Therapists in Venice, FL

Photo of Maria E McLean - Corner Booth Counseling Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria E McLean - Corner Booth Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34293
Overwhelmed with racing thoughts and negative self-talk you can't turn off? Is this impacting your relationships, confidence, and mood? You are a high performing professional, student, parent who is feeling the burn out and missing motivation. We can work together to find relief from anxiety, low self-esteem, and life challenges. You can find new ways to approach life more calmly and confidently, live with peace and fulfillment, knowing your own worth and strengths.
Overwhelmed with racing thoughts and negative self-talk you can't turn off? Is this impacting your relationships, confidence, and mood? You are a high performing professional, student, parent who is feeling the burn out and missing motivation. We can work together to find relief from anxiety, low self-esteem, and life challenges. You can find new ways to approach life more calmly and confidently, live with peace and fulfillment, knowing your own worth and strengths.
(941) 218-8512 View (941) 218-8512
Photo of Carol Stearn, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Stearn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293  (Online Only)
I offer individual telehealth therapy, through a user-friendly, HIPAA compliant platform to adults and seniors. I accept Medicare, most commercial insurancesand out-of-pocket payment. I have more than 19 years of experience collaborating with clients to successfully address a variety of behavioral, relationship and challenging life issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, life transitions, substance abuse and infidelity. I utilize a number of therapeutic modalities, depending on the issue to be addressed, including cognitive behavioral, humanistic, self psychology, motivational interviewing and EMDR.
I offer individual telehealth therapy, through a user-friendly, HIPAA compliant platform to adults and seniors. I accept Medicare, most commercial insurancesand out-of-pocket payment. I have more than 19 years of experience collaborating with clients to successfully address a variety of behavioral, relationship and challenging life issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, life transitions, substance abuse and infidelity. I utilize a number of therapeutic modalities, depending on the issue to be addressed, including cognitive behavioral, humanistic, self psychology, motivational interviewing and EMDR.
(941) 202-5674 View (941) 202-5674
Photo of Melissa Lou Koerner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Lou Koerner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293  (Online Only)
Are you stuck in depression and anxiety that has not been alleviated by medication or talk therapy? Would you prefer to invest more hours up front and achieve a better result that does not require weekly ongoing appointments? Are you open to new experiences that are transformative? Consider the proven benefits of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I can guide you through this process in a matter of 2-3 months at a reasonable cost. I also love to work with families who are struggling with significant behavior problems.
Are you stuck in depression and anxiety that has not been alleviated by medication or talk therapy? Would you prefer to invest more hours up front and achieve a better result that does not require weekly ongoing appointments? Are you open to new experiences that are transformative? Consider the proven benefits of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I can guide you through this process in a matter of 2-3 months at a reasonable cost. I also love to work with families who are struggling with significant behavior problems.
(941) 770-4381 View (941) 770-4381
Photo of Dawn Costanzo, RMHCI
Dawn Costanzo
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34285  (Online Only)
Curiosity and reverence. This is how I approach my clients and how I invite you to approach your own life story. Awareness and self-understanding are foundational to healing and growth, so I provide education and encouragement as we start our journey together to process your life experiences. You will begin to experience a decrease of self-judgement, negative beliefs and harmful habits and an increase in positive relationships, trust, and joy.
Curiosity and reverence. This is how I approach my clients and how I invite you to approach your own life story. Awareness and self-understanding are foundational to healing and growth, so I provide education and encouragement as we start our journey together to process your life experiences. You will begin to experience a decrease of self-judgement, negative beliefs and harmful habits and an increase in positive relationships, trust, and joy.
(833) 359-8565 View (833) 359-8565
Photo of Mary Claire O. McNair, LCSW, BACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Claire O. McNair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34292  (Online Only)
Life often presents us with challenges. Managing family, work or school, social and personal obligations can be stressful and overwhelming. You may feel your life is out of balance. Whether you are dealing with stressful circumstances, ongoing anxiety, panic, sadness, depression, substance misuse, low confidence, and/or are wanting more work-life harmony, I will provide the space to help you feel supported and heard.
