Therapists in Sharon Hill, PA
![Photo of Deborah Lawson Morgan, MHS-C, LPC, NCC, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb634ff2-ffa6-4270-a73c-08d278ea5245/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah Lawson Morgan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHS-C, LPC, NCC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Sharon Hill, PA 19079
In my practice, I provide a friendly and non-judgmental approach. I am a Licensed Mental Health Care provider with more than eight years of experience in the treatment of adults and adolescents with a history of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, BPD, and trauma-related disorders. Currently, I am in the process of being paneled by some insurance companies, but for now, I accept cash & credit/debit cards. I offer appropriate resources for the care needed, ensuring that my clients feel safe to open themselves up and focus on their mental and emotional health. My sessions are currently conducted online.
In my practice, I provide a friendly and non-judgmental approach. I am a Licensed Mental Health Care provider with more than eight years of experience in the treatment of adults and adolescents with a history of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, BPD, and trauma-related disorders. Currently, I am in the process of being paneled by some insurance companies, but for now, I accept cash & credit/debit cards. I offer appropriate resources for the care needed, ensuring that my clients feel safe to open themselves up and focus on their mental and emotional health. My sessions are currently conducted online.
![Photo of Chelsea Durkalec, NCC , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afbbfa11-3a69-4da9-a871-8e3079a10f33/2/320x400.png)
My ideal client would be someone ready to gain awareness and insight into their true self. This client may be struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. This client is ready to explore, challenge, and experiment with healthy changes mentally and physically to create a life they find peaceful, sustainable, and fulfilling.
My ideal client would be someone ready to gain awareness and insight into their true self. This client may be struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. This client is ready to explore, challenge, and experiment with healthy changes mentally and physically to create a life they find peaceful, sustainable, and fulfilling.
![Photo of Leah Spyker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88867102-898c-42e1-ae67-cca6cc225d91/2/320x400.png)
I specialize in Substance Use, Anxiety, & Grief. Life can feel overwhelming at times, and it's okay to seek support. Whether you're navigating through difficult emotions, facing challenges in relationships, or simply need someone to listen, know that you're not alone. My ideal client is someone who wants to begin their treatment journey. They might be nervous or scared to begin, but they have made their first step to at least try.
I specialize in Substance Use, Anxiety, & Grief. Life can feel overwhelming at times, and it's okay to seek support. Whether you're navigating through difficult emotions, facing challenges in relationships, or simply need someone to listen, know that you're not alone. My ideal client is someone who wants to begin their treatment journey. They might be nervous or scared to begin, but they have made their first step to at least try.
![Photo of Myleah Diehl, NCC , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16ceeda0-c2d8-44df-9319-e939960d2ed9/1/320x400.png)
My ideal client would likely suffer from PTSD, anxiety, negative self-talk, and struggles with daily functioning at times. My goal is to help the client obtain their goals of normal daily functioning. My ideal client is brought into therapy and focused on utilizing the tools given in therapy to apply to daily life. A client must want change and be willing to put in the work to obtain it. I am interested in clients who are motivated and engaged to do more.
My ideal client would likely suffer from PTSD, anxiety, negative self-talk, and struggles with daily functioning at times. My goal is to help the client obtain their goals of normal daily functioning. My ideal client is brought into therapy and focused on utilizing the tools given in therapy to apply to daily life. A client must want change and be willing to put in the work to obtain it. I am interested in clients who are motivated and engaged to do more.
![Photo of Anna Kozlowska, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2ce45c6-7c77-462f-8134-5821b14b7536/1/320x400.png)
I am open to working with clients from all walks of life, those who know what their goals are, and those who are uncertain about what they expect from therapy. My professional and lived experience helps me relate to clients who have difficulties adjusting to changes in life, as well as older adults, caregivers, and people of all ages struggling with family issues. A psychodynamic approach helps clients feel listened to and encouraged to develop their story, gain insight and self-awareness, & notice the connection between past events and current difficulties.
I am open to working with clients from all walks of life, those who know what their goals are, and those who are uncertain about what they expect from therapy. My professional and lived experience helps me relate to clients who have difficulties adjusting to changes in life, as well as older adults, caregivers, and people of all ages struggling with family issues. A psychodynamic approach helps clients feel listened to and encouraged to develop their story, gain insight and self-awareness, & notice the connection between past events and current difficulties.
![Photo of Melanie Timbers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e47a1646-86d9-4a44-b4c0-dcebca20a542/1/320x400.png)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, past traumatic experiences, and currently feeling stuck in life? Do you need help managing these emotions to move forward in a more meaningful and productive life? Your goals would be to process these emotions and learn how your thoughts influence your feelings and, ultimately, your behavior. Additionally, you will learn coping skills to manage and/or reduce the debilitating effects of these emotions.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, past traumatic experiences, and currently feeling stuck in life? Do you need help managing these emotions to move forward in a more meaningful and productive life? Your goals would be to process these emotions and learn how your thoughts influence your feelings and, ultimately, your behavior. Additionally, you will learn coping skills to manage and/or reduce the debilitating effects of these emotions.
