Therapists in Sparta, NJ

Photo of Mary Beth Kneis-Carroll, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Beth Kneis-Carroll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871
I'm here for you when you're not sure where else to turn: to reassure you that things can and do get better; to help you discover inner strengths to resolve your difficulties; and to support you along your healing journey. Reaching out for professional help can be difficult, but turning to friends and family may not always be the best option and ignoring problems won't make them go away. Remember: you don't have to do this alone - I'm here for you.
I'm here for you when you're not sure where else to turn: to reassure you that things can and do get better; to help you discover inner strengths to resolve your difficulties; and to support you along your healing journey. Reaching out for professional help can be difficult, but turning to friends and family may not always be the best option and ignoring problems won't make them go away. Remember: you don't have to do this alone - I'm here for you.
(973) 241-4927 View (973) 241-4927
Photo of Emily Brislin, PsyD, Psychologist
Emily Brislin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sparta, NJ 07871
As a licensed psychologist and clinical neuropsychologist, I offer specialized skill and training in evaluating both cognitive and psychological functioning. Forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and difficulty learning new information are just a few of the cognitive difficulties my clients may experience. As a clinical neuropsychologist, I am able to discern psychological symptoms of depression or anxiety from a neurological disorder such as dementia, stroke, or traumatic brain injury. Further, I can provide psychological evaluations for individuals seeking bariatric weight-loss surgery.
As a licensed psychologist and clinical neuropsychologist, I offer specialized skill and training in evaluating both cognitive and psychological functioning. Forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and difficulty learning new information are just a few of the cognitive difficulties my clients may experience. As a clinical neuropsychologist, I am able to discern psychological symptoms of depression or anxiety from a neurological disorder such as dementia, stroke, or traumatic brain injury. Further, I can provide psychological evaluations for individuals seeking bariatric weight-loss surgery.
(973) 671-1093 View (973) 671-1093
Photo of Edward Blevins, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Edward Blevins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sparta, NJ 07871
I help children in conflict, struggling couples, unhappy families, and adults who are motivated to change. Call me for a free phone consultation or to set up an appointment. Anger, anxiety, depression, grief, parenting concerns, marital discord, bullying and harassment, behavioral disorders, substance abuse, school or job avoidance, and issues specific to children and adults with developmental disabilities are all problems we can work on successfully together . I have 25 years of school experience working with children, backed by twelve years of clinical experience in Sussex County assisting children and adults in improving their lives.
I help children in conflict, struggling couples, unhappy families, and adults who are motivated to change. Call me for a free phone consultation or to set up an appointment. Anger, anxiety, depression, grief, parenting concerns, marital discord, bullying and harassment, behavioral disorders, substance abuse, school or job avoidance, and issues specific to children and adults with developmental disabilities are all problems we can work on successfully together . I have 25 years of school experience working with children, backed by twelve years of clinical experience in Sussex County assisting children and adults in improving their lives.
(908) 669-4976 View (908) 669-4976
Photo of Bethany Merlucci, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bethany Merlucci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871
Whether you are going through a major life shift or just need a space to focus on your goals, your health and your wellness, I am dedicated to making your therapeutic experience as beneficial and fulfilling as possible. We all have moments in life when we need the support and guidance of others and I am honored to have the opportunity to help through times of transition.
Whether you are going through a major life shift or just need a space to focus on your goals, your health and your wellness, I am dedicated to making your therapeutic experience as beneficial and fulfilling as possible. We all have moments in life when we need the support and guidance of others and I am honored to have the opportunity to help through times of transition.
(201) 380-8349 View (201) 380-8349
Photo of Lois Ferguson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lois Ferguson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871
For over thirty years I have worked with individuals who have experienced crisis, trauma, victimization and unanticipated loss, and am specially trained to respond to disasters. Recent events in our world have made life more complicated for many, causing a great deal of anxiety, depression and uncertainty. My background and training make me uniquely qualified to help you manage difficult life events and be in a better place to solve problems as they occur. I work well with adults and teens, first responders and crime victims.
For over thirty years I have worked with individuals who have experienced crisis, trauma, victimization and unanticipated loss, and am specially trained to respond to disasters. Recent events in our world have made life more complicated for many, causing a great deal of anxiety, depression and uncertainty. My background and training make me uniquely qualified to help you manage difficult life events and be in a better place to solve problems as they occur. I work well with adults and teens, first responders and crime victims.
