Therapists in Ewa Beach, HI

Photo of Tia Claypool, LMHC, LPC, RPT, NCC, Counselor
Tia Claypool
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
Ewa Beach, HI 96706
Aloha! Are you feeling misunderstood and emotionally stressed? Do you have unexpected life situations that leave you feeling overwhelmed? You are not alone, and I'm here to help you through these challenges with compassion and expertise. My name is Tia Claypool, and I have been practicing therapy for over 18 years. I believe deeply in the power of therapy and am here to help you navigate life's challenges with understanding and support. I specialize in working with children, families, and adults, providing a safe and supportive environment for everyone to express their feelings and experiences.
Aloha! Are you feeling misunderstood and emotionally stressed? Do you have unexpected life situations that leave you feeling overwhelmed? You are not alone, and I'm here to help you through these challenges with compassion and expertise. My name is Tia Claypool, and I have been practicing therapy for over 18 years. I believe deeply in the power of therapy and am here to help you navigate life's challenges with understanding and support. I specialize in working with children, families, and adults, providing a safe and supportive environment for everyone to express their feelings and experiences.
(808) 207-7152 View (808) 207-7152
Photo of Aileen R Maertens, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aileen R Maertens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ewa Beach, HI 96706
Feeling depressed or anxious? Having family or work problems and don't know how to make things better? I work with clients on finding ways to bring hope and purpose into their lives. As a wife and mother of adult children, chances are I've been through many of the same challenges you're currently facing. I have first hand knowledge of how difficult life can be but also how rewarding.
Feeling depressed or anxious? Having family or work problems and don't know how to make things better? I work with clients on finding ways to bring hope and purpose into their lives. As a wife and mother of adult children, chances are I've been through many of the same challenges you're currently facing. I have first hand knowledge of how difficult life can be but also how rewarding.
(808) 374-5838 View (808) 374-5838
Photo of Simone Overman-Starkman, PsyD, Psychologist
Simone Overman-Starkman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ewa Beach, HI 96706
Today is the day to make the decision to get better! Aloha, if you or someone that you love is experiencing difficulty functioning due to symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, loss, the effects of trauma, binge and purge cycles, body image distortions, suicidal thinking, obsessions, or other psychological difficulties that impede the ability to live a healthy and productive life, then I may be able to help you. My name is Simone Overman-Starkman, I am a licensed clinical psychologist welcoming new patients and looking forward to scheduling an appointment with you or your loved one.
Today is the day to make the decision to get better! Aloha, if you or someone that you love is experiencing difficulty functioning due to symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, loss, the effects of trauma, binge and purge cycles, body image distortions, suicidal thinking, obsessions, or other psychological difficulties that impede the ability to live a healthy and productive life, then I may be able to help you. My name is Simone Overman-Starkman, I am a licensed clinical psychologist welcoming new patients and looking forward to scheduling an appointment with you or your loved one.
(808) 725-2184 View (808) 725-2184
Photo of Nestor Batalon, LCSW, CSAC, ICADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nestor Batalon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC, ICADC
Verified Verified
Ewa Beach, HI 96706
Are you looking for a therapist with proven experience, ability and success to understand, motivate and inspire you to cultivate your natural ability to resolve your life-hurdles and live life to the fullest? If you are, I can help.
Are you looking for a therapist with proven experience, ability and success to understand, motivate and inspire you to cultivate your natural ability to resolve your life-hurdles and live life to the fullest? If you are, I can help.
(808) 495-0179 View (808) 495-0179
Photo of Kendall Davis, MFT , LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kendall Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT , LPC
Verified Verified
Ewa Beach, HI 96706  (Online Only)
Do you ever feel like you can’t stop thinking about food or your body image? Do you struggle with never being good enough? If you find yourself trying diets, exercises, reading all the self help books but still feel stuck then I am here to help. Together we can stop letting your body image, food rules, and anxieties take over your life and your relationships! Let’s start now.
Do you ever feel like you can’t stop thinking about food or your body image? Do you struggle with never being good enough? If you find yourself trying diets, exercises, reading all the self help books but still feel stuck then I am here to help. Together we can stop letting your body image, food rules, and anxieties take over your life and your relationships! Let’s start now.
(808) 369-9954 View (808) 369-9954
Photo of Michael Kukahiwa-Haruno, LMHC, Counselor
Michael Kukahiwa-Haruno
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ewa Beach, HI 96706
Aloha, my name is Mike Kukahiwa-Haruno, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based on the beautiful island of Oahu. I work with individuals ages 5 to 25 and specialize in anxiety, stress, behavioral concerns, and LGBTQIA+. My inspiration for becoming a counselor is my wonderful siblings who taught me the importance of support which I hope to be for you. I found that my style works well with children and adolescents who may be dealing with life transitions, difficulties with peers, family, or schools, anxiety, stress, and lack of coping strategies.