![Photo of Gregory Mairs, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9ed7485-34fa-4260-9cb1-fe1f3f2588e3/2/320x400.png)
I have an extensive professional history of working with families and couples in crisis. Many of us struggle in our relationships & find that clear communication is challenging for many reasons. The barriers may include issues with past trauma or failed attempts to find the right words during a conflict. I bring the structural therapy tools to help a family, couple, or individual recognize the triggers of their conflicts, explore past trauma & the impact it may have on the current relationship/situation, help the individual challenge automatic negative assumptions, & find a response which leads to clear communication.
I have an extensive professional history of working with families and couples in crisis. Many of us struggle in our relationships & find that clear communication is challenging for many reasons. The barriers may include issues with past trauma or failed attempts to find the right words during a conflict. I bring the structural therapy tools to help a family, couple, or individual recognize the triggers of their conflicts, explore past trauma & the impact it may have on the current relationship/situation, help the individual challenge automatic negative assumptions, & find a response which leads to clear communication.
![Photo of Heather Hiller, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4074e302-1509-46a2-895a-b7319efd0093/2/320x400.png)
I particularly enjoy working with women aged 20-40 who are working to overcome anxiety and depression or are coping with relationship dynamics. I believe most clients have a trauma history that shapes their mental health concerns, and helping them to process and heal from this history is vital to the client achieving a better quality of life. My ideal client will be seeking to learn new coping skills, communication strategies, or relationship skills.
I particularly enjoy working with women aged 20-40 who are working to overcome anxiety and depression or are coping with relationship dynamics. I believe most clients have a trauma history that shapes their mental health concerns, and helping them to process and heal from this history is vital to the client achieving a better quality of life. My ideal client will be seeking to learn new coping skills, communication strategies, or relationship skills.
![Photo of Christine Cremonni, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17364c4f-14ff-4853-8c14-bb74410c6951/2/320x400.png)
My ideal candidate is struggling with intrusive thoughts and anxiety; they need both a safe space to share their thoughts and emotions, as well as guidance; their goals are to develop a healthier relationship with themself, as well as develop coping skills and tools to manage their mental health concerns better.
My ideal candidate is struggling with intrusive thoughts and anxiety; they need both a safe space to share their thoughts and emotions, as well as guidance; their goals are to develop a healthier relationship with themself, as well as develop coping skills and tools to manage their mental health concerns better.
![Photo of Andrew Oostdyk, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b50ad4c-37e1-4d63-ba48-d1cee1f17bdf/1/320x400.png)
My ideal client is one with motivation for self-care, openness to change, and a desire to learn more about themselves and others. My ideal population consists of adults with a mental health diagnosis of anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use disorder, and other increasingly complex diagnoses. However, I am also devoted to assisting those seeking help without a defined diagnosis and who are beginning therapy without a clear vision of treatment needs. I welcome working with anyone who may benefit from my skillset who is dealing with life’s many challenges and searching for a clearer definition and understanding of their stressors.
My ideal client is one with motivation for self-care, openness to change, and a desire to learn more about themselves and others. My ideal population consists of adults with a mental health diagnosis of anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use disorder, and other increasingly complex diagnoses. However, I am also devoted to assisting those seeking help without a defined diagnosis and who are beginning therapy without a clear vision of treatment needs. I welcome working with anyone who may benefit from my skillset who is dealing with life’s many challenges and searching for a clearer definition and understanding of their stressors.
![Photo of Sarah Sprenkle, MS , LPC , NIT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e61b7919-585f-4f67-aca6-a73975d5d82d/2/320x400.png)
Sarah Sprenkle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS , LPC , NIT
Verified Verified
Sharon Hill, PA 19079
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and your feelings, possibly due to trauma? Do you lack understanding of the cause & need education on how the brain responds to trauma? Do you have relational issues or anger management struggles that lead to addictive behaviors? Do you struggle with self-worth issues and feel tired, frustrated, and confused? In therapy, you will learn to identify trauma responses, build tolerance for difficult or uncomfortable feelings, & utilize various coping skills & grounding techniques. Gain confidence, take risks to address complex issues & learn how to create healthy boundaries for relationships.
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and your feelings, possibly due to trauma? Do you lack understanding of the cause & need education on how the brain responds to trauma? Do you have relational issues or anger management struggles that lead to addictive behaviors? Do you struggle with self-worth issues and feel tired, frustrated, and confused? In therapy, you will learn to identify trauma responses, build tolerance for difficult or uncomfortable feelings, & utilize various coping skills & grounding techniques. Gain confidence, take risks to address complex issues & learn how to create healthy boundaries for relationships.
