Therapists in Kailua Kona, HI

Photo of Dr. Noelani Rodrigues, PhD, MSCP, PMH-C, Psychologist
Dr. Noelani Rodrigues
Psychologist, PhD, MSCP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740  (Online Only)
Aloha! E Komo Mai! Do you ever feel like you have lost your way - that nothing feels quite right - or that the past seems to be repeating itself? My humanistic view is that we all begin from a place of wholeness, but we sometimes lose belief in ourselves along the way. I have the depth of professional and life experience to see and work with you as a unique individual. Let me be a support and guide as you navigate the journey to your true potential. My expertise includes a broad range of issues including traumas, emotional difficulties, relationship, and coping with life's challenges.
Aloha! E Komo Mai! Do you ever feel like you have lost your way - that nothing feels quite right - or that the past seems to be repeating itself? My humanistic view is that we all begin from a place of wholeness, but we sometimes lose belief in ourselves along the way. I have the depth of professional and life experience to see and work with you as a unique individual. Let me be a support and guide as you navigate the journey to your true potential. My expertise includes a broad range of issues including traumas, emotional difficulties, relationship, and coping with life's challenges.
(808) 938-9971 View (808) 938-9971
Photo of Nancy Moreno-Derks - Nancy Moreno-Derks PsyD, LMFT and Associates, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancy Moreno-Derks PsyD, LMFT and Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740  (Online Only)
Now offering tele-therapy sessions. If you and your family are experiencing a challenging situation or if you want to make some changes in your life, as related to your relationships and may be looking for some help with figuring out where to start, let's talk. If life is getting harder and you lack motivation to make changes, we can talk about how making even small changes will help you get back on track. Together we'll figure out how to do this. I'm trained in cutting edge modalities such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Clinical Hypnosis and Brief Therapy.
Now offering tele-therapy sessions. If you and your family are experiencing a challenging situation or if you want to make some changes in your life, as related to your relationships and may be looking for some help with figuring out where to start, let's talk. If life is getting harder and you lack motivation to make changes, we can talk about how making even small changes will help you get back on track. Together we'll figure out how to do this. I'm trained in cutting edge modalities such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Clinical Hypnosis and Brief Therapy.
(808) 784-7993 View (808) 784-7993
Photo of Julius Phillip Jones, LCMHC, Counselor
Julius Phillip Jones
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
Aloha, I'm Phillip My name is Phillip Jones and I'm a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Hawaii. Over the years I've worked with young adults, couples, middle-aged and our elders going through life transitions, amidst the crises and opportunities of life. My passion is helping people to find their calm and strong inner identity and move into the next phase of their life, career, or relationships with confidence in themselves and their personal strengths. I find that depression and anxiety are very prevalent in our society, and often are the foundation for other emotional and behavioral health issues that arise.
Aloha, I'm Phillip My name is Phillip Jones and I'm a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Hawaii. Over the years I've worked with young adults, couples, middle-aged and our elders going through life transitions, amidst the crises and opportunities of life. My passion is helping people to find their calm and strong inner identity and move into the next phase of their life, career, or relationships with confidence in themselves and their personal strengths. I find that depression and anxiety are very prevalent in our society, and often are the foundation for other emotional and behavioral health issues that arise.
(618) 621-2077 View (618) 621-2077
Photo of Wally Shrinski, MFT, CSAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wally Shrinski
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CSAC
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
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 Alyssa S Kratz, LSW, BA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alyssa S Kratz
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
Alyssa Kratz, LSW, received her Master’s Degree in Social Work with an emphasis in Behavioral Mental Health from the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa. Alyssa is passionate about mental health & wellness. She believes that vast healing potential lies within each individual, and that given tools and a supportive, safe environment, one's unique potential can thrive. Her work is client-centered and trauma focused. Alyssa works with adults on various mental health experiences including addictions, codependency, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief and loss, self-harm, PTSD, trauma, abuse, and relational difficulties.
Alyssa Kratz, LSW, received her Master’s Degree in Social Work with an emphasis in Behavioral Mental Health from the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa. Alyssa is passionate about mental health & wellness. She believes that vast healing potential lies within each individual, and that given tools and a supportive, safe environment, one's unique potential can thrive. Her work is client-centered and trauma focused. Alyssa works with adults on various mental health experiences including addictions, codependency, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief and loss, self-harm, PTSD, trauma, abuse, and relational difficulties.
(808) 201-5393 View (808) 201-5393
Photo of Jan Fradenburg, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jan Fradenburg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96745
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 Kirsten Westra, MS, LMHC, LLC, Counselor
Kirsten Westra
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LLC
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
Counseling therapy allows individuals/couples/families a safe and supportive environment to re-evaluate the possible impact past experiences have had on their lives, exploration of their present awareness, and reinvention of future potential. The therapeutic forum is designed to allow individuals their freedom of expression, beliefs and goals while being encouraged to reach for core issues that encourage growth, change and healing of the mind, body and soul.
