Therapists in William Penn Annex West, PA
![Photo of Suzanne Rutkowski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d67481af-628b-423f-943c-8a11cfdfc733/1/320x400.jpeg)
Suzanne Rutkowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
William Penn Annex West, PA 19107 (Online Only)
Struggling in the aftermath of trauma? Feeling weighed down by anxiety and unable to sleep? I specialize in treating medical trauma, health anxiety, and caregiver distress. Whether its a recent traumatic event or a lifetime of challenges, my aim is to help you move toward balance and greater wellbeing. I want to empower you with tools and insights to foster lasting resilience.
Struggling in the aftermath of trauma? Feeling weighed down by anxiety and unable to sleep? I specialize in treating medical trauma, health anxiety, and caregiver distress. Whether its a recent traumatic event or a lifetime of challenges, my aim is to help you move toward balance and greater wellbeing. I want to empower you with tools and insights to foster lasting resilience.
![Photo of Danielle Allen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad40ed18-f4fd-49da-a6a2-adcc39441dd0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
William Penn Annex West, PA 19107 (Online Only)
Hello! I am Licensed Clinical Social worker licensed in both Pennsylvania and Maine. I graduated from Marywood University and have been providing therapy for over 18 years for a variety of mental health issues and life struggles. I enjoy working with clients to help empower them to take back control over their struggles and to be able to live the life that they deserve and desire!
Hello! I am Licensed Clinical Social worker licensed in both Pennsylvania and Maine. I graduated from Marywood University and have been providing therapy for over 18 years for a variety of mental health issues and life struggles. I enjoy working with clients to help empower them to take back control over their struggles and to be able to live the life that they deserve and desire!
![Photo of Rachel Ashbaugh, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae7415f6-df8a-40b9-b153-25c3c500d5fe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Ashbaugh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
William Penn Annex West, PA 19107 (Online Only)
Are you uncomfortable with yourself, unhappy with the choices you make and the situations you put yourself in?
Are you uncomfortable with yourself, unhappy with the choices you make and the situations you put yourself in?
![Photo of Brent Rounsville, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca23e800-5c36-4928-8431-738b93576564/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brent Rounsville
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
William Penn Annex West, PA 19107
Hi! My name is Brent. I work to create a safe and non-judgmental space where we can discuss any concerns and gain more insight into your anxiety, depression, or trauma. We will work together as a team to identify your strengths, develop therapeutic goals, and learn new tools to better your own well-being. I can also work with you on managing any behaviors in the home your child may be struggling with.
Hi! My name is Brent. I work to create a safe and non-judgmental space where we can discuss any concerns and gain more insight into your anxiety, depression, or trauma. We will work together as a team to identify your strengths, develop therapeutic goals, and learn new tools to better your own well-being. I can also work with you on managing any behaviors in the home your child may be struggling with.
![Photo of Janet Howard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf795434-95db-4d70-9189-e5300ad1fa90/1/320x400.jpeg)
Janet Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
William Penn Annex West, PA 19107 (Online Only)
I am a clinician with a broad range of experiences. I started my career working with and advocating with individuals with intellectual disabilities, many of whom also struggled with managing their emotions and low self esteem. I have spent a good portion of the past 20 years, working with children with behavioral difficulties and their families. In addition, I have also worked in outpatient services with adults from various walks of life.
I am a clinician with a broad range of experiences. I started my career working with and advocating with individuals with intellectual disabilities, many of whom also struggled with managing their emotions and low self esteem. I have spent a good portion of the past 20 years, working with children with behavioral difficulties and their families. In addition, I have also worked in outpatient services with adults from various walks of life.
![Photo of Olivia Coyle, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a3e2062-b79f-4d3b-9d3d-8c556c4185dd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Olivia Coyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
William Penn Annex West, PA 19107 (Online Only)
Welcome. I am so glad you are here. This is such a hard step to begin to look into starting your therapy journey. I am a licensed professional counselor and received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Shippensburg University. I have been practicing for almost 6 years.
