Therapists in Naples, FL

View neighborhoods in Naples
Photo of Patricia Williams-Thompson, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Naples, FL
Patricia Williams-Thompson
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34104
I possess a wealth of life experience and academic qualifications in the field of Psychology, having completed both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree. My therapeutic approach is rooted in creating a safe and nurturing environment for my clients, where they can freely express their thoughts and emotions. I understand that every individual is unique, and as such, I tailor my approach to meet their individual needs. During our sessions, I offer encouragement and support to help my clients make informed personal decisions.
I possess a wealth of life experience and academic qualifications in the field of Psychology, having completed both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree. My therapeutic approach is rooted in creating a safe and nurturing environment for my clients, where they can freely express their thoughts and emotions. I understand that every individual is unique, and as such, I tailor my approach to meet their individual needs. During our sessions, I offer encouragement and support to help my clients make informed personal decisions.
(239) 329-9456 View (239) 329-9456
Photo of Chloe Charles, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Naples, FL
Chloe Charles
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34102
Welcome! My name is Chloé Charles, I am a pre-licensed mental health professional and owner of Power of Play Therapy, LLC. One of my greatest passions in life is using my training and expertise to help others achieve optimal mental wellness. As a member of the Florida Association for Play Therapy and Registered Play Therapy supervisee, my clinical experience has primarily focused on providing services to children and adolescents. I do this by following an integrative theoretical model ensuring that my treatment approach is comprehensive and specified for each client.
Welcome! My name is Chloé Charles, I am a pre-licensed mental health professional and owner of Power of Play Therapy, LLC. One of my greatest passions in life is using my training and expertise to help others achieve optimal mental wellness. As a member of the Florida Association for Play Therapy and Registered Play Therapy supervisee, my clinical experience has primarily focused on providing services to children and adolescents. I do this by following an integrative theoretical model ensuring that my treatment approach is comprehensive and specified for each client.
(239) 356-8341 View (239) 356-8341
Photo of Holly Zazo, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Naples, FL
Holly Zazo
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34109
Feeling stuck, lost and unsure where to turn? You don’t have to figure it out alone. I am passionate about working with adults and couples struggling with depression, anxiety, unresolved trauma, addictions and unhealthy relationship patterns. I can help you to heal and move forward into a life in which you feel secure, joyful and capable. I am also passionate about using Art Therapy to help children and teens struggling to cope with the many challenges they face, or heal from traumatic experiences.
Feeling stuck, lost and unsure where to turn? You don’t have to figure it out alone. I am passionate about working with adults and couples struggling with depression, anxiety, unresolved trauma, addictions and unhealthy relationship patterns. I can help you to heal and move forward into a life in which you feel secure, joyful and capable. I am also passionate about using Art Therapy to help children and teens struggling to cope with the many challenges they face, or heal from traumatic experiences.
(786) 244-7768 View (786) 244-7768
Photo of Emily McDonagh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naples, FL
Emily McDonagh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34103
Making the decision to begin the journey into your own self-care can be overwhelming. I provide a safe, person-centered, and judgement-free environment that welcomes acceptance and healing. Sometimes having a container to "hold space" can be incredibly freeing of the daily challenges we face in life.
Making the decision to begin the journey into your own self-care can be overwhelming. I provide a safe, person-centered, and judgement-free environment that welcomes acceptance and healing. Sometimes having a container to "hold space" can be incredibly freeing of the daily challenges we face in life.
(239) 734-7757 View (239) 734-7757
Photo of Steven W Saldukas, Psychologist in Naples, FL
Steven W Saldukas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34103
I provide individual therapy and memory testing services at my Naples office.
I provide individual therapy and memory testing services at my Naples office.
(239) 471-4408 View (239) 471-4408
Photo of Cynthia Ochoa Yzaguirre, Counselor in Naples, FL
Cynthia Ochoa Yzaguirre
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, MEd, RYT-200, ADOS
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34103
I have over 30 years of experience in helping individuals of all ages, couples and families learn to survive life's struggles. I have counseled individuals for anxiety, grief, stress, anger, relationship issues and more. I've interned in an adult addiction program, domestic violence program and a healing arts program. Now, serving Lee and Collier Counties, I'm honored to be able to help many more individuals, couples, and families. If you are in the Naples, Fort Myers Beach, or Immokalee areas call me. I look forward to collaborating together with you. I am also available to administer the ADOS-2 assessment for autism.
I have over 30 years of experience in helping individuals of all ages, couples and families learn to survive life's struggles. I have counseled individuals for anxiety, grief, stress, anger, relationship issues and more. I've interned in an adult addiction program, domestic violence program and a healing arts program. Now, serving Lee and Collier Counties, I'm honored to be able to help many more individuals, couples, and families. If you are in the Naples, Fort Myers Beach, or Immokalee areas call me. I look forward to collaborating together with you. I am also available to administer the ADOS-2 assessment for autism.