Aloha, my name is Mike Kukahiwa-Haruno, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based on the beautiful island of Oahu. I work with individuals ages 5 to 25 and specialize in anxiety, stress, behavioral concerns, and LGBTQIA+. My inspiration for becoming a counselor is my wonderful siblings who taught me the importance of support which I hope to be for you. I found that my style works well with children and adolescents who may be dealing with life transitions, difficulties with peers, family, or schools, anxiety, stress, and lack of coping strategies.
(808) 427-5358 View (808) 427-5358
Photo of Nancy Lautenbach, Counselor
Nancy Lautenbach
Counselor
Verified Verified
Ewa Beach, HI 96706  (Online Only)
Nancy Lautenbach is a licensed mental health counselor in Hawaii and Massachusetts (LMHC) and New Mexico (LPCC) and a registered art therapist with the Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB). She earned her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lesley University in Cambridge, MA with a Specialization in Expressive Therapies (Art Therapy) in 2015. She has lived on both Maui and Oahu and provides Telehealth therapy sessions to all the neighboring Hawaiian islands. She currently provides therapeutic services primarily through Telehealth to clients in MA, HI, and NM. Nancy Lautenbach’s private practice, Artpath Health and Wellness
Nancy Lautenbach is a licensed mental health counselor in Hawaii and Massachusetts (LMHC) and New Mexico (LPCC) and a registered art therapist with the Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB). She earned her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lesley University in Cambridge, MA with a Specialization in Expressive Therapies (Art Therapy) in 2015. She has lived on both Maui and Oahu and provides Telehealth therapy sessions to all the neighboring Hawaiian islands. She currently provides therapeutic services primarily through Telehealth to clients in MA, HI, and NM. Nancy Lautenbach’s private practice, Artpath Health and Wellness
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Phillip Eric Schrager, MS, LMFT, CPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Phillip Eric Schrager
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CPT
Verified Verified
Ewa Beach, HI 96706  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy helping people explore ways that they can live happier, more fulfilling and meaningful lives. As a Marriage and Family Therapist I can help you better understand and shape your familyʻs dynamics in order to make them more functional and healthy. I am a strong proponent of Positive Psychology which focuses less on what is wrong with your situation, and instead helps you to realize what is good in your life and to learn how to broaden the impact of those things and build upon them.
I enjoy helping people explore ways that they can live happier, more fulfilling and meaningful lives. As a Marriage and Family Therapist I can help you better understand and shape your familyʻs dynamics in order to make them more functional and healthy. I am a strong proponent of Positive Psychology which focuses less on what is wrong with your situation, and instead helps you to realize what is good in your life and to learn how to broaden the impact of those things and build upon them.
(808) 204-4380 View (808) 204-4380
Photo of David Shaku, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Shaku
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ewa Beach, HI 96706
My name is David Shaku and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Workplace Mindfulness Facilitator, and trained in Attachment-Focused EMDR through the Parnell Institute. My approach focuses on the treatment of big "T" and little "t" trauma by focusing on getting to know and guiding progress with my clients at their own pace.
My name is David Shaku and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Workplace Mindfulness Facilitator, and trained in Attachment-Focused EMDR through the Parnell Institute. My approach focuses on the treatment of big "T" and little "t" trauma by focusing on getting to know and guiding progress with my clients at their own pace.
(808) 460-6369 View (808) 460-6369
Photo of Margaret Hales, LMHC, Counselor
Margaret Hales
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ewa Beach, HI 96706
Meg Hales, LMHC, NCC. Everyone needs someone to listen, which is why I approach therapy as an empathetic and realistic conversation geared toward helping clients feel better. My focus areas include Adults, Individuals, Couples, Depression, Anxiety, and Addiction. My clients are tired of being unhappy and ready to make a change. I specialize in Couples going through relationship challenges, Adults suffering from Depression or Anxiety, those struggling with Addiction, and anyone else who needs to talk to someone.
Meg Hales, LMHC, NCC. Everyone needs someone to listen, which is why I approach therapy as an empathetic and realistic conversation geared toward helping clients feel better. My focus areas include Adults, Individuals, Couples, Depression, Anxiety, and Addiction. My clients are tired of being unhappy and ready to make a change. I specialize in Couples going through relationship challenges, Adults suffering from Depression or Anxiety, those struggling with Addiction, and anyone else who needs to talk to someone.
(808) 862-6675 View (808) 862-6675
Photo of David L Raffle, PhD, Psychologist
David L Raffle
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ewa Beach, HI 96706  (Online Only)
When we better understand the workings of our brains, we gain greater control over our lives, our futures, and our happiness. Dr. Raffle provides cognitive-based, client-centered individual psychotherapy in a caring, protective, and accepting atmosphere. You feel empowered to explore your own pathways toward self-discovery, positive personal growth, and self-healing. Therapy works because it creates resiliency - the mental, emotional, and behavioral flexibility to adjust to and cope with life's challenges. He specializes in adolescents and adults with brain injuries, ADHD, neurological problems, and with anxiety and depression.