Welcome. I am so glad you are here. This is such a hard step to begin to look into starting your therapy journey. I am a licensed professional counselor and received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Shippensburg University. I have been practicing for almost 6 years.
![Photo of Jasmine Richardson, MS, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/862be042-cd64-49aa-9d1b-ffc27ecbb528/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jasmine Richardson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
William Penn Annex West, PA 19107 (Online Only)
If you’re seeking a safe and supportive environment where you can open-up and be your authentic self, look no further. I use a variety of therapy techniques such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused and Motivational interviewing to help clients explore their concerns in life. With my unique clinical experience, I empower clients to find the internal strength they need to create personal change and develop a healthier sense of self. My professional training and experience qualify me to work with general mental health concerns such as: anxiety, depression, self-esteem and other emotional challenges.
If you’re seeking a safe and supportive environment where you can open-up and be your authentic self, look no further. I use a variety of therapy techniques such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused and Motivational interviewing to help clients explore their concerns in life. With my unique clinical experience, I empower clients to find the internal strength they need to create personal change and develop a healthier sense of self. My professional training and experience qualify me to work with general mental health concerns such as: anxiety, depression, self-esteem and other emotional challenges.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Fred Gross, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77bd15db-f58b-415a-bb33-065a8cc39c9a/3/320x400.png)
When you are able to take the time and effort to learn about your responses to difficult situations, you become empowered to make choices. Healing from painful relationships, and facing life's daily challenges, are skills that are often learned by accident. Dealing with unfinished business, and, learning skills to manage stress and loss, at this painful time, can help you to prevent future difficulties. I am most interested in helping people to grow. I am able to bring over 35 years of experience to help you learn more about how to manage difficult feelings, thoughts, behaviors, and relationships.
When you are able to take the time and effort to learn about your responses to difficult situations, you become empowered to make choices. Healing from painful relationships, and facing life's daily challenges, are skills that are often learned by accident. Dealing with unfinished business, and, learning skills to manage stress and loss, at this painful time, can help you to prevent future difficulties. I am most interested in helping people to grow. I am able to bring over 35 years of experience to help you learn more about how to manage difficult feelings, thoughts, behaviors, and relationships.
![Photo of Bridget Bogan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a31a164d-0b9e-400f-91e8-93922be5c987/3/320x400.jpeg)
Bridget Bogan is an Art Psychotherapist in the Greater Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania. She has experience helping children and adults navigate peer relationships, anxiety, bereavement, post-traumatic stress, social skills, and self-awareness. She meets people where they are on their personal path. Bridget received her Bachelor of Arts in Integrative Arts from the Pennsylvania State University where she focused on Psychology and Fine Art. She completed her Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy from Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Bridget Bogan is an Art Psychotherapist in the Greater Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania. She has experience helping children and adults navigate peer relationships, anxiety, bereavement, post-traumatic stress, social skills, and self-awareness. She meets people where they are on their personal path. Bridget received her Bachelor of Arts in Integrative Arts from the Pennsylvania State University where she focused on Psychology and Fine Art. She completed her Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy from Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
![Photo of Natalia Piszczek, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d7c7dfb-e9a4-49e0-93a4-b4adec23dc64/1/320x400.jpeg)
Natalia Piszczek
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Natalia Piszczek is a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with over 5 years of experience within the mental health field. She is passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults with various presenting concerns such as depression, anxiety, anger, PTSD, trauma, poor coping skills as well as low self-esteem, life transitions, and chronic stress. Natalia earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a minor in Art and a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Counseling at Alvernia University.
Natalia Piszczek is a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with over 5 years of experience within the mental health field. She is passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults with various presenting concerns such as depression, anxiety, anger, PTSD, trauma, poor coping skills as well as low self-esteem, life transitions, and chronic stress. Natalia earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a minor in Art and a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Counseling at Alvernia University.
