Therapists in Newton, MA

Photo of Linda Marks in Newton, MA
Linda Marks
MSM
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02460  (Online Only)
Embrace the power of your heart: the heart's electical field is 60 times/magnetic field is 5000 times more powerful than the brain's. When our hearts are wounded through trauma, neglect or deprivation, we lose touch with the heart's power. Depression, anxiety, fear of intimacy, addiction, stuckness may follow. Building on a foundation of emotional safety, my work incorporates meditation, attending to emotional currents/body sensations and touch with permission to facilitate emotional work. Results include greater self-esteem, self-care, reduced stress/anxiety, authentic communication, healthier relationships, empowerment, healing. Intimacy/sexuality, money issues, parenting, GLBTP. Life coaching. Emotional for creative artists.
Embrace the power of your heart: the heart's electical field is 60 times/magnetic field is 5000 times more powerful than the brain's. When our hearts are wounded through trauma, neglect or deprivation, we lose touch with the heart's power. Depression, anxiety, fear of intimacy, addiction, stuckness may follow. Building on a foundation of emotional safety, my work incorporates meditation, attending to emotional currents/body sensations and touch with permission to facilitate emotional work. Results include greater self-esteem, self-care, reduced stress/anxiety, authentic communication, healthier relationships, empowerment, healing. Intimacy/sexuality, money issues, parenting, GLBTP. Life coaching. Emotional for creative artists.
(857) 239-0063 View (857) 239-0063
Photo of Paul Sawyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, MA
Paul Sawyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02461
I am a licensed therapist who works with individuals and couples of all ages and various presenting concerns. I work with individuals with mental health challenges, addictive behavior, or life-transitional issues (e.g. beginning high school/college, launching into adulthood, managing relationships, grief/loss, etc.). I help couples get to a place of connection where each partner feels heard, understood, and loved by the other. No matter what circumstances led us to where we are today, I believe that we all have the potential to be happy and content.
I am a licensed therapist who works with individuals and couples of all ages and various presenting concerns. I work with individuals with mental health challenges, addictive behavior, or life-transitional issues (e.g. beginning high school/college, launching into adulthood, managing relationships, grief/loss, etc.). I help couples get to a place of connection where each partner feels heard, understood, and loved by the other. No matter what circumstances led us to where we are today, I believe that we all have the potential to be happy and content.
(774) 425-7652 View (774) 425-7652
Photo of Cathryn M Freid, Psychologist in Newton, MA
Cathryn M Freid
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02461
Welcome! I am a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Newton, MA. My practice draws from evidence-based treatments (primarily CBT) for eating disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, and depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a collaborative approach that involves working toward specific treatment goals and developing skills to improve current symptoms as well as to address longer-term goals. I also provide Family-Based Treatment (FBT) for adolescents and young adults with eating disorders.
Welcome! I am a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Newton, MA. My practice draws from evidence-based treatments (primarily CBT) for eating disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, and depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a collaborative approach that involves working toward specific treatment goals and developing skills to improve current symptoms as well as to address longer-term goals. I also provide Family-Based Treatment (FBT) for adolescents and young adults with eating disorders.
(617) 553-9222 View (617) 553-9222
Photo of Rebecca Sweder Platt, Psychologist in Newton, MA
Rebecca Sweder Platt
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
Most people experience challenging times in life, during which they need both empathy and expertise to develop the skills to cope with difficult emotions. My role, as a licensed clinical psychologist, is to provide understanding and support, to be an emotional resource, and to create a space to problem solve. If you or your child is feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or in need of self-focus, seeking support is a proactive and positive step.
Most people experience challenging times in life, during which they need both empathy and expertise to develop the skills to cope with difficult emotions. My role, as a licensed clinical psychologist, is to provide understanding and support, to be an emotional resource, and to create a space to problem solve. If you or your child is feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or in need of self-focus, seeking support is a proactive and positive step.
(617) 209-2409 View (617) 209-2409
Photo of Jesse D Kosiba, Psychologist in Newton, MA
Jesse D Kosiba
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the assessment and treatment of addictions, substance use problems, anxiety and mood disorders, and persistent pain conditions. My therapeutic approach is built on thoughtful collaboration as a foundation for meaningful and lasting change. I believe that therapy is most effective when approached in a supportive and flexible manner and grounded in the most up-to-date evidence-based treatments. In terms of substance use/addictions, I work with clients to carefully identify and work toward their goals regardless of moderation or abstinence.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the assessment and treatment of addictions, substance use problems, anxiety and mood disorders, and persistent pain conditions. My therapeutic approach is built on thoughtful collaboration as a foundation for meaningful and lasting change. I believe that therapy is most effective when approached in a supportive and flexible manner and grounded in the most up-to-date evidence-based treatments. In terms of substance use/addictions, I work with clients to carefully identify and work toward their goals regardless of moderation or abstinence.
