Photo of Lita B Hickey, LCSW, LSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lita B Hickey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96825  (Online Only)
Hello! I’m Lita B. Hickey, LCSW (she/her) and I’m excited to get to know you. When individuals experience mental health situations, it is not unusual for their lives to unwind. My values and passion are making a difference in helping people “feel better” who are encountering, depression, anxiety, and life adjustments. I assist and support individuals in discovering healthy perceptions of themselves so that they are peaceful, worthy, productive, and safe. My holistic approach is based on kindness, genuineness, and empathy.I provide an integrative array of therapeutic approaches and wellness, encompassing, mindfulness, meditation.
Hello! I’m Lita B. Hickey, LCSW (she/her) and I’m excited to get to know you. When individuals experience mental health situations, it is not unusual for their lives to unwind. My values and passion are making a difference in helping people “feel better” who are encountering, depression, anxiety, and life adjustments. I assist and support individuals in discovering healthy perceptions of themselves so that they are peaceful, worthy, productive, and safe. My holistic approach is based on kindness, genuineness, and empathy.I provide an integrative array of therapeutic approaches and wellness, encompassing, mindfulness, meditation.
(808) 818-5514 View (808) 818-5514
Photo of Duane F Barone, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Duane F Barone
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96825
With two decades of working with court-ordered clients needing to address anger management and relationship violence, I help individuals and couples understand how their childhood and adolescent experiences effect their approach to marriage and families. Changes cannot be made until we understand our baggage, why it gets us triggered, and how to deal with it positively within your relationship. I love helping individuals identify and understand the pieces of their puzzles. I approach counseling to teach clients about Relationships 101, which I refer to as “common sense made obvious.” I help clients to re-write their “programs.”
With two decades of working with court-ordered clients needing to address anger management and relationship violence, I help individuals and couples understand how their childhood and adolescent experiences effect their approach to marriage and families. Changes cannot be made until we understand our baggage, why it gets us triggered, and how to deal with it positively within your relationship. I love helping individuals identify and understand the pieces of their puzzles. I approach counseling to teach clients about Relationships 101, which I refer to as “common sense made obvious.” I help clients to re-write their “programs.”
(808) 746-3439 View (808) 746-3439
Photo of Erin Atkinson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Atkinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96825
True healing is more than just a relief from symptoms. I will support you in making deep and lasting change by recognizing the intrinsic connections between your mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. We will also attend to relationships with your community and environment, as we are all parts of an interdependent weave. I am passionate about holistic wellness, and embrace a comprehensive approach that addresses the interconnected aspects of your life: mind, body, spirit, community, and environment.
True healing is more than just a relief from symptoms. I will support you in making deep and lasting change by recognizing the intrinsic connections between your mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. We will also attend to relationships with your community and environment, as we are all parts of an interdependent weave. I am passionate about holistic wellness, and embrace a comprehensive approach that addresses the interconnected aspects of your life: mind, body, spirit, community, and environment.
(808) 353-5004 View (808) 353-5004
Photo of Christiana Puccetti - Mental Wealth Hawaii, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christiana Puccetti - Mental Wealth Hawaii
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96825
I welcome you to an environment where you can feel safe being YOU. As a therapist, I value kind, non-judgemental, compassionate, and open discussions. I understand that taking this step means you that want change. I respect that change can be difficult, and value your bravery. Whether you are overcoming trauma, dealing with hardships in relationships, or having difficulty with transitions, I am here to support your work in becoming the best version of you.
I welcome you to an environment where you can feel safe being YOU. As a therapist, I value kind, non-judgemental, compassionate, and open discussions. I understand that taking this step means you that want change. I respect that change can be difficult, and value your bravery. Whether you are overcoming trauma, dealing with hardships in relationships, or having difficulty with transitions, I am here to support your work in becoming the best version of you.
(808) 215-4295 View (808) 215-4295
Photo of Kevin K. Tomita, PhD, Psychologist
Kevin K. Tomita
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96825  (Online Only)
I am licensed in Hawai'i and in California and am currently accepting new clients. Do you have difficulties navigating your relationships? Are you looking to address frustrating patterns that seem to turn up time and time again? Have you struggled with difficulties related to gender or sexuality? If you're looking for a psychologist with experience in working with these issues and more, I may be able to assist you.
I am licensed in Hawai'i and in California and am currently accepting new clients. Do you have difficulties navigating your relationships? Are you looking to address frustrating patterns that seem to turn up time and time again? Have you struggled with difficulties related to gender or sexuality? If you're looking for a psychologist with experience in working with these issues and more, I may be able to assist you.
(808) 731-1712 View (808) 731-1712
Photo of Dr. Jennifer (Wu) Andrews, PhD, LP, HSP, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Jennifer (Wu) Andrews
Psychologist, PhD, LP, HSP, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96825  (Online Only)
