Therapists in Holualoa, HI

Photo of Catherine Smith, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Holualoa, HI 96725  (Online Only)
We all face life events that sometimes seem overwhelming. Discussing difficulties and possible solutions with a therapist will help you find ways to transform challenging life events into opportunities for growth. I am here to help you gain new insights into how you can create positive change in your life. Therapy is a collaborative process. We will work together to discover and build on your strengths while finding new solutions for problematic patterns. Visit catherinesmithlcsw.com to learn more about my approach to therapy. Additionally, I offer a coaching program to support women who are undergoing breast cancer treatment.
We all face life events that sometimes seem overwhelming. Discussing difficulties and possible solutions with a therapist will help you find ways to transform challenging life events into opportunities for growth. I am here to help you gain new insights into how you can create positive change in your life. Therapy is a collaborative process. We will work together to discover and build on your strengths while finding new solutions for problematic patterns. Visit catherinesmithlcsw.com to learn more about my approach to therapy. Additionally, I offer a coaching program to support women who are undergoing breast cancer treatment.
(808) 425-9440 View (808) 425-9440
Photo of Keri Receiver, LMSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keri Receiver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Holualoa, HI 96725
To Connect with Who You Truly Are is to experience peace, joy, and true happiness. Past relational or emotional trauma that isn’t investigated may also inhibit your ability to experience peace, joy and true happiness, as well as block your knowing of innate wholeness and perfection. Uninvestigated trauma can effect your health and wellbeing, personal growth, and the ability to have healthy relationships and/or work. When you look at past trauma, you can move old energy, unwind core beliefs that are disempowering or untrue, dissolve stories, and have profound and life-altering insights about your own behavior.
To Connect with Who You Truly Are is to experience peace, joy, and true happiness. Past relational or emotional trauma that isn’t investigated may also inhibit your ability to experience peace, joy and true happiness, as well as block your knowing of innate wholeness and perfection. Uninvestigated trauma can effect your health and wellbeing, personal growth, and the ability to have healthy relationships and/or work. When you look at past trauma, you can move old energy, unwind core beliefs that are disempowering or untrue, dissolve stories, and have profound and life-altering insights about your own behavior.
(844) 856-2326 View (844) 856-2326
Photo of Ramona Estrada, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ramona Estrada
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Holualoa, HI 96725
I believe that we all have the answers to our own problems, but may need help exploring and bringing them to light. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I can assist with gaining new insights for positive self-growth in a warm and compassionate setting . I have over twenty years experience working with adolescents with behavioral challenges, adult severe and persistent illness, and addictions.
I believe that we all have the answers to our own problems, but may need help exploring and bringing them to light. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I can assist with gaining new insights for positive self-growth in a warm and compassionate setting . I have over twenty years experience working with adolescents with behavioral challenges, adult severe and persistent illness, and addictions.
(808) 201-5247 View (808) 201-5247
Photo of Stephanie Daniels, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Daniels
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Holualoa, HI 96725
As a couples relationship counselor I have training working with couples who are severely distressed and are looking to find love and connection again. I treat a wide variety of concerns; infidelity, miscommunication, financial problems, depression, anxiety, aging, growing apart, and parenting teens. Many of these issues can leave relationships feeling hopeless. However restoration, healing and a future are possible. I also have extended training working with families, and individuals. As a systems therapist I focus treatment on what is causing the problem. Wholeness in relationships and for the individual is a goal I have for all of my clients.
