Therapists in Plymouth, MA

Photo of Eric Michael Cohen - Relationship Repair in Plymouth, MA
Eric Michael Cohen - Relationship Repair
CPC, CRC, CBC, CLC, RLT
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360  (Online Only)
"Here we go again."...having the same fight we've had a hundred times before. The subject may change, but the flavor... the feeling... is always the same. Our downward spiral. Our bad deal. But if we could learn to break the pattern... to interrupt the downward spiral... well that would be something, wouldn't it. So that's where we'll start. This is not a "traditional couples therapy" approach. It's skills-based, educational and results-oriented. When the roof is broken, you find a hammer and nails and you fix it. When your relationship is broken, this is your hammer and nails.
"Here we go again."...having the same fight we've had a hundred times before. The subject may change, but the flavor... the feeling... is always the same. Our downward spiral. Our bad deal. But if we could learn to break the pattern... to interrupt the downward spiral... well that would be something, wouldn't it. So that's where we'll start. This is not a "traditional couples therapy" approach. It's skills-based, educational and results-oriented. When the roof is broken, you find a hammer and nails and you fix it. When your relationship is broken, this is your hammer and nails.
(339) 201-9642 View (339) 201-9642
Photo of Robert Collins, Counselor in Plymouth, MA
Robert Collins
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Not accepting new clients
My ideal client is looking for a partner on their mental health journey. They are someone that is curious how to address behavioral challenges or emotional disorders in a sustainable way. They might be someone with substance use problems, family dynamic issues or simply trying to figure out their career aspirations. My ideal client will likely benefit from confidence enhancements as their goals are attained and coping techniques are gained. Most importantly, my ideal client will be honest with themselves to address the sources for symptoms of their mental health challenges powerfully and directly.
My ideal client is looking for a partner on their mental health journey. They are someone that is curious how to address behavioral challenges or emotional disorders in a sustainable way. They might be someone with substance use problems, family dynamic issues or simply trying to figure out their career aspirations. My ideal client will likely benefit from confidence enhancements as their goals are attained and coping techniques are gained. Most importantly, my ideal client will be honest with themselves to address the sources for symptoms of their mental health challenges powerfully and directly.
(339) 345-2759 View (339) 345-2759
Photo of Betts Counseling Associates , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Betts Counseling Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Work with me if you are an individual, couple or family dealing with a life change, relationship, social or communication issues. Work with me if you are trying to overcome trauma from childhood or adulthood experiences. Work with me if you are a teenager or parents with children in pain or having behavioral problems. Work with me if you are a couple that are new parents, empty nesters or have encountered obstacles in reconnecting. I will provide you with experienced, trained, person-centered therapy. I offer in-person and virtual visits.
Work with me if you are an individual, couple or family dealing with a life change, relationship, social or communication issues. Work with me if you are trying to overcome trauma from childhood or adulthood experiences. Work with me if you are a teenager or parents with children in pain or having behavioral problems. Work with me if you are a couple that are new parents, empty nesters or have encountered obstacles in reconnecting. I will provide you with experienced, trained, person-centered therapy. I offer in-person and virtual visits.
(508) 514-5411 View (508) 514-5411
Photo of Dr. Melissa Samartano, Counselor in Plymouth, MA
Dr. Melissa Samartano
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, RYT
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Dr. Melissa received her Ph.D. in Holistic Counseling from the University of Sedona in 2013. She brings a creative approach to healing the mind, body,and spirit by incorporating different holistic modalities into the therapeutic counseling process. Melissa also received her Master's Degree in Clinical Counseling Psychology in 1997 from Lesley University. She has been practicing as a licensed psychotherapist for over 25 years. Melissa is also a Certified Yoga Teacher and received her RYT from Maha Yoga Center in Bridgewater, MA in 2017.
Dr. Melissa received her Ph.D. in Holistic Counseling from the University of Sedona in 2013. She brings a creative approach to healing the mind, body,and spirit by incorporating different holistic modalities into the therapeutic counseling process. Melissa also received her Master's Degree in Clinical Counseling Psychology in 1997 from Lesley University. She has been practicing as a licensed psychotherapist for over 25 years. Melissa is also a Certified Yoga Teacher and received her RYT from Maha Yoga Center in Bridgewater, MA in 2017.
