Therapists in Burlington, VT

Photo of Brigid Sullivan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burlington, VT
Brigid Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401  (Online Only)
Experienced and Compassionate: Brigid’s approach to therapy is based on understanding each individual/couple/family needs, and then helping to form goals and strategies for facing challenges. Brigid approaches each person through the lens of their unique experience, specializing in assisting individuals with relationship problems, parenting challenges, blended family issues, depression, anxiety, chronic and acute medical conditions, grief, loss, trauma, substance use, caregiver/helping professionals, active duty military members and their families, relationship issues, life stage transitions, and identity formation and development.
Experienced and Compassionate: Brigid’s approach to therapy is based on understanding each individual/couple/family needs, and then helping to form goals and strategies for facing challenges. Brigid approaches each person through the lens of their unique experience, specializing in assisting individuals with relationship problems, parenting challenges, blended family issues, depression, anxiety, chronic and acute medical conditions, grief, loss, trauma, substance use, caregiver/helping professionals, active duty military members and their families, relationship issues, life stage transitions, and identity formation and development.
(802) 347-9031 View (802) 347-9031
Photo of Maya Kunigis, Counselor in Burlington, VT
Maya Kunigis
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
I value working collaboratively with my clients in a patient, authentic, and empathic manner to help empower individuals to find ways to more effectively navigate and cope with the challenges and stressors in their lives. I have experience working with children, adolescents, families, adults, and couples from a wide variety of racial, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds. I've worked in crisis intervention with individuals experiencing suicidal ideation, as well as with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, low self-esteem, substance use issues, relationship issues, and LGBTQ concerns.
I value working collaboratively with my clients in a patient, authentic, and empathic manner to help empower individuals to find ways to more effectively navigate and cope with the challenges and stressors in their lives. I have experience working with children, adolescents, families, adults, and couples from a wide variety of racial, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds. I've worked in crisis intervention with individuals experiencing suicidal ideation, as well as with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, low self-esteem, substance use issues, relationship issues, and LGBTQ concerns.
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Photo of Kerry K Skiffington, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Burlington, VT
Kerry K Skiffington
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCHMC, DHyp
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05408  (Online Only)
Life is a daring adventure... with a lot of pitfalls and crash landings. Sometimes you need help to get out, over and/or through. I provide psychotherapy with respect, compassion, and a sense of humor to guide and walk alongside you. I focus on skill-building and helping you become the hero of your own life, sometimes combining counseling with hypnotherapy. I follow the Intentional Peer Support philosophy: there is nothing wrong with you; and you are the expert on your own life.
Life is a daring adventure... with a lot of pitfalls and crash landings. Sometimes you need help to get out, over and/or through. I provide psychotherapy with respect, compassion, and a sense of humor to guide and walk alongside you. I focus on skill-building and helping you become the hero of your own life, sometimes combining counseling with hypnotherapy. I follow the Intentional Peer Support philosophy: there is nothing wrong with you; and you are the expert on your own life.
(802) 266-4538 View (802) 266-4538
Photo of Chaya Couples Counseling , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burlington, VT
Chaya Couples Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401  (Online Only)
Currently the bulk of my practice is relationship focused counseling; where two people join in counseling sessions together. I am taking on clients who are at any stage of a relationship/partnership who are jointly seeking any of the following; solutions to strengthen and improve the quality of their relationship, build positive relationship skills, resolve conflict, recover from relationship specific trauma, and build long- lasting relationship opportunities. In addition to couples, I do have a few spots for individuals who may be interested in working through relationship conflict and challenge.
Currently the bulk of my practice is relationship focused counseling; where two people join in counseling sessions together. I am taking on clients who are at any stage of a relationship/partnership who are jointly seeking any of the following; solutions to strengthen and improve the quality of their relationship, build positive relationship skills, resolve conflict, recover from relationship specific trauma, and build long- lasting relationship opportunities. In addition to couples, I do have a few spots for individuals who may be interested in working through relationship conflict and challenge.
