Therapists in Hillsborough, NJ

Photo of Gianna Notarfrancesco, MA, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gianna Notarfrancesco
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
My ideal client would most likely be a female teenager working through peer relationships, self-esteem, and social anxiety. With this client, I believe some of her needs would be to explore core beliefs of who she is in comparison to what others may say/think of her, cognitively challenging and reframing intrusive/negative thought patterns, and slowly expose the client to social scenarios in which she can use her coping skills to effectively navigate new situations.
My ideal client would most likely be a female teenager working through peer relationships, self-esteem, and social anxiety. With this client, I believe some of her needs would be to explore core beliefs of who she is in comparison to what others may say/think of her, cognitively challenging and reframing intrusive/negative thought patterns, and slowly expose the client to social scenarios in which she can use her coping skills to effectively navigate new situations.
(908) 364-9406 View (908) 364-9406
Photo of Kris Stankiewicz, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Kris Stankiewicz
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, specializing with children, adolescents, and young adults. Specifically, I focus on helping children, adolescents, and young adults presenting with anxiety, school related stress, depression, ADHD, peer & relationship difficulty, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, behavior problems, and school challenges (i.e. school refusal/avoidance, poor executive skills, organizational difficulties, homework inconsistency, etc.). I address these challenges using cognitive-behavioral approaches that have clear scientific support for their effectiveness.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, specializing with children, adolescents, and young adults. Specifically, I focus on helping children, adolescents, and young adults presenting with anxiety, school related stress, depression, ADHD, peer & relationship difficulty, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, behavior problems, and school challenges (i.e. school refusal/avoidance, poor executive skills, organizational difficulties, homework inconsistency, etc.). I address these challenges using cognitive-behavioral approaches that have clear scientific support for their effectiveness.
(908) 212-9693 View (908) 212-9693
Photo of Christine Peters, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
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Photo of Lauren Dobbs, PsyD, Psychologist
Lauren Dobbs
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Dr. Dobbs is an accomplished clinical psychologist with over fifteen years of experience between teaching and clinical work. She specializes in working with children, teens, and adults and has worked across various settings, including private practice, school, residential, and community mental health. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in the gold standard of treatment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which provides faster, more effective results. With children and teens, she goes beyond the traditional confines of therapy by harnessing their natural creativity, integrating art, music, games, journaling, and other creative outlets.
Dr. Dobbs is an accomplished clinical psychologist with over fifteen years of experience between teaching and clinical work. She specializes in working with children, teens, and adults and has worked across various settings, including private practice, school, residential, and community mental health. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in the gold standard of treatment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which provides faster, more effective results. With children and teens, she goes beyond the traditional confines of therapy by harnessing their natural creativity, integrating art, music, games, journaling, and other creative outlets.
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Photo of Leila Halwani, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leila Halwani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe empathy can change lives. My ideal client is someone who is looking to make a change in their lives and is ready to take the first step. I specialize in helping individuals and families break cycles of trauma, anxiety, and depression by getting curious about the systems they have been raised in and continue to live in. I have a particular interest in working with women throughout their life cycle, including young adulthood, adulthood, motherhood, pregnancy, and postpartum.
I believe empathy can change lives. My ideal client is someone who is looking to make a change in their lives and is ready to take the first step. I specialize in helping individuals and families break cycles of trauma, anxiety, and depression by getting curious about the systems they have been raised in and continue to live in. I have a particular interest in working with women throughout their life cycle, including young adulthood, adulthood, motherhood, pregnancy, and postpartum.
(908) 795-8112 View (908) 795-8112
Photo of Samantha Tulipani, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Tulipani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
My ideal client is a young adult facing overwhelming life challenges. They might feel lost amid trauma, loss, or big changes, even though they seem okay to others. They struggle with emotions like sadness and stress and need a safe place to talk, heal, and learn healthy ways to cope. They want to find peace and purpose, and they seek support to understand themselves better, grow, and face life with confidence. They're ready to explore, heal, and become the best version of themselves, knowing they don't have to do it alone.
