Therapists in Mastic, NY

Photo of Dr. John G Woolley, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. John G Woolley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mastic, NY 11950  (Online Only)
Living with mental or emotional health issues can be overwhelming for anyone. For more than 20 years I have helped individuals from various backgrounds and cultures who have experienced life challenges. As a dedicated and motivated Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York State with experience helping older adults, the mentally ill, people with substance use disorders, the disabled, immigrants, the chronically ill, and hospice, I have utilized clinical and cross-cultural therapeutic modalities to empower and motivate positive change in people to live their best possible lives.
Living with mental or emotional health issues can be overwhelming for anyone. For more than 20 years I have helped individuals from various backgrounds and cultures who have experienced life challenges. As a dedicated and motivated Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York State with experience helping older adults, the mentally ill, people with substance use disorders, the disabled, immigrants, the chronically ill, and hospice, I have utilized clinical and cross-cultural therapeutic modalities to empower and motivate positive change in people to live their best possible lives.
(631) 529-1428 View (631) 529-1428
Photo of Tantenisha James, LMHC, Counselor
Tantenisha James
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Mastic, NY 11950
I graduated from Pace University with my Master's Degree as a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Substance Abuse Counselor. I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy as each individual has specific treatment needs as each person's experiences and the emotional impact of those experiences are unique to that individual. This is why my theoretical approach is humanistic and client-centered. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Adler, and Gestalt.
I graduated from Pace University with my Master's Degree as a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Substance Abuse Counselor. I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy as each individual has specific treatment needs as each person's experiences and the emotional impact of those experiences are unique to that individual. This is why my theoretical approach is humanistic and client-centered. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Adler, and Gestalt.
(585) 440-7934 View (585) 440-7934
Photo of Lois Anne Montecalvo, LMSW, ACHT, RMT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lois Anne Montecalvo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACHT, RMT
Verified Verified
Mastic, NY 11950
Not accepting new clients
Who I am is the "Possibility of Greatness" for all people! I am committed to you living a powerful life and one that you love... Together we can tackle any outside/inside force that keeps you playing small. Whether that may be food, alcohol, drugs an unhealthy relationship or anxiety; commit now figure it out later....NO MUD-NO LOTUS...
Who I am is the "Possibility of Greatness" for all people! I am committed to you living a powerful life and one that you love... Together we can tackle any outside/inside force that keeps you playing small. Whether that may be food, alcohol, drugs an unhealthy relationship or anxiety; commit now figure it out later....NO MUD-NO LOTUS...
(631) 240-4887 View (631) 240-4887
Photo of Michael Ash, LCSW-R, CASAC-M, ACSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Ash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CASAC-M, ACSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mastic, NY 11950
You may be experiencing feelings and behaviors you cannot always explain, control, or understand. I am an experienced, dedicated, and caring therapist devoted to helping the individual and family through challenges. My passion and experience is extensive in the areas of addictions, co-dependency, family issues, trauma, criminal justice-involved persons; adolescent and childhood challenges. My approach encompasses the promotion of increased self-awareness and knowledge. I believe each of us has the ability to feel joy and to accept life's twists and turns with grace and serenity.
You may be experiencing feelings and behaviors you cannot always explain, control, or understand. I am an experienced, dedicated, and caring therapist devoted to helping the individual and family through challenges. My passion and experience is extensive in the areas of addictions, co-dependency, family issues, trauma, criminal justice-involved persons; adolescent and childhood challenges. My approach encompasses the promotion of increased self-awareness and knowledge. I believe each of us has the ability to feel joy and to accept life's twists and turns with grace and serenity.
(646) 480-6011 View (646) 480-6011
Photo of Dr. Michelle D. Raysor, EdD, LMHC, CRC, CASAC, Counselor
Dr. Michelle D. Raysor
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, CRC, CASAC
Verified Verified
Mastic, NY 11950
One of the hardest things for many individuals is to make the decision to seek therapy. As a Licensed Mental Heath Counselor/Therapist it is a privilege to be afforded the opportunity to be a part of someone's process as he or she starts to break free from some of the limitations imposed on them by their own past, or the pain of their early relationships and experiences, to find their way, uncover their goals, and start to reveal who they really are. it is honestly one of the most rewarding reasons I am committed to the process of change produced through therapy.
One of the hardest things for many individuals is to make the decision to seek therapy. As a Licensed Mental Heath Counselor/Therapist it is a privilege to be afforded the opportunity to be a part of someone's process as he or she starts to break free from some of the limitations imposed on them by their own past, or the pain of their early relationships and experiences, to find their way, uncover their goals, and start to reveal who they really are. it is honestly one of the most rewarding reasons I am committed to the process of change produced through therapy.
(631) 496-4123 View (631) 496-4123
Photo of Janet E. Weisberg, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet E. Weisberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Mastic, NY 11950  (Online Only)
Today's lifestyle is plagued with many stressors which often impinge on our ability to accomplish goals. I believe therapy should provide an environment where coping skills needed to handle those stressors can be learned. I encourage the ideas of self-empowerment and independence. I strive to create a safe and confidential atmosphere where clients learn the skills which will promote individual success. In my opinion, therapy should provide an opportunity for growth which results in a higher level of self-satisfaction.
Today's lifestyle is plagued with many stressors which often impinge on our ability to accomplish goals. I believe therapy should provide an environment where coping skills needed to handle those stressors can be learned. I encourage the ideas of self-empowerment and independence. I strive to create a safe and confidential atmosphere where clients learn the skills which will promote individual success. In my opinion, therapy should provide an opportunity for growth which results in a higher level of self-satisfaction.
(631) 494-3029 View (631) 494-3029
Photo of Wayne M Gurnick, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wayne M Gurnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mastic, NY 11950