When we better understand the workings of our brains, we gain greater control over our lives, our futures, and our happiness. Dr. Raffle provides cognitive-based, client-centered individual psychotherapy in a caring, protective, and accepting atmosphere. You feel empowered to explore your own pathways toward self-discovery, positive personal growth, and self-healing. Therapy works because it creates resiliency - the mental, emotional, and behavioral flexibility to adjust to and cope with life's challenges. He specializes in adolescents and adults with brain injuries, ADHD, neurological problems, and with anxiety and depression.
(800) 450-9799 View (800) 450-9799
Photo of Peggy Karwiel, BCBA, LBA
Peggy Karwiel
BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Ewa Beach, HI 96706  (Online Only)
Everything changed with your child's autism diagnosis. In a moment, your clear vision for their future became murky and unknown. And all the plans you’d made were instantly turned upside-down. You try to talk to friends and family about what you’re going through, and they offer well-meaning advice, but they just don't get it. How could they know how isolating and challenging it is to navigate a world that doesn’t understand your or your child’s needs? You want so badly to give your child their best shot at a bright and successful future, but you’re simply not sure how to help them. You don’t think you can do this alone any longer.
Everything changed with your child's autism diagnosis. In a moment, your clear vision for their future became murky and unknown. And all the plans you’d made were instantly turned upside-down. You try to talk to friends and family about what you’re going through, and they offer well-meaning advice, but they just don't get it. How could they know how isolating and challenging it is to navigate a world that doesn’t understand your or your child’s needs? You want so badly to give your child their best shot at a bright and successful future, but you’re simply not sure how to help them. You don’t think you can do this alone any longer.
(808) 427-2177 View (808) 427-2177
Photo of Stacey Schrager - Hawaii Resilience Training and Counseling LLC, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hawaii Resilience Training and Counseling LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ewa Beach, HI 96706
We are a team of therapists ready to help you not just survive, but actually THRIVE in life. We generally take a Solution-Focused, Positive Psychology approach to helping our clients. Together we will identify your own, unique strengths and use them in order to overcome lifeʻs inevitable challenges. We emphasize that in order to make lasting changes we must stay motivated over a long period of time. By linking your desired goals with your own individual core values and beliefs you are much more likely to achieve them.
We are a team of therapists ready to help you not just survive, but actually THRIVE in life. We generally take a Solution-Focused, Positive Psychology approach to helping our clients. Together we will identify your own, unique strengths and use them in order to overcome lifeʻs inevitable challenges. We emphasize that in order to make lasting changes we must stay motivated over a long period of time. By linking your desired goals with your own individual core values and beliefs you are much more likely to achieve them.
(808) 736-4606 View (808) 736-4606
Photo of Nichole Mathis, LMHC, Counselor
Nichole Mathis
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ewa Beach, HI 96706
Mahalo! Hi, my name is Nichole Mathis, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and work with clients in Hawaii via telehealth. I work with adolescents and specialize in parenting, adoption, foster care, anxiety & depression, grief & loss, incarceration, domestic abuse, and military community support using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Attachment Strategies to support clients in making progress toward their goals. This provider resides in Hawaii.
Mahalo! Hi, my name is Nichole Mathis, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and work with clients in Hawaii via telehealth. I work with adolescents and specialize in parenting, adoption, foster care, anxiety & depression, grief & loss, incarceration, domestic abuse, and military community support using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Attachment Strategies to support clients in making progress toward their goals. This provider resides in Hawaii.
(808) 215-6163 View (808) 215-6163
Photo of Madonna Tinorua, LCMHC, Counselor
Madonna Tinorua
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Ewa Beach, HI 96706
Aloha, I'm Madonna, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and life transitions. I'm here to offer you a supportive and empathetic space where we can work together to navigate life's challenges, build coping strategies, and help you achieve a happier and more balanced life. Let's embark on this journey towards your well-being and personal growth together. This provider resides in Hawaii. My eclectic therapeutic approach combines various theoretical frameworks to offer personalized care. It centers on Person-Centered therapy, emphasizing empathy and active listening to create a safe space.
Aloha, I'm Madonna, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and life transitions. I'm here to offer you a supportive and empathetic space where we can work together to navigate life's challenges, build coping strategies, and help you achieve a happier and more balanced life. Let's embark on this journey towards your well-being and personal growth together. This provider resides in Hawaii. My eclectic therapeutic approach combines various theoretical frameworks to offer personalized care. It centers on Person-Centered therapy, emphasizing empathy and active listening to create a safe space.
