Therapists in Honolulu, HI

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Photo of Tricia Burke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Honolulu, HI
Tricia Burke, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96815  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We all yearn for those moments when something suddenly becomes clear: a relationship that you are ready to embrace or one that you are ready to end, a new path you want to pursue or an old pattern you need to let go. I see therapy as a way of guiding you towards those moments of clarity and authenticity while also, just as importantly, providing the groundwork for the ongoing, day-to-day, process of developing personal satisfaction and growth. My role is to help support you in that journey, whether you are facing anxiety, depression, or life changes.
We all yearn for those moments when something suddenly becomes clear: a relationship that you are ready to embrace or one that you are ready to end, a new path you want to pursue or an old pattern you need to let go. I see therapy as a way of guiding you towards those moments of clarity and authenticity while also, just as importantly, providing the groundwork for the ongoing, day-to-day, process of developing personal satisfaction and growth. My role is to help support you in that journey, whether you are facing anxiety, depression, or life changes.
(808) 515-3643 View (808) 515-3643
Photo of Michelle Simpson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Honolulu, HI
Michelle Simpson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96825  (Online Only)
Michelle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nineteen years of experience. She is born and raised on Oahu and earned her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Michelle aims to help individuals work on building confidence and empowering them to make positive changes. Guiding them through hardships so that they can find their way to healthier situations.
Michelle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nineteen years of experience. She is born and raised on Oahu and earned her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Michelle aims to help individuals work on building confidence and empowering them to make positive changes. Guiding them through hardships so that they can find their way to healthier situations.
(808) 278-9803 View (808) 278-9803
Photo of Jessica Wood, Counselor in Honolulu, HI
Jessica Wood
Counselor, LMHC, CST, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96814  (Online Only)
My passion is in treating relationship issues, parenting concerns, life transitions, stress and anger management, sexual health issues, and eating disorders. My focus is specifically in women's sexual health and optimizing relationship intimacy. My book titled "Reversing Your Child's Eating Disorder: Healing a Hijacked Mind to Overcome Anorexia" can be found on Amazon and www.reversingyourchildseatingdisorder.com.
My passion is in treating relationship issues, parenting concerns, life transitions, stress and anger management, sexual health issues, and eating disorders. My focus is specifically in women's sexual health and optimizing relationship intimacy. My book titled "Reversing Your Child's Eating Disorder: Healing a Hijacked Mind to Overcome Anorexia" can be found on Amazon and www.reversingyourchildseatingdisorder.com.
(808) 755-3963 View (808) 755-3963
Photo of Audrey Chiya, Counselor in Honolulu, HI
Audrey Chiya
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96814
Do you feel like you're struggling with daily life and you can't seem enjoy your life? Growing up, living as an adult, and working in various parts of Oahu, I familiar with the diverse array of cultures Hawaii has to offer. I also am aware of the unique challenges that are present on the islands. In the daily hustle, our emotional needs and mental wellbeing are often forgotten. My passion is assisting people recognize the importance of their emotional needs and rediscovering their unique differences and qualities to gain the confidence to be authentically themselves in all realms of life.
Do you feel like you're struggling with daily life and you can't seem enjoy your life? Growing up, living as an adult, and working in various parts of Oahu, I familiar with the diverse array of cultures Hawaii has to offer. I also am aware of the unique challenges that are present on the islands. In the daily hustle, our emotional needs and mental wellbeing are often forgotten. My passion is assisting people recognize the importance of their emotional needs and rediscovering their unique differences and qualities to gain the confidence to be authentically themselves in all realms of life.
(808) 720-2477 View (808) 720-2477
Photo of Keith D Pedro, Psychologist in Honolulu, HI
Keith D Pedro
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813
Waitlist for new clients
Offering integrated psychotherapy that is tailored to each patient's unique needs. Psychotherapy treatment may include behavioral, emotion-oriented, cognitive-oriented, and relaxation techniques that may be used as an adjunct in the treatment with patients that have been diagnosed with tension headaches, depression, life changes and transitions, relationship challenges, and symptom management. Services will be provided individually and can include family psychoeducation, individual and/or couples therapy. Couples counseling will be exposed to Gottman Techniques.
Offering integrated psychotherapy that is tailored to each patient's unique needs. Psychotherapy treatment may include behavioral, emotion-oriented, cognitive-oriented, and relaxation techniques that may be used as an adjunct in the treatment with patients that have been diagnosed with tension headaches, depression, life changes and transitions, relationship challenges, and symptom management. Services will be provided individually and can include family psychoeducation, individual and/or couples therapy. Couples counseling will be exposed to Gottman Techniques.
