Therapists in Financial District, Boston, MA

Photo of undefined - Cody Fournier - NOCD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cody Fournier - NOCD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Financial District, Boston, MA 02109
My approach to therapy is authentic and compassionate. I understand that intrusive thoughts can be scary. Sometimes you might feel embarrassed when discussing them. I want you to feel comfortable during our therapy session; it's a safe place to discuss your OCD symptoms. I know firsthand the impact OCD can have on somebody. I have received ERP therapy myself and know how effective this treatment modality is for OCD. I have seen the negative impact of ineffective treatment for OCD; I understand that it can dissuade people from getting back into treatment. I want to help people understand they can interrupt the OCD cycle, manage t
My approach to therapy is authentic and compassionate. I understand that intrusive thoughts can be scary. Sometimes you might feel embarrassed when discussing them. I want you to feel comfortable during our therapy session; it's a safe place to discuss your OCD symptoms. I know firsthand the impact OCD can have on somebody. I have received ERP therapy myself and know how effective this treatment modality is for OCD. I have seen the negative impact of ineffective treatment for OCD; I understand that it can dissuade people from getting back into treatment. I want to help people understand they can interrupt the OCD cycle, manage t
(312) 766-6780 View (312) 766-6780
Photo of Rebecca MacGillivray, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca MacGillivray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Financial District, Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
Rebecca MacGillivray is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with more than 9 years of experience who specializes in helping clients who are faced with anxiety, phobias, chronic stress, addiction, trauma, PTSD, and depression. She also specializes in working with individuals who are struggling with identity issues. Rebecca earned her Master's degree in Social Work from Aurora University and leads with empathy, working hard to build a strong therapeutic relationship with each of her clients.
Rebecca MacGillivray is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with more than 9 years of experience who specializes in helping clients who are faced with anxiety, phobias, chronic stress, addiction, trauma, PTSD, and depression. She also specializes in working with individuals who are struggling with identity issues. Rebecca earned her Master's degree in Social Work from Aurora University and leads with empathy, working hard to build a strong therapeutic relationship with each of her clients.
(508) 690-5707 View (508) 690-5707
Photo of Frantzces Lys, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Frantzces Lys
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Financial District, Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Stuck feeling lost despite past efforts? Unhealed pain could be the culprit. It disconnects you and leaves you unfulfilled. There's another way. We'll address negative thinking patterns to help you reach your full potential and design a life filled with purpose, joy, and peace.
Stuck feeling lost despite past efforts? Unhealed pain could be the culprit. It disconnects you and leaves you unfulfilled. There's another way. We'll address negative thinking patterns to help you reach your full potential and design a life filled with purpose, joy, and peace.
(857) 678-5098 View (857) 678-5098
Photo of Dulcinea Wetherell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dulcinea Wetherell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Financial District, Boston, MA 02109
Dulcinea Wetherell is a Licensed Social Worker in the state of Massachusetts who has years of experience partnering with adults of all ages seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, substance use, family stressors, loss and grief. She completed her Bachelor of Social Work from Wheelock College and received her Master of Social Work from Boston College.
Dulcinea Wetherell is a Licensed Social Worker in the state of Massachusetts who has years of experience partnering with adults of all ages seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, substance use, family stressors, loss and grief. She completed her Bachelor of Social Work from Wheelock College and received her Master of Social Work from Boston College.
(857) 419-6002 View (857) 419-6002
Photo of Bridget Hager, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridget Hager
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Financial District, Boston, MA 02201  (Online Only)
Welcome! In a world with enumerable pressures and expectations, it can be easy to slip into familiar patterns of surviving that make the world feel more manageable. At times, some of these behaviors stop serving us and can even bring us harm. It can be difficult and scary to shift out of the familiarity of these behaviors and embrace new and unfamiliar ways of taking care of ourselves. I am committed to being there with my clients through that discomfort, building on the skills that exist within, expanding tolerance to distress and discomfort in an empowering way, and creating healthy and sustainable ways of moving through life!
Welcome! In a world with enumerable pressures and expectations, it can be easy to slip into familiar patterns of surviving that make the world feel more manageable. At times, some of these behaviors stop serving us and can even bring us harm. It can be difficult and scary to shift out of the familiarity of these behaviors and embrace new and unfamiliar ways of taking care of ourselves. I am committed to being there with my clients through that discomfort, building on the skills that exist within, expanding tolerance to distress and discomfort in an empowering way, and creating healthy and sustainable ways of moving through life!
