Photo of Luminescence Counseling - Luminescence Counseling
Luminescence Counseling
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stuart, FL 34994
At Luminescence Counseling we specialize in working with adults and families (kids, teens and couples). This focus allows our therapists to invest time into specialized, high quality treatment options that kids and adults love including play therapy, art therapy, sandtray therapy, The Gottman Method for couples, mindfulness-based therapies, and much more. So whether you're a distraught parent, frustrated couple, or an individual in need of an outlet of your own, you will find safe space with us.
At Luminescence Counseling we specialize in working with adults and families (kids, teens and couples). This focus allows our therapists to invest time into specialized, high quality treatment options that kids and adults love including play therapy, art therapy, sandtray therapy, The Gottman Method for couples, mindfulness-based therapies, and much more. So whether you're a distraught parent, frustrated couple, or an individual in need of an outlet of your own, you will find safe space with us.
(772) 324-5067 View (772) 324-5067
Photo of Melisa P. Sheldon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melisa P. Sheldon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stuart, FL 34994
I believe everyone holds within them the key to their own mental and emotional wellness, but at times may need help finding it. We all face challenging times and situations in our lives, and sometimes need some help getting through them. I specialize in treating individuals with anxiety, depression and life stage transitions. I also specialize in treating individuals who come from families affected by alcoholism or other dysfunctions, as well as those who are recovering from alcoholism and are already in a 12 step program.
I believe everyone holds within them the key to their own mental and emotional wellness, but at times may need help finding it. We all face challenging times and situations in our lives, and sometimes need some help getting through them. I specialize in treating individuals with anxiety, depression and life stage transitions. I also specialize in treating individuals who come from families affected by alcoholism or other dysfunctions, as well as those who are recovering from alcoholism and are already in a 12 step program.
(772) 837-6227 View (772) 837-6227
Photo of Alyssa K Hickey, LCSW-QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa K Hickey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-QS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Stuart, FL 34994
I focus on individualized-care by working together with you to promote holistic healing and build resiliency. I am passionate about working with children, pre-teens, teenagers, and adults struggling with an array of mental health needs including depression, anxiety, recent adjustments and stress, self-injury, suicidality, complex trauma, and family conflict. I value authentic and genuine connections because I believe our most basic need is to connect with others. I focus on modalities that connect thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to create change.
I focus on individualized-care by working together with you to promote holistic healing and build resiliency. I am passionate about working with children, pre-teens, teenagers, and adults struggling with an array of mental health needs including depression, anxiety, recent adjustments and stress, self-injury, suicidality, complex trauma, and family conflict. I value authentic and genuine connections because I believe our most basic need is to connect with others. I focus on modalities that connect thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to create change.
(772) 212-2935 View (772) 212-2935
Photo of Susana Lopez-Sierra, MSW, LCSW, CPC, CDP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susana Lopez-Sierra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CPC, CDP
Verified Verified
Stuart, FL 34994
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome, my name is Susana with La Rosa Healing here I specialize in life transitions, caregiver counseling and coaching. I support individuals who want to stress less, create a calmer sense of being and find joy in their everyday lives. My overall focus is on whole person holistic healing by connecting mind, body and spirit in their process. I strive to help clients make self-care a priority in order to create greater healing and long-lasting change.
Welcome, my name is Susana with La Rosa Healing here I specialize in life transitions, caregiver counseling and coaching. I support individuals who want to stress less, create a calmer sense of being and find joy in their everyday lives. My overall focus is on whole person holistic healing by connecting mind, body and spirit in their process. I strive to help clients make self-care a priority in order to create greater healing and long-lasting change.
(772) 758-2179 View (772) 758-2179
Photo of Jenah Habermehl - Jenah Habermehl PLLC, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Jenah Habermehl PLLC
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Stuart, FL 34994
I am a dedicated mental health counselor with a passion to help all individuals thrive. I work with adults, adolescents, and families from diverse backgrounds facing a variety of difficulties. Whether you are struggling in your relationships, trying to juggle the stressors everyday life presents, or hoping to gain insight and accept parts of your past, I am here to help you work through any obstacle and start living up to and being your best you. Please call or email me to set up a free phone consultation!
