Therapists in Venice, FL

Photo of Lindsay Dec, Counselor in Venice, FL
Lindsay Dec
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285
Everyone has times in their life when they need help. You may be having symptoms that are keeping you from your best life and you're ready for change. Therapy can help you get back on track, build skills to navigate daily life, increase your confidence, and build connections with others. There are many evidence-based approaches we can discuss to find a good fit for you. I integrate a physiological approach into counseling. We can use biofeedback, neurofeedback, and mindfulness to complement talk therapy. I am assisted by my registered therapy dog, PJ.
Everyone has times in their life when they need help. You may be having symptoms that are keeping you from your best life and you're ready for change. Therapy can help you get back on track, build skills to navigate daily life, increase your confidence, and build connections with others. There are many evidence-based approaches we can discuss to find a good fit for you. I integrate a physiological approach into counseling. We can use biofeedback, neurofeedback, and mindfulness to complement talk therapy. I am assisted by my registered therapy dog, PJ.
(941) 307-7792 View (941) 307-7792
Photo of Jennifer Wheat, Marriage & Family Therapist in Venice, FL
Jennifer Wheat
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285
As a committed Christian, I can tell you that we are not exempt from trouble. Sometimes the troubles and losses we experience can cause anxiety, stress, depression, hopelessness and despair. If you experience these things, the wise and courageous thing to do is to ask for help. My counseling style is supportive and compassionate, yet challenging when necessary. If you choose to work with me, I will integrate our Christian faith and value system along with evidence-based treatment strategies to help you move from hopelessness toward freedom and healing.
As a committed Christian, I can tell you that we are not exempt from trouble. Sometimes the troubles and losses we experience can cause anxiety, stress, depression, hopelessness and despair. If you experience these things, the wise and courageous thing to do is to ask for help. My counseling style is supportive and compassionate, yet challenging when necessary. If you choose to work with me, I will integrate our Christian faith and value system along with evidence-based treatment strategies to help you move from hopelessness toward freedom and healing.
(941) 300-0223 View (941) 300-0223
Photo of Sara Abadie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Sara Abadie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a happier life? It is possible and I can help. Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, addictive behavior, life transitions, aging, grief, codependency, stressful relationships, or other problems, you will discover that, whatever the issue, your path to well-being depends on your ability to feel good about yourself. With my support, you will succeed in making real changes that lead to a fulfilling life, and your relationship with yourself will improve. Come find a new understanding of yourself and your behavior-one that you might never have thought possible.
Are you looking for a happier life? It is possible and I can help. Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, addictive behavior, life transitions, aging, grief, codependency, stressful relationships, or other problems, you will discover that, whatever the issue, your path to well-being depends on your ability to feel good about yourself. With my support, you will succeed in making real changes that lead to a fulfilling life, and your relationship with yourself will improve. Come find a new understanding of yourself and your behavior-one that you might never have thought possible.
(239) 688-4974 View (239) 688-4974
Photo of Amy Claude, Counselor in Venice, FL
Amy Claude
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34293  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you are dealing with overwhelming anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, or career difficulties, I am here to help. As a mom with two young boys, I understand that life can be chaotic! One of my goals as your therapist is to help you focus on yourself in the midst of the chaos. Along with learning strategies to cope with current stressors, processing past experiences can also bring healing and peace. Therapy goals can include building healthy thought patterns, achieving work-life balance, improving relationships, focusing on family life, building self-esteem, setting healthy boundaries, among others.
Whether you are dealing with overwhelming anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, or career difficulties, I am here to help. As a mom with two young boys, I understand that life can be chaotic! One of my goals as your therapist is to help you focus on yourself in the midst of the chaos. Along with learning strategies to cope with current stressors, processing past experiences can also bring healing and peace. Therapy goals can include building healthy thought patterns, achieving work-life balance, improving relationships, focusing on family life, building self-esteem, setting healthy boundaries, among others.
(941) 300-1936 View (941) 300-1936
Photo of Ellen C Ferguson, Counselor in Venice, FL
Ellen C Ferguson
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34292
Are you or a loved one struggling with stress, anxiety or depression? Are your coping skills helping or hurting you? In life, we all experience times when we struggle whether it be with guilt, shame, grief/loss, relationship issues or adjustment to change. With a little help, we can move through this and get to a brighter life. In the 20 years I have been a therapist I have helped many people with these issues. One of my favorite quotes is “If you always do what you always did, you will always get what you always got. If you want something different, do something different.” Counseling is the process that can help with this.
Are you or a loved one struggling with stress, anxiety or depression? Are your coping skills helping or hurting you? In life, we all experience times when we struggle whether it be with guilt, shame, grief/loss, relationship issues or adjustment to change. With a little help, we can move through this and get to a brighter life. In the 20 years I have been a therapist I have helped many people with these issues. One of my favorite quotes is “If you always do what you always did, you will always get what you always got. If you want something different, do something different.” Counseling is the process that can help with this.