(802) 424-8770 View (802) 424-8770
Photo of Brooke Lockwood-Cole, LCMHC, Counselor in Burlington, VT
Brooke Lockwood-Cole, LCMHC
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
I believe that each client is their own best expert, and has come to counseling because they have hit a log jam or bump in the road. Often times they have unresolved issues in their past that have been triggered by current issues that have the same theme. Also, some clients come to counseling due to current situations that are more short-term. My counseling style is very respectful, collaborative, going at a pace that meets the client's needs. Validation of the client's strengths, feelings and stressors is key to helping them transcend traumas and negative experience of the past and present.
I believe that each client is their own best expert, and has come to counseling because they have hit a log jam or bump in the road. Often times they have unresolved issues in their past that have been triggered by current issues that have the same theme. Also, some clients come to counseling due to current situations that are more short-term. My counseling style is very respectful, collaborative, going at a pace that meets the client's needs. Validation of the client's strengths, feelings and stressors is key to helping them transcend traumas and negative experience of the past and present.
(802) 435-0198 x511 View (802) 435-0198 x511
Photo of C. Emma Burrous, Psychologist in Burlington, VT
C. Emma Burrous
Psychologist, PhD, FIPA
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
I offer consultations, psychotherapy, and intensive psychoanalysis. An initial consultation will allow an investigation into the possibility of working together.
I offer consultations, psychotherapy, and intensive psychoanalysis. An initial consultation will allow an investigation into the possibility of working together.
(802) 657-4042 View (802) 657-4042
Photo of David de Lancellotti, Pre-Licensed Professional in Burlington, VT
David de Lancellotti
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401  (Online Only)
You may find yourself sitting at a growth edge and wanting to take steps towards change in your life. Often in this growth process there are patterns that emerge that no longer fit who you are and who you are becoming. Traumatic events and life stressors can live in the body and become patterns of tension you carry around that lead you to feel stuck. The process of therapeutic self-inquiry can help you discover new ways of relating to yourself outside narratives that no longer serve your well-being and prevent you from moving forward in your life in a meaningful way.
You may find yourself sitting at a growth edge and wanting to take steps towards change in your life. Often in this growth process there are patterns that emerge that no longer fit who you are and who you are becoming. Traumatic events and life stressors can live in the body and become patterns of tension you carry around that lead you to feel stuck. The process of therapeutic self-inquiry can help you discover new ways of relating to yourself outside narratives that no longer serve your well-being and prevent you from moving forward in your life in a meaningful way.
(802) 830-8834 View (802) 830-8834
Photo of Stannard Baker, Counselor in Burlington, VT
Stannard Baker
Counselor, MA, LLC, LCMHC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
Not accepting new clients
Note: My practice is full at this time; I am not taking new clients or adding to my waiting list: I believe that metaphor is the carrier of deep truths about the self, and the door to meaning and growth. As a therapist, I listen for metaphor in verbal and non-verbal interactions with clients. I was trained in Expressive Therapy and also use a developmental approach. I am also fully trained in EMDR. I base all of my work with children, teens, families, and adults in a grounding in normal development, taking into account developmental stages as I look at issues and problems presented.
Note: My practice is full at this time; I am not taking new clients or adding to my waiting list: I believe that metaphor is the carrier of deep truths about the self, and the door to meaning and growth. As a therapist, I listen for metaphor in verbal and non-verbal interactions with clients. I was trained in Expressive Therapy and also use a developmental approach. I am also fully trained in EMDR. I base all of my work with children, teens, families, and adults in a grounding in normal development, taking into account developmental stages as I look at issues and problems presented.
(802) 662-1291 View (802) 662-1291
Photo of Millie Johnson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Burlington, VT
Millie Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
I approach counseling work from a position of compassion, curiosity, and authenticity. Many of the challenges that we experience arise from disempowerment and disconnection from ourselves. By becoming empowered in our minds, bodies, and spaces, we can feel less distress, find greater compassion for ourselves and others, and experience more satisfaction and fulfillment in our lives.