As a couples relationship counselor I have training working with couples who are severely distressed and are looking to find love and connection again. I treat a wide variety of concerns; infidelity, miscommunication, financial problems, depression, anxiety, aging, growing apart, and parenting teens. Many of these issues can leave relationships feeling hopeless. However restoration, healing and a future are possible. I also have extended training working with families, and individuals. As a systems therapist I focus treatment on what is causing the problem. Wholeness in relationships and for the individual is a goal I have for all of my clients.
(808) 425-9256 View (808) 425-9256
Photo of Vanessa Mount, MFT, LMHC, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vanessa Mount
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LMHC, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Holualoa, HI 96725
The path towards healing can be scary. Being vulnerable and honest with ourselves and with others can feel risky. However, this is a path that is rich and rewarding for the brave and courageous souls who are willing to embark on such a journey! It can be difficult to reach out, but if you are willing, I am happy to see how I can help. I would be honored to walk the path of healing alongside you!
The path towards healing can be scary. Being vulnerable and honest with ourselves and with others can feel risky. However, this is a path that is rich and rewarding for the brave and courageous souls who are willing to embark on such a journey! It can be difficult to reach out, but if you are willing, I am happy to see how I can help. I would be honored to walk the path of healing alongside you!
(808) 419-7962 View (808) 419-7962
Photo of Wally Shrinski, MFT, CSAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wally Shrinski
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CSAC
Verified Verified
Holualoa, HI 96725
Thoughts create feelings, feelings create behaviors, behaviors reinforce thoughts. Everyone deserves to be happy, enjoy peace of mind, nurturing relationships, and a chance to live life to its fullest. My approach to challenges that you may be experiencing in life is person-centered, trauma focused, evidenced based practices with individuals, couples, and families.
Thoughts create feelings, feelings create behaviors, behaviors reinforce thoughts. Everyone deserves to be happy, enjoy peace of mind, nurturing relationships, and a chance to live life to its fullest. My approach to challenges that you may be experiencing in life is person-centered, trauma focused, evidenced based practices with individuals, couples, and families.
(808) 518-6509 View (808) 518-6509
Photo of Heidemarie Koop, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heidemarie Koop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Holualoa, HI 96725  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed with personal and/or professional challenges? Are you having problems with your relationships or at work? Is your child or adolescent exhibiting emotional and/or behavioral problems? Are you faced with challenging life-transitions? I offer a variety of modalities to work with individuals, couples and families who are experiencing the effects of trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, divorce, aging or other life issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with personal and/or professional challenges? Are you having problems with your relationships or at work? Is your child or adolescent exhibiting emotional and/or behavioral problems? Are you faced with challenging life-transitions? I offer a variety of modalities to work with individuals, couples and families who are experiencing the effects of trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, divorce, aging or other life issues.
(808) 670-1165 View (808) 670-1165
Photo of Katie Nova, PhD, Psychologist
Katie Nova
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Holualoa, HI 96725
As a practicing psychologist for over 20 years I have been privileged to be part of my client's lives. I moved from San Diego to the Big Island of Hawaii in 1996. My specialties have changed and developed through the years. Now I specialize in the treatment of adults suffering from trauma, addiction related illness, relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and coping with illness. I have a particular interest in women's issues including domestic violence, work/life balance, parenting young adults, and menopause. I work with women and men facing transition points in their lives as they create renewed meaning in life.
