Therapists in Gorham, ME

Photo of Jamie Racine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gorham, ME
Jamie Racine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gorham, ME 04038
I see you scrolling, checking out all these profiles. Bit overwhelming huh? How do you choose? Who is right? Will they judge you? The cool thing is that it's so trendy to have a therapist; weren't you aware? That's why it's so hard to find one these days! But, it is still kind of scary to take the plunge. That's not how it's supposed to be you know; when you enter my office, my one and only goal is to help you feel accepted just how you are, no matter what you're bringing through the door. Kids making you crazy? Partner on your last nerve? Memories or old trauma preventing your from feeling like you can move forward? I can help.
I see you scrolling, checking out all these profiles. Bit overwhelming huh? How do you choose? Who is right? Will they judge you? The cool thing is that it's so trendy to have a therapist; weren't you aware? That's why it's so hard to find one these days! But, it is still kind of scary to take the plunge. That's not how it's supposed to be you know; when you enter my office, my one and only goal is to help you feel accepted just how you are, no matter what you're bringing through the door. Kids making you crazy? Partner on your last nerve? Memories or old trauma preventing your from feeling like you can move forward? I can help.
(207) 864-1568 View (207) 864-1568
Photo of Sophia Richards, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gorham, ME
Sophia Richards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-CC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gorham, ME 04038
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I am glad you are here.  I acknowledge the courage it takes to be open to the therapeutic process. I believe self-compassion is at the heart of our work together and is a powerful step in the healing journey. My goal is to support you in greeting pain in order to make greater space for the life you desire. I strive to tailor our sessions to meet your needs, honor your strengths, and welcome you wherever you are.
Welcome! I am glad you are here.  I acknowledge the courage it takes to be open to the therapeutic process. I believe self-compassion is at the heart of our work together and is a powerful step in the healing journey. My goal is to support you in greeting pain in order to make greater space for the life you desire. I strive to tailor our sessions to meet your needs, honor your strengths, and welcome you wherever you are.
(207) 690-5666 View (207) 690-5666
Photo of Jessica Welch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gorham, ME
Jessica Welch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gorham, ME 04038
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with people who find themselves at a fork in the road; at that place in life where they are ready to act or think differently or find themselves struggling to function when life becomes different. I have a passion for supporting cancer survivors and their families throughout the many stages of treatment including diagnosis, treatment, recovery, survivorship and grief. I also have spent a great deal of my career working with neurodivergent folks navigating the unique challenges of functioning in a neurotypical world. If any of this resonates with you, we may be a good fit.
I enjoy working with people who find themselves at a fork in the road; at that place in life where they are ready to act or think differently or find themselves struggling to function when life becomes different. I have a passion for supporting cancer survivors and their families throughout the many stages of treatment including diagnosis, treatment, recovery, survivorship and grief. I also have spent a great deal of my career working with neurodivergent folks navigating the unique challenges of functioning in a neurotypical world. If any of this resonates with you, we may be a good fit.
(207) 386-4597 View (207) 386-4597
Photo of Brittany L Locke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gorham, ME
Brittany L Locke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gorham, ME 04038
Not accepting new clients
***PLEASE NOTE: I am unable to accept new clients at this time***It's such a blessing for me as a clinician to spend each day living out my passion of helping others through my work and witnessing the journey to emotional growth and wellness. I provide a safe, supportive, judgement-free environment, allowing you space to express your wants and needs freely. Life presents us with many challenges which can create barriers to health, happiness and satisfaction. Together we can work to break down these barriers to assist you in achieving the life you want, but more importantly, deserve.
***PLEASE NOTE: I am unable to accept new clients at this time***It's such a blessing for me as a clinician to spend each day living out my passion of helping others through my work and witnessing the journey to emotional growth and wellness. I provide a safe, supportive, judgement-free environment, allowing you space to express your wants and needs freely. Life presents us with many challenges which can create barriers to health, happiness and satisfaction. Together we can work to break down these barriers to assist you in achieving the life you want, but more importantly, deserve.