(941) 304-5250 View (941) 304-5250
Photo of Claire Roberts, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Venice, FL
Claire Roberts
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LMHC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing a major life change, such as divorce and relationship stress, career transition and burnout, caregiver/compassion fatigue, grief and loss, health/medical issues, or everyday life stress? Are you looking for someone to offer compassionate support while you process these life events? I pride myself on holding space for others in life's hardest moments, and feel honored to watch my client's transform in ways they did not know were possible. I meet clients as they are and provide a safe space to reconnect with what they value and experiment with responding to the world around them more effectively.
Are you experiencing a major life change, such as divorce and relationship stress, career transition and burnout, caregiver/compassion fatigue, grief and loss, health/medical issues, or everyday life stress? Are you looking for someone to offer compassionate support while you process these life events? I pride myself on holding space for others in life's hardest moments, and feel honored to watch my client's transform in ways they did not know were possible. I meet clients as they are and provide a safe space to reconnect with what they value and experiment with responding to the world around them more effectively.
(941) 841-6822 View (941) 841-6822
Photo of Carol Stearn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Carol Stearn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293  (Online Only)
I offer individual telehealth therapy, through a user-friendly, HIPAA compliant platform to adults and seniors. I accept Medicare, most commercial insurancesand out-of-pocket payment. I have more than 19 years of experience collaborating with clients to successfully address a variety of behavioral, relationship and challenging life issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, life transitions, substance abuse and infidelity. I utilize a number of therapeutic modalities, depending on the issue to be addressed, including cognitive behavioral, humanistic, self psychology, motivational interviewing and EMDR.
I offer individual telehealth therapy, through a user-friendly, HIPAA compliant platform to adults and seniors. I accept Medicare, most commercial insurancesand out-of-pocket payment. I have more than 19 years of experience collaborating with clients to successfully address a variety of behavioral, relationship and challenging life issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, life transitions, substance abuse and infidelity. I utilize a number of therapeutic modalities, depending on the issue to be addressed, including cognitive behavioral, humanistic, self psychology, motivational interviewing and EMDR.
(941) 202-5674 View (941) 202-5674
Photo of John A Guliano, Counselor in Venice, FL
John A Guliano
Counselor, PCC-S, CEAP, LMHC, SUPV
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Understanding the whole person is of utmost importance. I am empowered to help people deal with and find relief for life's hurts. I help find the unique solutions to encourage health, happiness and well-being. I do this through a deep sense of understanding, compassion and personal experience. Over the past twenty five years as an educator, pastor, businessman and counselor, I have helped many people in their pursuit of healing and wholeness. These experiences have not only provided me with a greater understanding of people's needs, but they also have helped me develop solid solutions for professional treatment.
Understanding the whole person is of utmost importance. I am empowered to help people deal with and find relief for life's hurts. I help find the unique solutions to encourage health, happiness and well-being. I do this through a deep sense of understanding, compassion and personal experience. Over the past twenty five years as an educator, pastor, businessman and counselor, I have helped many people in their pursuit of healing and wholeness. These experiences have not only provided me with a greater understanding of people's needs, but they also have helped me develop solid solutions for professional treatment.
(941) 242-7345 View (941) 242-7345
Photo of Melissa Lou Koerner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Melissa Lou Koerner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293  (Online Only)
Are you stuck in depression and anxiety that has not been alleviated by medication or talk therapy? Would you prefer to invest more hours up front and achieve a better result that does not require weekly ongoing appointments? Are you open to new experiences that are transformative? Consider the proven benefits of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I can guide you through this process in a matter of 2-3 months at a reasonable cost. I also love to work with families who are struggling with significant behavior problems.
Are you stuck in depression and anxiety that has not been alleviated by medication or talk therapy? Would you prefer to invest more hours up front and achieve a better result that does not require weekly ongoing appointments? Are you open to new experiences that are transformative? Consider the proven benefits of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. I can guide you through this process in a matter of 2-3 months at a reasonable cost. I also love to work with families who are struggling with significant behavior problems.
(941) 770-4381 View (941) 770-4381
Photo of Hope Counseling of Venice, LLC, Counselor in Venice, FL
Hope Counseling of Venice, LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34292
Waitlist for new clients
I have been treating clients of all ages for 28 years. I specialize in treating individuals who have suffered from traumatic experiences both past and present. As a certified EMDR clinician, I help reduce anxiety rates dramatically for the clients I serve. For people seeking insight into their difficult experiences, I offer hope and direction with kindness and compassion. I treat individuals, couples, and families.
I have been treating clients of all ages for 28 years. I specialize in treating individuals who have suffered from traumatic experiences both past and present. As a certified EMDR clinician, I help reduce anxiety rates dramatically for the clients I serve. For people seeking insight into their difficult experiences, I offer hope and direction with kindness and compassion. I treat individuals, couples, and families.