As a practicing psychologist for over 20 years I have been privileged to be part of my client's lives. I moved from San Diego to the Big Island of Hawaii in 1996. My specialties have changed and developed through the years. Now I specialize in the treatment of adults suffering from trauma, addiction related illness, relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and coping with illness. I have a particular interest in women's issues including domestic violence, work/life balance, parenting young adults, and menopause. I work with women and men facing transition points in their lives as they create renewed meaning in life.
(808) 219-0837 View (808) 219-0837
Photo of Amanda Jeffrey Platter, PsyD, Psychologist
Amanda Jeffrey Platter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Holualoa, HI 96725
Being our most resilient, healthy self is a process of acceptance and skill building. It is particularly hard when anger, sadness, and worry get in the way of connecting with others, advancing professionally, or maintaining health. It is important to have a safe place to process and solve life transitions without judgment. I utilize evidenced based psychotherapy and assessment to restore value based cognitions, mindfulness and healthy behaviors. Specialized treatment planning is the first stage of the process. Adults, adolescents, couples, and specialized assessment cases (ages 7 to 80+) are encouraged to schedule a consultation appointment.
Being our most resilient, healthy self is a process of acceptance and skill building. It is particularly hard when anger, sadness, and worry get in the way of connecting with others, advancing professionally, or maintaining health. It is important to have a safe place to process and solve life transitions without judgment. I utilize evidenced based psychotherapy and assessment to restore value based cognitions, mindfulness and healthy behaviors. Specialized treatment planning is the first stage of the process. Adults, adolescents, couples, and specialized assessment cases (ages 7 to 80+) are encouraged to schedule a consultation appointment.
(808) 201-0365 View (808) 201-0365
Photo of Jan Fradenburg, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jan Fradenburg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Holualoa, HI 96725
The clients I work with the best are adults who want to work on themselves and are open to personal growth and change. I encourage clients to clarify their life goals, and whether the choices they are making will get them to those goals. I specialize in working with clients who have issues in the areas of relationships, spirituality, work, gender roles, grief/loss, trauma, and sexual abuse. I use my expertise to support clients in finding their own answers to create their "personal best" life, while giving professional guidance and sharing personal wisdom to facilitate them in that success.
The clients I work with the best are adults who want to work on themselves and are open to personal growth and change. I encourage clients to clarify their life goals, and whether the choices they are making will get them to those goals. I specialize in working with clients who have issues in the areas of relationships, spirituality, work, gender roles, grief/loss, trauma, and sexual abuse. I use my expertise to support clients in finding their own answers to create their "personal best" life, while giving professional guidance and sharing personal wisdom to facilitate them in that success.
(808) 480-7937 View (808) 480-7937
Photo of Kimberley Warnecke, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Kimberley Warnecke
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA
Verified Verified
Holualoa, HI 96725  (Online Only)
I was raised on the beautiful Big Island of Hawai’i and served for years as a high school teacher in Kona. I love working with youth and their families and decided to pursue a graduate degree in mental health counseling to serve this community’s youth in a different way. I specialize in working with children/ teens (ages 3-18) and their families, particularly those with a history of trauma. I believe long-term change happens within the family system, and I try to involve parents and caregivers consistently throughout the treatment process because of this.
I was raised on the beautiful Big Island of Hawai’i and served for years as a high school teacher in Kona. I love working with youth and their families and decided to pursue a graduate degree in mental health counseling to serve this community’s youth in a different way. I specialize in working with children/ teens (ages 3-18) and their families, particularly those with a history of trauma. I believe long-term change happens within the family system, and I try to involve parents and caregivers consistently throughout the treatment process because of this.
(970) 645-8521 View (970) 645-8521
Photo of Kira Kolba, MA, MS, CMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kira Kolba
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MS, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holualoa, HI 96725  (Online Only)
