Photo of Karen L Kehler, MA, MSHA
Karen L Kehler
MA, MSHA
Verified Verified
Frackville, PA 17931
I believe that those in distress, grieving, angry or overwhelmed do not usually want a person to watch them drown, they want to be given a life preserver. With this approach I pro-actively educate, support, encourage and empower my clients through their personal and private choices, changes and challenges. I enjoy what I do because I come to the relationship with years of education, professional and personal experience as well as empathy, resourcefulness and compassion. We work together to move to a place of satisfaction and peace as well as confidence and accomplishment.
I believe that those in distress, grieving, angry or overwhelmed do not usually want a person to watch them drown, they want to be given a life preserver. With this approach I pro-actively educate, support, encourage and empower my clients through their personal and private choices, changes and challenges. I enjoy what I do because I come to the relationship with years of education, professional and personal experience as well as empathy, resourcefulness and compassion. We work together to move to a place of satisfaction and peace as well as confidence and accomplishment.
(272) 207-3132 View (272) 207-3132
Photo of Susan Elaine Farnsworth, LPC, CAADC, SAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Elaine Farnsworth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, SAP
Verified Verified
Frackville, PA 17931
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Certified Advanced Drug and Alcohol Counselor and a Substance Abuse Professional with over 30 years of experience in behavior healthcare. I provide a full array of behavioral health services based upon cognitive behavioral theory to individuals, couples and families. I strongly believe in an interactive, non-directive, non-judgmental approach to counseling. I can provide you with the tools and information that will assist you to develop healthy self-care skills thereby promoting growth.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Certified Advanced Drug and Alcohol Counselor and a Substance Abuse Professional with over 30 years of experience in behavior healthcare. I provide a full array of behavioral health services based upon cognitive behavioral theory to individuals, couples and families. I strongly believe in an interactive, non-directive, non-judgmental approach to counseling. I can provide you with the tools and information that will assist you to develop healthy self-care skills thereby promoting growth.
(570) 998-4342 View (570) 998-4342

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Brian Perkins, MS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brian Perkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Suppose you returned home one night to your "empty" house on a corner to find the door smashed open, and sounds of someone inside and things falling on the floor. Afraid, you walk around the corner where your neighbor then tells you she saw smoke coming from your window and the firemen are inside finding the cause. Your attitude toward the intruders completely changes when you understand their purpose. I give clients similar insight about the problems hurting them and their relationships. It's tragic to suffer and to fear solvable problems because you don't understand them.
Suppose you returned home one night to your "empty" house on a corner to find the door smashed open, and sounds of someone inside and things falling on the floor. Afraid, you walk around the corner where your neighbor then tells you she saw smoke coming from your window and the firemen are inside finding the cause. Your attitude toward the intruders completely changes when you understand their purpose. I give clients similar insight about the problems hurting them and their relationships. It's tragic to suffer and to fear solvable problems because you don't understand them.
(570) 704-3821 View (570) 704-3821
Photo of Sara Ansell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Ansell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomsburg, PA 17815
Waitlist for new clients
I am incredibly passionate about my work as a therapist and find it to be a true honor to walk alongside my clients on their journey to find healing, peace, and restoration. My main priority is to offer a safe, judgement-free zone where a client can develop rapport quickly and build a genuine connection with someone who truly cares about their well-being and growth. I am a firm believer that empathy, compassion, and an ability to understand the pain, hurt, and challenges my clients are currently facing is absolutely necessary as these are the things that help build the foundation for trust to develop in a therapeutic relationship.
I am incredibly passionate about my work as a therapist and find it to be a true honor to walk alongside my clients on their journey to find healing, peace, and restoration. My main priority is to offer a safe, judgement-free zone where a client can develop rapport quickly and build a genuine connection with someone who truly cares about their well-being and growth. I am a firm believer that empathy, compassion, and an ability to understand the pain, hurt, and challenges my clients are currently facing is absolutely necessary as these are the things that help build the foundation for trust to develop in a therapeutic relationship.
(570) 529-9069 View (570) 529-9069
Photo of Debra Lynn Thompson-Knepper, LCSW, CADC, CCPG, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Lynn Thompson-Knepper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CCPG
Verified Verified
Pine Grove, PA 17963
Debra Thompson-Knepper has over 20 years experience working with people who have mental illness and addictions. She believes that it is the therapist's responsibility to have as many therapeutic tools as possible to share with clients to help them achieve their goals. Whether it's development of insight to know the self better and live more successfully or targeted therapy to address a specific marital or individual issue, Debbie shares all her knowledge and tools for your success. Good therapy is built on the client's relationship with the therapist and this is the foundation of all growth.