I am a dedicated mental health counselor with a passion to help all individuals thrive. I work with adults, adolescents, and families from diverse backgrounds facing a variety of difficulties. Whether you are struggling in your relationships, trying to juggle the stressors everyday life presents, or hoping to gain insight and accept parts of your past, I am here to help you work through any obstacle and start living up to and being your best you. Please call or email me to set up a free phone consultation!
(772) 837-5261 View (772) 837-5261
Photo of Patricia Marie Messina - Counseling for the Healing Mind, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling for the Healing Mind
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stuart, FL 34994
Healing begins when you allow yourself to stop suffering. As Helen Keller stated, "Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of overcoming it". Your journey begins when you identify the emotions causing you to feel your life is out of control. The process of healing starts by recognizing and removing layers of false beliefs and negative thoughts. Understanding where those beliefs and thoughts come from will allow you to gain strength and courage to overcome the challenges and obstacles you face throughout your life. It is then you will experience inner peace with a healing mind.
Healing begins when you allow yourself to stop suffering. As Helen Keller stated, "Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of overcoming it". Your journey begins when you identify the emotions causing you to feel your life is out of control. The process of healing starts by recognizing and removing layers of false beliefs and negative thoughts. Understanding where those beliefs and thoughts come from will allow you to gain strength and courage to overcome the challenges and obstacles you face throughout your life. It is then you will experience inner peace with a healing mind.
(772) 732-3159 View (772) 732-3159
Photo of Dr. Laura Goldman, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Laura Goldman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stuart, FL 34994
Licensed Psychologist specializing in evaluations to assess for autism, learning disorders, ADHD, behavioral disorders, and emotional conditions. Experienced in administering the ADOS-2 for autism evaluations with children and adults. Currently offering testing services and in-person therapy appointments in my Stuart office. Telehealth services also available.
Licensed Psychologist specializing in evaluations to assess for autism, learning disorders, ADHD, behavioral disorders, and emotional conditions. Experienced in administering the ADOS-2 for autism evaluations with children and adults. Currently offering testing services and in-person therapy appointments in my Stuart office. Telehealth services also available.
(772) 242-9950 View (772) 242-9950
Photo of Dr. Judith Horvath, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Dr. Judith Horvath
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stuart, FL 34994
As a Board Certified psychologist, I work closely with children, adolescents, adults, and their families, dealing with a challenging combination of psychiatric and/or neurological issues or crises. The services offered include comprehensive assessment services (psychological and neuropsychological evaluation), psychotherapy, and neurocognitive rehabilitation. I will help identify what hinders your success and develop an individualized, custom-tailored plan for you. I will help you and your family understand you better and guide you as you overcome any fears you may have about beginning or staying in treatment. My job is to assist you so you can achieve your goals as smoothly as possible.
As a Board Certified psychologist, I work closely with children, adolescents, adults, and their families, dealing with a challenging combination of psychiatric and/or neurological issues or crises. The services offered include comprehensive assessment services (psychological and neuropsychological evaluation), psychotherapy, and neurocognitive rehabilitation. I will help identify what hinders your success and develop an individualized, custom-tailored plan for you. I will help you and your family understand you better and guide you as you overcome any fears you may have about beginning or staying in treatment. My job is to assist you so you can achieve your goals as smoothly as possible.
(772) 672-7089 View (772) 672-7089
Photo of Michael E Ryan, MA, PhD, LMHC, QS, Counselor
Michael E Ryan
Counselor, MA, PhD, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
Stuart, FL 34994
If you are an individual seeking rapid relief from emotional distress, a couple hoping to improve their relationship or a parent wanting help for their child I have over 30 years of training and experience to provide highly effective assistance. Via cognitive-behavioral therapy, you will learn to think and to behave in a manner that leads to greater happiness. Couples and families will learn to skillfully communicate and problem solve. I am also a certified Health Coach and hypnotherapist prepared to assist with issues including smoking cessation, weight loss and stress management. I am a Qualified Supervisor of mh interns.