Life is full of challenges that can make it hard for us to move forward. Sometimes it takes feeling understood and supported to find perspective that allows us to navigate them with greater clarity and empowerment. I would be honored to help you with this process. Since the counseling relationship involves vulnerability and acceptance, it is important to find a “right fit” counselor. I will work to understand you and collaborate with you to help you reach your goals, and move into a space where you feel greater peace and hope.
Life is full of challenges that can make it hard for us to move forward. Sometimes it takes feeling understood and supported to find perspective that allows us to navigate them with greater clarity and empowerment. I would be honored to help you with this process. Since the counseling relationship involves vulnerability and acceptance, it is important to find a “right fit” counselor. I will work to understand you and collaborate with you to help you reach your goals, and move into a space where you feel greater peace and hope.
(608) 927-5681 View (608) 927-5681
Photo of Caroline Motley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caroline Motley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Holualoa, HI 96725  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Currently I am not accepting new clients, and have a waitlist, earliest availability will be July. I only work with women and nonbinary people. Life is not a neat package, I am here to help you unpack it , keep track of of it all, get rid of some of it, and keep some safe. At the core of my approach is the establishment of a trustworthy, unbiased space for clients. I aim to be a consistent and empathetic presence, helping process where you feel secure enough to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment, or agenda. My role is to provide support, perspective, and self compassion.
Currently I am not accepting new clients, and have a waitlist, earliest availability will be July. I only work with women and nonbinary people. Life is not a neat package, I am here to help you unpack it , keep track of of it all, get rid of some of it, and keep some safe. At the core of my approach is the establishment of a trustworthy, unbiased space for clients. I aim to be a consistent and empathetic presence, helping process where you feel secure enough to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment, or agenda. My role is to provide support, perspective, and self compassion.
(808) 201-1998 View (808) 201-1998
Photo of Dr. Deepa Ram-Souza, LMFT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Deepa Ram-Souza
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holualoa, HI 96725  (Online Only)
Welcome to The Re-Indigenization Project (TRIP): A Radical Approach to Healing and Wholeness by Reconciling One Nature Family. Aloha-Namaste. I am Dr. Deepa. Are you ready to deep dive into the roots of suffering from ancestral, childhood, and adulthood life challenges? Are you ready to create purpose for the pain? As a therapist, researcher, and author, I have guided individuals, couples, families, and groups from a place of angst to one of actualization using a transformative and radical approach called Integral and Transpersonal Family Therapy (ITFT).
Welcome to The Re-Indigenization Project (TRIP): A Radical Approach to Healing and Wholeness by Reconciling One Nature Family. Aloha-Namaste. I am Dr. Deepa. Are you ready to deep dive into the roots of suffering from ancestral, childhood, and adulthood life challenges? Are you ready to create purpose for the pain? As a therapist, researcher, and author, I have guided individuals, couples, families, and groups from a place of angst to one of actualization using a transformative and radical approach called Integral and Transpersonal Family Therapy (ITFT).
(808) 427-2842 View (808) 427-2842
Photo of Thomas J Jameson, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Thomas J Jameson
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Holualoa, HI 96725  (Online Only)
As the founder and owner of Thomas J. Jameson Family Counseling, LLC. I am a clinician with many years of direct experience working with individuals seeking solutions. I believe deeply in the potential of every person. I lead those I work with to the key that is already within themselves, and help them unlock what they already encompass.
As the founder and owner of Thomas J. Jameson Family Counseling, LLC. I am a clinician with many years of direct experience working with individuals seeking solutions. I believe deeply in the potential of every person. I lead those I work with to the key that is already within themselves, and help them unlock what they already encompass.
(808) 517-5581 View (808) 517-5581