Debra Thompson-Knepper has over 20 years experience working with people who have mental illness and addictions. She believes that it is the therapist's responsibility to have as many therapeutic tools as possible to share with clients to help them achieve their goals. Whether it's development of insight to know the self better and live more successfully or targeted therapy to address a specific marital or individual issue, Debbie shares all her knowledge and tools for your success. Good therapy is built on the client's relationship with the therapist and this is the foundation of all growth.
(570) 234-3476 View (570) 234-3476
Photo of Janice K Price, MA, Psychologist
Janice K Price
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Psychotherapy isn't just about relieving suffering; it's also about growth. Sometimes it takes the assistance of an empathic listener to rediscover your own inner resources and to understand yourself and others more deeply. Tell me about yourself and I'll share my observations. Together we can discover what it is that holds you back from the life that you want. Whatever the impediment, I will encourage you to examine your life with honesty while we work on cultivating acceptance and compassion. Caring for oneself is at the core of the healing process.
Psychotherapy isn't just about relieving suffering; it's also about growth. Sometimes it takes the assistance of an empathic listener to rediscover your own inner resources and to understand yourself and others more deeply. Tell me about yourself and I'll share my observations. Together we can discover what it is that holds you back from the life that you want. Whatever the impediment, I will encourage you to examine your life with honesty while we work on cultivating acceptance and compassion. Caring for oneself is at the core of the healing process.
(570) 880-0493 View (570) 880-0493
Photo of Kellie Pizzuto, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kellie Pizzuto
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomsburg, PA 17815
Welcome! I count it a privilege to walk alongside others on their journey to healing and wellness. Working with you to resolve the issues that keep you stuck, in pain, and/or unable to move forward is important to me. I have a passion to help others reach their full potential in growing toward the person they desire to be. This passion comes from my own story and the journey toward wholeness. Emotional pain can keep us stuck in patterns we would like to change but do not know how. If there is an issue holding you back from having the life you desire I can help.
Welcome! I count it a privilege to walk alongside others on their journey to healing and wellness. Working with you to resolve the issues that keep you stuck, in pain, and/or unable to move forward is important to me. I have a passion to help others reach their full potential in growing toward the person they desire to be. This passion comes from my own story and the journey toward wholeness. Emotional pain can keep us stuck in patterns we would like to change but do not know how. If there is an issue holding you back from having the life you desire I can help.
(570) 261-8159 View (570) 261-8159
Photo of Dr. Toni Bear, EdD, Counselor
Dr. Toni Bear
Counselor, EdD
Verified Verified
Auburn, PA 17922  (Online Only)
Feeling disconnected from your sexuality, passionless, and/or lacking confidence in your relationships? As a holistic sexologist and life coach, I specialize in helping women in their mid-30s to late 50s overcome these challenges. You might be facing issues related to past trauma, societal pressures, or an unclear understanding of your own desires and needs. My goal is to help you reclaim your sexual confidence, gain a deeper understanding of your body, and cultivate more fulfilling intimate relationships.
Feeling disconnected from your sexuality, passionless, and/or lacking confidence in your relationships? As a holistic sexologist and life coach, I specialize in helping women in their mid-30s to late 50s overcome these challenges. You might be facing issues related to past trauma, societal pressures, or an unclear understanding of your own desires and needs. My goal is to help you reclaim your sexual confidence, gain a deeper understanding of your body, and cultivate more fulfilling intimate relationships.
(570) 810-5198 View (570) 810-5198
Photo of Gretchen Murchison, LCSW, LICSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gretchen Murchison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Bloomsburg, PA 17815  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We all go through times when we need a little extra support. Therapy can help us manage life’s challenges, whether we're looking to have healthier relationships, explore life goals, heal from trauma or grief, boost confidence and self esteem, cope with a loved one’s substance misuse or mental health, or manage career/academic stress. I am gender and LGBTQIA+ affirming, and support parents and siblings to better understand and support Trans or Non-Binary loved ones. I offer gender-confirming surgery evaluations and letters. Please note: I do not provide documentation for court, ESA, SSI/SSDI, or return-to-work.
We all go through times when we need a little extra support. Therapy can help us manage life’s challenges, whether we're looking to have healthier relationships, explore life goals, heal from trauma or grief, boost confidence and self esteem, cope with a loved one’s substance misuse or mental health, or manage career/academic stress. I am gender and LGBTQIA+ affirming, and support parents and siblings to better understand and support Trans or Non-Binary loved ones. I offer gender-confirming surgery evaluations and letters. Please note: I do not provide documentation for court, ESA, SSI/SSDI, or return-to-work.