Life often presents us with challenges. Managing family, work or school, social and personal obligations can be stressful and overwhelming. You may feel your life is out of balance. Whether you are dealing with stressful circumstances, ongoing anxiety, panic, sadness, depression, substance misuse, low confidence, and/or are wanting more work-life harmony, I will provide the space to help you feel supported and heard.
(941) 229-7606 View (941) 229-7606
Photo of Diane Katherine Clukey-Chenard, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane Katherine Clukey-Chenard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34285
For more than 20 years in Maine and Florida I’ve helped teens and adults navigate anxiety, depression, grief and trauma in healthy healing and productive ways. I bring an understanding of trauma, grief, depression and anxiety and how they can play out in negative ways in everyday life. I bring 25+ years of working with the LGBTQIA+ community helping folks celebrate who they are while at the same time acknowledging the stress and unique family factors this amazing community deals with on a daily basis. Having run a grief group for over 10 years, I have a deep understanding of loss and the individuality of each person's journey.
For more than 20 years in Maine and Florida I’ve helped teens and adults navigate anxiety, depression, grief and trauma in healthy healing and productive ways. I bring an understanding of trauma, grief, depression and anxiety and how they can play out in negative ways in everyday life. I bring 25+ years of working with the LGBTQIA+ community helping folks celebrate who they are while at the same time acknowledging the stress and unique family factors this amazing community deals with on a daily basis. Having run a grief group for over 10 years, I have a deep understanding of loss and the individuality of each person's journey.
(941) 220-5027 View (941) 220-5027
Photo of Beatriz De La Espriella, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beatriz De La Espriella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293  (Online Only)
Anxious, overwhelmed and emotionally exhausted. This is what it feels like to be constantly overthinking situations, which leave you feeling disconnected from your true self. Whether it's school, work or your relationships, you are feeling fearful, on edge, or irritable, no matter what you do. You might not even recall a time where things didn’t feel this way. What you do know is that you are searching for change and relief. You are ready to learn how to manage these difficult thoughts and emotions. You are ready to find joy, feel confident, and worry free. You are ready to focus on you.
Anxious, overwhelmed and emotionally exhausted. This is what it feels like to be constantly overthinking situations, which leave you feeling disconnected from your true self. Whether it's school, work or your relationships, you are feeling fearful, on edge, or irritable, no matter what you do. You might not even recall a time where things didn’t feel this way. What you do know is that you are searching for change and relief. You are ready to learn how to manage these difficult thoughts and emotions. You are ready to find joy, feel confident, and worry free. You are ready to focus on you.
(941) 876-5406 View (941) 876-5406
Photo of Martha A. Smith, LMHC, Counselor
Martha A. Smith
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285
People often turn to a professional counselor when they are having trouble with relationships--either with self or others. Sometimes we feel stuck in life situations and are unable to move forward. We all need balance in life and sometimes it helps to have some guidance reaching that goal--whether in our personal or professional arena. We can work together to find the most beneficial approach for you to get your life on track.
People often turn to a professional counselor when they are having trouble with relationships--either with self or others. Sometimes we feel stuck in life situations and are unable to move forward. We all need balance in life and sometimes it helps to have some guidance reaching that goal--whether in our personal or professional arena. We can work together to find the most beneficial approach for you to get your life on track.
(941) 487-0925 View (941) 487-0925
Photo of Lisa R Richardson, LMHC, NCC, IATP, LPC, Counselor
Lisa R Richardson
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, IATP, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34293  (Online Only)
As a Master's level Art Therapist, my practice incorporates the creative process with a Humanistic approach to help you develop healthy coping skills to manage emotions, moods, and behaviors. The union of art and psychology helps increase feelings of self-esteem and self-worth as you discover your strengths and life potential. When words are not enough, we use the creative process as a tool to facilitate exploration of beliefs, identifying the root cause of challenges that disrupt balance in daily functioning. In sessions, we will work in areas of mindfulness, identifying and establishing personal boundaries, and managing emotions.
