Photo of Melissa M Thompson, LCSWR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa M Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Paltz, NY 12561
My passion is helping people discover and align with their core values so that they may build a life which brings them joy. If you are feeling overwhelmed, exhausted from intense emotions, or unsure about the future, there is hope. I provide a safe place to acknowledge and grieve circumstances outside of your control and an empowering environment to take action to build a life that feels congruent to your true self. Are a parent searching for support for your teen? The stress of adolescence can be so overwhelming and having their own place to process emotions and learn healthy coping skills can make a huge difference.
My passion is helping people discover and align with their core values so that they may build a life which brings them joy. If you are feeling overwhelmed, exhausted from intense emotions, or unsure about the future, there is hope. I provide a safe place to acknowledge and grieve circumstances outside of your control and an empowering environment to take action to build a life that feels congruent to your true self. Are a parent searching for support for your teen? The stress of adolescence can be so overwhelming and having their own place to process emotions and learn healthy coping skills can make a huge difference.
(845) 723-9097 View (845) 723-9097
Photo of Janice Cyr, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janice Cyr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New Paltz, NY 12561
It's hard to say when things 'shifted', but you realize that you barely recognize the person you've been living with. It's both heart wrenching and horrifying to imagine that you and your partner have grown so far apart. You're questioning your relationship - maybe ALL of your relationships. You're a stranger to your partner, and they, to you. What brought us together to begin with? And why can't we work through even the simplest things? At some point maybe you convinced yourself that 'this will pass'. Maybe it started when you got that new job, when your kids were born, when... But now, the distance between you can't be ignored.
It's hard to say when things 'shifted', but you realize that you barely recognize the person you've been living with. It's both heart wrenching and horrifying to imagine that you and your partner have grown so far apart. You're questioning your relationship - maybe ALL of your relationships. You're a stranger to your partner, and they, to you. What brought us together to begin with? And why can't we work through even the simplest things? At some point maybe you convinced yourself that 'this will pass'. Maybe it started when you got that new job, when your kids were born, when... But now, the distance between you can't be ignored.
(845) 237-3723 View (845) 237-3723
Photo of Deirdre Malinske, MHC-LP
Deirdre Malinske
Mental Health Counselor, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Paltz, NY 12561  (Online Only)
My goal is to help you create deeper wells of safety, strength, and joy through non-judgmental understanding of yourself and your environments, and exploring new patterns, experiences, and meanings. This can support you in changing, coping, and thriving where you want to. I approach my work with humility, respect, and a genuine desire to connect. I see therapy as a way to help ourselves navigate the complex web of personal, social, and relational dynamics that shape our lives. These dynamics can be helpful and harmful, and are often interlocking and rooted in ways we have learned to keep ourselves safe and find our joy.
My goal is to help you create deeper wells of safety, strength, and joy through non-judgmental understanding of yourself and your environments, and exploring new patterns, experiences, and meanings. This can support you in changing, coping, and thriving where you want to. I approach my work with humility, respect, and a genuine desire to connect. I see therapy as a way to help ourselves navigate the complex web of personal, social, and relational dynamics that shape our lives. These dynamics can be helpful and harmful, and are often interlocking and rooted in ways we have learned to keep ourselves safe and find our joy.