(857) 375-8323 View (857) 375-8323
Photo of Casey Hoffman, LMHC, Counselor
Casey Hoffman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Financial District, Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Not accepting new patients at this time. Hi I’m Casey – I’m so glad you’re here – looking for and reaching out for help is such a big step. I work at Radiant Behavioral Health Care, LLC with adults facing various challenges and am dedicated to helping people find healing and happiness in their lives. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and substance use concerns. Whether you are dealing with work stress, relationship challenges, grief, trauma, anxious or depressive thoughts, I am committed to walking alongside you on your path to healing.
Not accepting new patients at this time. Hi I’m Casey – I’m so glad you’re here – looking for and reaching out for help is such a big step. I work at Radiant Behavioral Health Care, LLC with adults facing various challenges and am dedicated to helping people find healing and happiness in their lives. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and substance use concerns. Whether you are dealing with work stress, relationship challenges, grief, trauma, anxious or depressive thoughts, I am committed to walking alongside you on your path to healing.
(617) 915-4820 View (617) 915-4820
Photo of Kayla Pena, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayla Pena
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Financial District, Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
Kayla Pena is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7 years of experience in the mental health field. Kayla is passionate about the intersection of social work and psychology and uses cultural humility and advocacy to help individuals in marginalized communities. Kayla specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and multicultural counseling. Kayla completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Simmons University. Kayla has a great deal of experience working in various clinical settings such as community health centers, schools, legal clinics, hospitals, outpatient departments, and residential settings.
Kayla Pena is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7 years of experience in the mental health field. Kayla is passionate about the intersection of social work and psychology and uses cultural humility and advocacy to help individuals in marginalized communities. Kayla specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and multicultural counseling. Kayla completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Simmons University. Kayla has a great deal of experience working in various clinical settings such as community health centers, schools, legal clinics, hospitals, outpatient departments, and residential settings.
(857) 382-4442 View (857) 382-4442
Photo of Azizi Carle, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Azizi Carle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Financial District, Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
Azizi Carle is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the states of Massachusetts and Texas who has over 10 years of experience counseling adults, children, and families. Azizi, better known as Zee, has worked with individuals seeking help for depression, trauma, anger, loss, women's issues, and relationship concerns. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Framingham State College and received her Masters in Social Work from Simmons College.
Azizi Carle is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the states of Massachusetts and Texas who has over 10 years of experience counseling adults, children, and families. Azizi, better known as Zee, has worked with individuals seeking help for depression, trauma, anger, loss, women's issues, and relationship concerns. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Framingham State College and received her Masters in Social Work from Simmons College.
(857) 466-1127 View (857) 466-1127
Photo of Kassandra Hodges, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kassandra Hodges
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Financial District, Boston, MA 02110
Kassandra Hodges, LMFT, is a dedicated therapist and graduate of Salem State University. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she is committed to providing comprehensive mental health services to individuals, couples, and families. With a wealth of experience working with clients of all ages, Kassandra specializes in addressing a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, cultural or racial issues, women’s issues, PTSD, relationship difficulties, personality disorders, and addictions.
Kassandra Hodges, LMFT, is a dedicated therapist and graduate of Salem State University. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she is committed to providing comprehensive mental health services to individuals, couples, and families. With a wealth of experience working with clients of all ages, Kassandra specializes in addressing a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, cultural or racial issues, women’s issues, PTSD, relationship difficulties, personality disorders, and addictions.
(617) 765-2584 View (617) 765-2584
Photo of Asunta DeRienzo, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Asunta DeRienzo
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Financial District, Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
Asunta specializes in career development, life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief/loss, and spiritual development. She has ten years of experience working with young adult professionals and college students whom are navigating next steps to take in finding their purpose and joy. She values both the art and science of therapy blending mind-body approaches including mindfulness practices, nutrition, body-mind awareness with current findings in psychology and neurobiology. She helps patients find meaning in life's setbacks. She will help you find purpose in pain and how to better respond to your challenges.
Asunta specializes in career development, life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief/loss, and spiritual development. She has ten years of experience working with young adult professionals and college students whom are navigating next steps to take in finding their purpose and joy. She values both the art and science of therapy blending mind-body approaches including mindfulness practices, nutrition, body-mind awareness with current findings in psychology and neurobiology. She helps patients find meaning in life's setbacks. She will help you find purpose in pain and how to better respond to your challenges.