(207) 200-1373 View (207) 200-1373
Photo of Heather Pollard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gorham, ME
Heather Pollard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Gorham, ME 04038
Waitlist for new clients
New Client availability is mostly online. Limited in person. Welcome. I am happy that you are considering yourself and thinking about your needs. Despite challenges, I do believe that the first goal has already been met in that you are seeking support. This, I realize, is not always easy. I assure you progress starts here, in this step, and in your consideration to yourself. It would be my pleasure and privilege to support you.
New Client availability is mostly online. Limited in person. Welcome. I am happy that you are considering yourself and thinking about your needs. Despite challenges, I do believe that the first goal has already been met in that you are seeking support. This, I realize, is not always easy. I assure you progress starts here, in this step, and in your consideration to yourself. It would be my pleasure and privilege to support you.
(207) 910-7433 View (207) 910-7433
Photo of Nathan Hollen, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Gorham, ME
Nathan Hollen
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gorham, ME 04038
I have been working with individuals with substance use disorders for over 10 years. I can help and support you on your road of recovery. If you are sober, and want continued support, I can offer you that as well. I have worked with individuals in active addiction making their first steps towards sobriety as well as others in long term sobriety. I hope to offer a listening ear, help and support on your life's journey. I am offering DEEP Evals, and DEEP Counseling. Also offering Substance use Evaluations.
I have been working with individuals with substance use disorders for over 10 years. I can help and support you on your road of recovery. If you are sober, and want continued support, I can offer you that as well. I have worked with individuals in active addiction making their first steps towards sobriety as well as others in long term sobriety. I hope to offer a listening ear, help and support on your life's journey. I am offering DEEP Evals, and DEEP Counseling. Also offering Substance use Evaluations.
(207) 900-2825 View (207) 900-2825
Photo of Susan Gaudet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gorham, ME
Susan Gaudet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT, R-HYI
Verified Verified
Gorham, ME 04038  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If I were looking for a therapist; I'd be hunting for the person that would listen & reflect on what they heard; offer advice that aligned with the problems presented, and challenge me to expand my perspective. I would want them to respect my beliefs and values; and provide authentic, life-giving examples to apply to my situation - using layman's terms and not their medical terminology vocabulary; but through their heart. Lastly, they would have to be funny and make me laugh through my pain. If that's you, reach out to me and we'll chat to determine if we align and could work well together!
If I were looking for a therapist; I'd be hunting for the person that would listen & reflect on what they heard; offer advice that aligned with the problems presented, and challenge me to expand my perspective. I would want them to respect my beliefs and values; and provide authentic, life-giving examples to apply to my situation - using layman's terms and not their medical terminology vocabulary; but through their heart. Lastly, they would have to be funny and make me laugh through my pain. If that's you, reach out to me and we'll chat to determine if we align and could work well together!
(207) 305-3991 View (207) 305-3991
Photo of Erin Schlicher, Counselor in Gorham, ME
Erin Schlicher
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gorham, ME 04038
Please note- current openings are morning or midday times only. Offering counseling support for tweens, teens, adults and elders utilizing modalities tailored for each client. I work in a nurturing and collaborative style and find space for humor amidst the heavy stuff. Offering in-person animal-assisted therapy (partnering with the horses and other animals), office-based talk therapy and EMDR to address trauma, depression, anxiety and other difficulties. In addition to my private practice, I also work as a veterinary social worker providing support to pet parents and staff.
Please note- current openings are morning or midday times only. Offering counseling support for tweens, teens, adults and elders utilizing modalities tailored for each client. I work in a nurturing and collaborative style and find space for humor amidst the heavy stuff. Offering in-person animal-assisted therapy (partnering with the horses and other animals), office-based talk therapy and EMDR to address trauma, depression, anxiety and other difficulties. In addition to my private practice, I also work as a veterinary social worker providing support to pet parents and staff.