If you are an individual seeking rapid relief from emotional distress, a couple hoping to improve their relationship or a parent wanting help for their child I have over 30 years of training and experience to provide highly effective assistance. Via cognitive-behavioral therapy, you will learn to think and to behave in a manner that leads to greater happiness. Couples and families will learn to skillfully communicate and problem solve. I am also a certified Health Coach and hypnotherapist prepared to assist with issues including smoking cessation, weight loss and stress management. I am a Qualified Supervisor of mh interns.
(772) 205-3129 View (772) 205-3129
Photo of Susan A Shirley - Susan A. Shirley, Counseling & Consulting, Inc, MS, LMHC, LCAP, SAP, NCC
Susan A. Shirley, Counseling & Consulting, Inc
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, LCAP, SAP, NCC
Verified Verified
Stuart, FL 34994
I have dedicated the past 25 yrs of my Professional Career in assisting individuals overcome various chronic/circumstantial issues impacting their lives & presenting ongoing struggles: depression, bipolar, adjustment disorders, codependency & loss/grief to more specialized treatments of high conflict marriages/divorce, eating disorders, Military service related stressors/ adjustments. I've served as a preferred provider for Specialized Evaluations for Dr. Referrals, Parent Coordinator/Custody Evaluator, SAP provider for D.O.T. & Corporate Consultant to develop & strategize the most effective & compliant Treatment programming.
I have dedicated the past 25 yrs of my Professional Career in assisting individuals overcome various chronic/circumstantial issues impacting their lives & presenting ongoing struggles: depression, bipolar, adjustment disorders, codependency & loss/grief to more specialized treatments of high conflict marriages/divorce, eating disorders, Military service related stressors/ adjustments. I've served as a preferred provider for Specialized Evaluations for Dr. Referrals, Parent Coordinator/Custody Evaluator, SAP provider for D.O.T. & Corporate Consultant to develop & strategize the most effective & compliant Treatment programming.
(337) 356-5486 View (337) 356-5486
Photo of Danielle Leach, LMHC, MS, Counselor
Danielle Leach
Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stuart, FL 34994
Welcome! The therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance and providing and creating a comfortable and nurturing environment is an integral part of forming a lasting positive change. As your therapist, it is my ultimate goal to create a safe space where you feel comfortable to be your true self - that's when the healing begins! I consider myself a support pillar - here to sit with you in the pain and help support you on your journey through healing and growth that creates balance in your life.
Welcome! The therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance and providing and creating a comfortable and nurturing environment is an integral part of forming a lasting positive change. As your therapist, it is my ultimate goal to create a safe space where you feel comfortable to be your true self - that's when the healing begins! I consider myself a support pillar - here to sit with you in the pain and help support you on your journey through healing and growth that creates balance in your life.
(772) 758-5789 View (772) 758-5789
Photo of Wendyne Limber, MA, LMFT, RDT-BCT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendyne Limber
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RDT-BCT
Verified Verified
Stuart, FL 34994
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist and Drama Therapist in Stuart, Florida helping people heal and transform past trauma, abuse, patterns and habits that sabotage love, health, abundance and freedom to be authentic and real. I help people design the life of their dreams with extraordinary healing. One of my main offerings is The Imagination ProcessTM - a 21 week healing and transformation group program, offered in an in-town or distance format. This process utilizes meditation, breathwork, sound, movement, drama therapy and the creative arts in the group process with individual therapy for processing. Web: TheImaginationProcess.com
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist and Drama Therapist in Stuart, Florida helping people heal and transform past trauma, abuse, patterns and habits that sabotage love, health, abundance and freedom to be authentic and real. I help people design the life of their dreams with extraordinary healing. One of my main offerings is The Imagination ProcessTM - a 21 week healing and transformation group program, offered in an in-town or distance format. This process utilizes meditation, breathwork, sound, movement, drama therapy and the creative arts in the group process with individual therapy for processing. Web: TheImaginationProcess.com
(772) 413-0152 View (772) 413-0152
Photo of Alison Palombi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Palombi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Stuart, FL 34994
Not accepting new clients
People utilize therapy to help change significant aspects of themselves, their relationships or other various situations in life. I provide individuals, couples and families with high quality clinical counseling in areas such as grief and loss, stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I offer clients the support necessary to alleviate problems and to lead a more fulfilling life.