Life circumstances can often become overwhelming and feel unmanageable. Whether it be stress related to your child's emotional well-being or behavior, family communication or interactions, other relationship issues, or other personal struggles, you and those important to you deserve happiness. Although life can sometimes get in the way of making ourselves our number one priority - it is time! With over 24 years experience working with children, adolescents, and adults I have joined many in assisting them on their path back to hope, happiness, and personal fulfillment - I look forward to the opportunity to join you on your path.
Life circumstances can often become overwhelming and feel unmanageable. Whether it be stress related to your child's emotional well-being or behavior, family communication or interactions, other relationship issues, or other personal struggles, you and those important to you deserve happiness. Although life can sometimes get in the way of making ourselves our number one priority - it is time! With over 24 years experience working with children, adolescents, and adults I have joined many in assisting them on their path back to hope, happiness, and personal fulfillment - I look forward to the opportunity to join you on your path.
(631) 352-4298 View (631) 352-4298
Photo of Renee C Lee, Behavio, Analyst, BCBA, LBA
Renee C Lee
Behavio, Analyst, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Mastic, NY 11950
Illuminating Steps LLC serves individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other Developmental Disabilities who present a variety of needs (intellectual disability, physical disability, challenging behavior, social deficits, communication deficits, etc.). We utilize the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). ​ABA, at its core, involves an umbrella of teaching methodologies, including incidental teaching, discrete trial training, natural environment teaching, and verbal behavior. ​Illuminating Steps delivers success step by step.
Illuminating Steps LLC serves individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other Developmental Disabilities who present a variety of needs (intellectual disability, physical disability, challenging behavior, social deficits, communication deficits, etc.). We utilize the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). ​ABA, at its core, involves an umbrella of teaching methodologies, including incidental teaching, discrete trial training, natural environment teaching, and verbal behavior. ​Illuminating Steps delivers success step by step.
(631) 883-5574 View (631) 883-5574
Photo of Maria Romer Guzzetta - Lock and Key Therapy, LCSW, PLLC, LCSW-R, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lock and Key Therapy, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, BCD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mastic, NY 11950
We are offering in person and online sessions. After having the courage to finally call a therapy practice are you tired of either not getting a response or put on a never ending waitlist? We dislike that very much too! You are in the right place if you are looking for some immediate help. Please text the clinic director, Maria, on her cellular at 917-403-3267. She will be in touch. We pride our practice in getting back in touch with everyone. We are here to help! You are not alone.
We are offering in person and online sessions. After having the courage to finally call a therapy practice are you tired of either not getting a response or put on a never ending waitlist? We dislike that very much too! You are in the right place if you are looking for some immediate help. Please text the clinic director, Maria, on her cellular at 917-403-3267. She will be in touch. We pride our practice in getting back in touch with everyone. We are here to help! You are not alone.
(917) 403-3267 View (917) 403-3267
Photo of Aiyana Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aiyana Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mastic, NY 11950  (Online Only)
Do any of the following resonate with you? You feel lost in life. You feel unable to do your day-to-day tasks. You've lost the happy moments you used to have in your life. You're struggling to motivate yourself to do anything. You wish you could just switch it all off and unplug from what's happening. If so, I'm here to help. Being in a state of mental pain and fustration can feel like you are getting ready to lose it. And sometimes you do. It can feel exhausting and emotionally draining. Mental Health Counseling can help you to regain a sense of mental peace and calm, helping you to get your life back to normal.
Do any of the following resonate with you? You feel lost in life. You feel unable to do your day-to-day tasks. You've lost the happy moments you used to have in your life. You're struggling to motivate yourself to do anything. You wish you could just switch it all off and unplug from what's happening. If so, I'm here to help. Being in a state of mental pain and fustration can feel like you are getting ready to lose it. And sometimes you do. It can feel exhausting and emotionally draining. Mental Health Counseling can help you to regain a sense of mental peace and calm, helping you to get your life back to normal.
(631) 706-9829 View (631) 706-9829
Photo of Nicole Mayer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Mayer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mastic, NY 11950  (Online Only)
Are you ready to take back control of your life by making positive adjustments? Maybe you are experiencing a change in mood and don't know why. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist providing a welcoming, safe, supportive and accepting environment for individuals of all ages and families impacted by Autism, developmental disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, OCD and depression. I am here to help individuals process any challenges that they are facing, and help them develop solutions for coping and managing their challenges and needs in a healthy and safe manner.
Are you ready to take back control of your life by making positive adjustments? Maybe you are experiencing a change in mood and don't know why. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist providing a welcoming, safe, supportive and accepting environment for individuals of all ages and families impacted by Autism, developmental disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, OCD and depression. I am here to help individuals process any challenges that they are facing, and help them develop solutions for coping and managing their challenges and needs in a healthy and safe manner.
(631) 503-0899 View (631) 503-0899
Photo of Daisha Nesbitt, LMHC
Daisha Nesbitt
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mastic, NY 11950  (Online Only)
For you, your child, or family- What would you like to overcome? Let’s collaborate to facilitate transformation by helping you understand emotions, learn coping skills, increase confidence, heal from trauma, relieve anxiety, reduce depressive cycles, find balance in new life dynamics and feel empowered. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, adventurer and corny joke lover I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults and families who are ready to make changes in their lives. I am person centered, direct, strength based, and encourage my clients to be themselves.
For you, your child, or family- What would you like to overcome? Let’s collaborate to facilitate transformation by helping you understand emotions, learn coping skills, increase confidence, heal from trauma, relieve anxiety, reduce depressive cycles, find balance in new life dynamics and feel empowered. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, adventurer and corny joke lover I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults and families who are ready to make changes in their lives. I am person centered, direct, strength based, and encourage my clients to be themselves.
(845) 237-5270 View (845) 237-5270