(207) 739-4230 View (207) 739-4230
Photo of Karen R MacDonald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gorham, ME
Karen R MacDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gorham, ME 04038
I am passionate about providing a safe space for those seeking a non judgmental environment to heal and grow. My practice is strengths based and I use a variety of evidence based modalities to help people help themselves. What’s most important in therapy in my opinion, is that the client is the expert of themselves.
I am passionate about providing a safe space for those seeking a non judgmental environment to heal and grow. My practice is strengths based and I use a variety of evidence based modalities to help people help themselves. What’s most important in therapy in my opinion, is that the client is the expert of themselves.
(207) 656-1311 View (207) 656-1311
Photo of Penny Glover, Counselor in Gorham, ME
Penny Glover
Counselor, MS, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gorham, ME 04038  (Online Only)
The very act of considering counseling is taking a courageous step toward change. At one time or another, most of us have faced life events that can throw us off and where we end up feeling stuck. Does this sound familiar? This is where therapy can assist. Talking with a professional counselor can bring clarity, perspective, and hope. The counseling process represents a collaboration between client and therapist. We will formulate and implement action plans, set goals, and assess progress throughout the process.
The very act of considering counseling is taking a courageous step toward change. At one time or another, most of us have faced life events that can throw us off and where we end up feeling stuck. Does this sound familiar? This is where therapy can assist. Talking with a professional counselor can bring clarity, perspective, and hope. The counseling process represents a collaboration between client and therapist. We will formulate and implement action plans, set goals, and assess progress throughout the process.
(207) 401-7416 View (207) 401-7416
Photo of Paul W Milller, Counselor in Gorham, ME
Paul W Milller
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Gorham, ME 04038
Couseling is a journey that starts with accepting where you are and finding a way to the other side of the challenge. Using a strength based approach we start with the resources you do have on board. Then through a variety of tools we discover what is geeting in the way of finding the peace and hope you are looking for. As a therapist I am aware that we are complex people that often need a safe place to sort things out and make meaning of life. . I am able to accept most forms of insurance including Mainecare.
Couseling is a journey that starts with accepting where you are and finding a way to the other side of the challenge. Using a strength based approach we start with the resources you do have on board. Then through a variety of tools we discover what is geeting in the way of finding the peace and hope you are looking for. As a therapist I am aware that we are complex people that often need a safe place to sort things out and make meaning of life. . I am able to accept most forms of insurance including Mainecare.
(207) 358-6248 View (207) 358-6248
Photo of Katelyn Baxter-Musser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gorham, ME
Katelyn Baxter-Musser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gorham, ME 04038
Not accepting new clients
Please note: I am currently at capacity and will not be accepting new clients at this time. As a trained CBT, Certified DBT and Certified EMDR therapist, my goal is to provide you with a safe and nonjudgmental environment where you can gain awareness into your past and present struggles. I specialize in helping clients process a variety of traumatic and difficult experiences that cause people to feel stuck in their daily life. Together we can work on developing your inner strengths, resolving current conflicts and help you reach new insights about your life.
Please note: I am currently at capacity and will not be accepting new clients at this time. As a trained CBT, Certified DBT and Certified EMDR therapist, my goal is to provide you with a safe and nonjudgmental environment where you can gain awareness into your past and present struggles. I specialize in helping clients process a variety of traumatic and difficult experiences that cause people to feel stuck in their daily life. Together we can work on developing your inner strengths, resolving current conflicts and help you reach new insights about your life.
(207) 241-4053 View (207) 241-4053
Photo of Molly Murphy, LPC Intern in Gorham, ME
Molly Murphy
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gorham, ME 04038  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
“NOTE: I’m not currently accepting new clients as I am transitioning from being an intern into being an LCPC-C.” Life is full of transitions and awakenings to deeper levels of who you are, but sometimes these transitions are bumpy and we can get stuck in sensations, emotions, stories, or reliving past trauma. I have navigated several life-altering transitions and have, over time, discovered ways to move through these changes using techniques grounded in mindfulness and the body. Discovering oneself is an ongoing process, one that I am engaged in, and I'm ready to share with you techniques and strategies to support your journey.
