Therapists in Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA

Photo of G Hoffer, LPC, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
G Hoffer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Waitlist for new clients
I view therapy as an opportunity to better understand yourself as a whole along with addressing concerns in your life. When we take time to explore how we act, think, and feel we are able to access new parts of ourselves and new perspectives on life. The process of therapy can be powerful. I can offer this opportunity for you to explore yourself & possible changes in a safe, supportive, non-judgmental, & welcoming environment. I take a collaborative approach to therapy, which means YOU are the expert and we work together to offer you healing. I am happy to provide letters for gender affirming surgeries for Trans/GNC folx.
I view therapy as an opportunity to better understand yourself as a whole along with addressing concerns in your life. When we take time to explore how we act, think, and feel we are able to access new parts of ourselves and new perspectives on life. The process of therapy can be powerful. I can offer this opportunity for you to explore yourself & possible changes in a safe, supportive, non-judgmental, & welcoming environment. I take a collaborative approach to therapy, which means YOU are the expert and we work together to offer you healing. I am happy to provide letters for gender affirming surgeries for Trans/GNC folx.
(412) 339-1787 View (412) 339-1787
Photo of Demarquis Clarke - The Center for Relational Change, LMFT, LCSW, LPC
The Center for Relational Change
LMFT, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
The Center for Relational Change is Pittsburgh's premier family therapy practice. Our clinicians are skilled, caring, insightful licensed therapists helping individuals, couple and families work through issues of self-worth, depression, anxiety, childhood trauma and abuse, and more. We work with everyone, regardless of race, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, etc. If you, your partner and/or family are having a difficult time healing from past issues, working through present concerns or want to maintain a healthy future, the Center is a great place to begin investing in yourself and your relationships.
The Center for Relational Change is Pittsburgh's premier family therapy practice. Our clinicians are skilled, caring, insightful licensed therapists helping individuals, couple and families work through issues of self-worth, depression, anxiety, childhood trauma and abuse, and more. We work with everyone, regardless of race, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, etc. If you, your partner and/or family are having a difficult time healing from past issues, working through present concerns or want to maintain a healthy future, the Center is a great place to begin investing in yourself and your relationships.
(412) 903-3742 View (412) 903-3742
Photo of Manuela 'manny' P St Jean, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Manuela 'manny' P St Jean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
My passion is to work with individuals experiencing emotional or behavioral barriers in their life. I work with adults, offering individual therapy. With the use of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) I assist clients in making necessary behavioral changes. Together we will work to modify thought processes and apply behavioral changes that facilitate lasting change in your life. I am committed to bringing healing, growth and wholeness to clients. I offer day and evening hours accommodating your busy schedule.
My passion is to work with individuals experiencing emotional or behavioral barriers in their life. I work with adults, offering individual therapy. With the use of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) I assist clients in making necessary behavioral changes. Together we will work to modify thought processes and apply behavioral changes that facilitate lasting change in your life. I am committed to bringing healing, growth and wholeness to clients. I offer day and evening hours accommodating your busy schedule.
(878) 313-2094 View (878) 313-2094
Photo of Marcus Flournoy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marcus Flournoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
I was brought up in the helping tradition of the community where I was taught to give back to others. I have twenty years of experience in the mental health and drug and alcohol field. I have worked with individuals from all walks of life: socially, culturally, racially, economically, gender wise, and different sexual orientations and religions. I have conducted assessments, evaluations, individual therapy, family therapy and couple's therapy. I have treated individuals with a variety of conditions such as trauma, stress, depression including bipolar, anxiety, anger management problems, psychosis and addiction.
I was brought up in the helping tradition of the community where I was taught to give back to others. I have twenty years of experience in the mental health and drug and alcohol field. I have worked with individuals from all walks of life: socially, culturally, racially, economically, gender wise, and different sexual orientations and religions. I have conducted assessments, evaluations, individual therapy, family therapy and couple's therapy. I have treated individuals with a variety of conditions such as trauma, stress, depression including bipolar, anxiety, anger management problems, psychosis and addiction.
(878) 220-3027 View (878) 220-3027
Photo of Brianna Totty - Choosing Destiny, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Choosing Destiny
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
To my future client, Hello! Thank you for taking the first steps in choosing you. My goal at Choosing Destiny is to assist you in creating and being an active participate in your own destiny! I consider myself as a facilitator in the therapeutic journey. As people we are beautiful, complex individuals with at times equally complicated relationships. In my practice I bring an open and non judgmental mindset into every session, which allows for a safe environment conducive in you doing your work.