(617) 850-9597 View (617) 850-9597
Photo of Aly Rogers, MS, BCBA
Aly Rogers
MS, BCBA
Verified Verified
Financial District, Boston, MA 02110
Aly is the therapist who proves that therapy can be fun, quirky, and still super effective. As a clinician specializing in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), she has a unique approach to mental health that combines humor and compassion to help individuals overcome symptoms related to Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD and Autism. Aly knows that mental health can be serious, but she also believes that it doesn't have to be stuffy and boring to work through challenges. Her approach to therapy helps patients find their own strengths & values, then acts as a guide for aligning their lives with those things that matter to them most.
Aly is the therapist who proves that therapy can be fun, quirky, and still super effective. As a clinician specializing in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), she has a unique approach to mental health that combines humor and compassion to help individuals overcome symptoms related to Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD and Autism. Aly knows that mental health can be serious, but she also believes that it doesn't have to be stuffy and boring to work through challenges. Her approach to therapy helps patients find their own strengths & values, then acts as a guide for aligning their lives with those things that matter to them most.
(857) 578-6178 View (857) 578-6178
Photo of Cheryl Guerriero, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheryl Guerriero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Financial District, Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with adults to meet their goals in an empathetic and supportive way. I work collaboratively with individuals to heal patterns that are creating difficulties in their lives. My style is down to earth, relaxed, supportive and compassionate, but can be guided when needed.
I enjoy working with adults to meet their goals in an empathetic and supportive way. I work collaboratively with individuals to heal patterns that are creating difficulties in their lives. My style is down to earth, relaxed, supportive and compassionate, but can be guided when needed.
(617) 229-6938 View (617) 229-6938
Photo of Sarah J. Smith Psyad, PsyaD, LMHC, Counselor
Sarah J. Smith Psyad
Counselor, PsyaD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Financial District, Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
I am a trained psychoanalyst and psychotherapist in virtual private practice in Boston. Throughout my career I have worked with adults, adolescents and children in out patient, school, community and private practice settings. I work with people who may be looking to know themselves more deeply or who need assistance with relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma or loss.
I am a trained psychoanalyst and psychotherapist in virtual private practice in Boston. Throughout my career I have worked with adults, adolescents and children in out patient, school, community and private practice settings. I work with people who may be looking to know themselves more deeply or who need assistance with relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma or loss.
(857) 314-7776 View (857) 314-7776
Photo of Ayelet Katzelnik, PsyD, Psychologist
Ayelet Katzelnik
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Financial District, Boston, MA 02110
Dr. Ayelet Katzelnik treats a wide range of behavioral and emotional concerns such as anxiety, addictions, trauma, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, women’s issues, chronic illness, and general existential and spiritual concerns. She believes it is important to consider all aspects of the individual including socioeconomic factors, culture, race, gender identity, and will create a supportive therapeutic environment to facilitate clients’ exploration of stuck points as well as changes they could make to align them with their values.
Dr. Ayelet Katzelnik treats a wide range of behavioral and emotional concerns such as anxiety, addictions, trauma, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, women’s issues, chronic illness, and general existential and spiritual concerns. She believes it is important to consider all aspects of the individual including socioeconomic factors, culture, race, gender identity, and will create a supportive therapeutic environment to facilitate clients’ exploration of stuck points as well as changes they could make to align them with their values.
(857) 575-3633 View (857) 575-3633
Photo of Ashley Anechiarico, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Anechiarico
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Financial District, Boston, MA 02110
Ashley Anechiarico, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), is renowned for her compassionate and client-centered approach in therapy. Her practice caters to a wide array of clients, including young adults, the LGBTQ+ community, and individuals coping with depression, anxiety, and emotional abuse. Ashley’s therapeutic style is grounded in collaboration and strength-based methods, tailored to address the unique needs of each client.
Ashley Anechiarico, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), is renowned for her compassionate and client-centered approach in therapy. Her practice caters to a wide array of clients, including young adults, the LGBTQ+ community, and individuals coping with depression, anxiety, and emotional abuse. Ashley’s therapeutic style is grounded in collaboration and strength-based methods, tailored to address the unique needs of each client.
(617) 675-9343 View (617) 675-9343
Photo of Caroline H. Ogilvy, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caroline H. Ogilvy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Financial District, Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I work with adults who may be coping with new or unexpected challenges in their lives. I can help clients who may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or frustrated, while navigating difficult emotional experiences that may cause significant distress. I specialize in supporting women who are coping with anxiety and/or depression, daily life stress, self-esteem, interpersonal relationship conflicts, work/life balance, life transitions, chronic medical illness, and parenting related issues. Together, we discuss mind-body connection, strengthening coping skills for stress management, and fostering resilience and empowerment.