(845) 447-0359 View (845) 447-0359
Photo of Michael M Reisner, LMHC, Counselor
Michael M Reisner
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
New Paltz, NY 12561
Hello Everybody! I specialize in supporting the mental health of people for whom dominant culture is not a good fit. Over the years, the mainstay of my clients identify as: LGBTQIA+, autistic / otherwise neuro-divergent, BIPOC, having medical needs or are differently physicially-abled, as having intellectual / developmental / learning disabilities, having esoteric / magick / minority religious practitioners (and many times, some combination of the above). I focus on helping people working through C-PTSD, those who are part of minority sexual communities (Queer, Kinky, Non-Monogamous, etc.),
Hello Everybody! I specialize in supporting the mental health of people for whom dominant culture is not a good fit. Over the years, the mainstay of my clients identify as: LGBTQIA+, autistic / otherwise neuro-divergent, BIPOC, having medical needs or are differently physicially-abled, as having intellectual / developmental / learning disabilities, having esoteric / magick / minority religious practitioners (and many times, some combination of the above). I focus on helping people working through C-PTSD, those who are part of minority sexual communities (Queer, Kinky, Non-Monogamous, etc.),
(845) 524-9130 View (845) 524-9130
Photo of Taylor Gengo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Gengo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Paltz, NY 12561  (Online Only)
I work with clients who know they need to make a change, but are not sure where to begin. My ideal clients desire to improve their personal and professional lives, but need help with navigating change, coping with grief and loss, building healthy relationships, creating balance, and regaining control of their own lives. It's not always so simple. Some of our problems arise from patterns of behavior stemming from past experiences that we may have forgotten, but our nervous systems have not. Our bodies hold on to pain, but also harness the power to heal. I work with people who are ready to explore and harness that power.
I work with clients who know they need to make a change, but are not sure where to begin. My ideal clients desire to improve their personal and professional lives, but need help with navigating change, coping with grief and loss, building healthy relationships, creating balance, and regaining control of their own lives. It's not always so simple. Some of our problems arise from patterns of behavior stemming from past experiences that we may have forgotten, but our nervous systems have not. Our bodies hold on to pain, but also harness the power to heal. I work with people who are ready to explore and harness that power.
(845) 723-2837 View (845) 723-2837
Photo of Amy Benedict, LMFT, MEd, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Benedict
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Paltz, NY 12561
A well lived life inevitably presents challenges. It is natural and healthy to seek out support to help you through. I'm honored to welcome individuals, couples and families into therapy where both inner and relational awareness can grow and develop. Our work together will build on your strengths. We'll explore the roots of your distress, where you're stuck, and why. Shedding light on frustrating patterns, disconnection, trauma, depression, anxiety and grief can reveal a path to a deeper more compassionate connection with yourself -- opening up new possibilities for your life and relationships.
A well lived life inevitably presents challenges. It is natural and healthy to seek out support to help you through. I'm honored to welcome individuals, couples and families into therapy where both inner and relational awareness can grow and develop. Our work together will build on your strengths. We'll explore the roots of your distress, where you're stuck, and why. Shedding light on frustrating patterns, disconnection, trauma, depression, anxiety and grief can reveal a path to a deeper more compassionate connection with yourself -- opening up new possibilities for your life and relationships.
(917) 398-9288 View (917) 398-9288
Photo of Nicolai Grosell, CCEP, EMM
Nicolai Grosell
CCEP, EMM
Verified Verified
New Paltz, NY 12561
I am here to support you on your journey of healing and growth. I truly believe that we each have the power to heal ourselves and live meaningful lives full of depth, joy and love. I am a Core Energetics practitioner and I will help you to integrate body, mind and emotions. Core energetics is a body-oriented psychotherapy that works with a person's emotional blocks, often held in the body. Life can be more joyful when old pain is released through energetic movement. We bring consciousness to old patterns to free ourselves and make lasting changes.
I am here to support you on your journey of healing and growth. I truly believe that we each have the power to heal ourselves and live meaningful lives full of depth, joy and love. I am a Core Energetics practitioner and I will help you to integrate body, mind and emotions. Core energetics is a body-oriented psychotherapy that works with a person's emotional blocks, often held in the body. Life can be more joyful when old pain is released through energetic movement. We bring consciousness to old patterns to free ourselves and make lasting changes.
(845) 419-1689 View (845) 419-1689
Photo of Lori Ruth Federman, LMHC, SME, MS, Counselor
Lori Ruth Federman
Counselor, LMHC, SME, MS
Verified Verified
New Paltz, NY 12561
I hold a spectrum and context based understanding of mental health that creates a psychotherapeutic container within which acceptance and change both thrive. The relational field between therapist and client is held with an integrity that values the impact of corrective and reparative experiences as one ventures to unpack the roots of their psychological patterns, while rerooting into a spiritual ground that both includes and moves beyond previous limitation and perceptions. Practical relational, mindfulness, dialectical, somatic and movement skills enhance embodiment and facilitate bringing the inner work out into the world.