“NOTE: I’m not currently accepting new clients as I am transitioning from being an intern into being an LCPC-C.” Life is full of transitions and awakenings to deeper levels of who you are, but sometimes these transitions are bumpy and we can get stuck in sensations, emotions, stories, or reliving past trauma. I have navigated several life-altering transitions and have, over time, discovered ways to move through these changes using techniques grounded in mindfulness and the body. Discovering oneself is an ongoing process, one that I am engaged in, and I'm ready to share with you techniques and strategies to support your journey.
(207) 820-8101 View (207) 820-8101
Photo of Justin Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gorham, ME
Justin Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gorham, ME 04038
Please note that I am currently at capacity and unable to accept new patients at this time. There is wisdom in the ways we adapt to our environments, but they do not always serve us in the present moment. My aim is to help people identify their adaptive patterns and view them with compassion, while also learning what to hold and what to let go. As a neurobiological informed therapist, I aim to help people move from judgement, shame and isolation to curiosity, acceptance and connection.
Please note that I am currently at capacity and unable to accept new patients at this time. There is wisdom in the ways we adapt to our environments, but they do not always serve us in the present moment. My aim is to help people identify their adaptive patterns and view them with compassion, while also learning what to hold and what to let go. As a neurobiological informed therapist, I aim to help people move from judgement, shame and isolation to curiosity, acceptance and connection.
(207) 218-0296 View (207) 218-0296
Photo of Kirk Little, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gorham, ME
Kirk Little
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gorham, ME 04038  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Kirk and I know you’re here because you are invested in your own change. You may be facing a transition or change in circumstances which asks you to think differently about yourself and others. Personal transitions often bring about uncertainty or confusion about how to proceed, and may occur at any point in the life cycle: leaving home for the first time, addressing your identity, changing careers, relationship conflicts, navigating the shoals of mid-life, or entering retirement. Your unique situation will direct your needs and goals, and I can provide deep listening, thoughtful questioning, empathy, and humor to our work.
Hi, I’m Kirk and I know you’re here because you are invested in your own change. You may be facing a transition or change in circumstances which asks you to think differently about yourself and others. Personal transitions often bring about uncertainty or confusion about how to proceed, and may occur at any point in the life cycle: leaving home for the first time, addressing your identity, changing careers, relationship conflicts, navigating the shoals of mid-life, or entering retirement. Your unique situation will direct your needs and goals, and I can provide deep listening, thoughtful questioning, empathy, and humor to our work.
(207) 501-3311 View (207) 501-3311
Photo of Willow Tree Counseling Rebecca Paschal in Gorham, ME
Willow Tree Counseling Rebecca Paschal
LMFT
Verified Verified
Gorham, ME 04038
Not accepting new clients
I am NOT currently accepting new clients, but please check back, as things can change quickly! Unfortunately, I do not accept Mainecare, Medicaid or Cigna at this time. Please note that my office has moved to GORHAM, though this may not be undated on insurance or other websites. I currently work with individuals (16 and over), and couples and have extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, and Narrative Therapy, as well as extended training in grief work and relationship issues.
I am NOT currently accepting new clients, but please check back, as things can change quickly! Unfortunately, I do not accept Mainecare, Medicaid or Cigna at this time. Please note that my office has moved to GORHAM, though this may not be undated on insurance or other websites. I currently work with individuals (16 and over), and couples and have extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, and Narrative Therapy, as well as extended training in grief work and relationship issues.
View
Photo of Melanie Sosinski Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gorham, ME
Melanie Sosinski Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gorham, ME 04038
Not accepting new clients
I am not accepting new clients at this time, I am supervising a clinical intern with openings. There is a way through. You don’t have to keep running from the present, sitting in the past or fixating on the future. You can be here now. Our work together can help orient the change process so that it is aligned with your values. I have been working with women, couples and families for the past decade. I bring authenticity, integrity and passion to the therapeutic relationship. It is possible to move from trauma, attachment wounds, addiction, disordered eating and anxiety towards resiliency, compassion, connection, hope and healing.