(973) 534-9807 View (973) 534-9807
Photo of Melissa Pirnos, MA, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Pirnos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Sparta, NJ 07871
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor by the state of New Jersey with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field in community agencies, school systems and private practice. I offer therapy services to adults, children and adolescents. I strive to provide a safe and nurturing environment and employ a variety of strategies depending on clients' needs, with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and play therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor by the state of New Jersey with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field in community agencies, school systems and private practice. I offer therapy services to adults, children and adolescents. I strive to provide a safe and nurturing environment and employ a variety of strategies depending on clients' needs, with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and play therapy.
(973) 607-2545 View (973) 607-2545
Photo of Catherine Ann Destefano, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Ann Destefano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sparta, NJ 07871
Call for a free phone consultation. I work with very young children, ages three and up and adolescents up to age eighteen and their families. I also work with adults who are experiencing life challenges that are making them anxious or fearful. My experience has centered around children and families who are experiencing divorce, trauma/abuse, familial upset, emotional disequilibrium, behavioral issues, anxiety, family conflict, mood disorders, self-harm, depression, PTSD, and self-medicating behaviors.
Call for a free phone consultation. I work with very young children, ages three and up and adolescents up to age eighteen and their families. I also work with adults who are experiencing life challenges that are making them anxious or fearful. My experience has centered around children and families who are experiencing divorce, trauma/abuse, familial upset, emotional disequilibrium, behavioral issues, anxiety, family conflict, mood disorders, self-harm, depression, PTSD, and self-medicating behaviors.
(973) 510-0007 View (973) 510-0007
Photo of Christopher Belz, PsyD, Psychologist
Christopher Belz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871
My primary treatment focus has been to use validation and empathy. I want to learn what goals you have and then help you in get to them. In addition to working with adults, I have extensive experience working with adolescents and their families in outpatient/school and inpatient settings dealing with anxiety, depression, psychosis, trauma, anger, grief and attention problems. I'm familiar with coaching DBT coping skills for distress tolerance, developing emotion management, and enhancing effective interpersonal skills. My greatest strength is in helping parents and their children reduce conflict and really hear each other.
My primary treatment focus has been to use validation and empathy. I want to learn what goals you have and then help you in get to them. In addition to working with adults, I have extensive experience working with adolescents and their families in outpatient/school and inpatient settings dealing with anxiety, depression, psychosis, trauma, anger, grief and attention problems. I'm familiar with coaching DBT coping skills for distress tolerance, developing emotion management, and enhancing effective interpersonal skills. My greatest strength is in helping parents and their children reduce conflict and really hear each other.
(908) 333-4979 View (908) 333-4979
Photo of Meredith Holick, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meredith Holick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sparta, NJ 07871
I have been working in the field of mental health for 15 years and in the field of addiction for 10 years. I have worked with both adolescents and adults struggling with co-occurring disorders in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient settings. My experience has been working with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, mood disorders, impulse control, life transitions, and substance use issues. I facilitate individuals in the development of coping mechanisms and techniques for more effective communication in order to sustain long lasting positive change.
I have been working in the field of mental health for 15 years and in the field of addiction for 10 years. I have worked with both adolescents and adults struggling with co-occurring disorders in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient settings. My experience has been working with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, mood disorders, impulse control, life transitions, and substance use issues. I facilitate individuals in the development of coping mechanisms and techniques for more effective communication in order to sustain long lasting positive change.
(973) 756-3148 View (973) 756-3148
Photo of Kelly M Singer, MA, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly M Singer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sparta, NJ 07871
Accepting New Patients! Are you feeling like you are running on auto pilot? Battling through your days waiting for the other shoe to drop? Are you stress out and tired but your mind still races? If you answered yes to any of these you may need to get yourself re aligned so you can feel your best. Living with anxiety, depression, past trauma, and dysfunctional relationships can be exhausting. It may be time to sort through all that and get on the right path… a New Path.
Accepting New Patients! Are you feeling like you are running on auto pilot? Battling through your days waiting for the other shoe to drop? Are you stress out and tired but your mind still races? If you answered yes to any of these you may need to get yourself re aligned so you can feel your best. Living with anxiety, depression, past trauma, and dysfunctional relationships can be exhausting. It may be time to sort through all that and get on the right path… a New Path.
(201) 308-6332 View (201) 308-6332
Photo of Chrissie Rowe, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chrissie Rowe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871
We all struggle sometimes. Life can be unpredictable and it's ok to not feel "ok". Anxiety, depression, and other mental illnesses can occur, whether biologically or due to life events, and it's ok to ask for help. It is human nature to seek happiness and wellness, and sometimes we need a little help and guidance to get there.