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Marikka Zavas - Heart Led Therapy LLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heart Led Therapy LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself having tightness in your chest, neck or hips, having racing thoughts, trouble concentrating, questioning your life decisions or having fear of the future or worry around the unknown? Are you an ambitious woman who desires more in life and wants support while dealing with burnout, changes in relationships, jobs or wants to stop self sabotaging? Or someone who wants to stop living in survival mode and finally thrive in life and love? If so, you’re in the right place. Together we will co-create on a game plan to understand how your coping skills have protected you, develop new skills, and deepen into self love.
Do you find yourself having tightness in your chest, neck or hips, having racing thoughts, trouble concentrating, questioning your life decisions or having fear of the future or worry around the unknown? Are you an ambitious woman who desires more in life and wants support while dealing with burnout, changes in relationships, jobs or wants to stop self sabotaging? Or someone who wants to stop living in survival mode and finally thrive in life and love? If so, you’re in the right place. Together we will co-create on a game plan to understand how your coping skills have protected you, develop new skills, and deepen into self love.
(808) 563-4391 View (808) 563-4391
Photo of Samantha Bailo, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Samantha Bailo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
My own experiences with anxiety brought me to this field. I am passionate about helping to illuminate root causes and connecting mind/body/spirit. I also treat symptoms of depression, grief, addiction, and PTSD. I love being able to guide LGBTQ+ individuals navigating their sexuality, gender identity, and/or spirituality. Starting January 2025, I can offer integrative health coaching which includes nutrition, mindset coaching and in-depth lab work.
My own experiences with anxiety brought me to this field. I am passionate about helping to illuminate root causes and connecting mind/body/spirit. I also treat symptoms of depression, grief, addiction, and PTSD. I love being able to guide LGBTQ+ individuals navigating their sexuality, gender identity, and/or spirituality. Starting January 2025, I can offer integrative health coaching which includes nutrition, mindset coaching and in-depth lab work.
(808) 518-6773 View (808) 518-6773
Photo of Denise Bradfield - Transformation Mentors, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Transformation Mentors
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kealakekua, HI 96750
I believe in starting where my client is and tailoring treatment around your needs. I can help you see your blocks and blast right through them. Let me help you to discover what makes you unique, what motivates you — and I will keep you inspired to reach your goals. I have done a lot of work on myself including being in therapy, so I have an unique understanding of the process of going through therapy. I live my life in a grateful abundant mindset and have taught so many of my clients to do the same with amazing results. Please feel free to reach out for any questions or to schedule a session today.
I believe in starting where my client is and tailoring treatment around your needs. I can help you see your blocks and blast right through them. Let me help you to discover what makes you unique, what motivates you — and I will keep you inspired to reach your goals. I have done a lot of work on myself including being in therapy, so I have an unique understanding of the process of going through therapy. I live my life in a grateful abundant mindset and have taught so many of my clients to do the same with amazing results. Please feel free to reach out for any questions or to schedule a session today.
(808) 482-6185 View (808) 482-6185
Photo of Danielle Eakins, PhD, Psychologist
Danielle Eakins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kailua Kona, HI 96740  (Online Only)
I view therapy as a collaborative, empowering process. My purpose as a clinical psychologist is to provide evidence-based treatments tailored to client diversity factors. As a team we will examine what is working well, where you are experiencing challenges and what new skills are needed to achieve a fulfilling life.
I view therapy as a collaborative, empowering process. My purpose as a clinical psychologist is to provide evidence-based treatments tailored to client diversity factors. As a team we will examine what is working well, where you are experiencing challenges and what new skills are needed to achieve a fulfilling life.
(808) 278-9229 View (808) 278-9229
Photo of Rosey Strong, MA, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rosey Strong
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740  (Online Only)
Hello! (: My practice is geared towards a holistic view of who you are. Our thoughts, feelings, actions and past events all come into play in our current lives. Sometimes they are difficult to handle alone. Are you ready to start the work and truly heal yourself? Our Clinicians use a mixture of movement, inner child work, memory retrieval, journaling, meditation, and other techniques to truly understand and heal the individual Self. We also have extensive experience working with children, families, couples and difficult behaviors in youth. We work to support what is needed in the family or individually.
Hello! (: My practice is geared towards a holistic view of who you are. Our thoughts, feelings, actions and past events all come into play in our current lives. Sometimes they are difficult to handle alone. Are you ready to start the work and truly heal yourself? Our Clinicians use a mixture of movement, inner child work, memory retrieval, journaling, meditation, and other techniques to truly understand and heal the individual Self. We also have extensive experience working with children, families, couples and difficult behaviors in youth. We work to support what is needed in the family or individually.
(808) 353-5750 View (808) 353-5750

See more therapy options for Holualoa

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Holualoa, HI

10+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Holualoa, HI who prioritize treating:

87% Depression
87% Anxiety
87% Trauma and PTSD
80% Relationship Issues
73% Coping Skills
73% Self Esteem
67% Grief

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Hawaii Medical Services Association
83% Hawaii Medical Assurance Association
75% University Health Alliance

How Therapists in Holualoa, HI see their clients

54% In Person and Online
46% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Holualoa?

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.