Therapists in Hilo, HI

Photo of Kehau Hufanga, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hilo, HI
Kehau Hufanga
Marriage & Family Therapist, CSAC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hilo, HI 96720
Seeking therapy can be an uncomfortable experience that takes a lot of courage. Making an initial appointment is the first step of the process towards healing and becoming the best version of ourselves. Therapy allows self-reflection, support, and insight. I view my clients holistically and work collaboratively with them to have a better understanding of how they live their lives and how to achieve better functioning and life satisfaction.
Seeking therapy can be an uncomfortable experience that takes a lot of courage. Making an initial appointment is the first step of the process towards healing and becoming the best version of ourselves. Therapy allows self-reflection, support, and insight. I view my clients holistically and work collaboratively with them to have a better understanding of how they live their lives and how to achieve better functioning and life satisfaction.
(808) 698-5776 View (808) 698-5776
Photo of Matthew D Brittain, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hilo, HI
Matthew D Brittain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Hilo, HI 96720
I am the lead provider in a small group practice specializing in the following: ADHD (the only specialty ADHD clinic outside of Oahu, to our knowledge); psychedelics-integration therapy; Forensic (court-involved) clients; sexual issues of many kinds (identity, empowerment, experience enhancement, dysfunctions, etc.); medical cannabis certification; couples/relationship issues. Susan Cauley, MD Melanie Guerra (Clinical Aide), and myself are the team. Dr. Susan Cauley can provide medication coordination for our ADHD program, and is our Cannabis specialist.
I am the lead provider in a small group practice specializing in the following: ADHD (the only specialty ADHD clinic outside of Oahu, to our knowledge); psychedelics-integration therapy; Forensic (court-involved) clients; sexual issues of many kinds (identity, empowerment, experience enhancement, dysfunctions, etc.); medical cannabis certification; couples/relationship issues. Susan Cauley, MD Melanie Guerra (Clinical Aide), and myself are the team. Dr. Susan Cauley can provide medication coordination for our ADHD program, and is our Cannabis specialist.
(808) 731-1470 View (808) 731-1470
Photo of Nicole Kealoha Loría, Pre-Licensed Professional in Hilo, HI
Nicole Kealoha Loría
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCC, MSCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hilo, HI 96720  (Online Only)
As a native Spanish speaker, Nicole is 100% bilingual in English and Spanish and passionate about working with Hispanic / Latinx populations given her shared experience as a Latina living in North America. Nicole believes healing is unique to each individual and utilizes an eclectic approach to collaborate with clients on their journey toward well-being. Nicole is also a certified yoga instructor with over 20 years of teaching experience with diverse populations such as male inmates in maximum security prisons and women struggling with addiction and domestic violence.
As a native Spanish speaker, Nicole is 100% bilingual in English and Spanish and passionate about working with Hispanic / Latinx populations given her shared experience as a Latina living in North America. Nicole believes healing is unique to each individual and utilizes an eclectic approach to collaborate with clients on their journey toward well-being. Nicole is also a certified yoga instructor with over 20 years of teaching experience with diverse populations such as male inmates in maximum security prisons and women struggling with addiction and domestic violence.
(808) 427-2759 View (808) 427-2759
Photo of Sarah Blechman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hilo, HI
Sarah Blechman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hilo, HI 96720  (Online Only)
Feeling like you wish you could take a break from the constant inundation of thoughts of fear, shame, or even simply the constant "to do" list in your mind? I can help with that. I work well with folks who have been apprehensive or cynical about beginning therapy in the past. I will challenge you with authenticity and compassion. I have over a decade of experience in working with folks who struggle with anxiety, depression, existential angst, relationship challenges and more. I have a person-centered, trauma-informed approach to helping you gain clarity through life's challenges.
Feeling like you wish you could take a break from the constant inundation of thoughts of fear, shame, or even simply the constant "to do" list in your mind? I can help with that. I work well with folks who have been apprehensive or cynical about beginning therapy in the past. I will challenge you with authenticity and compassion. I have over a decade of experience in working with folks who struggle with anxiety, depression, existential angst, relationship challenges and more. I have a person-centered, trauma-informed approach to helping you gain clarity through life's challenges.
(808) 556-5606 View (808) 556-5606
Photo of Maria Balaji, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hilo, HI
Maria Balaji
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hilo, HI 96720
Hello! My name is Maria Balaji, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). With a passion for mental health and helping individuals improve their overall well-being, I have dedicated my career to providing compassionate, evidence-based therapy to those in need. This provider resides in Hawaii. I specialize in several areas including anxiety, depression, trauma informed care, grief and loss, and life transitions. It is crucial to me that I continuously expand my knowledge and skills, allowing me to offer the most effective interventions and techniques for my clients' specific needs.