(239) 208-5193 View (239) 208-5193
Photo of Erika Pineros, Counselor in Naples, FL
Erika Pineros
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34119  (Online Only)
Are you a woman who has experienced abuse of any kind? The type of abuse may include physical, emotional, verbal and sexual abuse. I have extensive experience working with women who have been in abusive relationships. I also have a passion for working with women's issues such as trauma, self-esteem, body image, parenting, relationship issues, to name a few.
Are you a woman who has experienced abuse of any kind? The type of abuse may include physical, emotional, verbal and sexual abuse. I have extensive experience working with women who have been in abusive relationships. I also have a passion for working with women's issues such as trauma, self-esteem, body image, parenting, relationship issues, to name a few.
(239) 558-0822 View (239) 558-0822
Photo of Amal Bernal, Counselor in Naples, FL
Amal Bernal
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34109
With over 30 years as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I specialize in healing complex trauma, offering a unique blend of EMDR, CBT, Play Therapy techniques, Attachment Theory, and the pioneering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. My approach, developed through years of experience and enriched by my affiliations with APA, MHCA, EMDRIA, APT and ACA, is founded on a novel triage model. This model harnesses cutting-edge, FDA-approved tools to access, desensitize, and reprocess trauma, demonstrating that we truly can "retrain the BRAIN!"
With over 30 years as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I specialize in healing complex trauma, offering a unique blend of EMDR, CBT, Play Therapy techniques, Attachment Theory, and the pioneering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. My approach, developed through years of experience and enriched by my affiliations with APA, MHCA, EMDRIA, APT and ACA, is founded on a novel triage model. This model harnesses cutting-edge, FDA-approved tools to access, desensitize, and reprocess trauma, demonstrating that we truly can "retrain the BRAIN!"
(239) 579-9030 View (239) 579-9030
Photo of Sara L Henry, Marriage & Family Therapist in Naples, FL
Sara L Henry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34110
My Treatment Mission is to provide cutting edge psychotherapy treatment services for individuals and families applying specializations in developmental psychology, relationship-based treatment, biological individual differences, and interdisciplinary collaboration. I deliver advanced methodologies, which are unique in Southwest Florida, for children 0-5 and for individuals of any age with what are often misunderstood neurodevelopment issues: including, but not limited to, issues of attachment, autism spectrum, mood disorders, and in utero toxic exposure. I also treat survivors of trauma, those seeking therapy for personal growth and help in working through challenging life events and relationships.
My Treatment Mission is to provide cutting edge psychotherapy treatment services for individuals and families applying specializations in developmental psychology, relationship-based treatment, biological individual differences, and interdisciplinary collaboration. I deliver advanced methodologies, which are unique in Southwest Florida, for children 0-5 and for individuals of any age with what are often misunderstood neurodevelopment issues: including, but not limited to, issues of attachment, autism spectrum, mood disorders, and in utero toxic exposure. I also treat survivors of trauma, those seeking therapy for personal growth and help in working through challenging life events and relationships.
(239) 676-0926 View (239) 676-0926
Photo of Dr. Coral Arvon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Naples, FL
Dr. Coral Arvon
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34103  (Online Only)
Anxiety Counseling­­­ . Everything feels intense, rushed and stressed. You find yourself, “self-medicating” with food, drugs or alcohol. You find yourself always worrying or nervous. You are fearful of the future , have panic attacks, feel isolated and scared. The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 is very stressful. Fear and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Coping with stress will make you, your family, friends and community stronger. We specialize in Anxiety & Stress. Tele-therapy, FaceTime, Zoom....Call us now. 305-936-8000.
Anxiety Counseling­­­ . Everything feels intense, rushed and stressed. You find yourself, “self-medicating” with food, drugs or alcohol. You find yourself always worrying or nervous. You are fearful of the future , have panic attacks, feel isolated and scared. The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 is very stressful. Fear and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Coping with stress will make you, your family, friends and community stronger. We specialize in Anxiety & Stress. Tele-therapy, FaceTime, Zoom....Call us now. 305-936-8000.
(305) 936-8000 View (305) 936-8000
Photo of Stan J. Strycharz, Psychologist in Naples, FL
Stan J. Strycharz
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, MDiv
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34108
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families from various backgrounds. I am trained by leading experts in the science of Couples Therapy, Drs. Julie and John Gottman of the Gottman Institute and Dr. Sue Johnson, founder of Emotionally Focused Therapy. I also offer Mentoring and Executive Coaching for personal and professional progress, performance and transformation through life transitions and career changes. My approach to treatment is supportive, collaborative and based on engaging your personal strengths and inner resources.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families from various backgrounds. I am trained by leading experts in the science of Couples Therapy, Drs. Julie and John Gottman of the Gottman Institute and Dr. Sue Johnson, founder of Emotionally Focused Therapy. I also offer Mentoring and Executive Coaching for personal and professional progress, performance and transformation through life transitions and career changes. My approach to treatment is supportive, collaborative and based on engaging your personal strengths and inner resources.