As a Master's level Art Therapist, my practice incorporates the creative process with a Humanistic approach to help you develop healthy coping skills to manage emotions, moods, and behaviors. The union of art and psychology helps increase feelings of self-esteem and self-worth as you discover your strengths and life potential. When words are not enough, we use the creative process as a tool to facilitate exploration of beliefs, identifying the root cause of challenges that disrupt balance in daily functioning. In sessions, we will work in areas of mindfulness, identifying and establishing personal boundaries, and managing emotions.
(941) 876-5054 View (941) 876-5054
Photo of Karen Hartfield - Fearless Heart Counseling, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Karen Hartfield - Fearless Heart Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293
For both children and adults, challenges can create anxiety, frustration, depression, and the feeling there is no way out. I offer a place of safety and support where you can freely process emotions and thoughts, come to a deeper understanding of yourself, and find ways to get yourself unstuck. Together, we look at self-defeating patterns and seek to understand their source. It is my goal to connect with clients regardless of where they may be in their experience. I partner with and hold space for clients of all ages, assisting them in finding their own internal strength and discovering practical solutions to challenges they face.
For both children and adults, challenges can create anxiety, frustration, depression, and the feeling there is no way out. I offer a place of safety and support where you can freely process emotions and thoughts, come to a deeper understanding of yourself, and find ways to get yourself unstuck. Together, we look at self-defeating patterns and seek to understand their source. It is my goal to connect with clients regardless of where they may be in their experience. I partner with and hold space for clients of all ages, assisting them in finding their own internal strength and discovering practical solutions to challenges they face.
(941) 787-5045 View (941) 787-5045
Photo of Angela Steranko, PsyD, Psychologist
Angela Steranko
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34285
Are you concerned about your child's stress level or low mood? Perhaps you are you just hoping to get through the day without your child having a major meltdown or lashing out. It may be time to seek support in therapy. I am highly experienced in working with children, adolescents and young adults through their 20's. I offer a relaxed, judgement-free atmosphere to help guide families through challenges and provide support through approaches based on research.
Are you concerned about your child's stress level or low mood? Perhaps you are you just hoping to get through the day without your child having a major meltdown or lashing out. It may be time to seek support in therapy. I am highly experienced in working with children, adolescents and young adults through their 20's. I offer a relaxed, judgement-free atmosphere to help guide families through challenges and provide support through approaches based on research.
(941) 840-5187 View (941) 840-5187
Photo of Julie Clark - Cosmic Warrior Wisdom, LLC, BCC
Cosmic Warrior Wisdom, LLC
BCC
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293
Julie Clark is a Board-Certified Coach specializing in Narcissistic Abuse Recovery, Psychospiritual Coaching and Entheogenic Medicine Integration. Clients recovering from Narcissistic Abuse are guided to establish a solid and lasting inner identification with the Authentic Self, dissolving trauma-bonding patterns and restoring a healthy inner vibration. For those integrating Entheogenic Medicine Work, clients will decode and ground messages from their journeys to deepen the transformation process. All coaching incorporates Psychospiritual principles and is designed to efficiently evoke profound results that will not fade with time.
Julie Clark is a Board-Certified Coach specializing in Narcissistic Abuse Recovery, Psychospiritual Coaching and Entheogenic Medicine Integration. Clients recovering from Narcissistic Abuse are guided to establish a solid and lasting inner identification with the Authentic Self, dissolving trauma-bonding patterns and restoring a healthy inner vibration. For those integrating Entheogenic Medicine Work, clients will decode and ground messages from their journeys to deepen the transformation process. All coaching incorporates Psychospiritual principles and is designed to efficiently evoke profound results that will not fade with time.
