5990 View (732) 561-5990
Photo of Kelli Marchitello, LPC, BCBA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelli Marchitello
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BCBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manasquan, NJ 08736
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or stressed? Are you struggling with crisis within your own family? Have a child or teenager feeling the same? Although it may feel like it, you are not alone! Together, we will develop goals and build upon your strengths. I believe there is not one single approach to help every person since each individual is different and every situation is unique. I will offer you support, help you identify the cause of your struggles, and empower you to be utilize the skills that will allow for positive change in your life.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or stressed? Are you struggling with crisis within your own family? Have a child or teenager feeling the same? Although it may feel like it, you are not alone! Together, we will develop goals and build upon your strengths. I believe there is not one single approach to help every person since each individual is different and every situation is unique. I will offer you support, help you identify the cause of your struggles, and empower you to be utilize the skills that will allow for positive change in your life.
(732) 907-8541 View (732) 907-8541
Photo of Marielle Spero, MS, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Marielle Spero
Counselor, MS, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Manasquan, NJ 08736  (Online Only)
Greetings and welcome! Therapy can be an overwhelming experience, and my goal is to always make you safe and heard. I like to take a holistic approach in working with clients and I view the process of healing from the inside out. I work with a variety of clients and am always open to broadening my experience to better guide those on their journey. I am motivated to help assist individuals in finding a deeper individual and collective consciousness, while having a strong emphasis on community. I like to help clients find inner peace and work toward radical acceptance.
Greetings and welcome! Therapy can be an overwhelming experience, and my goal is to always make you safe and heard. I like to take a holistic approach in working with clients and I view the process of healing from the inside out. I work with a variety of clients and am always open to broadening my experience to better guide those on their journey. I am motivated to help assist individuals in finding a deeper individual and collective consciousness, while having a strong emphasis on community. I like to help clients find inner peace and work toward radical acceptance.
(848) 360-5890 View (848) 360-5890
Photo of Carianne D'Oriano, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carianne D'Oriano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Manasquan, NJ 08736
Are you feeling stressed and overwhelmed with dieting and changing your body size? Are you struggling with your body image and disordered eating/eating disorder? Are you looking for a different approach to handle life stressors? Finding a counselor to fit your needs may seem impossible and overwhelming. My goal is to make sure you feel comfortable and trust your therapist. I specialize in working with teenagers and adults who suffer from eating disorders, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and other life stressors. My goal is to improve my client's overall mood and increase their ability to cope with life stress.
Are you feeling stressed and overwhelmed with dieting and changing your body size? Are you struggling with your body image and disordered eating/eating disorder? Are you looking for a different approach to handle life stressors? Finding a counselor to fit your needs may seem impossible and overwhelming. My goal is to make sure you feel comfortable and trust your therapist. I specialize in working with teenagers and adults who suffer from eating disorders, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and other life stressors. My goal is to improve my client's overall mood and increase their ability to cope with life stress.
(732) 587-7926 View (732) 587-7926
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Manasquan, NJ

100+

Average cost per session

$157

Therapists in Manasquan, NJ who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
92% Depression
86% Relationship Issues
85% Self Esteem
81% Coping Skills
72% Family Conflict
72% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
66% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
65% Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield

How Therapists in Manasquan, NJ see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

90% Female
10% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Manasquan?

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.