My ideal client is a young adult facing overwhelming life challenges. They might feel lost amid trauma, loss, or big changes, even though they seem okay to others. They struggle with emotions like sadness and stress and need a safe place to talk, heal, and learn healthy ways to cope. They want to find peace and purpose, and they seek support to understand themselves better, grow, and face life with confidence. They're ready to explore, heal, and become the best version of themselves, knowing they don't have to do it alone.
(908) 663-5736 View (908) 663-5736
Photo of Roni Michaels-DeBlank, MSW, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roni Michaels-DeBlank
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
If you are experiencing feelings of stress, overwhelm, anxiety, sadness, lack of motivation, or challenges within your relationships, I am here to support you. Whether you are struggling with fear, addiction, disordered eating, insomnia, illness, clutter, or gender identity issues, I am dedicated to helping you lead a more fulfilling life.
If you are experiencing feelings of stress, overwhelm, anxiety, sadness, lack of motivation, or challenges within your relationships, I am here to support you. Whether you are struggling with fear, addiction, disordered eating, insomnia, illness, clutter, or gender identity issues, I am dedicated to helping you lead a more fulfilling life.
(908) 938-9167 View (908) 938-9167
Photo of Melanie Pacheco, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Pacheco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
I love working with all different types of clients, and I find that I learn from those that I work with. I love working with anyone who wants to make a change or achieve a goal.
I love working with all different types of clients, and I find that I learn from those that I work with. I love working with anyone who wants to make a change or achieve a goal.
(908) 460-7634 View (908) 460-7634
Photo of Sindhu Thogarchedu, LAC, R-DMT, NCC, Counselor
Sindhu Thogarchedu
Counselor, LAC, R-DMT, NCC
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844  (Online Only)
“There is hope even when your brain tells you there isn’t” John Green. Sometimes it feels like our minds and bodies are constantly at battle. Our thoughts can make us feel as if we are losing control and they can hold us back from living the life we want. Anxiety and negative thoughts can feel like they can never be managed but I’m here to tell you that that is a lie that our brain tricked us into believing. If you are willing to take the first step with me in battling your anxiety and emotional pain, then I will work with you to find ways to help manage your anxiety and explore various ways to cope with the stressors of life.
“There is hope even when your brain tells you there isn’t” John Green. Sometimes it feels like our minds and bodies are constantly at battle. Our thoughts can make us feel as if we are losing control and they can hold us back from living the life we want. Anxiety and negative thoughts can feel like they can never be managed but I’m here to tell you that that is a lie that our brain tricked us into believing. If you are willing to take the first step with me in battling your anxiety and emotional pain, then I will work with you to find ways to help manage your anxiety and explore various ways to cope with the stressors of life.
(732) 624-6502 View (732) 624-6502
Photo of Maria LaPorta, PsyD, BCB, NCSP, Psychologist
Maria LaPorta
Psychologist, PsyD, BCB, NCSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Dr. LaPorta is cognitive behavioral therapist, who specializes in working with adolescents and adults who are experiencing feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress over life transitions. With warmth, empathy, and a collaborative approach, Dr. LaPorta helps clients develop coping skills, address unhealthy patterns of thinking, and identify opportunities for positive change. She is genuine, attentive, and supportive, and she values laughter in spite of life's difficulties. Her clinical experiences in schools, counseling centers, psychiatric facilities, and private practice allows her unique insight and expertise in mental health.
Dr. LaPorta is cognitive behavioral therapist, who specializes in working with adolescents and adults who are experiencing feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress over life transitions. With warmth, empathy, and a collaborative approach, Dr. LaPorta helps clients develop coping skills, address unhealthy patterns of thinking, and identify opportunities for positive change. She is genuine, attentive, and supportive, and she values laughter in spite of life's difficulties. Her clinical experiences in schools, counseling centers, psychiatric facilities, and private practice allows her unique insight and expertise in mental health.