(504) 814-7420 View (504) 814-7420
Photo of Robin Mathews, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robin Mathews
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34285
Are you looking to explore varying emotions? Searching for clarity or guidance? Looking for a safe place to process things out loud? Then lets chat. There is empowerment in knowledge. Once you have the knowledge and develop an understanding, you are empowered to do with it what you will. Positive or negative. Something or nothing. The chose is yours. Knowledge can offer you clarity in seeing patterns never noticed before or in changing patterns you are fully aware of yet need the tools to promote change. My goal is to empower you gain insight and understanding as well as encouraging you as you make positive change in your life.
Are you looking to explore varying emotions? Searching for clarity or guidance? Looking for a safe place to process things out loud? Then lets chat. There is empowerment in knowledge. Once you have the knowledge and develop an understanding, you are empowered to do with it what you will. Positive or negative. Something or nothing. The chose is yours. Knowledge can offer you clarity in seeing patterns never noticed before or in changing patterns you are fully aware of yet need the tools to promote change. My goal is to empower you gain insight and understanding as well as encouraging you as you make positive change in your life.
(941) 999-3342 View (941) 999-3342
Photo of Charles R Davenport - Dr. Charles R. Davenport, Licensed Psychologist, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Charles R. Davenport, Licensed Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285
I offer a compassionate and non-judgmental approach to help you find ways to understand and change issues that may seem stressful, overwhelming, or even hopeless. It is important for the therapy process to be a collaboration where we work together to explore what is causing unhappiness or discomfort in your life. If you are ready to explore, and grow in a safe and supportive environment, call today for a confidential consultation: 941-321-1971 or visit: www.drcharlesdavenport.com. Interested in Psychology in the News? Visit my news Blog: http://drcharlesdavenport.com/wordpress/
I offer a compassionate and non-judgmental approach to help you find ways to understand and change issues that may seem stressful, overwhelming, or even hopeless. It is important for the therapy process to be a collaboration where we work together to explore what is causing unhappiness or discomfort in your life. If you are ready to explore, and grow in a safe and supportive environment, call today for a confidential consultation: 941-321-1971 or visit: www.drcharlesdavenport.com. Interested in Psychology in the News? Visit my news Blog: http://drcharlesdavenport.com/wordpress/
(941) 321-1971 View (941) 321-1971
Photo of Kate Ferrill
Kate Ferrill
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34285
My ideal client is a woman who has experienced relationship trauma and is working to make sense of her brain fog, confusion, and difficult marriage. She is someone who needs to find safety, stability, and strength, and she will benefit from having an advocate who validates her experiences and encourages her healing.
My ideal client is a woman who has experienced relationship trauma and is working to make sense of her brain fog, confusion, and difficult marriage. She is someone who needs to find safety, stability, and strength, and she will benefit from having an advocate who validates her experiences and encourages her healing.
(941) 213-8299 View (941) 213-8299
Photo of John A Guliano, PCC-S, CEAP, LMHC, SUPV, Counselor
John A Guliano
Counselor, PCC-S, CEAP, LMHC, SUPV
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293
Understanding the whole person is of utmost importance. I am empowered to help people deal with and find relief for life's hurts. I help find the unique solutions to encourage health, happiness and well-being. I do this through a deep sense of understanding, compassion and personal experience. Over the past twenty five years as an educator, pastor, businessman and counselor, I have helped many people in their pursuit of healing and wholeness. These experiences have not only provided me with a greater understanding of people's needs, but they also have helped me develop solid solutions for professional treatment.
Understanding the whole person is of utmost importance. I am empowered to help people deal with and find relief for life's hurts. I help find the unique solutions to encourage health, happiness and well-being. I do this through a deep sense of understanding, compassion and personal experience. Over the past twenty five years as an educator, pastor, businessman and counselor, I have helped many people in their pursuit of healing and wholeness. These experiences have not only provided me with a greater understanding of people's needs, but they also have helped me develop solid solutions for professional treatment.