I approach counseling work from a position of compassion, curiosity, and authenticity. Many of the challenges that we experience arise from disempowerment and disconnection from ourselves. By becoming empowered in our minds, bodies, and spaces, we can feel less distress, find greater compassion for ourselves and others, and experience more satisfaction and fulfillment in our lives.
(802) 255-9013 View (802) 255-9013
Photo of Dan Chiodo, Registered Psychotherapist in Burlington, VT
Dan Chiodo
Registered Psychotherapist, MS, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401
Waitlist for new clients
Stress and challenges in life are often compounded with systemic oppression, relationship conflict, pain and societal pressure. This can make it difficult to access external resources as well as our intrinsic capacity for healing, creativity and fulfillment. I seek to work with people who want to become more aware of themselves so their potential and fulfillment can be realized and embodied. Together, in a space of confidential support, we can explore constraints and burdens, focus on your needs, and work towards your goals at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
Stress and challenges in life are often compounded with systemic oppression, relationship conflict, pain and societal pressure. This can make it difficult to access external resources as well as our intrinsic capacity for healing, creativity and fulfillment. I seek to work with people who want to become more aware of themselves so their potential and fulfillment can be realized and embodied. Together, in a space of confidential support, we can explore constraints and burdens, focus on your needs, and work towards your goals at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
(802) 372-2038 View (802) 372-2038
Photo of Linda Wackerman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burlington, VT
Linda Wackerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401
I collaborate with my clients to work on what is important to them, integrating my knowledge and clinical experience to guide the process. I believe that everyone has problems at times, and that these can prevent us from having the relationships and lives we desire. I see therapy as a dialogue and am active and direct in the process. I will partner with you to change old patterns and to draw out your strengths. Most people say I have a genuine, down to earth manner which makes it possible to feel safe and speak openly.
I collaborate with my clients to work on what is important to them, integrating my knowledge and clinical experience to guide the process. I believe that everyone has problems at times, and that these can prevent us from having the relationships and lives we desire. I see therapy as a dialogue and am active and direct in the process. I will partner with you to change old patterns and to draw out your strengths. Most people say I have a genuine, down to earth manner which makes it possible to feel safe and speak openly.
(802) 277-3211 View (802) 277-3211
Photo of Susan Davis, Pre-Licensed Professional in Burlington, VT
Susan Davis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, RMT, RM
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
Many people look for a counselor when they recognize repeating patterns that aren't serving them well. They seek to understand how they got there. This pattern could be depression, overeating, low self-esteem, difficult relationships, parenting issues, body image, etc. I can provide assistance toward understanding and improving your patterns by helping you to reframe and overcome challenges you face through a positive lens. We can explore an array of informed, viable solutions, illuminating and reinforcing support systems, identifying and evaluating coping tools, their efficacy, and gaining new ones.
Many people look for a counselor when they recognize repeating patterns that aren't serving them well. They seek to understand how they got there. This pattern could be depression, overeating, low self-esteem, difficult relationships, parenting issues, body image, etc. I can provide assistance toward understanding and improving your patterns by helping you to reframe and overcome challenges you face through a positive lens. We can explore an array of informed, viable solutions, illuminating and reinforcing support systems, identifying and evaluating coping tools, their efficacy, and gaining new ones.
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Photo of Song Lee, Registered Psychotherapist in Burlington, VT
Song Lee
Registered Psychotherapist, MS, JD
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist, my approach is grounded in blending Internal Family Systems (IFS) understandings (includes psychodynamic and mindfulness practices) and somatic psychotherapy to increase aliveness, build meta-cognitive self-understanding, and promote self-regulation. This approach works with the whole person by addressing conflicts cognitively, emotionally and physically. Clients can gain greater awareness of old patterns of action and reaction, increased capacity to tolerate and resolve conflict or trauma and enhanced ability to experience pleasure.