Hello! My name is Maria Balaji, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). With a passion for mental health and helping individuals improve their overall well-being, I have dedicated my career to providing compassionate, evidence-based therapy to those in need. This provider resides in Hawaii. I specialize in several areas including anxiety, depression, trauma informed care, grief and loss, and life transitions. It is crucial to me that I continuously expand my knowledge and skills, allowing me to offer the most effective interventions and techniques for my clients' specific needs.
(808) 796-5054 View (808) 796-5054
Photo of Meriah Nichols, Pre-Licensed Professional in Hilo, HI
Meriah Nichols
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Hilo, HI 96720
Meriah is a person-centered counselor who believes in the power of listening. She believes that you know what’s best for yourself; she can help you figure out some pieces and process through therapeutic tools. Meriah specializes in working with people who have an intersection with disability (- autism, neurodiverse, Down syndrome, deaf, blind, intellectual, or developmental disability, traumatic brain injury, PTSD, physical disability, chronic illness, mental illness). “Intersection” with disability being either an acquired disability, disabled through life, a child or loved one with a disability or a recently acquired disability.
Meriah is a person-centered counselor who believes in the power of listening. She believes that you know what’s best for yourself; she can help you figure out some pieces and process through therapeutic tools. Meriah specializes in working with people who have an intersection with disability (- autism, neurodiverse, Down syndrome, deaf, blind, intellectual, or developmental disability, traumatic brain injury, PTSD, physical disability, chronic illness, mental illness). “Intersection” with disability being either an acquired disability, disabled through life, a child or loved one with a disability or a recently acquired disability.
(808) 563-4191 View (808) 563-4191
Photo of Donna Dennerlein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hilo, HI
Donna Dennerlein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hilo, HI 96720
Waitlist for new clients
Aloha, are you needing support and looking for freedom from internal strain, anxiety, worry, depression, trauma and relationship issues? In today's culture with fewer connections to communities and cultures, it gives much less support to you and it's important to reach out. It’s time to explore and develop the richness and capacities within you for improved understanding, awareness and self-direction through body, mind, emotion & spirit practices and tools.
Aloha, are you needing support and looking for freedom from internal strain, anxiety, worry, depression, trauma and relationship issues? In today's culture with fewer connections to communities and cultures, it gives much less support to you and it's important to reach out. It’s time to explore and develop the richness and capacities within you for improved understanding, awareness and self-direction through body, mind, emotion & spirit practices and tools.
(808) 731-2301 View (808) 731-2301
Photo of Emily Powers, Pre-Licensed Professional in Hilo, HI
Emily Powers
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
Hilo, HI 96720
Emily Powers is a pre-licensed counseling professional who is passionate about helping people overcome their challenges & achieve their goals. She holds a BA from St. Edward’s University in Austin, TX and is currently finishing her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at UH Hilo. Emily started her career helping adults cope with various challenges at a residential mental health facility. She has served individuals navigating the impacts of Depression, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder and other forms of mental health difficulties
Emily Powers is a pre-licensed counseling professional who is passionate about helping people overcome their challenges & achieve their goals. She holds a BA from St. Edward’s University in Austin, TX and is currently finishing her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at UH Hilo. Emily started her career helping adults cope with various challenges at a residential mental health facility. She has served individuals navigating the impacts of Depression, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder and other forms of mental health difficulties
(808) 746-7514 View (808) 746-7514
Photo of Healing Elements Psychological Services, LLC, Psychologist in Hilo, HI
Healing Elements Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hilo, HI 96721  (Online Only)
Is your mind often focused on difficult experiences from the past, to the point that you can no longer enjoy the present? People respond to trauma in various ways. You might find yourself distracted, hypervigilant, or discouraged. You might struggle with your work, relationships, or simply moving through your daily life. I know this can be overwhelming and discouraging. Fortunately, there are treatments that help. My clients and I function as a team, determined to get at the cause of symptoms and work on real healing work. Even if it feels impossible right now, you can get better and live a fuller, more meaningful life.
Is your mind often focused on difficult experiences from the past, to the point that you can no longer enjoy the present? People respond to trauma in various ways. You might find yourself distracted, hypervigilant, or discouraged. You might struggle with your work, relationships, or simply moving through your daily life. I know this can be overwhelming and discouraging. Fortunately, there are treatments that help. My clients and I function as a team, determined to get at the cause of symptoms and work on real healing work. Even if it feels impossible right now, you can get better and live a fuller, more meaningful life.
(808) 818-5158 View (808) 818-5158
Photo of Odette R Smith, Counselor in Hilo, HI
Odette R Smith
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hilo, HI 96720  (Online Only)
Have you been feeling stressed, overwhelmed, sad or worried? You are not alone; I am here to help. Making that phone call and choosing a therapist can be challenging but it is the first step towards improving your current situation and the quality of your life. Within a safe, non-judgmental and caring environment, we will explore ways to embrace change and find the fulfillment and life balance you long for. We will build on your strengths and empower you to make the choices and changes that make sense to you.