We all struggle sometimes. Life can be unpredictable and it's ok to not feel "ok". Anxiety, depression, and other mental illnesses can occur, whether biologically or due to life events, and it's ok to ask for help. It is human nature to seek happiness and wellness, and sometimes we need a little help and guidance to get there.
(862) 288-7630 View (862) 288-7630
Photo of Haley Clancy, MA, LAC, DRCC, BC-TMH, NREMT
Haley Clancy
MA, LAC, DRCC, BC-TMH, NREMT
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871
Hi, my name is Haley Clancy, and I currently work with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in mood disorders & trauma/stress-related disorders. My orientation of counseling is the biopsychosocial approach, and I use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR) as an evidence-based practice and I am certified in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT). I have a strong background in prehospital emergency medicine/working with first responders, as I also work full-time as one. In addition, I am also working on my PhD in Health Psychology.
Hi, my name is Haley Clancy, and I currently work with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in mood disorders & trauma/stress-related disorders. My orientation of counseling is the biopsychosocial approach, and I use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR) as an evidence-based practice and I am certified in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT). I have a strong background in prehospital emergency medicine/working with first responders, as I also work full-time as one. In addition, I am also working on my PhD in Health Psychology.
(973) 512-3700 View (973) 512-3700
Photo of Shelley M. Doyle, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelley M. Doyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sparta, NJ 07871
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel as though you are alone in handling some of the challenges that life has put in front of you? Do you wonder if things in your life are ever going to change for the better? The answer to both of those questions can be "YES" with the support and guidance of an experienced and caring professional. I am that professional and I will walk with you on your journey to help you get life back on track. I have extensive experience in working with individuals (adult and adolescents), couples, and families on issues related to life transitions.
Do you feel as though you are alone in handling some of the challenges that life has put in front of you? Do you wonder if things in your life are ever going to change for the better? The answer to both of those questions can be "YES" with the support and guidance of an experienced and caring professional. I am that professional and I will walk with you on your journey to help you get life back on track. I have extensive experience in working with individuals (adult and adolescents), couples, and families on issues related to life transitions.
(973) 510-2484 View (973) 510-2484
Photo of Caitlin Karosen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Karosen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sparta, NJ 07871  (Online Only)
Our current environment can be chaotic. Whether you are struggling with a recent life overhaul or with a wholly separate issue (situational stress, recognizing long term patterns that are holding you back, wrestling with challenging family dynamics, just to name a few), strong emotions might be coming up for you. Know that you are welcome here!  You probably just want a solution, to feel better, or maybe to feel like yourself again.
Our current environment can be chaotic. Whether you are struggling with a recent life overhaul or with a wholly separate issue (situational stress, recognizing long term patterns that are holding you back, wrestling with challenging family dynamics, just to name a few), strong emotions might be coming up for you. Know that you are welcome here!  You probably just want a solution, to feel better, or maybe to feel like yourself again.
(518) 318-9469 View (518) 318-9469
Photo of Beth Answorth - Beth Answorth MSW, LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Answorth MSW, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sparta, NJ 07871
We are currently living in a challenging time. The unprecedented demands of living through the COVID-19 pandemic; "shelter-in-place," social isolation, altered work & education via ZOOM, financial hardship, and more, has left many people experiencing new emotional struggles. The experience of loss due to sickness and death of loved ones, friends, or coworkers, has also created a sense of "emotional overload" for many. Talking to a compassionate professional can help you get through this difficult period. I am available to help you navigate these uncharted waters, as you seek to "land" on solid ground.
We are currently living in a challenging time. The unprecedented demands of living through the COVID-19 pandemic; "shelter-in-place," social isolation, altered work & education via ZOOM, financial hardship, and more, has left many people experiencing new emotional struggles. The experience of loss due to sickness and death of loved ones, friends, or coworkers, has also created a sense of "emotional overload" for many. Talking to a compassionate professional can help you get through this difficult period. I am available to help you navigate these uncharted waters, as you seek to "land" on solid ground.
(973) 988-2671 View (973) 988-2671
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Mahfouz, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Jennifer Mahfouz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871  (Online Only)
Our mental and physical health are undeniably intertwined, and it is impossible to focus on one without acknowledging and understanding the other. My specialty is working with individuals on appreciating the relationship between their mind, body, and environment, identifying what may be contributing to their struggles, and locating potential areas to intervene. I am passionate about working with those who have experienced life changing injuries, disabilities, or medical conditions that impact daily life in any way. You may feel overwhelmed and even hopeless, but if you are open to giving therapy a chance, I am here to support you.