View
Photo of Scott J Masotti, MS, MFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scott J Masotti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Tamaqua, PA 18252
Waitlist for new clients
The stories that we tell about ourselves and our experiences are our realities, and these realities shape how we perceive our past, current, and future experiences in our lives. Sometimes, these stories do not allow us to feel the level of happiness and fulfillment in which we desire due to problems dominating our stories. It is my goal to support individuals, families, couples, and groups in developing a sense of hope and possibility that were not previously there. This hope provides space for unique possible outcomes where these individuals can develop a story that includes happiness and life fulfillment.
The stories that we tell about ourselves and our experiences are our realities, and these realities shape how we perceive our past, current, and future experiences in our lives. Sometimes, these stories do not allow us to feel the level of happiness and fulfillment in which we desire due to problems dominating our stories. It is my goal to support individuals, families, couples, and groups in developing a sense of hope and possibility that were not previously there. This hope provides space for unique possible outcomes where these individuals can develop a story that includes happiness and life fulfillment.
(272) 268-3309 View (272) 268-3309
Photo of Megan Van Doren, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Van Doren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bloomsburg, PA 17815
Waitlist for new clients
Congratulations on taking the initial steps towards healing! I cannot stress this enough; it’s wonderful that you care about your mental health. I see a wonderful change happening in society where people can finally feel safe to talk about their life experiences and not feel stigmatized. I am actively working towards improved mental health care for all. As you take this important journey towards self-awareness and healing, you may feel the uncertainties that life throws your way. It can naturally make you feel isolated, misunderstood, anxious, and even defeated when you can’t see the path that lies before you.
Congratulations on taking the initial steps towards healing! I cannot stress this enough; it’s wonderful that you care about your mental health. I see a wonderful change happening in society where people can finally feel safe to talk about their life experiences and not feel stigmatized. I am actively working towards improved mental health care for all. As you take this important journey towards self-awareness and healing, you may feel the uncertainties that life throws your way. It can naturally make you feel isolated, misunderstood, anxious, and even defeated when you can’t see the path that lies before you.
(570) 273-0152 View (570) 273-0152
Photo of Beverly DeMarco, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beverly DeMarco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomsburg, PA 17815
I am dedicated to assisting individuals as they navigate life's challenges and find ways to create a fulfilling life. It is my goal to create a space where you can feel fully accepted regardless of your background or the current struggles you face. In therapy, I offer a non-judgmental and compassionate approach. My process begins by seeking to deeply understand your experiences, enabling me to provide guidance and teach strategies for effectively overcoming life's obstacles.
I am dedicated to assisting individuals as they navigate life's challenges and find ways to create a fulfilling life. It is my goal to create a space where you can feel fully accepted regardless of your background or the current struggles you face. In therapy, I offer a non-judgmental and compassionate approach. My process begins by seeking to deeply understand your experiences, enabling me to provide guidance and teach strategies for effectively overcoming life's obstacles.
(570) 273-8984 View (570) 273-8984
Photo of Lynn Yocum, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynn Yocum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bloomsburg, PA 17815
Waitlist for new clients
I am here to provide a space of understanding and respect for the journey you are about to engage in. Each persons journey is different on their path to well-being and resolving issues that continue to cause interference in ones day to day life. If you are ready to engage in meaningful exploration of your life in order to achieve your personal goals, then I am here to provide positive and solution focused clinical guidance to support you.
I am here to provide a space of understanding and respect for the journey you are about to engage in. Each persons journey is different on their path to well-being and resolving issues that continue to cause interference in ones day to day life. If you are ready to engage in meaningful exploration of your life in order to achieve your personal goals, then I am here to provide positive and solution focused clinical guidance to support you.
(570) 989-5573 View (570) 989-5573
Photo of Hayley Peterson - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pottsville, PA 17901  (Online Only)
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(272) 788-2566 View (272) 788-2566
Photo of Lauren McGill, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren McGill
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
McAdoo, PA 18237  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As an Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I want to assure you my first task is to provide a safe, friendly, place to address your concerns both for individuals and couples. I see therapy as a hopeful conversation, in which we will begin to discover what you want to be happening in your life and the ways to achieve those goals. We will work together to dissolve problems and turn conflict into harmony. I provide online therapy so you will receive services in a location convenient for you without the worries of traveling. The process is so easy if you can type and click you can have at home therapy. Looking forward to your call!
As an Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I want to assure you my first task is to provide a safe, friendly, place to address your concerns both for individuals and couples. I see therapy as a hopeful conversation, in which we will begin to discover what you want to be happening in your life and the ways to achieve those goals. We will work together to dissolve problems and turn conflict into harmony. I provide online therapy so you will receive services in a location convenient for you without the worries of traveling. The process is so easy if you can type and click you can have at home therapy. Looking forward to your call!