![Photo of Katelyn King, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8243690-a436-454a-871b-253d08a80a64/2/320x400.png)
I am adept at supporting clients with anxiety, depression, and trauma-related symptoms, seeking greater self-awareness, clarity, and insight about their current struggles and how to shift them. My ideal client is motivated to change and is interested in co-creating the goals to work towards that change, with the ultimate aim being to reduce distress and build/nurture a rich and meaningful life. I often suggest homework to help practice the skills we are learning together in session. I integrate extensive clinical experience, specialized training, & my unique personality (including a healthy dose of confidence, humility, and humor).
I am adept at supporting clients with anxiety, depression, and trauma-related symptoms, seeking greater self-awareness, clarity, and insight about their current struggles and how to shift them. My ideal client is motivated to change and is interested in co-creating the goals to work towards that change, with the ultimate aim being to reduce distress and build/nurture a rich and meaningful life. I often suggest homework to help practice the skills we are learning together in session. I integrate extensive clinical experience, specialized training, & my unique personality (including a healthy dose of confidence, humility, and humor).
![Photo of Elizabeth Kostura, LPC , CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4448d33-c83c-4e84-87d1-ce4c4895450c/2/320x400.png)
Elizabeth Kostura
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , CAADC
Verified Verified
Sharon Hill, PA 19079
I work with those experiencing mental health issues, trauma, and addictions. An ideal client would be someone who took suggestions and invested in their own healing. Their needs may include a mood disorder or behavior that they want to change. We would work on their thinking and how that impacts their behaviors. We would also look at their motivations and how to increase their motivations to make better decisions. The goal would be that the client would do what they learn in therapy while living their lives. They would no longer need me to help them through things and would be able to lean on their natural support.
I work with those experiencing mental health issues, trauma, and addictions. An ideal client would be someone who took suggestions and invested in their own healing. Their needs may include a mood disorder or behavior that they want to change. We would work on their thinking and how that impacts their behaviors. We would also look at their motivations and how to increase their motivations to make better decisions. The goal would be that the client would do what they learn in therapy while living their lives. They would no longer need me to help them through things and would be able to lean on their natural support.
![Photo of Cayla Hofmann, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d5048f3-72f0-4f01-94e7-f077261f76a5/1/320x400.png)
I treat clients with anxiety-based disorders, ranging from OCD or panic disorders to generalized anxiety. Additionally, general life stressors, such as client's enrolled in college, is an area that I feel competent in and passionate about. An ideal client would be aware of their challenges and motivated to do the work that therapy often requires. I enjoy working with clients who have goals of increasing their overall life satisfaction, whether through learning skills such as self-regulation techniques or goals of learning about symptoms to reduce these symptoms and increase overall life satisfaction.
I treat clients with anxiety-based disorders, ranging from OCD or panic disorders to generalized anxiety. Additionally, general life stressors, such as client's enrolled in college, is an area that I feel competent in and passionate about. An ideal client would be aware of their challenges and motivated to do the work that therapy often requires. I enjoy working with clients who have goals of increasing their overall life satisfaction, whether through learning skills such as self-regulation techniques or goals of learning about symptoms to reduce these symptoms and increase overall life satisfaction.
![Photo of Leah Lashlee, MSW , LSW , CPRP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21747968-2c2d-426a-84aa-42d24e76f7f0/2/320x400.png)
Leah Lashlee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LSW , CPRP
Verified Verified
Sharon Hill, PA 19079
Do you struggle with life transitions, coping with stress, relationship issues, learning how to communicate effectively, etc? Do you want to learn social or coping skills, build self-esteem, or talk through life stressors? Is your goal to gain insight into your emotions/behaviors, learn adaptive coping skills, and communicate effectively with others? My ideal client would be motivated to improve themselves in whichever goal they chose and would strive to meet their fullest potential. The client would be willing to take accountability and acknowledge their behaviors and how they may have affected them, whether good or bad.
Do you struggle with life transitions, coping with stress, relationship issues, learning how to communicate effectively, etc? Do you want to learn social or coping skills, build self-esteem, or talk through life stressors? Is your goal to gain insight into your emotions/behaviors, learn adaptive coping skills, and communicate effectively with others? My ideal client would be motivated to improve themselves in whichever goal they chose and would strive to meet their fullest potential. The client would be willing to take accountability and acknowledge their behaviors and how they may have affected them, whether good or bad.