I hold a spectrum and context based understanding of mental health that creates a psychotherapeutic container within which acceptance and change both thrive. The relational field between therapist and client is held with an integrity that values the impact of corrective and reparative experiences as one ventures to unpack the roots of their psychological patterns, while rerooting into a spiritual ground that both includes and moves beyond previous limitation and perceptions. Practical relational, mindfulness, dialectical, somatic and movement skills enhance embodiment and facilitate bringing the inner work out into the world.
(845) 668-4948 View (845) 668-4948
Photo of Sarah Hitchcock, MA, MT-BC, MS
Sarah Hitchcock
MA, MT-BC, MS
Verified Verified
New Paltz, NY 12561
Do you need someone who really listens and sees you? Do you carry a heavy burden in your heart which you would like to share with someone who truly takes the time to attend to your details? I have had experience in listening to and caring for people as a teacher, mother, coach and professional musician. As a Creative Arts Therapist, I have honed these skills with an open heart and insightful mind.
Do you need someone who really listens and sees you? Do you carry a heavy burden in your heart which you would like to share with someone who truly takes the time to attend to your details? I have had experience in listening to and caring for people as a teacher, mother, coach and professional musician. As a Creative Arts Therapist, I have honed these skills with an open heart and insightful mind.
(845) 237-3937 View (845) 237-3937
Photo of Kymberly Kline, MHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kymberly Kline
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Paltz, NY 12561
My therapeutic approach is person-centered, honoring each individual’s unique needs and goals. Authentic connection and unconditional positive regard are my foundation for fostering acceptance, healing, and self-actualization. I am committed to helping clients improve their overall wellbeing, increase their self-awareness, and realize their self-identified goals. I value creativity and individuality in the counseling process and seek to accommodate my approach to each client’s natural inclinations
My therapeutic approach is person-centered, honoring each individual’s unique needs and goals. Authentic connection and unconditional positive regard are my foundation for fostering acceptance, healing, and self-actualization. I am committed to helping clients improve their overall wellbeing, increase their self-awareness, and realize their self-identified goals. I value creativity and individuality in the counseling process and seek to accommodate my approach to each client’s natural inclinations
(845) 442-6183 View (845) 442-6183
Photo of Jeff Schneider, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeff Schneider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Paltz, NY 12561
If you: -have communication problems & conflict in your relationship-suffer from depression, anger and anxiety; -feel guilt and shame -have difficulty controlling your eating, drug/alcohol use or spending; I CAN HELP YOU. As I ask you thought provoking questions, offer suggestions, work with you on my Relationship Success Program and utilize the Emotional Freedom Techniques you will have a happier relationship, reach your goals, have more joy, overcome your challenges and learn to live a fulfilling and happy life similiarly to the thousands of people I have successfully helped over the past 32 years. www.healing-wellness-counseling.com
If you: -have communication problems & conflict in your relationship-suffer from depression, anger and anxiety; -feel guilt and shame -have difficulty controlling your eating, drug/alcohol use or spending; I CAN HELP YOU. As I ask you thought provoking questions, offer suggestions, work with you on my Relationship Success Program and utilize the Emotional Freedom Techniques you will have a happier relationship, reach your goals, have more joy, overcome your challenges and learn to live a fulfilling and happy life similiarly to the thousands of people I have successfully helped over the past 32 years. www.healing-wellness-counseling.com
(845) 202-1224 View (845) 202-1224
Photo of P. Taylor Van Zile IV, PhD, Psychologist
P. Taylor Van Zile IV
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Paltz, NY 12561
Despite living a life that looks stable and successful, you lack direction, and so you fear for your future. You feel rudderless, like you’ve lost yourself along the way. You live a lifestyle that looks ideal to others, yet it hasn’t brought you the meaning and joy it was supposed to. Now, difficult thoughts and emotions become more present: isolation, distraction, and anxiety. Spectral questions resurface: “Who am I?” “What’s the point of all this?” “What direction is our society headed in?” You know you need to reconnect with yourself and get grounded, but how?