(808) 670-1864 View (808) 670-1864
Photo of Megan Denes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Honolulu, HI
Megan Denes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96814
I have worked in behavioral and mental health settings for the past seven years and I am licensed in the state of Hawaii and Florida. Much of my experience has been working with children and adolescents, with some additional experience working with adults. During this time, I have helped individuals navigate issues such as anxiety, depression, complex trauma, and self-esteem.
I have worked in behavioral and mental health settings for the past seven years and I am licensed in the state of Hawaii and Florida. Much of my experience has been working with children and adolescents, with some additional experience working with adults. During this time, I have helped individuals navigate issues such as anxiety, depression, complex trauma, and self-esteem.
(808) 736-5981 View (808) 736-5981
Photo of Sharon Adria Rose, Psychologist in Honolulu, HI
Sharon Adria Rose
Psychologist, EdD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96822  (Online Only)
Let's face it. Life is not always a beach. Parenting is the hardest job in the world. Relationships, no matter how good, take lots of work. My practice is designed to help people, whether they be children, adolescents or adults, better address the challenges facing them. Within the context of a therapeutic alliance, the healing takes place. The success of psychotherapy is always related to the match between client and therapist. If that match is a good one, the client will find him or herself in a caring and safe environment and able to explore how to more positively impact their world.
Let's face it. Life is not always a beach. Parenting is the hardest job in the world. Relationships, no matter how good, take lots of work. My practice is designed to help people, whether they be children, adolescents or adults, better address the challenges facing them. Within the context of a therapeutic alliance, the healing takes place. The success of psychotherapy is always related to the match between client and therapist. If that match is a good one, the client will find him or herself in a caring and safe environment and able to explore how to more positively impact their world.
(808) 352-5300 View (808) 352-5300
Photo of Christina Lu, Psychologist in Honolulu, HI
Christina Lu
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96813
"As one of the clinical psychologists at Hawaii Counseling and Wellness Center, Dr. Lu works with clients of all ages, through individual, couples, and family therapy. Depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues are among her clinical specialties. Dr. Lu has training in couples and family as well as emotion focused models. Dr. Lu utilizes an integrative approach to therapy that incorporates relational, cognitive behavioral, and strength based methods actively tailored to the individual, couple, or family."
"As one of the clinical psychologists at Hawaii Counseling and Wellness Center, Dr. Lu works with clients of all ages, through individual, couples, and family therapy. Depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues are among her clinical specialties. Dr. Lu has training in couples and family as well as emotion focused models. Dr. Lu utilizes an integrative approach to therapy that incorporates relational, cognitive behavioral, and strength based methods actively tailored to the individual, couple, or family."
(808) 369-9869 View (808) 369-9869
Photo of Alfred A. Sison, Psychologist in Honolulu, HI
Alfred A. Sison
Psychologist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813  (Online Only)
With over 19+ years of experience in Hawaii Behavioral/Mental Health, I provide psychotherapy and stress mgmt coaching as a Clinical Psychologist with a subspecialty in Marriage and Family Therapy. My professional goals are to help individuals, couples, or a family, find resolve, contentment, and meaningfulness. Through evidenced based practices, I intend to provide a non-judgmental, neutral, and safe, clinical psychotherapy environment/relationship. We may have to develop a new direction and purpose or simply clarify what is. I am a therapist with sensitivity, compassion, and an awareness of cultural diversity issues.
With over 19+ years of experience in Hawaii Behavioral/Mental Health, I provide psychotherapy and stress mgmt coaching as a Clinical Psychologist with a subspecialty in Marriage and Family Therapy. My professional goals are to help individuals, couples, or a family, find resolve, contentment, and meaningfulness. Through evidenced based practices, I intend to provide a non-judgmental, neutral, and safe, clinical psychotherapy environment/relationship. We may have to develop a new direction and purpose or simply clarify what is. I am a therapist with sensitivity, compassion, and an awareness of cultural diversity issues.
(808) 393-0320 View (808) 393-0320
Photo of Mary Hellstrom, Marriage & Family Therapist in Honolulu, HI
Mary Hellstrom
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96814  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Unfortunately, I am not currently accepting new clients. Hello, I'm Mary, a queer-identifying Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with 5 years of experience providing therapy to clients of all ages, from a wide breadth of backgrounds and life experiences. I work intently with my clients to foster a space fueled by warmth, acceptance, compassion, courage, and honesty. I also work to maintain a posture of cultural curiosity, respect with each of my clients, as I remain actively involved in anti-racist advocacy and education in my personal life.
Unfortunately, I am not currently accepting new clients. Hello, I'm Mary, a queer-identifying Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with 5 years of experience providing therapy to clients of all ages, from a wide breadth of backgrounds and life experiences. I work intently with my clients to foster a space fueled by warmth, acceptance, compassion, courage, and honesty. I also work to maintain a posture of cultural curiosity, respect with each of my clients, as I remain actively involved in anti-racist advocacy and education in my personal life.