(551) 250-1017 x5 View (551) 250-1017 x5
Photo of Jennifer Luongo - DevOTed to Kids, MSOTR/L, Occupational Therapist
DevOTed to Kids
Occupational Therapist, MSOTR/L
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Founder of Devoted to Kids, Jennifer Luongo has 23 years of experience in the field of pediatrics with an advanced Master's Degree in occupational therapy. She is dedicated to providing the most comprehensive and holistic intervention for her clients and their families. Her experience ranges from infants to young adults with autism spectrum disorder, low muscle tone, global developmental delays, cerebral palsy, developmental coordination disorder, ADHD and more. Devoted to Kids is focused on maximizing a child’s full potential in the areas of sensory processing, self-regulation, executive functioning, coordination, strength, etc.
Founder of Devoted to Kids, Jennifer Luongo has 23 years of experience in the field of pediatrics with an advanced Master's Degree in occupational therapy. She is dedicated to providing the most comprehensive and holistic intervention for her clients and their families. Her experience ranges from infants to young adults with autism spectrum disorder, low muscle tone, global developmental delays, cerebral palsy, developmental coordination disorder, ADHD and more. Devoted to Kids is focused on maximizing a child’s full potential in the areas of sensory processing, self-regulation, executive functioning, coordination, strength, etc.
(848) 600-6543 View (848) 600-6543
Photo of Richard Vereneck, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Richard Vereneck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
I am a LSW with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. My areas of specialty and focus are depression, anxiety, low self esteem, mood disorders, and trauma. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
I am a LSW with years of experience treating teen/adolescents and their families. My areas of specialty and focus are depression, anxiety, low self esteem, mood disorders, and trauma. The driving force behind my practice is to create a nurturing environment where kids can grow into healthy adults with learned coping skills and a better understanding of their own identity.
(908) 639-2385 View (908) 639-2385
Photo of Shams Elbedeiwy, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shams Elbedeiwy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
My ideal client is a young adult under the age of 35 who may have difficulty with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, adjusting to new circumstances, stress, family strain, relationship issues, and cultural stress.
My ideal client is a young adult under the age of 35 who may have difficulty with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, adjusting to new circumstances, stress, family strain, relationship issues, and cultural stress.
(908) 529-0491 View (908) 529-0491
Photo of Richard Smith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Richard Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
(908) 867-9023 View (908) 867-9023
Photo of Laura DeMarzo, EdD, Psychologist
Laura DeMarzo
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
For over 30 years CPS works hard at getting you and your family the results you need. Specialties include EMDR, bipolar disorder, OCD, panic disorders, anxieties, depression, and trauma and addiction. We work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Iwe offer a solution oriented motivvating approach with an emphasis on skill building through Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (CBT, DBT). We help develop effective strategies to cope with stress, build self_esteem and improve relationships. We offer Group therapy, Mindfulness, EMDR, Play and Sand Therapy, Hypnotherapy and mediation/divorce coaching.
For over 30 years CPS works hard at getting you and your family the results you need. Specialties include EMDR, bipolar disorder, OCD, panic disorders, anxieties, depression, and trauma and addiction. We work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Iwe offer a solution oriented motivvating approach with an emphasis on skill building through Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (CBT, DBT). We help develop effective strategies to cope with stress, build self_esteem and improve relationships. We offer Group therapy, Mindfulness, EMDR, Play and Sand Therapy, Hypnotherapy and mediation/divorce coaching.
(908) 768-4651 View (908) 768-4651
Photo of Lisa Baum, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Baum
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844  (Online Only)
My goal as a therapist is to help individuals find effective ways in which to lead healthy, happy and successful lives. My clinical perspective is collaborative and open, using an individualized approach to treatment in order to focus on the personal strengths and styles of each client. I am experienced in working with older adolescents and adults in a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, developmental, grief, health, work and school adjustment, relationship issues, family conflict, and parenting.
My goal as a therapist is to help individuals find effective ways in which to lead healthy, happy and successful lives. My clinical perspective is collaborative and open, using an individualized approach to treatment in order to focus on the personal strengths and styles of each client. I am experienced in working with older adolescents and adults in a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, developmental, grief, health, work and school adjustment, relationship issues, family conflict, and parenting.