Despite living a life that looks stable and successful, you lack direction, and so you fear for your future. You feel rudderless, like you’ve lost yourself along the way. You live a lifestyle that looks ideal to others, yet it hasn’t brought you the meaning and joy it was supposed to. Now, difficult thoughts and emotions become more present: isolation, distraction, and anxiety. Spectral questions resurface: “Who am I?” “What’s the point of all this?” “What direction is our society headed in?” You know you need to reconnect with yourself and get grounded, but how?
(845) 390-2983 View (845) 390-2983
Photo of Ashley Brown, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New Paltz, NY 12561
Often the hardest part about recovery and wellness can be taking that step to reach out for help. Yet I believe that once you do the possibilities can be boundless. Greetings. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York State who has experience working with a variety of situations and populations. These include mental health, eating disorders, substance abuse, teenagers, younger & older adults, gender identity, LGBTQ, family therapy, mindfulness to name a few.
Often the hardest part about recovery and wellness can be taking that step to reach out for help. Yet I believe that once you do the possibilities can be boundless. Greetings. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York State who has experience working with a variety of situations and populations. These include mental health, eating disorders, substance abuse, teenagers, younger & older adults, gender identity, LGBTQ, family therapy, mindfulness to name a few.
(845) 875-9344 View (845) 875-9344
Photo of Christopher Michael Dennehy, LCSWR, M-CASAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Michael Dennehy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR, M-CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Paltz, NY 12561
If you are seeking to regain who you once were, uncover who you know you could be, become who you want to be, build on who you already are, or all the above, we can do that together. Life is something that just is; we are what happens in it. I work with you to reclaim what may seem out of your control, to step back into the driver's seat of your own life. We all struggle at times and it is not about how strong or weak we are, but how much support we have.
If you are seeking to regain who you once were, uncover who you know you could be, become who you want to be, build on who you already are, or all the above, we can do that together. Life is something that just is; we are what happens in it. I work with you to reclaim what may seem out of your control, to step back into the driver's seat of your own life. We all struggle at times and it is not about how strong or weak we are, but how much support we have.
(845) 535-4310 View (845) 535-4310
Photo of Kristen Spada Sosa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Spada Sosa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Paltz, NY 12561  (Online Only)
Do you want to feel beautiful, confident, and empowered? Are you tired of the unrealistic beauty standards that have been imposed on women by society, and the harmful impact of such standards on your self-worth? If this resonates with you, allow me to support you in a life changing healing process, where you create your own definition of beauty and defy the illusions that society has fabricated. Through a collaborative and heart centered journey, I will assist you in moving past the barriers that have prevented you from recognizing your authentic beauty so that you may shine your light brightly and feel your most beautiful self!
Do you want to feel beautiful, confident, and empowered? Are you tired of the unrealistic beauty standards that have been imposed on women by society, and the harmful impact of such standards on your self-worth? If this resonates with you, allow me to support you in a life changing healing process, where you create your own definition of beauty and defy the illusions that society has fabricated. Through a collaborative and heart centered journey, I will assist you in moving past the barriers that have prevented you from recognizing your authentic beauty so that you may shine your light brightly and feel your most beautiful self!
(845) 367-7856 View (845) 367-7856
Photo of Michelle Lovett, LCSW, E-RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Lovett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, E-RYT
Verified Verified
New Paltz, NY 12561  (Online Only)
With every moment and each breath there is potential to discover something new and heal something old. It is my deep commitment to experience the newness of each moment, and to guide others in opening to the unknown. Learn to identify and detach from old thought patterns and belief systems. Begin to release emotional pain using your wisdom, your body and your connection to divine energy. Through psychotherapy, meditation, movement, breath-work and other creative practices you can journey through your past and into your presence to discover the place where your expression in this world most authentically represents the whole of you.