Have you been feeling stressed, overwhelmed, sad or worried? You are not alone; I am here to help. Making that phone call and choosing a therapist can be challenging but it is the first step towards improving your current situation and the quality of your life. Within a safe, non-judgmental and caring environment, we will explore ways to embrace change and find the fulfillment and life balance you long for. We will build on your strengths and empower you to make the choices and changes that make sense to you.
(808) 495-0109 View (808) 495-0109
Photo of Shari Tresky, Counselor in Hilo, HI
Shari Tresky
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hilo, HI 96720
When painful thoughts and emotions arise, they can make us feel paralyzed and miserable. We think about our painful experiences and feel the same agony over and over again! We worry about the future and feel a sense of dread and fear about things that have not yet happened! We want to get rid of the pain, but if we try to eliminate painful thoughts and feelings, it's like trying to plug a high pressure leak and the water keeps finding a weak spot to burst out again! What else can we do? We can accept feelings with compassion because they show us what's most important. We can observe thoughts, then act from choice instead of fear.
When painful thoughts and emotions arise, they can make us feel paralyzed and miserable. We think about our painful experiences and feel the same agony over and over again! We worry about the future and feel a sense of dread and fear about things that have not yet happened! We want to get rid of the pain, but if we try to eliminate painful thoughts and feelings, it's like trying to plug a high pressure leak and the water keeps finding a weak spot to burst out again! What else can we do? We can accept feelings with compassion because they show us what's most important. We can observe thoughts, then act from choice instead of fear.
(808) 896-4121 View (808) 896-4121
Photo of Amber Fitzgerald, Pre-Licensed Professional in Hilo, HI
Amber Fitzgerald
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hilo, HI 96720  (Online Only)
Most people experience times in life when they don’t know how to cope or don’t know what to do about something they are struggling with. Some people struggle for years, either alone or in their relationships, before they are ready to talk with someone about things they want to change in their life. Some feel content in life except in one area, and they could use an unbiased third party to help them solve that last piece of their puzzle. Whatever your reason is, seeking help is not easy, and it is a brave move that speaks volumes of your readiness to better your life.
Most people experience times in life when they don’t know how to cope or don’t know what to do about something they are struggling with. Some people struggle for years, either alone or in their relationships, before they are ready to talk with someone about things they want to change in their life. Some feel content in life except in one area, and they could use an unbiased third party to help them solve that last piece of their puzzle. Whatever your reason is, seeking help is not easy, and it is a brave move that speaks volumes of your readiness to better your life.
(808) 374-5059 View (808) 374-5059
Photo of Melissa St. Claire, Pre-Licensed Professional in Hilo, HI
Melissa St. Claire
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CHT
Verified Verified
Hilo, HI 96720
Stressful situations can happen suddenly, or build over time. Whether it is a relationship issue, traumatic experience, life transition, or career challenge, I can help you move from surviving to thriving. Using comprehensive methodologies, I offer a highly personalized approach, tailored to each client. I work with individuals to help them build on their strengths and attain the healing, growth and change they are looking for.
Stressful situations can happen suddenly, or build over time. Whether it is a relationship issue, traumatic experience, life transition, or career challenge, I can help you move from surviving to thriving. Using comprehensive methodologies, I offer a highly personalized approach, tailored to each client. I work with individuals to help them build on their strengths and attain the healing, growth and change they are looking for.
(808) 320-1239 View (808) 320-1239
Photo of Chenoa Paiva, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hilo, HI
Chenoa Paiva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hilo, HI 96720
Aloha, for more than 20 years, Iʻve been devoted to serving my community on the Big Island of Hawaii. Throughout my career, my primary focus has been assisting the most vulnerable and at-risk populations who struggle with anxiety and depression. I work primarily with adolescents and adults and always strive to provide safe, compassionate and non-judgmental therapy experiences, where you can feel comfortable being your authentic self without hesitation.
Aloha, for more than 20 years, Iʻve been devoted to serving my community on the Big Island of Hawaii. Throughout my career, my primary focus has been assisting the most vulnerable and at-risk populations who struggle with anxiety and depression. I work primarily with adolescents and adults and always strive to provide safe, compassionate and non-judgmental therapy experiences, where you can feel comfortable being your authentic self without hesitation.
(808) 378-7714 View (808) 378-7714
Photo of Pansy M. Lindo-Moulds, Counselor in Hilo, HI
Pansy M. Lindo-Moulds
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hilo, HI 96720
My ideal clients actively collaborate in a non-judgmental, respectful, compassionate, therapeutic setting to uncover and process unresolved trauma that prevents them from realizing their goals. We discuss the benefits and risks of therapy, as we develop workable solutions that are tailored to clients' personalities, and use empirical assessments to monitor clients' progress toward personal goals, increased self-awareness, and self-actualization.