(808) 204-4469 View (808) 204-4469
Photo of Chonell Candace Woode, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Honolulu, HI
Chonell Candace Woode
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813
Aloha, my name is Chonell Candace Woode and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing across all of Hawaii. I specialize in working with adults and couples in focus areas of anxiety, depression, stress management, relationships, trauma, PTSD, grief and substance abuse. My background also includes an extensive history in working with active-duty service members and their families. My approach to therapy aligns to the unique needs of each client. I most frequently employ modalities of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Activation, Problem Solving Therapy, Mindfulness, Supportive and Strength Based Therapy.
Aloha, my name is Chonell Candace Woode and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing across all of Hawaii. I specialize in working with adults and couples in focus areas of anxiety, depression, stress management, relationships, trauma, PTSD, grief and substance abuse. My background also includes an extensive history in working with active-duty service members and their families. My approach to therapy aligns to the unique needs of each client. I most frequently employ modalities of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Activation, Problem Solving Therapy, Mindfulness, Supportive and Strength Based Therapy.
(808) 755-2894 View (808) 755-2894
Photo of Charles Karsters, Counselor in Honolulu, HI
Charles Karsters
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96822  (Online Only)
Your life may have changed significantly in ways that you did not expect because of the pandemic. You had certain plans, goals, and dreams but now you are facing isolation, depression, and lack of motivation. Or you may be experiencing problems with relationships, finances, or substance abuse. Regardless of the issues you are facing, if you are feeling worried, anxious, guilty, or confused, now is the time for you to regain control of your life.
Your life may have changed significantly in ways that you did not expect because of the pandemic. You had certain plans, goals, and dreams but now you are facing isolation, depression, and lack of motivation. Or you may be experiencing problems with relationships, finances, or substance abuse. Regardless of the issues you are facing, if you are feeling worried, anxious, guilty, or confused, now is the time for you to regain control of your life.
(808) 336-7270 View (808) 336-7270
Photo of Community Empowerment Resources in Honolulu, HI
Community Empowerment Resources
LMHC, MAC, CSAC, QMHP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96826
Our Intensive Outpatient Program offers experienced support for substance use disorders and dual diagnosis. Looking for a supportive environment that builds on communication, socialization, and peer accountability? Our diverse group types cater to an array of client needs including psychoeducation, CBT, recovery skills development, and relapse prevention. Individual counseling addresses immediate issues, supports abstinence goals, and respects cultural differences. We strive to offer a private and holistic path to recovery.
Our Intensive Outpatient Program offers experienced support for substance use disorders and dual diagnosis. Looking for a supportive environment that builds on communication, socialization, and peer accountability? Our diverse group types cater to an array of client needs including psychoeducation, CBT, recovery skills development, and relapse prevention. Individual counseling addresses immediate issues, supports abstinence goals, and respects cultural differences. We strive to offer a private and holistic path to recovery.
(808) 563-4365 View (808) 563-4365
Photo of Brian Kanno, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Honolulu, HI
Brian Kanno, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96814
Life can be challenging. I am here to help you. My commitment is to work with you in addressing and dealing with the problems and issues that you face. My experience is working with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, relationships (including couples counseling), family issues, and grief and loss. I use a collaborative approach that focuses on your needs, utilizing client-centered, solution-focused and cognitive-behavioral approaches.
Life can be challenging. I am here to help you. My commitment is to work with you in addressing and dealing with the problems and issues that you face. My experience is working with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, relationships (including couples counseling), family issues, and grief and loss. I use a collaborative approach that focuses on your needs, utilizing client-centered, solution-focused and cognitive-behavioral approaches.
(808) 219-0829 View (808) 219-0829
Photo of Renewed Peace and Hope, Counselor in Honolulu, HI
Renewed Peace and Hope
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96818  (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Megumi Maruya Makepeace. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and hold a doctorate in Clinical Psychology. I was raised on Oahu in a very traditional Japanese family, spent many years as a military spouse/dependent on the Mainland, which bring these experiences to my multicultural approach to therapy. I am aware of the cultural makeup of Hawai’i, and the unique and diverse cultures of the local population as well as those new to the island. I have a passion to treat culturally diverse and underserved populations.
My name is Dr. Megumi Maruya Makepeace. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and hold a doctorate in Clinical Psychology. I was raised on Oahu in a very traditional Japanese family, spent many years as a military spouse/dependent on the Mainland, which bring these experiences to my multicultural approach to therapy. I am aware of the cultural makeup of Hawai’i, and the unique and diverse cultures of the local population as well as those new to the island. I have a passion to treat culturally diverse and underserved populations.