With every moment and each breath there is potential to discover something new and heal something old. It is my deep commitment to experience the newness of each moment, and to guide others in opening to the unknown. Learn to identify and detach from old thought patterns and belief systems. Begin to release emotional pain using your wisdom, your body and your connection to divine energy. Through psychotherapy, meditation, movement, breath-work and other creative practices you can journey through your past and into your presence to discover the place where your expression in this world most authentically represents the whole of you.
(917) 832-1333 View (917) 832-1333
Photo of Amy Jacobson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Jacobson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Paltz, NY 12561
Have you ever been in a therapy session where the therapist sits quietly, listens attentively, nods politely an when you leave you're wondering what you got out of the session. You will find me to be highly engaged in your session offering ongoing feedback and dialog as well as positive responses and support to your therapy process. I offer an integrative strength based approach to develop the tools you need to find inner peace and calm in this stressful world we share. I specialize in the areas of anxiety, depression, PTSD, health anxiety and chronic illness and attachment issues.
Have you ever been in a therapy session where the therapist sits quietly, listens attentively, nods politely an when you leave you're wondering what you got out of the session. You will find me to be highly engaged in your session offering ongoing feedback and dialog as well as positive responses and support to your therapy process. I offer an integrative strength based approach to develop the tools you need to find inner peace and calm in this stressful world we share. I specialize in the areas of anxiety, depression, PTSD, health anxiety and chronic illness and attachment issues.
(845) 443-4647 View (845) 443-4647
Photo of Diana I Shapiro, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diana I Shapiro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
New Paltz, NY 12561  (Online Only)
Nice to (virtually) meet you! If you are an individual adult or couple with relationship problems, or problems with self-esteem, trauma, or anxiety, then you're in the right place. If you want to improve your relationship(s) and your quality of life, feel more connected, confident, and alive, I'd like to help you do so.
Nice to (virtually) meet you! If you are an individual adult or couple with relationship problems, or problems with self-esteem, trauma, or anxiety, then you're in the right place. If you want to improve your relationship(s) and your quality of life, feel more connected, confident, and alive, I'd like to help you do so.
(845) 957-8520 View (845) 957-8520
Photo of Michelle Miller, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New Paltz, NY 12561  (Online Only)
My approach is collaborative and compassionate in nature. I will work with you step by step to create and accomplish realistic and attainable goals that match the vision you have for your life. I want to understand where each of my clients are coming from so that I can work to provide well-informed, culturally sensitive care, unique to each client's individual needs. I am experienced in working with trauma, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, addiction, compulsive behaviors, and many other mental health issues.
My approach is collaborative and compassionate in nature. I will work with you step by step to create and accomplish realistic and attainable goals that match the vision you have for your life. I want to understand where each of my clients are coming from so that I can work to provide well-informed, culturally sensitive care, unique to each client's individual needs. I am experienced in working with trauma, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, addiction, compulsive behaviors, and many other mental health issues.
(845) 547-0311 View (845) 547-0311
Photo of Steve Walko, LMHC, Counselor
Steve Walko
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Paltz, NY 12561  (Online Only)
I create a warm therapeutic environment and work to establish a strong and empathic relationship with clients in order to form a safe space to explore their issues. My goal is to help clients gain better self acceptance, insight into their difficulties, and to create better strategies and skills to live in accordance with life values.
I create a warm therapeutic environment and work to establish a strong and empathic relationship with clients in order to form a safe space to explore their issues. My goal is to help clients gain better self acceptance, insight into their difficulties, and to create better strategies and skills to live in accordance with life values.
(845) 443-4465 View (845) 443-4465
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See more therapy options for 12561

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 12561

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 12561 who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
90% Depression
85% Relationship Issues
80% Self Esteem
74% Coping Skills
69% Trauma and PTSD
68% Stress

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
52% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
48% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 12561 see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
22% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 12561?

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.