![Photo of Elizabeth Simmons, LCSW , DBT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/070346b5-72d7-4ef4-855b-fa7a30df30cc/2/320x400.png)
Elizabeth Simmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , DBT-C
Verified Verified
Sharon Hill, PA 19079
I will teach you how to live fully in each moment, be unapologetically and authentically you, cope with stress more effectively, regulate your emotions, and improve your relationships with others. My ideal client is ready to work with me, as i support and guide them. I will work with you if you feel like you're doing mostly ok, and I will work with you if you feel like you are a mess and don't even know where to start. Healing is hard work, but it's so worthwhile and I'd love to help you get to the other side and be able to live your best life as your best, most authentic self.
I will teach you how to live fully in each moment, be unapologetically and authentically you, cope with stress more effectively, regulate your emotions, and improve your relationships with others. My ideal client is ready to work with me, as i support and guide them. I will work with you if you feel like you're doing mostly ok, and I will work with you if you feel like you are a mess and don't even know where to start. Healing is hard work, but it's so worthwhile and I'd love to help you get to the other side and be able to live your best life as your best, most authentic self.
![Photo of Jennifer Candelario, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3780324-7b38-4c4f-8b0e-6be6fa4ccc76/2/320x400.png)
Are you struggling with difficult life transitions, depression, & anxiety? I enjoy working with clients who feel motivated to take that first step of exploring reasons why they are feeling unhappy or dissatisfied with their lives right now. I work with clients who want to gain insight & learn tangible skills that they can practice outside of the therapeutic sessions to change their lives for the better. My role as a Licensed Professional Counselor is to help individuals gain insight and feel empowered to create positive change in their lives. I offer a collaborative approach to create a unique treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Are you struggling with difficult life transitions, depression, & anxiety? I enjoy working with clients who feel motivated to take that first step of exploring reasons why they are feeling unhappy or dissatisfied with their lives right now. I work with clients who want to gain insight & learn tangible skills that they can practice outside of the therapeutic sessions to change their lives for the better. My role as a Licensed Professional Counselor is to help individuals gain insight and feel empowered to create positive change in their lives. I offer a collaborative approach to create a unique treatment plan tailored to your needs.
![Photo of Allison Conner, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/286982ce-6782-46eb-878a-2bee5c25420c/2/320x400.png)
Mental health, addiction, and chronic illness all have something in common. They can be debilitating and create cyclical habits that are difficult to break. I work with motivated individuals who are willing to make a change in their lives for the better, examine their past and present experiences and feelings, and work to find healthier ways to cope.
Mental health, addiction, and chronic illness all have something in common. They can be debilitating and create cyclical habits that are difficult to break. I work with motivated individuals who are willing to make a change in their lives for the better, examine their past and present experiences and feelings, and work to find healthier ways to cope.
![Photo of Rachel Kolman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/734e0d87-a493-48aa-87dd-121f0c815142/2/320x400.png)
It can be overwhelming to grapple with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and the countless stressors that come with everyday life. If you're yearning for relief, clarity, and empowerment, I'm here to walk alongside you on your journey. My practice is founded on the principles of compassion, understanding, and respect for your unique experiences and perspectives. Together, we can explore the underlying factors contributing to your distress, develop coping strategies tailored to your needs, and work towards creating positive changes in your life.
It can be overwhelming to grapple with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and the countless stressors that come with everyday life. If you're yearning for relief, clarity, and empowerment, I'm here to walk alongside you on your journey. My practice is founded on the principles of compassion, understanding, and respect for your unique experiences and perspectives. Together, we can explore the underlying factors contributing to your distress, develop coping strategies tailored to your needs, and work towards creating positive changes in your life.
![Photo of Peter-William Myers, LPC , CNIT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/688dfc07-a370-452e-99f5-9b2a4520afaf/1/320x400.png)
Peter-William Myers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , CNIT
Verified Verified
Sharon Hill, PA 19079
Are you feeling stuck in life, battling depression and anxiety, or experiencing relationship issues? I will walk alongside you in whatever journey you are on to help you reach your goals, whatever they may be, from learning new coping skills, improving communication skills, or improving your relationships.
Are you feeling stuck in life, battling depression and anxiety, or experiencing relationship issues? I will walk alongside you in whatever journey you are on to help you reach your goals, whatever they may be, from learning new coping skills, improving communication skills, or improving your relationships.
See more therapy options for Sharon Hill
Nearby Searches for Sharon Hill
- Clifton Heights
- Collingdale
- Darby
- Folcroft
- Glenolden
- Lansdowne
- Morton
- Norwood
- Ridley Park
- Secane
- Springfield
- Yeadon
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Sharon Hill, PA
40+
Average cost per session
$200
Therapists in Sharon Hill, PA who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
85% | Self Esteem |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Relationship Issues |
67% | Coping Skills |
65% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
98% | Aetna |
98% | AmeriHealth |
98% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Therapists in Sharon Hill, PA see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
88% | Female | |
12% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Sharon Hill?
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
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.
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.
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.