(508) 372-0956 View (508) 372-0956
Photo of John Calicchia, Psychologist in Plymouth, MA
John Calicchia
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Not accepting new clients
If you're struggling to understand your child's difficulties, I would be happy to perform an evaluation and consult with you. I have extensive experience evaluating children and adolescents. I focus on a holistic assessment that could include psychological, cognitive, neuropsychological, or educational assessment and testing. I provided a developmental-based diagnosis with a set of recommendations to improve your child's function based on the data collected during the evaluation. At this time, I am only available for assessment cases or consultation with parents, I do not have room for individual therapy clients.
If you're struggling to understand your child's difficulties, I would be happy to perform an evaluation and consult with you. I have extensive experience evaluating children and adolescents. I focus on a holistic assessment that could include psychological, cognitive, neuropsychological, or educational assessment and testing. I provided a developmental-based diagnosis with a set of recommendations to improve your child's function based on the data collected during the evaluation. At this time, I am only available for assessment cases or consultation with parents, I do not have room for individual therapy clients.
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Photo of Jennifer Zarou-Abraham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Jennifer Zarou-Abraham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360  (Online Only)
I am a certified licensed social worker specializing in the integrative holistic approach to psychotherapy, counseling and nutritional wellness with twenty-four years in private practice. I utilize my experience and applied knowledge of family systems theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, nutritional wellness, weight loss and holistic healing to help create lasting and meaningful change. Treatment and healing can only be achieved by working on the entire mind body soul connection and my role is a facilitator providing a safe and comfortable space at which the healing can begin.
I am a certified licensed social worker specializing in the integrative holistic approach to psychotherapy, counseling and nutritional wellness with twenty-four years in private practice. I utilize my experience and applied knowledge of family systems theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, nutritional wellness, weight loss and holistic healing to help create lasting and meaningful change. Treatment and healing can only be achieved by working on the entire mind body soul connection and my role is a facilitator providing a safe and comfortable space at which the healing can begin.
(508) 503-6713 View (508) 503-6713
Photo of Kristin Sweeney, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Plymouth, MA
Kristin Sweeney
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MEd, LADC 1
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, MA 02360  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Things can get better. Are you looking for a respectful, compassionate and confidential setting where your voice will be heard? If you or your child have been struggling with issues such as increased sadness, anxiety, or the inability to process emotional events, counseling may help. There are many challenges in life, but getting help and support shouldn't be one of them.
Things can get better. Are you looking for a respectful, compassionate and confidential setting where your voice will be heard? If you or your child have been struggling with issues such as increased sadness, anxiety, or the inability to process emotional events, counseling may help. There are many challenges in life, but getting help and support shouldn't be one of them.
(339) 331-1294 View (339) 331-1294
Photo of LeaAnne Stunkel-Doyle, Counselor in Plymouth, MA
LeaAnne Stunkel-Doyle
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02362  (Online Only)
I have been working as a licensed clinician in a variety of settings for over 25 years. My philosophy is to help individuals to identify their personal strengths, and to use those strengths to address their weaknesses or identified issues. I believe that all people have the right to feel happy and to be successful in this world, and I strive to help them to remove the obstacles that are threatening this goal. I use a variety of techniques to help my patients, including CBT, Mindfulness, Relaxation, Mind/Body Connection and Collaborative Problem Solving to support my patients as individuals.
I have been working as a licensed clinician in a variety of settings for over 25 years. My philosophy is to help individuals to identify their personal strengths, and to use those strengths to address their weaknesses or identified issues. I believe that all people have the right to feel happy and to be successful in this world, and I strive to help them to remove the obstacles that are threatening this goal. I use a variety of techniques to help my patients, including CBT, Mindfulness, Relaxation, Mind/Body Connection and Collaborative Problem Solving to support my patients as individuals.
(339) 201-9504 View (339) 201-9504
Photo of Erica DuFresne, Counselor in Plymouth, MA