(941) 242-7345 View (941) 242-7345
Photo of Susan M Hunter, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan M Hunter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285  (Online Only)
My passion is to assist and empower my clients in achieving his or her valued goals. Each person has a wealth of strengths, and my sessions assist clients to realize and utilize these positive attributes toward improved holistic health and healing. My sessions are collaborative and oriented toward the individual needs of my clients. I have earned my Masters in Social Work from Rhode Island College, as well as Bachelors from URI in Human Development and Family Studies, and Associates in Applied Science. Licenses: LICSW, Physical Therapist Assistant; Certified Professional School Social Worker, Certified in Counseling Substance Troubled Persons.
My passion is to assist and empower my clients in achieving his or her valued goals. Each person has a wealth of strengths, and my sessions assist clients to realize and utilize these positive attributes toward improved holistic health and healing. My sessions are collaborative and oriented toward the individual needs of my clients. I have earned my Masters in Social Work from Rhode Island College, as well as Bachelors from URI in Human Development and Family Studies, and Associates in Applied Science. Licenses: LICSW, Physical Therapist Assistant; Certified Professional School Social Worker, Certified in Counseling Substance Troubled Persons.
(941) 344-3350 View (941) 344-3350
Photo of Paul Prachar - Guardian Counseling, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Guardian Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34285
What keeps us in bondage can vary tremendously from one person to another. We know that our past plays a huge part in what keeps us in bondage to pain, thoughts that destroy us rather than move us forward, strife within ourselves and our relationships. We are here to take you through the process of healing the pain, retraining your mind, mending your relationships, and ultimately breaking the chains that keep you from being what God has created you to be.
What keeps us in bondage can vary tremendously from one person to another. We know that our past plays a huge part in what keeps us in bondage to pain, thoughts that destroy us rather than move us forward, strife within ourselves and our relationships. We are here to take you through the process of healing the pain, retraining your mind, mending your relationships, and ultimately breaking the chains that keep you from being what God has created you to be.
(941) 214-2230 View (941) 214-2230
Photo of Randy Walchle, LMHC, Counselor
Randy Walchle
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293
As manager of Fully Alive & Renewed LLC, I specialize in individual, couple, and family therapy utilizing neuroscience and faith to address the emotional and psychological disruption formed in the mind which interferes with building and maintaining relationships. This neuroscience and faith approach addresses why and how to heal many of life's issues, like depression, loss, grief, conflict, divorce, and addictions. Heal the mind and experience a new life!
As manager of Fully Alive & Renewed LLC, I specialize in individual, couple, and family therapy utilizing neuroscience and faith to address the emotional and psychological disruption formed in the mind which interferes with building and maintaining relationships. This neuroscience and faith approach addresses why and how to heal many of life's issues, like depression, loss, grief, conflict, divorce, and addictions. Heal the mind and experience a new life!
(941) 837-5620 View (941) 837-5620
Full Health Journey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34293  (Online Only)
You’re facing difficulty and looking for a meaningful and compassionate solution. Change is hard and you don’t have to go it alone. You may be coping with a major loss, adjusting to a medical diagnosis, embarking on a new opportunity, or entering a new phase of life. You may be struggling with lifestyle changes due to worsening health conditions, relocation to a new city, retiring from a successful career, starting a new job, or struggling to maintain relationships.
You’re facing difficulty and looking for a meaningful and compassionate solution. Change is hard and you don’t have to go it alone. You may be coping with a major loss, adjusting to a medical diagnosis, embarking on a new opportunity, or entering a new phase of life. You may be struggling with lifestyle changes due to worsening health conditions, relocation to a new city, retiring from a successful career, starting a new job, or struggling to maintain relationships.
(941) 304-4174 View (941) 304-4174

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Venice, FL

100+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Venice, FL who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
91% Depression
77% Trauma and PTSD
73% Relationship Issues
73% Coping Skills
71% Grief
71% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

74% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
69% Aetna
59% Optum

How Therapists in Venice, FL see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Venice?

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.