To my future client, Hello! Thank you for taking the first steps in choosing you. My goal at Choosing Destiny is to assist you in creating and being an active participate in your own destiny! I consider myself as a facilitator in the therapeutic journey. As people we are beautiful, complex individuals with at times equally complicated relationships. In my practice I bring an open and non judgmental mindset into every session, which allows for a safe environment conducive in you doing your work.
(412) 218-3766 View (412) 218-3766
Photo of Tara Morse, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Morse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA 15219  (Online Only)
I truly believe that people have the capacity to change, grow, and achieve their full potential within the context of a supportive environment. This belief fuels my work as a therapist. I completed my undergraduate work at the University of Pittsburgh and received my Masters in Social Work from New York University. I have experience working with an array of identified problem areas including, but not limited to, anxiety, mood disorders, substance abuse, eating/body image, postpartum depression, self esteem and life/developmental transitions.
I truly believe that people have the capacity to change, grow, and achieve their full potential within the context of a supportive environment. This belief fuels my work as a therapist. I completed my undergraduate work at the University of Pittsburgh and received my Masters in Social Work from New York University. I have experience working with an array of identified problem areas including, but not limited to, anxiety, mood disorders, substance abuse, eating/body image, postpartum depression, self esteem and life/developmental transitions.
(412) 515-3931 View (412) 515-3931
Photo of Annie Preis, PhD, Psychologist
Annie Preis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Psychotherapy may address specific concerns and it can also help you to live a richer and fuller life. Individuals often seek the support of a psychologist for many reasons, including stress, depression, anxiety, relationship and family issues, and difficulty with transitions. I try to provide both support and insight to help individuals live a life that is more fulfilling and less difficult. Often, someone may express a concern about a child, a relationship, or work issues. I believe that change occurs within the context of the therapeutic relationship where the client and therapist work together a trusting environment.
Psychotherapy may address specific concerns and it can also help you to live a richer and fuller life. Individuals often seek the support of a psychologist for many reasons, including stress, depression, anxiety, relationship and family issues, and difficulty with transitions. I try to provide both support and insight to help individuals live a life that is more fulfilling and less difficult. Often, someone may express a concern about a child, a relationship, or work issues. I believe that change occurs within the context of the therapeutic relationship where the client and therapist work together a trusting environment.
(412) 368-5710 View (412) 368-5710
Sarah T Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
I provide a safe and gentle place for you to work out whatever is bothering you. We all need a little help along the way. Life can be difficult and it's important to have a safe and completely confidential person to talk to. I have 30 years of training and experience that bring excellent help "to the table" in a compassionate and supportive way. I am looking forward to meeting with you.
I provide a safe and gentle place for you to work out whatever is bothering you. We all need a little help along the way. Life can be difficult and it's important to have a safe and completely confidential person to talk to. I have 30 years of training and experience that bring excellent help "to the table" in a compassionate and supportive way. I am looking forward to meeting with you.
(412) 453-8787 View (412) 453-8787
Photo of Connie M Kramer, MA, LPC, NCC, Gestalt, Licensed Professional Counselor
Connie M Kramer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, Gestalt
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Not accepting new clients
**At this time I am not taking new clients.** Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I provide treatment for adults who are experiencing overwhelming emotions, a sense of feeling lost or stuck, or simply trying to learn more about their true self. I am interested in hearing your story. Together we can explore and discover your emotions at a deeper level, which will ultimately allow you to form more meaningful, loving relationships. Working collaboratively, in a non-judging atmosphere, we will build awareness of patterns that may be blocking you from reaching your full potential.
**At this time I am not taking new clients.** Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I provide treatment for adults who are experiencing overwhelming emotions, a sense of feeling lost or stuck, or simply trying to learn more about their true self. I am interested in hearing your story. Together we can explore and discover your emotions at a deeper level, which will ultimately allow you to form more meaningful, loving relationships. Working collaboratively, in a non-judging atmosphere, we will build awareness of patterns that may be blocking you from reaching your full potential.
(412) 906-4748 View (412) 906-4748
Cynthia T Paulding
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA 15219  (Online Only)
It isn't always easy to manage the many parts of our lives. Sometimes situations, fears, beliefs, and unmet needs make the goals of being content and happy seem hard to reach. While we do the best we can, that doesn't always seem to be enough. Could how you do "the best you can" use a little adjusting? When things need to change, it can help to talk with a trained professional to sort things out. In most cases, there are options that have been overlooked. I can support you on your journey to a healthier and happier you.