(239) 260-4252 View (239) 260-4252
Photo of Renee L. McFarland, Counselor in Naples, FL
Renee L. McFarland
Counselor, LMHC, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34103
Hi! I welcome you to contact me at Time Out Counseling, I am a dedicated counselor working in collaboration with you, tailoring therapy to fit your needs! I know that there are many mental health care challenges, specifically now with our political times; sometimes difficult to manage on your own. I believe you must bring your whole self to the table if you want to create change in your life; your passion, personality, sense of humor, and most importantly your heart will be the impetus for change! All of these interpersonal elements brought me here, to be the voice and advocate for those who need my help. I would like to help you!
Hi! I welcome you to contact me at Time Out Counseling, I am a dedicated counselor working in collaboration with you, tailoring therapy to fit your needs! I know that there are many mental health care challenges, specifically now with our political times; sometimes difficult to manage on your own. I believe you must bring your whole self to the table if you want to create change in your life; your passion, personality, sense of humor, and most importantly your heart will be the impetus for change! All of these interpersonal elements brought me here, to be the voice and advocate for those who need my help. I would like to help you!
(239) 237-3206 View (239) 237-3206
Photo of A Change of Mind, LLC - Heidi Wilson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naples, FL
A Change of Mind, LLC - Heidi Wilson, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACHP-SW, CIMHP, CAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34102
We change our behavior when the pain of staying the same becomes greater than the pain of changing.- Henry Cloud. Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed? My name is Heidi Wilson, and with 25 years of clinical experience, I am dedicated to providing guidance to those desirous of change. I specialize in helping adults, college students and teens with depression, anxiety, panic, relationship issues, illness, cognitive issues, caregiver burnout, autism, ADHD, substance abuse, trauma, C-PTSD, and parenting issues. Specialty Certifications in ADHD, Autism, Complex Trauma (C-PTSD), Alzheimer’s Disease, and Integrative Mental Health.
We change our behavior when the pain of staying the same becomes greater than the pain of changing.- Henry Cloud. Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed? My name is Heidi Wilson, and with 25 years of clinical experience, I am dedicated to providing guidance to those desirous of change. I specialize in helping adults, college students and teens with depression, anxiety, panic, relationship issues, illness, cognitive issues, caregiver burnout, autism, ADHD, substance abuse, trauma, C-PTSD, and parenting issues. Specialty Certifications in ADHD, Autism, Complex Trauma (C-PTSD), Alzheimer’s Disease, and Integrative Mental Health.
(239) 204-5697 View (239) 204-5697
Photo of Amy Beaumont, Psychologist in Naples, FL
Amy Beaumont
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34102
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in autism, mood and anxiety, OCD, behavioral difficulties, and positive parenting. I understand that everyone is different and that what works for one person or family may not work for another. I will meet you where you are, offering realistic strategies that work. My goal is not only to help you and your family overcome the challenges you experience today, but to also empower you with confidence about your ability to handle future challenges.
I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in autism, mood and anxiety, OCD, behavioral difficulties, and positive parenting. I understand that everyone is different and that what works for one person or family may not work for another. I will meet you where you are, offering realistic strategies that work. My goal is not only to help you and your family overcome the challenges you experience today, but to also empower you with confidence about your ability to handle future challenges.
(786) 882-5339 View (786) 882-5339
Photo of Natalie Klas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Naples, FL
Natalie Klas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSLMFT
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34109
Life is a complicated recipe of scars and success. Each story is marked with memories and sometimes it can feel difficult sorting through all the moments that you have endured through your journey. I feel honored to walk with each of my clients and develop a custom therapy style to fit each client's needs and unique story.
Life is a complicated recipe of scars and success. Each story is marked with memories and sometimes it can feel difficult sorting through all the moments that you have endured through your journey. I feel honored to walk with each of my clients and develop a custom therapy style to fit each client's needs and unique story.
(239) 376-4716 View (239) 376-4716
Photo of Frank Joseph Sodano, Marriage & Family Therapist in Naples, FL
Frank Joseph Sodano
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34103
Frank J. Sodano Ph.D.; L.M.F.T. has practiced individual, couples, and family counseling for 26 years. He is currently in private practice in Naples, FL specializing in life cycle adjustment, loss and bereavement, addiction and adaptation. He has developed and supervised counseling programs at AVOW hospice, The Shelter for Abused Women & Children, and The Juvenile Assessment Center in Collier County. Before coming to Florida, Dr. Sodano served as director of a hospitalization unit for chronic mental illness in Southeastern Pennsylvania. He holds an M.A. in counseling from LaSalle University, and a Ph.D. from Barry University.