People utilize therapy to help change significant aspects of themselves, their relationships or other various situations in life. I provide individuals, couples and families with high quality clinical counseling in areas such as grief and loss, stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I offer clients the support necessary to alleviate problems and to lead a more fulfilling life.
(772) 410-4641 View (772) 410-4641
Photo of Krista Puente Trefz, PsyD , Psychologist
Krista Puente Trefz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stuart, FL 34994
Welcome! Feeling the summer heat? Let’s beat it together! As a therapist, I specialize in supporting women, veterans, active duty personnel, and adults. My approach is centered on leveraging your strengths to help you thrive. What to Expect from Our Sessions: Positive Solutions: Together, we’ll find constructive ways to navigate your challenges. Resourceful Coping Skills: I’ll equip you with effective strategies to manage stress and overcome obstacles. Evidence-Based Therapy: Utilizing CBT, mindfulness, and EMDR, I’ll tailor our sessions to meet your unique needs and goals. Let’s work together to help you thrive!
Welcome! Feeling the summer heat? Let’s beat it together! As a therapist, I specialize in supporting women, veterans, active duty personnel, and adults. My approach is centered on leveraging your strengths to help you thrive. What to Expect from Our Sessions: Positive Solutions: Together, we’ll find constructive ways to navigate your challenges. Resourceful Coping Skills: I’ll equip you with effective strategies to manage stress and overcome obstacles. Evidence-Based Therapy: Utilizing CBT, mindfulness, and EMDR, I’ll tailor our sessions to meet your unique needs and goals. Let’s work together to help you thrive!
(321) 221-5978 View (321) 221-5978
Photo of Leigh S Hayden - LshCounseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LshCounseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stuart, FL 34994
Having a sense of where you are going and what you want to do with your life is key in overcoming dependence on unhealthy relationships and/or behaviors. Life is a trip. Without a plan and sense of direction, life can become stagnant. It doesn't have to be that way. The changes don't have to be drastic. A different perspective sometimes is needed. Change is not easy, but with encouragement and support, you and I will identify the changes you want to make and start the journey to a better you. My goal is to support you on that journey to help you become the person, partner, etc. you want to be. Now is the time.
Having a sense of where you are going and what you want to do with your life is key in overcoming dependence on unhealthy relationships and/or behaviors. Life is a trip. Without a plan and sense of direction, life can become stagnant. It doesn't have to be that way. The changes don't have to be drastic. A different perspective sometimes is needed. Change is not easy, but with encouragement and support, you and I will identify the changes you want to make and start the journey to a better you. My goal is to support you on that journey to help you become the person, partner, etc. you want to be. Now is the time.