As a therapist, my approach is grounded in blending Internal Family Systems (IFS) understandings (includes psychodynamic and mindfulness practices) and somatic psychotherapy to increase aliveness, build meta-cognitive self-understanding, and promote self-regulation. This approach works with the whole person by addressing conflicts cognitively, emotionally and physically. Clients can gain greater awareness of old patterns of action and reaction, increased capacity to tolerate and resolve conflict or trauma and enhanced ability to experience pleasure.
(802) 526-6897 View (802) 526-6897
Photo of Joseph D Cusumano, PhD, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Burlington, VT
Joseph D Cusumano, PhD
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCHMC, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401  (Online Only)
The ideal clients I am reaching out to are interested in participating in teletherapy, either individually or as couples. Due to a number of breaking developments, I have decided to convert my long-running practice to online therapy. I have professional counseling licenses in Vermont, MIssouri, and Illinois. I work from Missouri. Furthermore, I am seeking clients who prefer to work outside of the insurance system. I am rebooting my practice to offer high-qualify and affordable therapy. If you are interested, all you would need is Skype or Zoom (both are free downloads). I am offering 45 minute sessions for $90.
The ideal clients I am reaching out to are interested in participating in teletherapy, either individually or as couples. Due to a number of breaking developments, I have decided to convert my long-running practice to online therapy. I have professional counseling licenses in Vermont, MIssouri, and Illinois. I work from Missouri. Furthermore, I am seeking clients who prefer to work outside of the insurance system. I am rebooting my practice to offer high-qualify and affordable therapy. If you are interested, all you would need is Skype or Zoom (both are free downloads). I am offering 45 minute sessions for $90.
(802) 625-6060 View (802) 625-6060
Photo of Liz Fitzgerald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burlington, VT
Liz Fitzgerald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401  (Online Only)
It's hard being human. Whether you are living with grief, loss, emptiness, low energy, the demands of a busy world, the impacts of your uniquely complicated past, lack of focus, self-criticism, depleted inspiration, relationship challenges, chronic illness and/or disability, harms due to injustice and systematic oppression, and/or the struggle to find meaning in your life… I invite you to dock your ship in the harbor of your own presence & to seek healing and solace through the accompaniment that therapy offers. I would love to walk beside you on your journey of honoring your truth(s) and connecting to what matters most to you.
It's hard being human. Whether you are living with grief, loss, emptiness, low energy, the demands of a busy world, the impacts of your uniquely complicated past, lack of focus, self-criticism, depleted inspiration, relationship challenges, chronic illness and/or disability, harms due to injustice and systematic oppression, and/or the struggle to find meaning in your life… I invite you to dock your ship in the harbor of your own presence & to seek healing and solace through the accompaniment that therapy offers. I would love to walk beside you on your journey of honoring your truth(s) and connecting to what matters most to you.
(802) 494-4829 View (802) 494-4829
Photo of Nick Murphy in Burlington, VT
Nick Murphy
MS
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
I help a variety of performers and athletes optimize their performance and overall well-being using evidence-based techniques to develop mental and emotional skills. You may simply be looking to gain a mental edge or you may be struggling with confidence, low/inconsistent motivation, returning from injury or performance anxiety (to name a few).
I help a variety of performers and athletes optimize their performance and overall well-being using evidence-based techniques to develop mental and emotional skills. You may simply be looking to gain a mental edge or you may be struggling with confidence, low/inconsistent motivation, returning from injury or performance anxiety (to name a few).
(802) 444-8530 View (802) 444-8530
Photo of Anthony Grudin, Pre-Licensed Professional in Burlington, VT
Anthony Grudin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
My priority as a therapist is to foster a warm, collaborative, confidential environment in which we can focus on the challenges and goals that matter most to you. My therapeutic style is pragmatic. I draw on a range of theoretical and practical traditions, but my core commitment is to understanding you and your experiences from a empathetic and non-judgmental perspective. I have availability during morning and evening hours and on weekends as necessary.