Do you currently feel stuck in life no matter what you try to do? Do you wish things could change but you're not sure how to go about it? If so, you are not alone. We all stumble and fall sometimes, whether in our friendships, relationships, work, and more. The most important thing you can do for yourself is to ask for help - you do not have to do this alone! I enjoy actively participating in collaborative care with my clients. No matter the issue, you and I will work as a team to conquer all! I provide culturally-minded, comprehensive, and holistic care to adults, utilizing an integrative and collaborative treatment approach.
Do you currently feel stuck in life no matter what you try to do? Do you wish things could change but you're not sure how to go about it? If so, you are not alone. We all stumble and fall sometimes, whether in our friendships, relationships, work, and more. The most important thing you can do for yourself is to ask for help - you do not have to do this alone! I enjoy actively participating in collaborative care with my clients. No matter the issue, you and I will work as a team to conquer all! I provide culturally-minded, comprehensive, and holistic care to adults, utilizing an integrative and collaborative treatment approach.
(808) 204-4367 View (808) 204-4367
Photo of Cherina Hsia, PsyD, Psychologist
Cherina Hsia
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96825
Waitlist for new clients
We all have had difficult issues arise in our lives. Whether you are dealing with trauma issues, challenges with addiction (individual, partner, or family member), adverse psychological symptoms, grief over the loss of a loved one, or a relationship that is not working for you anymore... you are not alone. I am here to take this journey with you to bring about positive, meaningful change. Our relationship will be a holistic journey. It will be safe, strength based, and collaborative. I am passionate about working with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
We all have had difficult issues arise in our lives. Whether you are dealing with trauma issues, challenges with addiction (individual, partner, or family member), adverse psychological symptoms, grief over the loss of a loved one, or a relationship that is not working for you anymore... you are not alone. I am here to take this journey with you to bring about positive, meaningful change. Our relationship will be a holistic journey. It will be safe, strength based, and collaborative. I am passionate about working with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
(808) 201-2580 View (808) 201-2580
Photo of April Wubbens, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
April Wubbens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96825  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
April uses a holistic approach to address life's challenges and understands that each individual has a unique way of working through obstacles. She has a decade of experience working with individuals and families facing life transitions and trauma. Using Person-Centered Therapy, Positive Psychology, Strengths Based Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy approaches, April builds upon the inherent strengths of each individual and empowers them to build a healthier, happier life.
April uses a holistic approach to address life's challenges and understands that each individual has a unique way of working through obstacles. She has a decade of experience working with individuals and families facing life transitions and trauma. Using Person-Centered Therapy, Positive Psychology, Strengths Based Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy approaches, April builds upon the inherent strengths of each individual and empowers them to build a healthier, happier life.
(808) 320-1138 View (808) 320-1138
Photo of Vishaka Devi Jokiel - Vishaka Devi Jokiel, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vishaka Devi Jokiel, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96825
My counseling style is honest, clear, direct, compassionate and intuitive. My work with you will be spirit-based, compassionate, and wellness-oriented. I will use a strengths based, client centered, humanistic approach in our sessions. If you choose to work with me, together we will find ways to make fearless, permanent changes in your life and to make peace with issues that may have haunted you in the past. You might even decide to close down the chapter of your life where destructive and addictive habit patterns can cease and you will begin to live from your authentic self.
My counseling style is honest, clear, direct, compassionate and intuitive. My work with you will be spirit-based, compassionate, and wellness-oriented. I will use a strengths based, client centered, humanistic approach in our sessions. If you choose to work with me, together we will find ways to make fearless, permanent changes in your life and to make peace with issues that may have haunted you in the past. You might even decide to close down the chapter of your life where destructive and addictive habit patterns can cease and you will begin to live from your authentic self.
(808) 374-5022 View (808) 374-5022
Photo of Karen Elizabeth Kimball, MS, BCBA, LBA, LMHC, Counselor
Karen Elizabeth Kimball
Counselor, MS, BCBA, LBA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96825
I believe counseling can give an individual and family the necessary support, insight, motivation, strength, and skills to adapt, change for the better, and find their true self. I provide individual, family, group counseling, and social skills groups. My specialty areas are individuals with Autism, Developmental Disabilities, Anxiety, and Depression. Take a step to find your happiness, peace, and balance.
I believe counseling can give an individual and family the necessary support, insight, motivation, strength, and skills to adapt, change for the better, and find their true self. I provide individual, family, group counseling, and social skills groups. My specialty areas are individuals with Autism, Developmental Disabilities, Anxiety, and Depression. Take a step to find your happiness, peace, and balance.
(808) 201-5245 View (808) 201-5245
Photo of Kenneth Kim, PhD, Psychologist
Kenneth Kim
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96825  (Online Only)