(772) 341-7337 View (772) 341-7337
Photo of Sarah E. Coleman, PhD, Counselor
Sarah E. Coleman
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stuart, FL 34994
I have many years experience as a teacher and a psychotherapist. I am dedicated to helping children, adolescents, and adults become self-confident and high-functioning. I believe that therapy helps individuals better address the issues of modern life and increase harmony and maximize life potential. I aim to increase each person's growth within their environment. I welcome your call and will work with you to accomplish the growth, harmony, and understanding you deserve. Visit my site at http://sarahecoleman.com/
I have many years experience as a teacher and a psychotherapist. I am dedicated to helping children, adolescents, and adults become self-confident and high-functioning. I believe that therapy helps individuals better address the issues of modern life and increase harmony and maximize life potential. I aim to increase each person's growth within their environment. I welcome your call and will work with you to accomplish the growth, harmony, and understanding you deserve. Visit my site at http://sarahecoleman.com/
(772) 245-6951 View (772) 245-6951
Photo of Lee Sloan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lee Sloan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stuart, FL 34994
For those experiencing emotional pain, I will be providing individual, couples, and family therapy to adults and teenagers both in-person and through telehealth. I specialize in problem areas including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, men’s issues, behavioral concerns in teenagers, bipolar disorder, substance use, grief and loss, self-esteem, and relationship issues.
For those experiencing emotional pain, I will be providing individual, couples, and family therapy to adults and teenagers both in-person and through telehealth. I specialize in problem areas including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, men’s issues, behavioral concerns in teenagers, bipolar disorder, substance use, grief and loss, self-esteem, and relationship issues.
(772) 732-3752 View (772) 732-3752
Photo of Olivia Renfro, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Olivia Renfro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stuart, FL 34994
Olivia helps people with a broad variety of troubling symptoms and emotional difficulties in order to promote well-being and healing in their lives. Her intention is to facilitate a space to help increase the functioning of daily living, process and heal past traumas, promote healthy communication and work through feelings of depression and anxiety. Her practice welcomes individuals, children/adolescents, families and couples. Olivia believes in helping you develop a strong sense of self in order to better handle life's struggles.
Olivia helps people with a broad variety of troubling symptoms and emotional difficulties in order to promote well-being and healing in their lives. Her intention is to facilitate a space to help increase the functioning of daily living, process and heal past traumas, promote healthy communication and work through feelings of depression and anxiety. Her practice welcomes individuals, children/adolescents, families and couples. Olivia believes in helping you develop a strong sense of self in order to better handle life's struggles.
(772) 247-6144 View (772) 247-6144
Photo of Kevin Lane, LMHC, Counselor
Kevin Lane
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Stuart, FL 34994
Kevin has extensive experience helping children, adolescents, adults and families with a variety of emotional and mental health concerns. He believes the quality of the client - therapist relationship is one of the primary factors influencing therapy outcomes and endeavors to meet each client where he or she is on their path. He listens intently to their life stories and strives to empower them to face life’s challenges in healthy ways. In a safe, open and undemanding environment, clients are afforded the space to embrace the strengths they already possess and take steps toward living more rewarding and enriched lives.
Kevin has extensive experience helping children, adolescents, adults and families with a variety of emotional and mental health concerns. He believes the quality of the client - therapist relationship is one of the primary factors influencing therapy outcomes and endeavors to meet each client where he or she is on their path. He listens intently to their life stories and strives to empower them to face life’s challenges in healthy ways. In a safe, open and undemanding environment, clients are afforded the space to embrace the strengths they already possess and take steps toward living more rewarding and enriched lives.
(772) 837-5774 View (772) 837-5774
Photo of Darcy A Flierl, LCSW, CAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darcy A Flierl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stuart, FL 34994
A Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2004 and a Certified Addictions Professional since 2008, Darcy has helped families and individuals achieve personal outcomes that result in happier, healthier more peaceful lives. She has experience in individual and group setting therapy on an outpatient basis both through private practice.
A Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2004 and a Certified Addictions Professional since 2008, Darcy has helped families and individuals achieve personal outcomes that result in happier, healthier more peaceful lives. She has experience in individual and group setting therapy on an outpatient basis both through private practice.
(772) 617-6928 View (772) 617-6928

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 34994

100+

Average cost per session

$132

Therapists in 34994 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
92% Depression
83% Self Esteem
80% Relationship Issues
80% Coping Skills
72% Stress
71% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Cigna and Evernorth
77% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
72% Aetna

How Therapists in 34994 see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 34994?

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.