As a therapist, I work with adults who may be coping with new or unexpected challenges in their lives. I can help clients who may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or frustrated, while navigating difficult emotional experiences that may cause significant distress. I specialize in supporting women who are coping with anxiety and/or depression, daily life stress, self-esteem, interpersonal relationship conflicts, work/life balance, life transitions, chronic medical illness, and parenting related issues. Together, we discuss mind-body connection, strengthening coping skills for stress management, and fostering resilience and empowerment.
(857) 847-4090 View (857) 847-4090
Photo of Alison Gurley Ho, PsyD, Psychologist
Alison Gurley Ho
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Financial District, Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
Starting therapy can be daunting. Sharing difficult thoughts and feelings that have us stuck is never easy. But therapy can also be one of our most healing experiences. At its best, therapy is a space to be together in the painful parts of life, cultivate strengths, and find humor in it all along the way. I offer a friendly, compassionate ear to anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, life changes or relationships. I provide space to process emotions, while also emphasizing the need to make changes in order to grow. Together, we will create a plan, based in scientific research, to ensure progress on what matters most to you.
Starting therapy can be daunting. Sharing difficult thoughts and feelings that have us stuck is never easy. But therapy can also be one of our most healing experiences. At its best, therapy is a space to be together in the painful parts of life, cultivate strengths, and find humor in it all along the way. I offer a friendly, compassionate ear to anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, life changes or relationships. I provide space to process emotions, while also emphasizing the need to make changes in order to grow. Together, we will create a plan, based in scientific research, to ensure progress on what matters most to you.
(351) 277-0120 View (351) 277-0120
Photo of Alison Todd, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Todd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Financial District, Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
I am an energetic and empathic Licensed Independent Social worker with over 30 years of experience. My areas of specialty include anxiety/stress, depression, executive function disorders, issues with relationships and peers, conflict resolution, trauma response and coping with medical concerns.
I am an energetic and empathic Licensed Independent Social worker with over 30 years of experience. My areas of specialty include anxiety/stress, depression, executive function disorders, issues with relationships and peers, conflict resolution, trauma response and coping with medical concerns.
(617) 657-2158 View (617) 657-2158
Photo of Jennifer Ragan, PhD, Psychologist
Jennifer Ragan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Financial District, Boston, MA 02110
I received training through Harvard University/Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in the treatment of Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, OCD, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Hypochondriasis, Panic Disorder, Skin-picking, Hairpulling, Social Anxiety, and Phobias. I also specialize in treating ADHD/Executive Functioning issues that make it difficult for young adults to get through college. I use the most up-to-date, empirically-validated, hands-on treatments to help my patients achieve real results by reducing active symptoms and improving their quality of life.
I received training through Harvard University/Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in the treatment of Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, OCD, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Hypochondriasis, Panic Disorder, Skin-picking, Hairpulling, Social Anxiety, and Phobias. I also specialize in treating ADHD/Executive Functioning issues that make it difficult for young adults to get through college. I use the most up-to-date, empirically-validated, hands-on treatments to help my patients achieve real results by reducing active symptoms and improving their quality of life.
(617) 607-4941 View (617) 607-4941
Photo of Tiffany Armstrong, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Armstrong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Financial District, Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
I have a special interest in working with individuals navigating life transitions such as college, graduate school, career stress, sexuality and gender identity/expression, parenting, relationships, substance use and disordered eating. I specialize in women’s health issues, including pregnancy, postpartum, adoption and parenting. I have extensive experience working in community health with children and adults with complex medical needs, teen parents, and pregnant and postpartum individuals with substance use disorders.
I have a special interest in working with individuals navigating life transitions such as college, graduate school, career stress, sexuality and gender identity/expression, parenting, relationships, substance use and disordered eating. I specialize in women’s health issues, including pregnancy, postpartum, adoption and parenting. I have extensive experience working in community health with children and adults with complex medical needs, teen parents, and pregnant and postpartum individuals with substance use disorders.
(857) 567-0470 x1 View (857) 567-0470 x1

See more therapy options for Financial District, Boston

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Financial District, Boston, MA

400+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Financial District, Boston, MA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
74% Self Esteem
71% Stress
69% Trauma and PTSD
66% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% BlueCross and BlueShield
62% Aetna
56% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Financial District, Boston, MA see their clients

52% Online Only
48% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Financial District, Boston?

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.