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Gabrielle Fish, MHC, LP
Gabrielle Fish
MHC, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookhaven, NY 11719
I create a nonjudgmental, safe space for my patients to explore their challenges. I approach my work with you through a trauma-focused lens and acknowledge how emotion is central to human experience. I draw from relational and psychodynamic approaches, focusing on how our past pains can influence our present patterns and cycles. Through deep listening, I am able to guide you through your own journey of self-awareness and reflection. I completed my education in Mental Health Counseling at the University at Albany, where I also served as a peer assistant and training instructor for a mental health and crisis hotline.
I create a nonjudgmental, safe space for my patients to explore their challenges. I approach my work with you through a trauma-focused lens and acknowledge how emotion is central to human experience. I draw from relational and psychodynamic approaches, focusing on how our past pains can influence our present patterns and cycles. Through deep listening, I am able to guide you through your own journey of self-awareness and reflection. I completed my education in Mental Health Counseling at the University at Albany, where I also served as a peer assistant and training instructor for a mental health and crisis hotline.
(516) 928-7599 View (516) 928-7599
Photo of Lauren Ann Hallaceli, LMHC, Counselor
Lauren Ann Hallaceli
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yaphank, NY 11980
“The best years of your life are the ones in which you decide your problems are your own. You do not blame them on your mother, the ecology, or the president. You realize that you control your own destiny.” ― Albert Ellis. Oftentimes what hinders us from moving forward toward our goals is our own thoughts; memories of failure or even a perception of potential failure can keep us frozen in a pattern of stagnation, which can increase feelings of depression, anxiety and low self-worth.
“The best years of your life are the ones in which you decide your problems are your own. You do not blame them on your mother, the ecology, or the president. You realize that you control your own destiny.” ― Albert Ellis. Oftentimes what hinders us from moving forward toward our goals is our own thoughts; memories of failure or even a perception of potential failure can keep us frozen in a pattern of stagnation, which can increase feelings of depression, anxiety and low self-worth.
(631) 202-0842 View (631) 202-0842
Photo of Gabriell Gereau, LMHC, Counselor
Gabriell Gereau
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Shirley, NY 11967  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Gabriell (Gabbi) Gereau, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of NY, though I now live in Massachusetts. I love helping others improve their mental health and overall well-being, whether it be through play therapy, mindfulness exercises, talking through past trauma, or focusing on day-to-day stressors. Navigating life as a child, teenager, or young adult can be difficult. You are constantly learning new things, facing new challenges, and trying to adapt to our ever-changing world.
Hello! My name is Gabriell (Gabbi) Gereau, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of NY, though I now live in Massachusetts. I love helping others improve their mental health and overall well-being, whether it be through play therapy, mindfulness exercises, talking through past trauma, or focusing on day-to-day stressors. Navigating life as a child, teenager, or young adult can be difficult. You are constantly learning new things, facing new challenges, and trying to adapt to our ever-changing world.
(646) 718-6820 View (646) 718-6820
Photo of Sharon Solina, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Solina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brookhaven, NY 11719
Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 25 years of experience working with various populations in a variety of settings including substance abuse, chronic and acute psychiatric, children and geriatric. I believe good therapy is built around a positive, trusting connection with the therapist.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 25 years of experience working with various populations in a variety of settings including substance abuse, chronic and acute psychiatric, children and geriatric. I believe good therapy is built around a positive, trusting connection with the therapist.
(631) 315-6023 View (631) 315-6023
Photo of Brittni Traina, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittni Traina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shirley, NY 11967  (Online Only)