Erica DuFresne
Counselor, LMHC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you or your child struggling with anxiety or depression? Have you been searching for a neurodiversity-affirming, strengths-based therapist? Welcome to Moonlight Reflections Therapy LLC, where your therapist, Erica, is a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist and has years of experience working with a range of diagnoses in both a community-based mental health clinic and a residential therapeutic school.
Are you or your child struggling with anxiety or depression? Have you been searching for a neurodiversity-affirming, strengths-based therapist? Welcome to Moonlight Reflections Therapy LLC, where your therapist, Erica, is a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist and has years of experience working with a range of diagnoses in both a community-based mental health clinic and a residential therapeutic school.
(339) 345-2994 View (339) 345-2994
Photo of Jace Langone, Psychologist in Plymouth, MA
Jace Langone
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Not accepting new clients
I practice Spiritually-Integrated Psychotherapy, offering a space to explore how conflicts between one’s core values and lived experience can hinder well-being. I find inspiration in Humanistic and Transpersonal theories, and integrate various evidenced-based modalities, providing an eclectic, individualized treatment. My nearly decade-long practice in pastoral counseling, ongoing apprenticeships in Dreamshadow Transpersonal Breathwork and the Foundation for Shamanic Studies, and training assimilating religiospiritual practices into therapy allows me to offer a therapeutic approach appreciative of wisdom traditions around the world.
I practice Spiritually-Integrated Psychotherapy, offering a space to explore how conflicts between one’s core values and lived experience can hinder well-being. I find inspiration in Humanistic and Transpersonal theories, and integrate various evidenced-based modalities, providing an eclectic, individualized treatment. My nearly decade-long practice in pastoral counseling, ongoing apprenticeships in Dreamshadow Transpersonal Breathwork and the Foundation for Shamanic Studies, and training assimilating religiospiritual practices into therapy allows me to offer a therapeutic approach appreciative of wisdom traditions around the world.
(781) 352-0274 x212 View (781) 352-0274 x212
Photo of Jill O'Brien, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Jill O'Brien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Are you having difficulty coping with life stressors and struggling to adjust to unexpected transitions and/or challenging situations? Are you living with chronic illness, chronic pain, or have/had a cancer diagnosis and are struggling to cope with the impact that your health issues have had on your life and perception of self? Or are you a caregiver to a loved one with health issues trying to adapt to the various changes that you may be experiencing? If so, let’s work together to navigate through these difficult circumstances and find a path forward to improve your emotional health and overall quality of life.
Are you having difficulty coping with life stressors and struggling to adjust to unexpected transitions and/or challenging situations? Are you living with chronic illness, chronic pain, or have/had a cancer diagnosis and are struggling to cope with the impact that your health issues have had on your life and perception of self? Or are you a caregiver to a loved one with health issues trying to adapt to the various changes that you may be experiencing? If so, let’s work together to navigate through these difficult circumstances and find a path forward to improve your emotional health and overall quality of life.
(339) 330-2589 View (339) 330-2589
Photo of Kathleen A Gibbs, Marriage & Family Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Kathleen A Gibbs
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plymouth, MA 02360
I have over 20 years of experience working with women, couples, and families, primarily addressing challenges at different stages of marriage and raising a family. In addition , issues women frequently face, depression, anxiety, work/life balance, and parenting are an area of special interest. My approach is systemic, viewing people in context of their family, communities, educational situations, beliefs and values that shape how their world is viewed. I support individuals and families to advocate for themselves, and, if appropriate, link people with community resources that might be helpful on their journey.
I have over 20 years of experience working with women, couples, and families, primarily addressing challenges at different stages of marriage and raising a family. In addition , issues women frequently face, depression, anxiety, work/life balance, and parenting are an area of special interest. My approach is systemic, viewing people in context of their family, communities, educational situations, beliefs and values that shape how their world is viewed. I support individuals and families to advocate for themselves, and, if appropriate, link people with community resources that might be helpful on their journey.
(781) 745-3830 View (781) 745-3830