I am not accepting new clients at this time, I am supervising a clinical intern with openings. There is a way through. You don’t have to keep running from the present, sitting in the past or fixating on the future. You can be here now. Our work together can help orient the change process so that it is aligned with your values. I have been working with women, couples and families for the past decade. I bring authenticity, integrity and passion to the therapeutic relationship. It is possible to move from trauma, attachment wounds, addiction, disordered eating and anxiety towards resiliency, compassion, connection, hope and healing.
(207) 825-7557 View (207) 825-7557
Photo of JALU Creative Healing LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gorham, ME
JALU Creative Healing LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gorham, ME 04038  (Online Only)
Connecting with your individual therapist can mean everything when trying to work through feelings of depression, anxiety, and past traumas. I’ve developed a creative treatment ideology that targets negative thought patterns through a unique treatment plan, accustomed to each and every client I meet. If you’re struggling to find meaning, move forward, or enjoy life, JALU creative healing can help you find your hope again. Through action oriented modalities, I want to help you get your life back and see everything you’re truly capable of.
Connecting with your individual therapist can mean everything when trying to work through feelings of depression, anxiety, and past traumas. I’ve developed a creative treatment ideology that targets negative thought patterns through a unique treatment plan, accustomed to each and every client I meet. If you’re struggling to find meaning, move forward, or enjoy life, JALU creative healing can help you find your hope again. Through action oriented modalities, I want to help you get your life back and see everything you’re truly capable of.
(720) 699-8495 View (720) 699-8495
Photo of Cindy Rounds, Counselor in Gorham, ME
Cindy Rounds
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gorham, ME 04038
Waitlist for new clients
As an intensively trained DBT, CBT, and TF-CBT clinician I offer a mindful, balanced perspective while supporting the skill building process. My specialty is supporting people who have experienced trauma (in whatever form that has taken for you) to balance their lives. For 20 years I've been working with children, adolescents, adults, elders, first responders, and helping professionals through individual and family counseling formats.
As an intensively trained DBT, CBT, and TF-CBT clinician I offer a mindful, balanced perspective while supporting the skill building process. My specialty is supporting people who have experienced trauma (in whatever form that has taken for you) to balance their lives. For 20 years I've been working with children, adolescents, adults, elders, first responders, and helping professionals through individual and family counseling formats.
(207) 747-3310 View (207) 747-3310
Photo of Rachael O'donnell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gorham, ME
Rachael O'donnell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, PAT
Verified Verified
Gorham, ME 04038
I’ve spent 20 years helping other humans transform fear, self doubt, and shame into courage, the ability to take risks, and freedom from the vices that keep us stuck. Learning to have a growth mindset is our most powerful tool for mental & emotional wellness. Fully developing our ability to recognize, deal with, and move through uncomfortable feelings is a game changer in life. That work, along with changes to our lifestyle habits and the health of our relationships can help us become our best selves. Therapy can help you develop these skills and improve the quality of your life!
I’ve spent 20 years helping other humans transform fear, self doubt, and shame into courage, the ability to take risks, and freedom from the vices that keep us stuck. Learning to have a growth mindset is our most powerful tool for mental & emotional wellness. Fully developing our ability to recognize, deal with, and move through uncomfortable feelings is a game changer in life. That work, along with changes to our lifestyle habits and the health of our relationships can help us become our best selves. Therapy can help you develop these skills and improve the quality of your life!
(207) 857-7296 View (207) 857-7296

See more therapy options for Gorham

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Gorham, ME

30+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Gorham, ME who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
90% Depression
87% Self Esteem
79% Relationship Issues
74% Coping Skills
69% Grief
69% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Anthem | Elevance
73% Harvard Pilgrim
63% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Gorham, ME see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Gorham?

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.