My priority as a therapist is to foster a warm, collaborative, confidential environment in which we can focus on the challenges and goals that matter most to you. My therapeutic style is pragmatic. I draw on a range of theoretical and practical traditions, but my core commitment is to understanding you and your experiences from a empathetic and non-judgmental perspective. I have availability during morning and evening hours and on weekends as necessary.
(802) 210-1319 View (802) 210-1319
Photo of Nina La Rosa in Burlington, VT
Nina La Rosa
BAPsych, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
The brain has an immense capacity to change and grow over a lifetime. Clinical research demonstrates even a few months of mindfulness practice can be effective in treating chronic stress, depression, anxiety, addictions, pain, illness, and can boost performance under pressure, enhance relationships, and improve enjoyment of work. I use my professional counseling training, teaching experience, and knowledge of neuroscience to develop with you a set of practical skills you can use daily. I will help you use your strengths to harness the power of your mind and develop skills to uncover more peace, joy, and freedom in your life!
The brain has an immense capacity to change and grow over a lifetime. Clinical research demonstrates even a few months of mindfulness practice can be effective in treating chronic stress, depression, anxiety, addictions, pain, illness, and can boost performance under pressure, enhance relationships, and improve enjoyment of work. I use my professional counseling training, teaching experience, and knowledge of neuroscience to develop with you a set of practical skills you can use daily. I will help you use your strengths to harness the power of your mind and develop skills to uncover more peace, joy, and freedom in your life!
(802) 755-3401 View (802) 755-3401
Photo of Corrine Mertz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burlington, VT
Corrine Mertz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, VT 05401
Waitlist for new clients
I am FULL and will be supervising a clinician with openings, inquire via website: I work with children, teens, families, and adults who are ready to heal from trauma and build healthy relationships. As a Queer therapist, I support marginalized people to build self-worth and live with a greater sense of wellbeing amidst systems that undermine our inherent value. Working with me is like having a guide for you, your child, and partner(s) in building more loving and liberating relationships with yourself and others. With adults and teens, I utilize an evidence-based modality based in neuroscience called Brainspotting to heal trauma.
I am FULL and will be supervising a clinician with openings, inquire via website: I work with children, teens, families, and adults who are ready to heal from trauma and build healthy relationships. As a Queer therapist, I support marginalized people to build self-worth and live with a greater sense of wellbeing amidst systems that undermine our inherent value. Working with me is like having a guide for you, your child, and partner(s) in building more loving and liberating relationships with yourself and others. With adults and teens, I utilize an evidence-based modality based in neuroscience called Brainspotting to heal trauma.
(802) 222-0436 View (802) 222-0436
Photo of Marta Paterniti, Counselor in Burlington, VT
Marta Paterniti
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
Not accepting new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your thoughts and emotions? Do you want to learn more about yourself, or just see what therapy is all about? I’m here for you. I find great joy in creating genuine and meaningful relationships with my clients, and helping them connect more deeply with themselves and others. I truly want to support and empower you in the process of achieving your goals and living a life that you enjoy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your thoughts and emotions? Do you want to learn more about yourself, or just see what therapy is all about? I’m here for you. I find great joy in creating genuine and meaningful relationships with my clients, and helping them connect more deeply with themselves and others. I truly want to support and empower you in the process of achieving your goals and living a life that you enjoy.
(802) 230-1776 View (802) 230-1776

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Burlington, VT

700+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Burlington, VT who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
88% Depression
83% Relationship Issues
79% Self Esteem
72% Stress
71% Trauma and PTSD
67% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% BlueCross and BlueShield
64% Medicaid
53% MVP Health Care

How Therapists in Burlington, VT see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
22% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Burlington?

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.