(808) 348-9898 View (808) 348-9898
Photo of Nicholas Schumann, Psychologist in Honolulu, HI
Nicholas Schumann
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96815  (Online Only)
“I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become.” -Carl Jung- I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in the treatment of common reactions to stressful and otherwise traumatic experiences. More specifically, I use evidence-based psychotherapies to improve outcomes for clients who have experienced a traumatic event(s). For many clients this includes working together to reduce unwanted memories of the trauma, improve sleep, reduce nightmares, and lower depression & anxiety symptoms. Trauma can impact your relationships, ability to work and cause intense suffering.
“I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become.” -Carl Jung- I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in the treatment of common reactions to stressful and otherwise traumatic experiences. More specifically, I use evidence-based psychotherapies to improve outcomes for clients who have experienced a traumatic event(s). For many clients this includes working together to reduce unwanted memories of the trauma, improve sleep, reduce nightmares, and lower depression & anxiety symptoms. Trauma can impact your relationships, ability to work and cause intense suffering.
(808) 207-7157 View (808) 207-7157
Photo of Janice Yw Chang, Psychologist in Honolulu, HI
Janice Yw Chang
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817
Most people come to therapy because they need some kind of support or are looking for change in their life. While this sounds simple, it is not easy to accomplish, since we may be taught not to ask for help or to just accept things the way they are. Someone who may benefit from therapy the most would be someone who can keep an open mind, be motivated to work toward change, and to have patience to allow the process to work.
Most people come to therapy because they need some kind of support or are looking for change in their life. While this sounds simple, it is not easy to accomplish, since we may be taught not to ask for help or to just accept things the way they are. Someone who may benefit from therapy the most would be someone who can keep an open mind, be motivated to work toward change, and to have patience to allow the process to work.
(808) 725-2333 View (808) 725-2333
Photo of Elizabeth Grote, Marriage & Family Therapist in Honolulu, HI
Elizabeth Grote
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96816
Life can be challenging and sometimes we need to seek support and guidance during difficult times. As a therapist, I am here to provide a safe and nurturing space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, gain insight, and work towards creating a positive change in your life. We all have the capacity for growth and healing and sometimes we need a professional perspective to help us get unstuck and moving in the right direction. I help both individuals and couples navigate the complexities of their relationships and find solutions to the challenges they face.
Life can be challenging and sometimes we need to seek support and guidance during difficult times. As a therapist, I am here to provide a safe and nurturing space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, gain insight, and work towards creating a positive change in your life. We all have the capacity for growth and healing and sometimes we need a professional perspective to help us get unstuck and moving in the right direction. I help both individuals and couples navigate the complexities of their relationships and find solutions to the challenges they face.
(808) 582-8349 View (808) 582-8349
Photo of Joy Tanimura Winquist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Honolulu, HI
Joy Tanimura Winquist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96816
Not accepting new clients
One of the most courageous things you can do is to begin to understand your own story. Life is too short to feel disconnected in your relationships. To be disempowered by past trauma, stuck, and questioning yourself. Alone struggling or feeling frustrated parenting your children. We all deserve support and care. To wake up refreshed, whole, knowing our worth, and feeling a deep connection to those we love. You deserve this, and therapy can help.
One of the most courageous things you can do is to begin to understand your own story. Life is too short to feel disconnected in your relationships. To be disempowered by past trauma, stuck, and questioning yourself. Alone struggling or feeling frustrated parenting your children. We all deserve support and care. To wake up refreshed, whole, knowing our worth, and feeling a deep connection to those we love. You deserve this, and therapy can help.
(808) 353-5570 View (808) 353-5570
Photo of Marissa M Katz Bellani in Honolulu, HI
Marissa M Katz Bellani
LMHC, MT
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96814
Aloha! I'm a mental health counselor licensed in Hawaii and Massachusetts. I'm a Music Therapist. I earned a Masters from Lesley University in Expressive Arts Therapies, with nine years of experience working in the mental health field. I help individual adults struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, or general life difficulties that require help to sort through. I support your self expression, tension reduction, and fostering healthier connections with the people in your life. I'm meeting for sessions online and in person.
Aloha! I'm a mental health counselor licensed in Hawaii and Massachusetts. I'm a Music Therapist. I earned a Masters from Lesley University in Expressive Arts Therapies, with nine years of experience working in the mental health field. I help individual adults struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, or general life difficulties that require help to sort through. I support your self expression, tension reduction, and fostering healthier connections with the people in your life. I'm meeting for sessions online and in person.
(808) 755-3337 View (808) 755-3337

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Honolulu, HI

600+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Honolulu, HI who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
86% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
74% Coping Skills
70% Stress
69% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

73% Hawaii Medical Services Association
59% University Health Alliance
56% Hawaii Medical Assurance Association

How Therapists in Honolulu, HI see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
23% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Honolulu?

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.