(570) 630-7821 View (570) 630-7821
Photo of Michele Reich, PsyD, HHC, Psychologist
Michele Reich
Psychologist, PsyD, HHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hazleton, PA 18201  (Online Only)
Life can present us with challenges at any age. Each of these times can be an opportunity to grow and make changes. Therapy can provide a safe place for self exploration, understanding, and acceptance. At times, therapy can be anxiety provoking when we think about being vulnerable to someone we do not know. Allowing youself to be open to this process can lead to long-term benefits of coping, resiliency, and healing. I will join with you in the therapy journey in a safe and comfortable environment. My website is www.drmichelereich.com Also, I do not accept insurance but can provide a super bill for you to submit.
Life can present us with challenges at any age. Each of these times can be an opportunity to grow and make changes. Therapy can provide a safe place for self exploration, understanding, and acceptance. At times, therapy can be anxiety provoking when we think about being vulnerable to someone we do not know. Allowing youself to be open to this process can lead to long-term benefits of coping, resiliency, and healing. I will join with you in the therapy journey in a safe and comfortable environment. My website is www.drmichelereich.com Also, I do not accept insurance but can provide a super bill for you to submit.
(610) 365-4156 View (610) 365-4156
Photo of Kathy Kelsch - Tranquility Counseling & Wellness, LLC, MA, LPC, NCC, NADD-CC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tranquility Counseling & Wellness, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, NADD-CC
Verified Verified
Auburn, PA 17922
Are you feeling sad, hopeless, anxious, overwhelmed, out of control, or confused? Do you have problems in your relationship, or feel disconnected from others or the world as a whole? Have you experienced trauma or loss? Are you uncertain of how to manage a child’s behaviors or have a child or teen who is struggling emotionally? Everyone can benefit from some support from time to time. I am here to help!
Are you feeling sad, hopeless, anxious, overwhelmed, out of control, or confused? Do you have problems in your relationship, or feel disconnected from others or the world as a whole? Have you experienced trauma or loss? Are you uncertain of how to manage a child’s behaviors or have a child or teen who is struggling emotionally? Everyone can benefit from some support from time to time. I am here to help!
(570) 273-9224 View (570) 273-9224
Photo of Kenny Knittle, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kenny Knittle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orwigsburg, PA 17961
I know how hard it is to find a therapist at times or maybe this is your first time seeking help. It can be overwhelming, especially when you are struggling. Clients come to work on a variety of issues ranging from anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and major life changes. We work as a team and focus on how your health, habits, family, work and other life factors are impacting you. My goal is to help build resilience and self-confidence in others so they don't fear the challenges ahead of them and learn they have the capability and courage to grow and excel!
I know how hard it is to find a therapist at times or maybe this is your first time seeking help. It can be overwhelming, especially when you are struggling. Clients come to work on a variety of issues ranging from anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and major life changes. We work as a team and focus on how your health, habits, family, work and other life factors are impacting you. My goal is to help build resilience and self-confidence in others so they don't fear the challenges ahead of them and learn they have the capability and courage to grow and excel!
(570) 243-0226 View (570) 243-0226
Photo of Kristie Scheib, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristie Scheib
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hazle Township, PA 18202  (Online Only)
I work with clients who are struggling with issues such as substance use, depression, anxiety & past trauma. I also have experience working with both teens and adults. Clients I have worked with want to feel something different than they are feeling now. They want to set new goals in life and want to work together to achieve them. They want to feel different than they have been feeling at the moment they enter therapy. I understand that there are underlying issues that are affecting the way we feel, think, and behave.
I work with clients who are struggling with issues such as substance use, depression, anxiety & past trauma. I also have experience working with both teens and adults. Clients I have worked with want to feel something different than they are feeling now. They want to set new goals in life and want to work together to achieve them. They want to feel different than they have been feeling at the moment they enter therapy. I understand that there are underlying issues that are affecting the way we feel, think, and behave.
(570) 791-9211 View (570) 791-9211
Photo of Kathy E Mccaw, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathy E Mccaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pottsville, PA 17901
I love to work with highly motivated clients who desire to grow and develop themselves into who they want to be. Whether it is a relationship problem, poor self-esteem, or anxiety/depression, I am committed to help people reach their full potential.
I love to work with highly motivated clients who desire to grow and develop themselves into who they want to be. Whether it is a relationship problem, poor self-esteem, or anxiety/depression, I am committed to help people reach their full potential.
(570) 661-2296 View (570) 661-2296

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 17931

< 10

Therapists in 17931 who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Domestic Abuse
100% Geriatric and Seniors
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

29 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Dayforce
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 17931 see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 17931?

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.