My ideal clients actively collaborate in a non-judgmental, respectful, compassionate, therapeutic setting to uncover and process unresolved trauma that prevents them from realizing their goals. We discuss the benefits and risks of therapy, as we develop workable solutions that are tailored to clients' personalities, and use empirical assessments to monitor clients' progress toward personal goals, increased self-awareness, and self-actualization.
(808) 201-4487 View (808) 201-4487
Photo of Kai Hansen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hilo, HI
Kai Hansen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hilo, HI 96720
My approach focuses on addressing immediate symptom relief and current life problems with an emphasis on identifying underlying emotional causes that may be contributing to these difficulties. My practice presumes that understanding psychological conflicts underlying unpleasant negative behaviors and/or emotions will help people gain important understanding into their current problems and, consequently, lead them to make considerable changes in their lives.
My approach focuses on addressing immediate symptom relief and current life problems with an emphasis on identifying underlying emotional causes that may be contributing to these difficulties. My practice presumes that understanding psychological conflicts underlying unpleasant negative behaviors and/or emotions will help people gain important understanding into their current problems and, consequently, lead them to make considerable changes in their lives.
(808) 731-1368 View (808) 731-1368
Photo of Emma Burrows, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hilo, HI
Emma Burrows
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hilo, HI 96720  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you're motivated to feel healthier, nourished and supported, I'm here to help. I am a holisic therapist and coach and I offer compassionate guidance and deep listening. I have experience working with people struggling with anxiety, depression, body image, identity formation, life transitions, existential angst, relational challenges, and LGBTQIA+ youth. My additional training and background in depth-oriented Sandplay Therapy, yoga, and Ayurveda, informs the holistic framework I bring to my work with clients.
If you're motivated to feel healthier, nourished and supported, I'm here to help. I am a holisic therapist and coach and I offer compassionate guidance and deep listening. I have experience working with people struggling with anxiety, depression, body image, identity formation, life transitions, existential angst, relational challenges, and LGBTQIA+ youth. My additional training and background in depth-oriented Sandplay Therapy, yoga, and Ayurveda, informs the holistic framework I bring to my work with clients.
(808) 320-1068 View (808) 320-1068
Photo of Michael Brian McGee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hilo, HI
Michael Brian McGee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hilo, HI 96720  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes life takes some unexpected turns. Maybe you don't know how you got to where you are or you want to head in a different direction. Whether you need to get back on track, find a track, or just need someone to listen, therapy or coaching can be a helpful tool in getting there. I work with clients to help them find their strengths and develop achievable goals. There is no shame in seeking input and guidance outside of your own brain and experience.
Sometimes life takes some unexpected turns. Maybe you don't know how you got to where you are or you want to head in a different direction. Whether you need to get back on track, find a track, or just need someone to listen, therapy or coaching can be a helpful tool in getting there. I work with clients to help them find their strengths and develop achievable goals. There is no shame in seeking input and guidance outside of your own brain and experience.
(808) 563-4965 View (808) 563-4965
Photo of Gregory May, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hilo, HI
Gregory May
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hilo, HI 96720
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with over 9 years of clinical experience. I am an advanced trauma-informed practitioner in Zen and Integral Psychotherapy, with training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems. My clinical practice is informed by the skills I have developed working in multiple clinical settings. I have worked in Community Mental Health, Residential Treatment, Substance Use Assessment & Treatment, Child Protective Services, Child & Family Treatment, Vocational Rehabilitation, and Employee Assistance Programs.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with over 9 years of clinical experience. I am an advanced trauma-informed practitioner in Zen and Integral Psychotherapy, with training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems. My clinical practice is informed by the skills I have developed working in multiple clinical settings. I have worked in Community Mental Health, Residential Treatment, Substance Use Assessment & Treatment, Child Protective Services, Child & Family Treatment, Vocational Rehabilitation, and Employee Assistance Programs.
(808) 755-3626 View (808) 755-3626
Photo of Yelena Theofilatos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hilo, HI
Yelena Theofilatos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hilo, HI 96720
Find a way back to inner calm, rediscover joy, and quit smoking by learning skills to master your emotions, regulate nervous system, and release self-limiting beliefs.
Find a way back to inner calm, rediscover joy, and quit smoking by learning skills to master your emotions, regulate nervous system, and release self-limiting beliefs.
(808) 736-3623 View (808) 736-3623

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Hilo, HI

100+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in Hilo, HI who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
81% Depression
80% Self Esteem
72% Life Transitions
71% Relationship Issues
71% Coping Skills
70% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Hawaii Medical Services Association
51% BlueCross and BlueShield
46% Hawaii Medical Assurance Association

How Therapists in Hilo, HI see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
22% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Hilo?

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.