![Photo of Jason Branch, PhD , LPC, ACS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abbb966f-880c-4a89-bd6d-28f7fa2a85f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jason Branch
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD , LPC, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
There are 3 Parallels that we choose to live by. 1. Who We Were? 2. Who We Are. Who We are Becoming! The first step of becoming the best version of you possible is to become fully aware of who you are not. We all live by rules of engagement provided to us by our environment, upbringing, culture, community, etc. Some of the rules that you are currently living by are based on who you were and not who you currently are. When you begin living life on your own terms you create new rules of engagement that allows you to live a more authentic life. My role as your therapist is to assist you in becoming the best version of you possible.
There are 3 Parallels that we choose to live by. 1. Who We Were? 2. Who We Are. Who We are Becoming! The first step of becoming the best version of you possible is to become fully aware of who you are not. We all live by rules of engagement provided to us by our environment, upbringing, culture, community, etc. Some of the rules that you are currently living by are based on who you were and not who you currently are. When you begin living life on your own terms you create new rules of engagement that allows you to live a more authentic life. My role as your therapist is to assist you in becoming the best version of you possible.
![Photo of Rachel Phelps, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b637e4d3-b6d7-4058-b819-485656091560/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Phelps
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse.
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse.
![Photo of Tiana Kirby Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfb366d3-8a92-407a-84c7-f156ade4ee9d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tiana Kirby Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Born and raised in the inner city by a single mother and a large extended family, I noticed the needs of those that were mentally or physically diagnosed were often not met. Therefore, I began to inquire about what I needed to do in order to be a part of the solution. I began to work in the field and I have worked in Behavioral/Mental Health for close to 20 years. My experience covers a plethora of ages and diagnosis across many settings.
Born and raised in the inner city by a single mother and a large extended family, I noticed the needs of those that were mentally or physically diagnosed were often not met. Therefore, I began to inquire about what I needed to do in order to be a part of the solution. I began to work in the field and I have worked in Behavioral/Mental Health for close to 20 years. My experience covers a plethora of ages and diagnosis across many settings.
![Photo of Emily Malachosky, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d21d898-9e5b-41e8-8da5-07c93ae90e73/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Malachosky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Within the safe space we create, we will collaborate to identify and explore your concerns, creating goals for the future, and finding your strength to achieve these goals. Whether it's trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, or grief, I believe that integrating therapeutic modalities with a personable and tailored approach, can help us find what works best for you in your journey to heal and grow. As a mental health advocate, I greatly admire vulnerability in the face of stigma and value the opportunity to explore your needs. It is a privilege to be part of your healing process.
Within the safe space we create, we will collaborate to identify and explore your concerns, creating goals for the future, and finding your strength to achieve these goals. Whether it's trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, or grief, I believe that integrating therapeutic modalities with a personable and tailored approach, can help us find what works best for you in your journey to heal and grow. As a mental health advocate, I greatly admire vulnerability in the face of stigma and value the opportunity to explore your needs. It is a privilege to be part of your healing process.
![Photo of Cliff Koos, M Ed](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/763ee2af-9277-4966-9352-0b0887b31494/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a trauma-informed, integrative, EMDR therapist. I use ego states and parts work in conjunction with somatic work to help bring ‘online’ the left and right hemispheres of your brain. I am focused on treating the whole person and would like to have an open, honest conversation about what you are looking for and your treatment wants and needs.
I am a trauma-informed, integrative, EMDR therapist. I use ego states and parts work in conjunction with somatic work to help bring ‘online’ the left and right hemispheres of your brain. I am focused on treating the whole person and would like to have an open, honest conversation about what you are looking for and your treatment wants and needs.
![Photo of Sophie Greger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fe81308-2ec6-44a5-82fb-9679303c5960/1/320x400.png)
Sophie Greger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Sophie Greger is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in working with children, teens, young adults, and families. She has experience providing therapy across multiple clinical settings including residential treatment and community care. Sophie brings a caring, professional attitude to working with individuals and families, prioritizing a strengths-based perspective and building upon the skills that fit best into each client’s unique experience.
Sophie Greger is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in working with children, teens, young adults, and families. She has experience providing therapy across multiple clinical settings including residential treatment and community care. Sophie brings a caring, professional attitude to working with individuals and families, prioritizing a strengths-based perspective and building upon the skills that fit best into each client’s unique experience.