(857) 340-5579 View (857) 340-5579
Photo of Joanne Virginio, Counselor in Newton, MA
Joanne Virginio
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02465
I am glad to support those struggling in today's strange climate, or those looking to explore themselves and increase health and wellness while quarantined. My approach to treatment is strength based and multimodal. I use a holistic approach that can incorporate discussion, art, movement and humor to explore issues. I work well with those who have had trouble connecting with therapists in the past and those who may be resistant to entering treatment.
I am glad to support those struggling in today's strange climate, or those looking to explore themselves and increase health and wellness while quarantined. My approach to treatment is strength based and multimodal. I use a holistic approach that can incorporate discussion, art, movement and humor to explore issues. I work well with those who have had trouble connecting with therapists in the past and those who may be resistant to entering treatment.
(617) 906-6862 View (617) 906-6862
Photo of Sarai Logue, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, MA
Sarai Logue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02464  (Online Only)
Seeking out therapy is a courageous and hopeful act, and I commend you for taking the first steps. I welcome you into a warm and collaborative therapeutic relationship where we can non-judgmentally examine barriers to creating the life you want to live. Building the awareness of what's holding you back unlocks the potential to move forward. I utilize an eclectic approach to guide, support, coach and encourage you along the way, assuring that you are not alone in the process. I specialize in treatment of eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and other emotional issues that interfere with self-acceptance.
Seeking out therapy is a courageous and hopeful act, and I commend you for taking the first steps. I welcome you into a warm and collaborative therapeutic relationship where we can non-judgmentally examine barriers to creating the life you want to live. Building the awareness of what's holding you back unlocks the potential to move forward. I utilize an eclectic approach to guide, support, coach and encourage you along the way, assuring that you are not alone in the process. I specialize in treatment of eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and other emotional issues that interfere with self-acceptance.
(857) 598-5399 View (857) 598-5399
Photo of Sam Langstein - BaMidbar Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, MA
Sam Langstein - BaMidbar Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
I believe that we are all in a constant process of transformation and change. Sometimes, this process feels slow and almost unnoticeable. But sometimes this process of change can feel sudden, intense, or overwhelming. Wherever my clients are in their process of transformation, my goal is to steward them safely towards the changes they most want to have in their lives. These might be changes in thought patterns and deeply-held beliefs, or changes to the tangible routine of their daily life, or changes in the direction of their life's path.
I believe that we are all in a constant process of transformation and change. Sometimes, this process feels slow and almost unnoticeable. But sometimes this process of change can feel sudden, intense, or overwhelming. Wherever my clients are in their process of transformation, my goal is to steward them safely towards the changes they most want to have in their lives. These might be changes in thought patterns and deeply-held beliefs, or changes to the tangible routine of their daily life, or changes in the direction of their life's path.
(781) 556-6718 View (781) 556-6718
Photo of Brent Levinson, Psychologist in Newton, MA
Brent Levinson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459  (Online Only)
I've been doing therapy over 30 years.I listen empathically to your feeling experience and help to put your understanding in perspective. I am an eclectic therapist, integrating some of the most powerful features of insight-oriented approaches, sometimes also using cognitive-behavioral strategies and methods from Gestalt work and psychodrama. I am an active therapist. I try to help the client who is anxious or depressed, or dealing with the effects of isolation in the COVID era, addiction, or with racism, sexism, or gender identification issues. It is a privilege to help clients in the collaborative healing process. Give me a call.
I've been doing therapy over 30 years.I listen empathically to your feeling experience and help to put your understanding in perspective. I am an eclectic therapist, integrating some of the most powerful features of insight-oriented approaches, sometimes also using cognitive-behavioral strategies and methods from Gestalt work and psychodrama. I am an active therapist. I try to help the client who is anxious or depressed, or dealing with the effects of isolation in the COVID era, addiction, or with racism, sexism, or gender identification issues. It is a privilege to help clients in the collaborative healing process. Give me a call.
(617) 964-7654 View (617) 964-7654
Photo of Sharona Halpern, Counselor in Newton, MA
Sharona Halpern
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ACC
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02458
Unfortunately, I am not accepting new clients at this time. (updated 03/19/24) For over twenty five years, I have been practicing psychotherapy with couples, families and individuals, addressing a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, life transitions, sexuality, trauma, loss and grief. My style is interactive, supportive and collaborative. My role is to help you discover your strengths and learn to build on them, leading to personal growth and change. Additionally, therapy is a place to explore what is preventing you from reaching your goals and living a better quality life.
Unfortunately, I am not accepting new clients at this time. (updated 03/19/24) For over twenty five years, I have been practicing psychotherapy with couples, families and individuals, addressing a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, life transitions, sexuality, trauma, loss and grief. My style is interactive, supportive and collaborative. My role is to help you discover your strengths and learn to build on them, leading to personal growth and change. Additionally, therapy is a place to explore what is preventing you from reaching your goals and living a better quality life.