(808) 707-8574 View (808) 707-8574
Photo of Kathleen Welch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Welch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ewa Beach, HI 96706
My name is Katie Welch and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Wailuku, Maui, where I enjoy serving clients across the state of Hawaii. I primarily work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, sexual trauma, and addiction. My favorite frameworks for care are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance, and Commitment Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, always through the lens of trauma-informed care. This provider resides in Hawaii.
My name is Katie Welch and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Wailuku, Maui, where I enjoy serving clients across the state of Hawaii. I primarily work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, sexual trauma, and addiction. My favorite frameworks for care are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance, and Commitment Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, always through the lens of trauma-informed care. This provider resides in Hawaii.
(808) 215-5841 View (808) 215-5841
Photo of Charleen McDuffie, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Charleen McDuffie
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ewa Beach, HI 96706
Hi! My name is Charleen McDuffie, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Hawaii. I am here to help you get to a better version of yourself! If you're looking for a safe space to talk to someone and heal, I am here for you. This provider resides in Hawaii. I can help support you if you are experiencing overthinking patterns or negative emotions. It can be tough to go through these situations alone. If your goal is to have more positive thinking and gain tools for a healthier mindset, I would love to work with you.
Hi! My name is Charleen McDuffie, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Hawaii. I am here to help you get to a better version of yourself! If you're looking for a safe space to talk to someone and heal, I am here for you. This provider resides in Hawaii. I can help support you if you are experiencing overthinking patterns or negative emotions. It can be tough to go through these situations alone. If your goal is to have more positive thinking and gain tools for a healthier mindset, I would love to work with you.
(808) 736-0046 View (808) 736-0046
Photo of Kathleen A. Castillo, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathleen A. Castillo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ewa Beach, HI 96706  (Online Only)
Have you forgotten what it feels like to be happy? Do you find yourself feeling stressed, anxious or depressed? Are you feeling overwhelmed by a difficult life transition? My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, confidential and non-judgemental atmosphere in which clients can express their feelings and gain insight into what led to this current state of mind and then take the steps toward a positive change.
Have you forgotten what it feels like to be happy? Do you find yourself feeling stressed, anxious or depressed? Are you feeling overwhelmed by a difficult life transition? My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, confidential and non-judgemental atmosphere in which clients can express their feelings and gain insight into what led to this current state of mind and then take the steps toward a positive change.
(808) 427-0823 View (808) 427-0823
Photo of Serena Nasworthy, LMHC, Counselor
Serena Nasworthy
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ewa Beach, HI 96706
Hi, My name is Serena Nasworthy and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based here in Hawaii. I have worked with a wide variety of populations during my career; from dual-diagnosis adults to youth and teens struggling with severe mental health challenges to children as young as 6 years old and their families who are just trying to figure things out! I feel I thrive when serving any population or any client that is willing/ready to put in the work therapy requires.
Hi, My name is Serena Nasworthy and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based here in Hawaii. I have worked with a wide variety of populations during my career; from dual-diagnosis adults to youth and teens struggling with severe mental health challenges to children as young as 6 years old and their families who are just trying to figure things out! I feel I thrive when serving any population or any client that is willing/ready to put in the work therapy requires.
(808) 818-5070 View (808) 818-5070
Photo of Sheri-Marie Santos, MSCP, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sheri-Marie Santos
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSCP, MFT
Verified Verified
Ewa Beach, HI 96706
Sheri Marie Santos received her master’s degree in counseling psychology with a minor in Marriage and Family from Chaminade University of Honolulu. Sheri has always had a passion for understanding the analysis of human behavior and seeking insight into the origins of that behavior. She believes in the resilience of the human mind, body, and spirit. With guidance through the stages of self-actualization, she believes that taking the special time to work on individual and couples’ missions can lead to clearer visions of one’s perspective of what their ideal overall life satisfaction can be at their best actual self.
Sheri Marie Santos received her master’s degree in counseling psychology with a minor in Marriage and Family from Chaminade University of Honolulu. Sheri has always had a passion for understanding the analysis of human behavior and seeking insight into the origins of that behavior. She believes in the resilience of the human mind, body, and spirit. With guidance through the stages of self-actualization, she believes that taking the special time to work on individual and couples’ missions can lead to clearer visions of one’s perspective of what their ideal overall life satisfaction can be at their best actual self.
(808) 460-6459 View (808) 460-6459
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Ewa Beach, HI

90+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Ewa Beach, HI who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
86% Depression
82% Coping Skills
72% Self Esteem
67% Relationship Issues
63% Stress
62% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

64% Hawaii Medical Services Association
57% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
52% University Health Alliance

How Therapists in Ewa Beach, HI see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Ewa Beach?

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.