Hello, I am a psychologist dedicated to specializing in various aspects of mental health and well-being. With a focus on depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, personality disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), I strive to provide compassionate and effective support to individuals navigating these challenges. My approach to therapy is grounded in evidence-based practices, tailoring treatment plans to suit each individual's unique needs and circumstances. Whether you're seeking to overcome debilitating symptoms, improve relationships, or better understand yourself or a loved one, I'm here to help.
Hello, I am a psychologist dedicated to specializing in various aspects of mental health and well-being. With a focus on depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, personality disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), I strive to provide compassionate and effective support to individuals navigating these challenges. My approach to therapy is grounded in evidence-based practices, tailoring treatment plans to suit each individual's unique needs and circumstances. Whether you're seeking to overcome debilitating symptoms, improve relationships, or better understand yourself or a loved one, I'm here to help.
(808) 774-3886 View (808) 774-3886
Photo of Jane Fisher, PhD, Psychologist
Jane Fisher
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96825  (Online Only)
I am taking new clients. As a solution-focused therapist, I will guide you to achieve your goals by helping you uncover your inner strengths and resources so that you can reach your true potential. By applying effective therapy techniques, you will uncover the unconscious issues, emotions, and limiting beliefs that are blocking you from resolving your problems and enjoying a more fulfilling and meaningful life. My approach involves resolving past hurts through inner child healing, which frees you to transform into your ideal self.
I am taking new clients. As a solution-focused therapist, I will guide you to achieve your goals by helping you uncover your inner strengths and resources so that you can reach your true potential. By applying effective therapy techniques, you will uncover the unconscious issues, emotions, and limiting beliefs that are blocking you from resolving your problems and enjoying a more fulfilling and meaningful life. My approach involves resolving past hurts through inner child healing, which frees you to transform into your ideal self.
(808) 518-4139 View (808) 518-4139
Photo of Kelly M Hee, LCSW, CEDS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly M Hee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96825
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! I am an IAEDP Certified Eating Disorder Specialist that is licensed in both CA and HI. My approach to therapy comes from a humanistic standpoint, helping clients to better understand patterns that cause chaos or dysfunction in their lives. I work with those who come in to assist them in developing understanding, compassion, and knowledge around this chaos; as well as skills to overcome these difficulties. Each person's treatment, session, and therapy is individually personalized to meet your specific needs. I come from a person-centered approach, and practice mostly CBT, ACT and emphasize the therapeutic relationship.
Welcome! I am an IAEDP Certified Eating Disorder Specialist that is licensed in both CA and HI. My approach to therapy comes from a humanistic standpoint, helping clients to better understand patterns that cause chaos or dysfunction in their lives. I work with those who come in to assist them in developing understanding, compassion, and knowledge around this chaos; as well as skills to overcome these difficulties. Each person's treatment, session, and therapy is individually personalized to meet your specific needs. I come from a person-centered approach, and practice mostly CBT, ACT and emphasize the therapeutic relationship.
(808) 515-2932 View (808) 515-2932
Photo of David Linares - Serenity, CPC, LPCC, Counselor
Serenity
Counselor, CPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96825  (Online Only)
You wish that you had been given a rule book for life but no one offered you one. You recognize that you want solutions not just a passive listener. You want feedback, skill building, tips, tactics, answers, options, evidenced based tools and information. As a solution focused therapist David specializes and has devoted his life to relationship issues, anxiety and anger management. David knows that time, love, and happiness are what we all want more of. David uses proven methods that can help manage your feelings, boost your confidence, manage conflict, overcome your anxieties and banish depression.
You wish that you had been given a rule book for life but no one offered you one. You recognize that you want solutions not just a passive listener. You want feedback, skill building, tips, tactics, answers, options, evidenced based tools and information. As a solution focused therapist David specializes and has devoted his life to relationship issues, anxiety and anger management. David knows that time, love, and happiness are what we all want more of. David uses proven methods that can help manage your feelings, boost your confidence, manage conflict, overcome your anxieties and banish depression.
(808) 435-4487 View (808) 435-4487
Photo of Phillip Rios - Alpha Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist
Alpha Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96825
Happiness is the only true measure of success. When we realize that something is impeding our journey of life a conscious choice can be made to change that which is keeping greater happiness at bay. The other choice is to remain on our current path and choose to accept things exactly for how they are. Self-doubt, fears, anger, grief, past trauma, or maladaptive behaviors, challenge many good people. Whether it is personal growth you seek or better relationships with loved ones, neighbors, or coworkers - permit me to be your professional guide on the road to your success.
Happiness is the only true measure of success. When we realize that something is impeding our journey of life a conscious choice can be made to change that which is keeping greater happiness at bay. The other choice is to remain on our current path and choose to accept things exactly for how they are. Self-doubt, fears, anger, grief, past trauma, or maladaptive behaviors, challenge many good people. Whether it is personal growth you seek or better relationships with loved ones, neighbors, or coworkers - permit me to be your professional guide on the road to your success.