It isn't always easy to manage the many parts of our lives. Sometimes situations, fears, beliefs, and unmet needs make the goals of being content and happy seem hard to reach. While we do the best we can, that doesn't always seem to be enough. Could how you do "the best you can" use a little adjusting? When things need to change, it can help to talk with a trained professional to sort things out. In most cases, there are options that have been overlooked. I can support you on your journey to a healthier and happier you.
(412) 444-7212 View (412) 444-7212
Photo of Susan M. Fink, LPC, MSEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan M. Fink
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSEd
Verified Verified
Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
When you want to feel better--about yourself, your relationships, your career--therapy can help. It is my job to listen and to make our time together work for you. A client-focused counseling relationship will help you untangle your issues and take a fresh step forward to feeling better.
When you want to feel better--about yourself, your relationships, your career--therapy can help. It is my job to listen and to make our time together work for you. A client-focused counseling relationship will help you untangle your issues and take a fresh step forward to feeling better.
(412) 275-4184 View (412) 275-4184
Laure Swearingen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Not accepting new clients
Choosing a therapist is is hard, especially from a website. I hope these statements are helpful to you in making that decision. In general, I think of most issues as combinations of individual, biological, and environmental factors interacting in ways that cause problems in several aspects of our lives (work, relationships, health, etc.). Our work together includes attention to those interactions, figuring out how to intervene when they cause difficulties, deciding whether our interventions work, and adapting them to make them better. Our basic tools: developing therapeutic trust and maintaining treatment goals.
Choosing a therapist is is hard, especially from a website. I hope these statements are helpful to you in making that decision. In general, I think of most issues as combinations of individual, biological, and environmental factors interacting in ways that cause problems in several aspects of our lives (work, relationships, health, etc.). Our work together includes attention to those interactions, figuring out how to intervene when they cause difficulties, deciding whether our interventions work, and adapting them to make them better. Our basic tools: developing therapeutic trust and maintaining treatment goals.
(412) 419-3119 View (412) 419-3119
Photo of Michael F Langan, MSEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael F Langan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 25 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I believe we all strive to feel a sense of belonging and to master any task before us. I view emotional, behavioral and relationship problems as distress signals indicating that current attempts at realizing important healthy strivings are not working. Repetitive, unsatisfying patterns of interaction can result, leaving everyone involved feeling discouraged, isolated and "stuck". This is usually when folks seek counseling for themselves or their loved ones.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 25 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I believe we all strive to feel a sense of belonging and to master any task before us. I view emotional, behavioral and relationship problems as distress signals indicating that current attempts at realizing important healthy strivings are not working. Repetitive, unsatisfying patterns of interaction can result, leaving everyone involved feeling discouraged, isolated and "stuck". This is usually when folks seek counseling for themselves or their loved ones.
(412) 837-8125 View (412) 837-8125
Photo of Emilee Mainali, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emilee Mainali
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
What's your story? We all have different themes that play out in our lives: some are helpful and inspiring while others are counterproductive and lead us so far off track from who we want to be that we feel lost. I am here to help you identify ways to live with awareness, how to intentionally move forward knowing what is motivating you more clearly so you are no longer reacting to old patterns in work, family, relationships and life. Empower yourself, to write a new chapter.
What's your story? We all have different themes that play out in our lives: some are helpful and inspiring while others are counterproductive and lead us so far off track from who we want to be that we feel lost. I am here to help you identify ways to live with awareness, how to intentionally move forward knowing what is motivating you more clearly so you are no longer reacting to old patterns in work, family, relationships and life. Empower yourself, to write a new chapter.
(412) 515-8494 View (412) 515-8494
Photo of Brenda Slagle, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brenda Slagle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA 15219  (Online Only)
Brenda Slagle is a Nationally Board Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania with over 6 years of experience. Brenda specializes in treating clients with complex PTSD, major depression, panic disorder, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, addiction, social anxiety, bipolar, and others. She completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh and her Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Carlow University.
Brenda Slagle is a Nationally Board Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania with over 6 years of experience. Brenda specializes in treating clients with complex PTSD, major depression, panic disorder, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, addiction, social anxiety, bipolar, and others. She completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh and her Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Carlow University.