Photo of Lisa Massaro, Marriage & Family Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Lisa Massaro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Lisa Massaro, LMFT, is a licensed trauma therapist and a Certified Life Coach, with a practice based in Massachusetts. Lisa has a passion for helping people heal from the trauma as they discover who they are apart from what they've been through. With a kind, compassionate therapeutic approach, and gentle spirit, she helps people find the truest versions of themselves under the pain that they've endured. Lisa has years of experience and a particular interest in working with adult women who have experienced trauma.
Lisa Massaro, LMFT, is a licensed trauma therapist and a Certified Life Coach, with a practice based in Massachusetts. Lisa has a passion for helping people heal from the trauma as they discover who they are apart from what they've been through. With a kind, compassionate therapeutic approach, and gentle spirit, she helps people find the truest versions of themselves under the pain that they've endured. Lisa has years of experience and a particular interest in working with adult women who have experienced trauma.
(339) 330-0751 View (339) 330-0751
Photo of Ashley Stafford, Counselor in Plymouth, MA
Ashley Stafford
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Not accepting new clients
*I am currently not accepting new clients-please check back at a later date.* Life can be challenging at times and it can be overwhelming to deal with alone. As humans we need to communicate, to interact, to be heard, and to feel understood. I believe therapy can be a very productive and cathartic outlet to help sift through everyday difficulties and unexpected or even devastating challenges that occur in our lives. Therapy can help encourage you to gain understanding and build growth leading you to find and accept your best self.
*I am currently not accepting new clients-please check back at a later date.* Life can be challenging at times and it can be overwhelming to deal with alone. As humans we need to communicate, to interact, to be heard, and to feel understood. I believe therapy can be a very productive and cathartic outlet to help sift through everyday difficulties and unexpected or even devastating challenges that occur in our lives. Therapy can help encourage you to gain understanding and build growth leading you to find and accept your best self.
(508) 859-9671 View (508) 859-9671
Photo of Valery Rockwell, Counseling, M.Ed, LMHC, Counselor in Plymouth, MA
Valery Rockwell, Counseling, M.Ed, LMHC
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
During this challenging and difficult time for all of us, simply talking to a therapist can help alleviate stress. Feeling fearful, anxious, depressed, lonely, scatter-brained, unfocused, angry, fatigued, numb are all possible reactions to the state of our current world. You may feel none of these and want to explore something completely unrelated. Our first conversation will give you a sense of whether it's a good fit. Trust your instinct. If it doesn't feel right for any reason, I encourage you to keep searching!
During this challenging and difficult time for all of us, simply talking to a therapist can help alleviate stress. Feeling fearful, anxious, depressed, lonely, scatter-brained, unfocused, angry, fatigued, numb are all possible reactions to the state of our current world. You may feel none of these and want to explore something completely unrelated. Our first conversation will give you a sense of whether it's a good fit. Trust your instinct. If it doesn't feel right for any reason, I encourage you to keep searching!
(781) 218-2493 View (781) 218-2493
Photo of Kara D Chasse, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Kara D Chasse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LADC1
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Is there a diagnosis for Life? Life can feel very overwhelming for a variety of reasons. Have you found yourself thinking "it would be nice to talk to someone", but have reservations? I have lots of experience working with people who have a variety of stressors and concerns; anxiety, past issues or trauma, grief and loss, first responders, relationship struggles, peer or family conflict, parenting struggles substance use and it's negative effects, I have expertise in that as well. Come chat with me and lets help you find your happy.
Is there a diagnosis for Life? Life can feel very overwhelming for a variety of reasons. Have you found yourself thinking "it would be nice to talk to someone", but have reservations? I have lots of experience working with people who have a variety of stressors and concerns; anxiety, past issues or trauma, grief and loss, first responders, relationship struggles, peer or family conflict, parenting struggles substance use and it's negative effects, I have expertise in that as well. Come chat with me and lets help you find your happy.
(508) 503-6277 View (508) 503-6277
Photo of Erica St Germain, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Erica St Germain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Plymouth, MA 02360
Not accepting new clients