(808) 977-6151 View (808) 977-6151
Photo of Kelsey Fujinaka, PsyD, Psychologist
Kelsey Fujinaka
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96825
My approach to therapy is collaborative and tailored to the client I am working with. I create a safe space for individuals of all ages looking to work through life stressors, depression, anxiety, and trauma (life changes, past history of abuse or neglect, grief/loss). I also work with families who may be struggling with behavior management issues (tantrums, emotion dysregulation in young children).
My approach to therapy is collaborative and tailored to the client I am working with. I create a safe space for individuals of all ages looking to work through life stressors, depression, anxiety, and trauma (life changes, past history of abuse or neglect, grief/loss). I also work with families who may be struggling with behavior management issues (tantrums, emotion dysregulation in young children).
(808) 645-4067 View (808) 645-4067
Photo of Terilyn Keliinoi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terilyn Keliinoi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96825  (Online Only)
Terilyn “Teri” Keliinoi is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years post master’s and 11 years post LCSW experience. She has worked with children, teens and adults in hospital based acute and residential settings, outpatient clinics, as well as early intervention, school based behavioral health and hospice agencies.
Terilyn “Teri” Keliinoi is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years post master’s and 11 years post LCSW experience. She has worked with children, teens and adults in hospital based acute and residential settings, outpatient clinics, as well as early intervention, school based behavioral health and hospice agencies.
(808) 320-5203 View (808) 320-5203
Photo of Dr. Jamie Taylor, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Jamie Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96825  (Online Only)
Psychotherapy is a continual process of self-awareness and growth. By identifying and changing our maladaptive behavioral patterns, we can move towards healthier living and relating to others. I provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and adolescents who are seeking to improve the quality of​ their lives and relationships. My clinical experience includes working with individuals and families within educational and private practice settings to assist in making progress toward overcoming what may seem like insurmountable challenges.
Psychotherapy is a continual process of self-awareness and growth. By identifying and changing our maladaptive behavioral patterns, we can move towards healthier living and relating to others. I provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and adolescents who are seeking to improve the quality of​ their lives and relationships. My clinical experience includes working with individuals and families within educational and private practice settings to assist in making progress toward overcoming what may seem like insurmountable challenges.
(808) 468-6123 View (808) 468-6123
Photo of Jennifer Depry, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer Depry
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96825
My approach to therapy with adults is based upon the belief that everyone has the power to heal oneself. My role is to serve as a guide, a facilitator or a conduit depending on the needs of my clients. The longer I practice, the more I realize that the key to "treat" human conditions is through light, love and compassion. I have a lot of success working with people who suffer from trauma (e.g., sexual abuse), anxiety, severe depression and life changing events (e.g., severe illness, loss of a love one). Therapy process includes inner child work, shadow work and energy healing.
My approach to therapy with adults is based upon the belief that everyone has the power to heal oneself. My role is to serve as a guide, a facilitator or a conduit depending on the needs of my clients. The longer I practice, the more I realize that the key to "treat" human conditions is through light, love and compassion. I have a lot of success working with people who suffer from trauma (e.g., sexual abuse), anxiety, severe depression and life changing events (e.g., severe illness, loss of a love one). Therapy process includes inner child work, shadow work and energy healing.
(808) 427-1127 View (808) 427-1127
Photo of Kimberly Iese, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Iese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96825  (Online Only)
Kimberly received her Master’s Degree, in Social Work, from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She worked with children, for 6 years, in private therapy clinics, residential treatment facilities, and school settings. Kimberly has lived in Hawaii for 13 years where she has worked in nursing homes, hospitals, and private therapy clinics. She has experience working with the elderly and their families, people with chronic illness, students with a variety of issues, people experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and trauma.
Kimberly received her Master’s Degree, in Social Work, from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She worked with children, for 6 years, in private therapy clinics, residential treatment facilities, and school settings. Kimberly has lived in Hawaii for 13 years where she has worked in nursing homes, hospitals, and private therapy clinics. She has experience working with the elderly and their families, people with chronic illness, students with a variety of issues, people experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and trauma.
(808) 427-1839 View (808) 427-1839
1

See more therapy options for 96825

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 96825

80+

Average cost per session

$170

Therapists in 96825 who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
87% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
75% Coping Skills
74% Self Esteem
68% Family Conflict
68% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Hawaii Medical Services Association
67% University Health Alliance
58% Hawaii Medical Assurance Association

How Therapists in 96825 see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 96825?

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.