(412) 312-3960 View (412) 312-3960
Photo of Cody McConnell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cody McConnell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA 15219  (Online Only)
Cody McConnell is a Licensed Practicing Mental Health Counselor who has worked with children and adolescents for over 10 years, most of his experience being with individuals who struggle with behavioral issues in the home and community. He has worked in multiple levels of care that include residential, family-based, school-based, mobile therapy, and outpatient services. Cody has developed skills for providing therapeutic care for individuals seeking help with ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and LGBTQ+ concerns.
Cody McConnell is a Licensed Practicing Mental Health Counselor who has worked with children and adolescents for over 10 years, most of his experience being with individuals who struggle with behavioral issues in the home and community. He has worked in multiple levels of care that include residential, family-based, school-based, mobile therapy, and outpatient services. Cody has developed skills for providing therapeutic care for individuals seeking help with ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and LGBTQ+ concerns.
(412) 547-9647 View (412) 547-9647
Photo of Rebecca Talisa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Talisa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Not accepting new clients
Are you seeking professional support during a time of stress or uncertainty? Have you been having difficulty managing your emotional health? Would you benefit from nonjudgmental and collaborative assistance in your personal growth? If so, I'd be happy to support you in your journey toward wellness.
Are you seeking professional support during a time of stress or uncertainty? Have you been having difficulty managing your emotional health? Would you benefit from nonjudgmental and collaborative assistance in your personal growth? If so, I'd be happy to support you in your journey toward wellness.
(412) 500-0644 View (412) 500-0644
Photo of Sarah Sanchez, MS, LPC, LPCA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Sanchez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LPCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Life has granted me a wealth of experience with trauma, abuse, interpersonal violence, divorce, grief, power biases, biracial and multicultural relationships, spiritual/religious issues, women's issues, mood and personality disorders.
Life has granted me a wealth of experience with trauma, abuse, interpersonal violence, divorce, grief, power biases, biracial and multicultural relationships, spiritual/religious issues, women's issues, mood and personality disorders.
(513) 457-7886 View (513) 457-7886
Photo of Holly Umbs, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holly Umbs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA 15219  (Online Only)
Holly Umbs is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in working with children and adults who have sexual, physical, and/or emotional abuse histories. Holly has also done extensive family therapy. Holly completed her Master of Arts (MA) in Mental Health Counseling at Geneva College. She holds a family-based certification and a certification in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT). Holly’s clients often aim to get past the past and establish healthy thinking patterns and actions. She enjoys helping her clients realize that their pasts do not have to intrude upon or control their presents.
Holly Umbs is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in working with children and adults who have sexual, physical, and/or emotional abuse histories. Holly has also done extensive family therapy. Holly completed her Master of Arts (MA) in Mental Health Counseling at Geneva College. She holds a family-based certification and a certification in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT). Holly’s clients often aim to get past the past and establish healthy thinking patterns and actions. She enjoys helping her clients realize that their pasts do not have to intrude upon or control their presents.
(412) 743-9300 View (412) 743-9300
Photo of Melissa Rogel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Rogel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome, glad you're here. My practice is focused on helping unique individuals understand and accept themselves and engage in healthy relationships while still maintaining individuality. I work with those who don’t always feel like they fit in a box or align with society’s expectations regarding their relationships, career, and personal pursuits. I provide a supportive space for clients to be heard and understood, as well as tools to identify and change unhelpful patterns and increase positive coping skills.
Welcome, glad you're here. My practice is focused on helping unique individuals understand and accept themselves and engage in healthy relationships while still maintaining individuality. I work with those who don’t always feel like they fit in a box or align with society’s expectations regarding their relationships, career, and personal pursuits. I provide a supportive space for clients to be heard and understood, as well as tools to identify and change unhelpful patterns and increase positive coping skills.
(610) 890-8561 View (610) 890-8561

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA

50+

Average cost per session

$132

Therapists in Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA who prioritize treating:

88% Anxiety
86% Depression
71% Relationship Issues
66% Trauma and PTSD
62% Stress
59% Grief
59% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

77% Highmark
68% Aetna
64% University of Pittsburgh Medical Center

How Therapists in Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh, PA see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
16% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bedford Dwellings, Pittsburgh?

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.