Counseling therapy allows individuals/couples/families a safe and supportive environment to re-evaluate the possible impact past experiences have had on their lives, exploration of their present awareness, and reinvention of future potential. The therapeutic forum is designed to allow individuals their freedom of expression, beliefs and goals while being encouraged to reach for core issues that encourage growth, change and healing of the mind, body and soul.
(208) 647-4153 View (208) 647-4153
Photo of Heidemarie Koop, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heidemarie Koop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740  (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 Jeff McBride, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeff McBride
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
4/22/24- Aloha, now accepting new clients under the HMSA umbrella, this includes Medicare. I work from an Internal Family Systems (IFS) perspective, CBT, Jungian and Depth psychology. My training is in Jungian/Depth psychology. I work from the HMSA Online Behavioral Health platform only at this time. If you are paying out of pocket, we can make other arrangements. If you wish to contact me, email is the best. I am here to work with any adults, couples and teens. I do not speak out of a book, I do not judge. The confidentiality of anyone I work with is very important to me.
4/22/24- Aloha, now accepting new clients under the HMSA umbrella, this includes Medicare. I work from an Internal Family Systems (IFS) perspective, CBT, Jungian and Depth psychology. My training is in Jungian/Depth psychology. I work from the HMSA Online Behavioral Health platform only at this time. If you are paying out of pocket, we can make other arrangements. If you wish to contact me, email is the best. I am here to work with any adults, couples and teens. I do not speak out of a book, I do not judge. The confidentiality of anyone I work with is very important to me.
(979) 316-7465 View (979) 316-7465
Photo of Alison Steiner, PsyD, Psychologist
Alison Steiner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
As a clinical psychologist, I have a broad base of training and experience working with individuals seeking help with a wide range of clinical issues as well as life transitions and personal growth. I emphasize an open, trusting, non-judgmental, and collaborative process. From a practical approach comes a goal of transformation: allowing for new patterns of thought and behavior, and a more balanced and flourishing life.
As a clinical psychologist, I have a broad base of training and experience working with individuals seeking help with a wide range of clinical issues as well as life transitions and personal growth. I emphasize an open, trusting, non-judgmental, and collaborative process. From a practical approach comes a goal of transformation: allowing for new patterns of thought and behavior, and a more balanced and flourishing life.
(808) 784-7928 View (808) 784-7928
Photo of Mary Kay Lowe, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Kay Lowe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
My name is Mary Kay. I am a seasoned Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, who is passionate about helping my clients overcome, heal and grow from experiences and challenges they face. This provider resides in Hawaii. I typically work with clients motivated to work on areas they identify when entering therapy. These areas might include anxiety, depression, trauma-related experiences, verbal, physical, and or sexual abuse, spirituality, family issues, and building relationships with others. I work best with clients who prefer to work with a seasoned female therapist.
My name is Mary Kay. I am a seasoned Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, who is passionate about helping my clients overcome, heal and grow from experiences and challenges they face. This provider resides in Hawaii. I typically work with clients motivated to work on areas they identify when entering therapy. These areas might include anxiety, depression, trauma-related experiences, verbal, physical, and or sexual abuse, spirituality, family issues, and building relationships with others. I work best with clients who prefer to work with a seasoned female therapist.
(606) 357-2175 View (606) 357-2175
Photo of Scott Ginoza, LMHC, Counselor
Scott Ginoza
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
I was born and raised on Oahu. I studied psychology at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and received my master’s in counseling from Chaminade University. I been licensed as a counselor in the state of Hawaii since 2011. I realize that no two people are the same and as such I tailor my therapy to meet the specific needs of my clients. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression or another issue, I hope to help clients find a healthier way of living.
I was born and raised on Oahu. I studied psychology at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and received my master’s in counseling from Chaminade University. I been licensed as a counselor in the state of Hawaii since 2011. I realize that no two people are the same and as such I tailor my therapy to meet the specific needs of my clients. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression or another issue, I hope to help clients find a healthier way of living.
(516) 689-7774 View (516) 689-7774
Photo of Shelley Shane, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shelley Shane
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96745  (Online Only)
Do you sometimes feel an underlying sense of anxiety, unease or overwhelm? Do you sometimes wonder why you react or respond in certain ways to certain types of situations? You are not alone! Current experiences sometimes release responses that we developed earlier in our lives. We may have needed them at the time, but there may be a better way. It may be time to help those parts update to respond in ways that are more appropriate at your current stage of life. Let's start from a place of lovingkindness, forgiveness and compassion...for yourself as well as for others.
Do you sometimes feel an underlying sense of anxiety, unease or overwhelm? Do you sometimes wonder why you react or respond in certain ways to certain types of situations? You are not alone! Current experiences sometimes release responses that we developed earlier in our lives. We may have needed them at the time, but there may be a better way. It may be time to help those parts update to respond in ways that are more appropriate at your current stage of life. Let's start from a place of lovingkindness, forgiveness and compassion...for yourself as well as for others.