(857) 919-1811 View (857) 919-1811
Photo of Dr. Ian Ljutich, Pre-Licensed Professional in Newton, MA
Dr. Ian Ljutich
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02458
I am a pre-licensure post-doctoral fellow in clinical psychology with Copernican Clinical Services. I have worked in numerous settings across schools, community health centers, and college counseling environments. I work with clients to create a highly specialized and relational therapy experience that best suits their needs and facilitates personal and emotional growth. I often work with clients to build relationships, manage and extinguish anxiety symptoms, and live a fuller, more meaningful life.
I am a pre-licensure post-doctoral fellow in clinical psychology with Copernican Clinical Services. I have worked in numerous settings across schools, community health centers, and college counseling environments. I work with clients to create a highly specialized and relational therapy experience that best suits their needs and facilitates personal and emotional growth. I often work with clients to build relationships, manage and extinguish anxiety symptoms, and live a fuller, more meaningful life.
(617) 749-2540 View (617) 749-2540
Photo of Komal Gupta, Psychologist in Newton, MA
Komal Gupta
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02464
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice in Newton Upper Falls, Massachusetts. I specialize in helping adults navigate challenges with their family, relationships, parenthood, and culture(s) that impact their well-being. Life is often complicated, painful and messy. We all have experiences that can be difficult to navigate alone and times when we would benefit from extra support. We might know the changes we want to make but may not completely understand what is getting in the way of making those changes. We will work together to create a space in which you can speak honestly about what you are thinking and feeling.
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice in Newton Upper Falls, Massachusetts. I specialize in helping adults navigate challenges with their family, relationships, parenthood, and culture(s) that impact their well-being. Life is often complicated, painful and messy. We all have experiences that can be difficult to navigate alone and times when we would benefit from extra support. We might know the changes we want to make but may not completely understand what is getting in the way of making those changes. We will work together to create a space in which you can speak honestly about what you are thinking and feeling.
View
Photo of Alan Webber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, MA
Alan Webber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02460  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Alan Webber, MSW, LICSW is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, Addiction Specialist, Couples' Therapist, and Expert at Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), and Specialist in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). He has 29 years of experience treating adults and couples seeking help with addiction, depression, anxiety, life transitions, marital and relationship issues.
Alan Webber, MSW, LICSW is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, Addiction Specialist, Couples' Therapist, and Expert at Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), and Specialist in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). He has 29 years of experience treating adults and couples seeking help with addiction, depression, anxiety, life transitions, marital and relationship issues.
(781) 509-1621 View (781) 509-1621
Photo of Marwan El Khoury, Pre-Licensed Professional in Newton, MA
Marwan El Khoury
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MDiv, EMDR, KAP, HYPNO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02464
Have you been struggling with uncontrollable negative thoughts, panic attacks, and anxiety? Do you have low self-esteem, low-confidence and low-body image? Did you lose meaning of life or even do not know why you exist? I know your goal! You want to be the most powerful and successful person in the world! Well, I can help you with that. My therapeutic philosophy focuses on Your freedom, power, strength, and responsibility to overcome Your distress through a positive goal-oriented approach and extreme empathy. We will both utilize integrative treatment uniquely designed for You to achieve personal growth and healing.
Have you been struggling with uncontrollable negative thoughts, panic attacks, and anxiety? Do you have low self-esteem, low-confidence and low-body image? Did you lose meaning of life or even do not know why you exist? I know your goal! You want to be the most powerful and successful person in the world! Well, I can help you with that. My therapeutic philosophy focuses on Your freedom, power, strength, and responsibility to overcome Your distress through a positive goal-oriented approach and extreme empathy. We will both utilize integrative treatment uniquely designed for You to achieve personal growth and healing.
(617) 420-6307 View (617) 420-6307
Photo of Lindsay Veillette, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newton, MA
Lindsay Veillette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
Lindsay Veillette is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) who has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings with a variety of populations including adults and adolescents with serious mental illness, mood disorders, substance use disorders, family and relationship issues, trauma backgrounds, individuals in crisis, and those navigating general life changes and stressors. Lindsay completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Fordham University. Lindsay's approach to therapy is holistic, collaborative, and client-centered with a strong focus on strengths.
Lindsay Veillette is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) who has experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings with a variety of populations including adults and adolescents with serious mental illness, mood disorders, substance use disorders, family and relationship issues, trauma backgrounds, individuals in crisis, and those navigating general life changes and stressors. Lindsay completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Fordham University. Lindsay's approach to therapy is holistic, collaborative, and client-centered with a strong focus on strengths.