![Photo of Kristin Vosburg, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40655d4c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristin Vosburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I enjoy partnering with clients to problem solve and support them through difficult times. I think it is important to look at each individual's environmental, physical and emotional health when formulating a treatment plan, and I work to provide practical strategies to help both the individual and their family.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I enjoy partnering with clients to problem solve and support them through difficult times. I think it is important to look at each individual's environmental, physical and emotional health when formulating a treatment plan, and I work to provide practical strategies to help both the individual and their family.
![Photo of Grace Capone, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/977bc9cd-c6e9-456f-9b85-68b8b5719b8f/1/320x400.png)
Grace Capone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19146
Between what society and those around you say, you constantly feel like you are not enough. You are feeling lost in the world and so badly want to feel grounded for once, but have no idea where to start or where it's even safe to begin navigating that. What you are experiencing is so multi-layered that it leaves you feeling stuck. My passion is helping other people to truly find themselves by unraveling layers of trauma, societal expectations, and negativity imposed by others. I want to help you figure out how to be truly, wholly yourself and live a life that encompasses your values and beliefs.
Between what society and those around you say, you constantly feel like you are not enough. You are feeling lost in the world and so badly want to feel grounded for once, but have no idea where to start or where it's even safe to begin navigating that. What you are experiencing is so multi-layered that it leaves you feeling stuck. My passion is helping other people to truly find themselves by unraveling layers of trauma, societal expectations, and negativity imposed by others. I want to help you figure out how to be truly, wholly yourself and live a life that encompasses your values and beliefs.
![Photo of Diane A Adler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f261d7b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Do you struggle with shame, depression, anxiety and self reproach about your compulsive eating? Are you also struggling with general anxiety and depression that is keeping you lonely and isolated even if you are in a relationship? In an empathic, collaborative manner I create a safe environment with a high level of skill, patience and creativity and sense of humor to help you make positive meaningful changes. My strong psychodynamic background is combined with other modalities in an integrated approach. Good therapy should offer knowledge and insight and provide practical tools to help you grow and strategies for coping.
Do you struggle with shame, depression, anxiety and self reproach about your compulsive eating? Are you also struggling with general anxiety and depression that is keeping you lonely and isolated even if you are in a relationship? In an empathic, collaborative manner I create a safe environment with a high level of skill, patience and creativity and sense of humor to help you make positive meaningful changes. My strong psychodynamic background is combined with other modalities in an integrated approach. Good therapy should offer knowledge and insight and provide practical tools to help you grow and strategies for coping.
![Photo of Jessica McMaster, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64cbab51-c4b8-4155-a302-0f753b36e2ad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica McMaster
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Hi there! I want to personally welcome you to the journey. I deeply believe that therapy is an intimate journey into the self. I followed my own inner calling to become a therapist and am honored to be able to do this work. I have a firm belief that experiencing life without developing your own meaning, being your most authentic self, and practicing presence daily is quite fruitless, joyless, and confusing. I help my clients move past their fears and get moving on their goals to be their best version of their best selves to live a more balance authentic life.
Hi there! I want to personally welcome you to the journey. I deeply believe that therapy is an intimate journey into the self. I followed my own inner calling to become a therapist and am honored to be able to do this work. I have a firm belief that experiencing life without developing your own meaning, being your most authentic self, and practicing presence daily is quite fruitless, joyless, and confusing. I help my clients move past their fears and get moving on their goals to be their best version of their best selves to live a more balance authentic life.
Nearby Searches for William Penn Annex West
- Bala Cynwyd
- Collingdale
- Darby
- Lansdowne
- Manayunk
- Merion Station
- Mid City East
- Narberth
- Penn Valley
- Philadelphia
- Upper Darby
- Yeadon
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in William Penn Annex West, PA
< 10
Therapists in William Penn Annex West, PA who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
86% | Coping Skills |
71% | Depression |
71% | Grief |
71% | Self Esteem |
57% | Peer Relationships |
43% | Other |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
100% | Other |
How Therapists in William Penn Annex West, PA see their clients
85% | Online Only | |
15% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in William Penn Annex West?
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.