(808) 895-0090 View (808) 895-0090
Photo of Katie Nova, PhD, Psychologist
Katie Nova
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
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 Kimberley Warnecke, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Kimberley Warnecke
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740  (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 Sze Nga Lam, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sze Nga Lam
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
I work with clients statewide via telehealth and have had over 15 years of clinical experience working with adults, couples, families, and adolescents. I specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, life-cycle transitions, trauma, and grief. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, and nurturing space where my clients can explore and embrace their authentic selves.
I work with clients statewide via telehealth and have had over 15 years of clinical experience working with adults, couples, families, and adolescents. I specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, life-cycle transitions, trauma, and grief. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, and nurturing space where my clients can explore and embrace their authentic selves.
(567) 280-5995 View (567) 280-5995
Photo of Krista Walker - Healing Solutions Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healing Solutions Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
Hi, my name is Krista Walker, LCSW. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nearly 20 years experience in this field. Starting therapy can be a scary and exciting experience. Together we will work to help you heal from challenging experiences develop new ways to cope with emotions, and discover the best version of yourself so you can thrive in all you do. You are the expert in your life. My goal is to help you heal, discover, and thrive. I look forward working with you.
Hi, my name is Krista Walker, LCSW. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nearly 20 years experience in this field. Starting therapy can be a scary and exciting experience. Together we will work to help you heal from challenging experiences develop new ways to cope with emotions, and discover the best version of yourself so you can thrive in all you do. You are the expert in your life. My goal is to help you heal, discover, and thrive. I look forward working with you.
(920) 949-8504 View (920) 949-8504
Photo of Linda Purcell Satchell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Purcell Satchell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
We all go through various trials during our lives and most of us don't want to burden our loved ones with our stress. It helps to get clear when we express our thoughts and feelings and are deeply heard. Being offered both reflection and alternate perspectives can help us to recognize that we do have more choices towards happiness than we imagined before.
We all go through various trials during our lives and most of us don't want to burden our loved ones with our stress. It helps to get clear when we express our thoughts and feelings and are deeply heard. Being offered both reflection and alternate perspectives can help us to recognize that we do have more choices towards happiness than we imagined before.
(808) 400-7235 View (808) 400-7235
Photo of Justin Larkin, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Justin Larkin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
A’ohe pu’u ki’eki’e ke ho’a’o ‘ia e pi’i - No cliff is so tall it cannot be climbed. The demands of the world feel exhausting on your physical and mental health. Your past experiences lead you to feel depressed and hopeless, or anxious and irritable. Your work performance may be dipping. Your family may be suffering. Your relationships may be strained. You're trying... You're ready for change! My goal is to provide you with a relationship that you can utilize for your own personal growth. No cliff is too tall!
A’ohe pu’u ki’eki’e ke ho’a’o ‘ia e pi’i - No cliff is so tall it cannot be climbed. The demands of the world feel exhausting on your physical and mental health. Your past experiences lead you to feel depressed and hopeless, or anxious and irritable. Your work performance may be dipping. Your family may be suffering. Your relationships may be strained. You're trying... You're ready for change! My goal is to provide you with a relationship that you can utilize for your own personal growth. No cliff is too tall!
(254) 556-4487 View (254) 556-4487
Photo of Malgorzata Krepps, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Malgorzata Krepps
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kailua Kona, HI 96740  (Online Only)
People use therapy to help change themselves or deal with life challenges. Oftentimes, therapy may involve revealing significant parts of ourselves, our relationships, or life circumstances. Therapy can help reduce or alleviate problems to help us live more fulfilling lives. Therapy is a partnership between you and me. Together, we identify the goals of your treatment, we work on skills, and we resolve to improve ourselves and our life conditions. I believe there are various ways to approach issues. My experience and belief is that many of our life’s challenges and pains stem from the way we think about ourselves and the world.
People use therapy to help change themselves or deal with life challenges. Oftentimes, therapy may involve revealing significant parts of ourselves, our relationships, or life circumstances. Therapy can help reduce or alleviate problems to help us live more fulfilling lives. Therapy is a partnership between you and me. Together, we identify the goals of your treatment, we work on skills, and we resolve to improve ourselves and our life conditions. I believe there are various ways to approach issues. My experience and belief is that many of our life’s challenges and pains stem from the way we think about ourselves and the world.
(808) 464-5027 View (808) 464-5027

See more therapy options for Kailua Kona

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Kailua Kona, HI

90+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Kailua Kona, HI who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
87% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
82% Self Esteem
79% Coping Skills
75% Trauma and PTSD
72% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

68% Hawaii Medical Services Association
51% Hawaii Medical Assurance Association
47% University Health Alliance

How Therapists in Kailua Kona, HI see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Kailua Kona?

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.