As a licensed clinical social worker, I want to help you achieve your goals in obtaining an improved quality of life by working together to identify coping strategies that best suit you. I enjoy teaching you skills including mindfulness training, interpersonal effectiveness skills, and distress tolerance skills so that you can implement them to decrease the intensity, severity, and frequency of your psychiatric symptoms.
As a licensed clinical social worker, I want to help you achieve your goals in obtaining an improved quality of life by working together to identify coping strategies that best suit you. I enjoy teaching you skills including mindfulness training, interpersonal effectiveness skills, and distress tolerance skills so that you can implement them to decrease the intensity, severity, and frequency of your psychiatric symptoms.
(631) 379-5637 View (631) 379-5637
Photo of Jessica Frederick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Frederick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brookhaven, NY 11719  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with the complexities of grief and the overwhelming emotions that come with it? Are you experiencing anxiety and depression? Would you like to learn more about ways to foster your mental health and move forward with hope? I am Jessica Frederick, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in CO and NY, and I am a dedicated grief and mental health counselor with a profound passion for guiding individuals through the intricate terrain of grief and loss. In my journey as a clinical social worker, I have been profoundly moved by the transformative power of empathy in the face of mental health challenges.
Are you struggling with the complexities of grief and the overwhelming emotions that come with it? Are you experiencing anxiety and depression? Would you like to learn more about ways to foster your mental health and move forward with hope? I am Jessica Frederick, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in CO and NY, and I am a dedicated grief and mental health counselor with a profound passion for guiding individuals through the intricate terrain of grief and loss. In my journey as a clinical social worker, I have been profoundly moved by the transformative power of empathy in the face of mental health challenges.
(720) 727-6513 View (720) 727-6513
Photo of Ariel Richard
Ariel Richard
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shirley, NY 11967  (Online Only)
Are you in a season where you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply behind in life? Have you been comparing yourself to others? Do you feel uncertain about your next steps, or struggling with knowing your own purpose and potential? Or maybe past traumas are weighing you down, making it hard to move forward. I’m driven by a desire to understand and connect with others on a profound level. I’m here to guide and support you on your journey towards growth, healing, and self-discovery. Together, we can create a life that feels authentic and fulfilling for you.
Are you in a season where you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply behind in life? Have you been comparing yourself to others? Do you feel uncertain about your next steps, or struggling with knowing your own purpose and potential? Or maybe past traumas are weighing you down, making it hard to move forward. I’m driven by a desire to understand and connect with others on a profound level. I’m here to guide and support you on your journey towards growth, healing, and self-discovery. Together, we can create a life that feels authentic and fulfilling for you.
(347) 609-7325 View (347) 609-7325
Photo of Devin Dreitlein, LMHC, Counselor
Devin Dreitlein
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Manorville, NY 11949  (Online Only)
You deserve a safe, non-judgmental space where you have the chance to develop strategies and build confidence in navigating life’s challenges. As a therapist, I am passionate about empowering you to be dedicated to your personal transformations, while holding space for you to thrive as your true, authentic self.
You deserve a safe, non-judgmental space where you have the chance to develop strategies and build confidence in navigating life’s challenges. As a therapist, I am passionate about empowering you to be dedicated to your personal transformations, while holding space for you to thrive as your true, authentic self.
(631) 202-0962 View (631) 202-0962

See more therapy options for Mastic

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Mastic, NY

10+

Average cost per session

$100

Therapists in Mastic, NY who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
75% Depression
75% Child
67% Relationship Issues
67% Parenting
67% Self Esteem
58% Behavioral Issues

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Mastic, NY see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

70% Female
30% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Mastic?

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.