I am not accepting new clients at this time. Deciding to seek therapy can be scary and overwhelming! But in therapy, we can together transform those worries and challenges into insights and growth. My style is collaborative, strengths-based, and supportive while being direct and challenging when needed. Techniques I will use in my work with you include mindfulness-based practices, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy. I will teach you better ways toward healthy boundaries and positive communication in your relationships which will lead to more positive feelings about yourself.
I am not accepting new clients at this time. Deciding to seek therapy can be scary and overwhelming! But in therapy, we can together transform those worries and challenges into insights and growth. My style is collaborative, strengths-based, and supportive while being direct and challenging when needed. Techniques I will use in my work with you include mindfulness-based practices, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy. I will teach you better ways toward healthy boundaries and positive communication in your relationships which will lead to more positive feelings about yourself.
(508) 570-4157 View (508) 570-4157
Photo of Colleen Slowey-Morelli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Colleen Slowey-Morelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plymouth, MA 02360
Offering in person and telehealth in MA. Telehealth in FL. Private pay, providing Out of Network superbills. At the core of most behavioral, emotional, and spiritual discomfort is pain associated with earlier trauma, loss or the anticipation of loss. Trauma and unresolved loss take many forms: loss of a loved one; loss of a relationship; loss of identity; loss of sense of safety; ultimately, the perception of loss of ability to be happy.
Offering in person and telehealth in MA. Telehealth in FL. Private pay, providing Out of Network superbills. At the core of most behavioral, emotional, and spiritual discomfort is pain associated with earlier trauma, loss or the anticipation of loss. Trauma and unresolved loss take many forms: loss of a loved one; loss of a relationship; loss of identity; loss of sense of safety; ultimately, the perception of loss of ability to be happy.
(508) 915-4928 View (508) 915-4928
Jennifer Shields
Counselor, MEd
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360  (Online Only)
I have thirty years of experience working in private practice, helping individuals and families recover from grief and loss, depression, and anxiety.
I have thirty years of experience working in private practice, helping individuals and families recover from grief and loss, depression, and anxiety.
(508) 978-2076 View (508) 978-2076
Photo of Josclyn Masterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plymouth, MA
Josclyn Masterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MA 02360
Not accepting new clients
Navigating the ups and downs of life can make you feel like you are out to sea all alone. Life can be intense, and the waves of emotions can feel overwhelming. I am here to tell you that you are not alone on this crazy trip called LIFE. My approach to therapy is to be a guide to help you navigate life's challenges. We will look holistically at anything that might be contributing to your emotional state and work together to develop practical solutions. Current openings for appointments between 10 am -3 pm at this time.
Navigating the ups and downs of life can make you feel like you are out to sea all alone. Life can be intense, and the waves of emotions can feel overwhelming. I am here to tell you that you are not alone on this crazy trip called LIFE. My approach to therapy is to be a guide to help you navigate life's challenges. We will look holistically at anything that might be contributing to your emotional state and work together to develop practical solutions. Current openings for appointments between 10 am -3 pm at this time.
(339) 329-7772 View (339) 329-7772

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Plymouth, MA

200+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Plymouth, MA who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
86% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
74% Self Esteem
73% Coping Skills
68% Stress
65% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% BlueCross and BlueShield
74% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
71% Optum

How Therapists in Plymouth, MA see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Plymouth?

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

Learn more about how to find a therapist

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

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

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

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

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

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

What type of therapy is right for me?

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

How much does therapy cost?

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

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

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

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

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

Is online therapy a good option?

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

Are therapy sessions confidential?

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