(617) 404-9612 View (617) 404-9612
Photo of Megan McElroy, Pre-Licensed Professional in Newton, MA
Megan McElroy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02464
Not accepting new clients
Hello! I am a therapist with a graduate degree in clinical mental health counseling and expressive arts therapy from Lesley University. My approach to therapy is trauma-informed and LGBTQ+ affirming, with the purpose of creating a supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. I Integrate the elements of dialectical behavior therapy, narrative therapy, feminist theory, strength-based therapy, and expressive arts therapy. I am passionate about providing competent and compassionate care and working to fill in the gaps where people fall through the system.
Hello! I am a therapist with a graduate degree in clinical mental health counseling and expressive arts therapy from Lesley University. My approach to therapy is trauma-informed and LGBTQ+ affirming, with the purpose of creating a supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. I Integrate the elements of dialectical behavior therapy, narrative therapy, feminist theory, strength-based therapy, and expressive arts therapy. I am passionate about providing competent and compassionate care and working to fill in the gaps where people fall through the system.
(617) 993-0481 View (617) 993-0481
Photo of Susan L Shoobe, Psychologist in Newton, MA
Susan L Shoobe
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
Welcome to my practice! As a licensed psychologist with over 15 years of experience, I assist individuals and couples dealing with difficulties with mood, stress related to life transitions, interpersonal issues, vocational challenges, parenting, and fertility. I particularly enjoy supporting young adults as they develop their independent and professional identities.
Welcome to my practice! As a licensed psychologist with over 15 years of experience, I assist individuals and couples dealing with difficulties with mood, stress related to life transitions, interpersonal issues, vocational challenges, parenting, and fertility. I particularly enjoy supporting young adults as they develop their independent and professional identities.
(617) 675-5287 View (617) 675-5287
Photo of Pamela Wineman, Psychologist in Newton, MA
Pamela Wineman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02464
Wineman Associates, LLC offers both neuropsychological assessment (Pamela Wineman, Ph.D.) and therapeutic services (Andrew Wineman, Psy.D.) for our clients. Whether pursuing testing to learn more about yourself or your child, or engaging in treatment to better understand and manage thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, our holistic and comprehensive approach will serve to support you on this journey. For neuropsychological assessments, the testing batteries are custom built and may include cognitive, academic, executive function, language, and social-emotional measures.
Wineman Associates, LLC offers both neuropsychological assessment (Pamela Wineman, Ph.D.) and therapeutic services (Andrew Wineman, Psy.D.) for our clients. Whether pursuing testing to learn more about yourself or your child, or engaging in treatment to better understand and manage thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, our holistic and comprehensive approach will serve to support you on this journey. For neuropsychological assessments, the testing batteries are custom built and may include cognitive, academic, executive function, language, and social-emotional measures.
(857) 663-7892 View (857) 663-7892
Photo of Sarah A Feigon, Psychologist in Newton, MA
Sarah A Feigon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459  (Online Only)
I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist with over fifteen years of experience treating anxiety disorders, including social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. I am also experienced in treating depression. As a staff psychologist at UMass Memorial Medical Center, I developed group programs for social anxiety disorder, other anxiety disorders, and depression.
I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist with over fifteen years of experience treating anxiety disorders, including social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. I am also experienced in treating depression. As a staff psychologist at UMass Memorial Medical Center, I developed group programs for social anxiety disorder, other anxiety disorders, and depression.
(617) 762-5283 View (617) 762-5283
Photo of Julie Leavitt, Counselor in Newton, MA
Julie Leavitt
Counselor, DMin, LMCH, BC-DMT, MA
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02464
Not accepting new clients
We begin from where you are, knowing that healing happens from the inside out. It helps to have help with this! It takes guts to trust a new person with intimate issues. Comfort with your therapist is necessary. Thank you for considering me as that ally. I create a safe environment to explore important and often uncomfortable life issues. This can help unburden you to move forward into a more satisfying, fulfilling, and happy life.
We begin from where you are, knowing that healing happens from the inside out. It helps to have help with this! It takes guts to trust a new person with intimate issues. Comfort with your therapist is necessary. Thank you for considering me as that ally. I create a safe environment to explore important and often uncomfortable life issues. This can help unburden you to move forward into a more satisfying, fulfilling, and happy life.
(617) 500-2587 View (617) 500-2587

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Newton, MA

700+

Average cost per session

$185

Therapists in Newton, MA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
86% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
72% Self Esteem
65% Coping Skills
62% Stress
59% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% BlueCross and BlueShield
42% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
42% Optum

How Therapists in Newton, MA see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Newton?

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.