(908) 650-8237 View (908) 650-8237
Photo of Linda Stewart, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Stewart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Not accepting new clients
I am inspired by the lives of so many who have overcome mental, emotional and relational difficulties to live full and meaningful lives. My desire is to create a safe and comfortable environment for clients to explore the issues in their lives that have brought them to therapy. I believe in the transformative power of insight, compassion, mindfulness and acceptance that creates positive and meaningful change.
I am inspired by the lives of so many who have overcome mental, emotional and relational difficulties to live full and meaningful lives. My desire is to create a safe and comfortable environment for clients to explore the issues in their lives that have brought them to therapy. I believe in the transformative power of insight, compassion, mindfulness and acceptance that creates positive and meaningful change.
(732) 507-9992 View (732) 507-9992
Photo of Danielle Slavin, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Slavin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Danielle deeply values the privilege of being entrusted with the role of supporting someone as they navigate through their healing journey. She honors the specific needs of each individual and aims to foster an authentic relationship built on trust and collaboration. Danielle’s goal is to provide a supportive foundation that offers strength and courage to clients as they pursue their goals in relationships, family, and life. She has over a decade experience with evidence-based interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Person-Centered Therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
Danielle deeply values the privilege of being entrusted with the role of supporting someone as they navigate through their healing journey. She honors the specific needs of each individual and aims to foster an authentic relationship built on trust and collaboration. Danielle’s goal is to provide a supportive foundation that offers strength and courage to clients as they pursue their goals in relationships, family, and life. She has over a decade experience with evidence-based interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Person-Centered Therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
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Photo of Marissa Ross, LPC, Counselor
Marissa Ross
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844  (Online Only)
Are you feeling worried or unable to fully enjoy previous hobbies or interests that you once looked forward to? Or are you a parent of a child who is struggling emotionally or behaviorally in school or at home? It takes a great amount of strength to admit an answer to any of these, let alone seek therapy. I admire the courage of each and every person who makes the decision to come to therapy. My experience involves providing individual, group, and school counseling services to children as young as 2 years old, adolescents, young adults, and adults. I have unique experience in working with individuals on the autism spectrum.
Are you feeling worried or unable to fully enjoy previous hobbies or interests that you once looked forward to? Or are you a parent of a child who is struggling emotionally or behaviorally in school or at home? It takes a great amount of strength to admit an answer to any of these, let alone seek therapy. I admire the courage of each and every person who makes the decision to come to therapy. My experience involves providing individual, group, and school counseling services to children as young as 2 years old, adolescents, young adults, and adults. I have unique experience in working with individuals on the autism spectrum.
(551) 250-1017 x7 View (551) 250-1017 x7
Photo of Bernard E Bilicki, PsyD, MSW, Psychologist
Bernard E Bilicki
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844  (Online Only)
RELATIONSHIPS….They pretty much run the world, direct your life, and move your heart. Your relationships, especially with your partner, will greatly improve when you learn to communicate better, and begin using some very effective methods to improve your mood, draw more success, and find more peace. COMMUNICATION….How well you communicate with your partner and other people directly determines the quality of your relationships. How well you communicate with yourself—by self-talk, clear thinking, and effective organization—also determines your relationship quality, and just about everything else.
RELATIONSHIPS….They pretty much run the world, direct your life, and move your heart. Your relationships, especially with your partner, will greatly improve when you learn to communicate better, and begin using some very effective methods to improve your mood, draw more success, and find more peace. COMMUNICATION….How well you communicate with your partner and other people directly determines the quality of your relationships. How well you communicate with yourself—by self-talk, clear thinking, and effective organization—also determines your relationship quality, and just about everything else.
(908) 977-6007 View (908) 977-6007
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Hillsborough, NJ

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Hillsborough, NJ who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
89% Depression
82% Self Esteem
81% Relationship Issues
74% Coping Skills
73% Stress
66% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

73% Aetna
67% Cigna and Evernorth
63% Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield

How Therapists in Hillsborough, NJ see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Hillsborough?

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.