Frank J. Sodano Ph.D.; L.M.F.T. has practiced individual, couples, and family counseling for 26 years. He is currently in private practice in Naples, FL specializing in life cycle adjustment, loss and bereavement, addiction and adaptation. He has developed and supervised counseling programs at AVOW hospice, The Shelter for Abused Women & Children, and The Juvenile Assessment Center in Collier County. Before coming to Florida, Dr. Sodano served as director of a hospitalization unit for chronic mental illness in Southeastern Pennsylvania. He holds an M.A. in counseling from LaSalle University, and a Ph.D. from Barry University.
(239) 829-4897 View (239) 829-4897
Photo of Morame Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naples, FL
Morame Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MCAP, QS
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34103
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist who studied at Western Michigan University. I am a Master’s Certified Addiction Counselor, EMDR & Gotman level I trained. I have been in practice since 2012. My goal is to utilize evidence-based techniques to help clients achieve their wellness goals. I am devoted to helping couples restore intimacy, passion, and commitment, to helping individuals with mental health and addiction concerns to better cope and achieve some level of homeostasis. One of my strengths is the ability to break down complex issues into smaller segments so that clients can get unstuck and move toward healing/recovery.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist who studied at Western Michigan University. I am a Master’s Certified Addiction Counselor, EMDR & Gotman level I trained. I have been in practice since 2012. My goal is to utilize evidence-based techniques to help clients achieve their wellness goals. I am devoted to helping couples restore intimacy, passion, and commitment, to helping individuals with mental health and addiction concerns to better cope and achieve some level of homeostasis. One of my strengths is the ability to break down complex issues into smaller segments so that clients can get unstuck and move toward healing/recovery.
(239) 208-6411 View (239) 208-6411
Photo of Thrive Therapy - Naples, Counselor in Naples, FL
Thrive Therapy - Naples
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34119
Feeling overwhelmed with the challenges of parenting? Struggling to connect with your teen in this complex phase of life? Finding each day increasingly difficult to navigate? Don't worry; you don't have to face it alone. Imagine a therapeutic journey that unlocks your unique strengths and paves the way for healing and growth. Together, we'll create a safe space to explore your goals, foster better communication, and build resilience. Let's take that first step towards a brighter future— We are here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
Feeling overwhelmed with the challenges of parenting? Struggling to connect with your teen in this complex phase of life? Finding each day increasingly difficult to navigate? Don't worry; you don't have to face it alone. Imagine a therapeutic journey that unlocks your unique strengths and paves the way for healing and growth. Together, we'll create a safe space to explore your goals, foster better communication, and build resilience. Let's take that first step towards a brighter future— We are here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
(239) 232-2517 View (239) 232-2517
Photo of Lauren Hash, Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern in Naples, FL
Lauren Hash
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, RCSWI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34109
Struggling with anxiety, sadness, isolation, or overwhelming emotions? Want to feel empowered and motivated to tackle your life head on? I'd love to work with you! My recent work has been in attachment wounds, trauma, and DBT skills-based education. My approach is tailored to your individual personality and past experiences. We cn work together to help you set and achieve realistic goals. I enjoy helping clients struggling with depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, relational difficulties, and more.
Struggling with anxiety, sadness, isolation, or overwhelming emotions? Want to feel empowered and motivated to tackle your life head on? I'd love to work with you! My recent work has been in attachment wounds, trauma, and DBT skills-based education. My approach is tailored to your individual personality and past experiences. We cn work together to help you set and achieve realistic goals. I enjoy helping clients struggling with depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, relational difficulties, and more.
(239) 323-6825 View (239) 323-6825
Photo of Project HELP Inc, Counselor in Naples, FL
Project HELP Inc
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Naples, FL 34104
Project HELP works with dignity and compassion to ease the pain of those who have been affected by rape, violence, crime or loss of a loved one. Project HELP is a non-profit organization staffed by professional therapists, counselors and advocates committed to providing hope, empowerment, and healing to those affected by sexual violence, sudden death, and other crimes .
Project HELP works with dignity and compassion to ease the pain of those who have been affected by rape, violence, crime or loss of a loved one. Project HELP is a non-profit organization staffed by professional therapists, counselors and advocates committed to providing hope, empowerment, and healing to those affected by sexual violence, sudden death, and other crimes .
(239) 208-5338 View (239) 208-5338

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Naples, FL

400+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Naples, FL who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
86% Depression
79% Self Esteem
78% Relationship Issues
72% Coping Skills
69% Stress
67% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

73% Cigna and Evernorth
67% Aetna
65% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Naples, FL see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
15% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Naples?

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.