Our mental and physical health are undeniably intertwined, and it is impossible to focus on one without acknowledging and understanding the other. My specialty is working with individuals on appreciating the relationship between their mind, body, and environment, identifying what may be contributing to their struggles, and locating potential areas to intervene. I am passionate about working with those who have experienced life changing injuries, disabilities, or medical conditions that impact daily life in any way. You may feel overwhelmed and even hopeless, but if you are open to giving therapy a chance, I am here to support you.
(973) 319-8580 View (973) 319-8580
Photo of Gina Marra-Wachtel, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gina Marra-Wachtel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sparta, NJ 07871  (Online Only)
Gina is a licensed professional counselor with over seven years of experience in the mental health and substance abuse fields. Gina has worked with a wide span of ages and topics, with most of her experience being with adolescents and adults. She has experience with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from therapy for depression and grief counseling to parenting support, trauma related, co-occurring disorders and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, she offers a highly personalized approach tailored to each of her clients individual needs to help attain the personal growth.
Gina is a licensed professional counselor with over seven years of experience in the mental health and substance abuse fields. Gina has worked with a wide span of ages and topics, with most of her experience being with adolescents and adults. She has experience with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from therapy for depression and grief counseling to parenting support, trauma related, co-occurring disorders and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, she offers a highly personalized approach tailored to each of her clients individual needs to help attain the personal growth.
(973) 756-3624 View (973) 756-3624
Photo of Paul L Rockwood, PhD, LMFT, LCSW, Psychologist
Paul L Rockwood
Psychologist, PhD, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sparta, NJ 07871
I have been in the treatment field for many years.Much of my work centers around conflict resolution and dealing with life stressors. I work often in the here and now, however I will move with patients into past conflicts and issues, where indicated. I am an active therapist who engages quickly while being both empathetic and understanding. I use my long term experience in the treatment field, in many various capacities, to help my patients deal with their distress and to further move on in their lives.
I have been in the treatment field for many years.Much of my work centers around conflict resolution and dealing with life stressors. I work often in the here and now, however I will move with patients into past conflicts and issues, where indicated. I am an active therapist who engages quickly while being both empathetic and understanding. I use my long term experience in the treatment field, in many various capacities, to help my patients deal with their distress and to further move on in their lives.
(973) 975-4381 View (973) 975-4381
Photo of Caitlin Zarro, MA, LPC, ACS, HNC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caitlin Zarro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, HNC
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871
I became a therapist years ago with the thought that I may be able to have some small part in other people's journey in a way that was helpful, supportive, and encouraging. I try my absolute best to do that every day and for every client. I believe that therapy is a facilitative process with no one being the expert on how to live your life better than you. My role is to help you find the best version of yourself and work with you so you may become that self. Additionally, I work from an integrative approach (when desired by the client) to use nutrition, physical health, and holistic approaches to help heal from the inside out.
I became a therapist years ago with the thought that I may be able to have some small part in other people's journey in a way that was helpful, supportive, and encouraging. I try my absolute best to do that every day and for every client. I believe that therapy is a facilitative process with no one being the expert on how to live your life better than you. My role is to help you find the best version of yourself and work with you so you may become that self. Additionally, I work from an integrative approach (when desired by the client) to use nutrition, physical health, and holistic approaches to help heal from the inside out.
(973) 755-2468 View (973) 755-2468
Photo of Brianna Collinson Wamback, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brianna Collinson Wamback
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sparta, NJ 07871
Not accepting new clients
Brianna helps children and families in all phases of life. After navigating her own infertility journey and IVF, Brianna became committed to helping families process and cope with the unique barriers and stressors of expanding their family. Whether through adoption, surrogacy, use of donor gametes, embryo donation, various assisted reproductive technology. Brianna provides a safe therapeutic space to help families manage expectations, grieving the loss of how one envisioned adding to their family, during the perinatal period, the transition into parenthood, and support across the lifespan. Brianna also provides parent coaching.
Brianna helps children and families in all phases of life. After navigating her own infertility journey and IVF, Brianna became committed to helping families process and cope with the unique barriers and stressors of expanding their family. Whether through adoption, surrogacy, use of donor gametes, embryo donation, various assisted reproductive technology. Brianna provides a safe therapeutic space to help families manage expectations, grieving the loss of how one envisioned adding to their family, during the perinatal period, the transition into parenthood, and support across the lifespan. Brianna also provides parent coaching.
(862) 288-7742 View (862) 288-7742

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Sparta, NJ

100+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Sparta, NJ who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
91% Depression
85% Relationship Issues
79% Self Esteem
75% Coping Skills
68% Trauma and PTSD
67% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Aetna
76% Cigna and Evernorth
62% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Sparta, NJ see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
16% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Sparta?

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.