(941) 275-3565 View (941) 275-3565
Photo of Laura Guarino, Counselor in Venice, FL
Laura Guarino
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293  (Online Only)
Hello I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Florida. I received my master’s in psychology and mental health counseling from Marist College in Poughkeeie. NY. I have been practicing for 18 years. I work with clients ages 13 and above helping to manage trauma as well as other stressors from life and teach coping skills to not just manage symptoms but live the best version of the clients self.
Hello I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Florida. I received my master’s in psychology and mental health counseling from Marist College in Poughkeeie. NY. I have been practicing for 18 years. I work with clients ages 13 and above helping to manage trauma as well as other stressors from life and teach coping skills to not just manage symptoms but live the best version of the clients self.
(941) 203-3348 View (941) 203-3348
Stacey Clayton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285
"Stop worrying." they say. "Just cheer up!" they say. If you could, you would but just don't know how. For many, feelings of anxiety, sadness, and grief can be difficult to manage, and at times these feelings can be debilitating. Difficulty managing symptoms can often result in missed days at school or work, avoiding others, low self-esteem, and managing life. Many individuals feel they are alone and no one understands how they feel. Other may feel scared or worried something is wrong with them. Trust me, you are not alone in the way you feel.
"Stop worrying." they say. "Just cheer up!" they say. If you could, you would but just don't know how. For many, feelings of anxiety, sadness, and grief can be difficult to manage, and at times these feelings can be debilitating. Difficulty managing symptoms can often result in missed days at school or work, avoiding others, low self-esteem, and managing life. Many individuals feel they are alone and no one understands how they feel. Other may feel scared or worried something is wrong with them. Trust me, you are not alone in the way you feel.
(941) 837-5785 View (941) 837-5785
Photo of Pamela Osborne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Pamela Osborne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293
I understand that reaching out for help can seem overwhelming. You have probably thought about it for a while, hoping things would get better on their own. Reaching out is the first step in your healing, and I am here to help. I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals, families, and couples of all ages. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have the training to meet you where you are and help you achieve your goals. I use a variety of therapy approaches depending on what feels most comfortable for you. Together, we can figure out the best way for you to heal and move forward.
I understand that reaching out for help can seem overwhelming. You have probably thought about it for a while, hoping things would get better on their own. Reaching out is the first step in your healing, and I am here to help. I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals, families, and couples of all ages. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have the training to meet you where you are and help you achieve your goals. I use a variety of therapy approaches depending on what feels most comfortable for you. Together, we can figure out the best way for you to heal and move forward.
(941) 265-1647 View (941) 265-1647
Photo of Kate Pompei, Marriage & Family Therapist in Venice, FL
Kate Pompei
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34292  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Kate. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and have been working in the counseling field since 2010. I enjoy working with couples, individuals, and families. My therapeutic focuses are Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, and Substance Use. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Relational, Structural Family Therapy, and Grief Therapy. I like the therapeutic goals to be determined collaboratively with myself and the client. I believe in creating a space where we can have difficult conversations and work on resolving issues.
Hi, I'm Kate. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and have been working in the counseling field since 2010. I enjoy working with couples, individuals, and families. My therapeutic focuses are Depression, Trauma, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, and Substance Use. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Relational, Structural Family Therapy, and Grief Therapy. I like the therapeutic goals to be determined collaboratively with myself and the client. I believe in creating a space where we can have difficult conversations and work on resolving issues.
(904) 593-4910 View (904) 593-4910
Photo of Martha A. Smith, Counselor in Venice, FL
Martha A. Smith
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34285
People often turn to a professional counselor when they are having trouble with relationships--either with self or others. Sometimes we feel stuck in life situations and are unable to move forward. We all need balance in life and sometimes it helps to have some guidance reaching that goal--whether in our personal or professional arena. We can work together to find the most beneficial approach for you to get your life on track.
People often turn to a professional counselor when they are having trouble with relationships--either with self or others. Sometimes we feel stuck in life situations and are unable to move forward. We all need balance in life and sometimes it helps to have some guidance reaching that goal--whether in our personal or professional arena. We can work together to find the most beneficial approach for you to get your life on track.
(941) 487-0925 View (941) 487-0925
Photo of Carrie Lynn Phelps, Counselor in Venice, FL
Carrie Lynn Phelps
Counselor, LMHC, CST-T, LMT
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34292
My areas of expertise include issues of substance abuse, anxiety, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I have a Body, Mind, Spirit approach, where I help clients connect within themselves to find the underlying issues that are creating problems in their lives, then help clients learn to identify the thought patterns that can cause dysfunction and develop strategies to lead happier and healthier lives.
My areas of expertise include issues of substance abuse, anxiety, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I have a Body, Mind, Spirit approach, where I help clients connect within themselves to find the underlying issues that are creating problems in their lives, then help clients learn to identify the thought patterns that can cause dysfunction and develop strategies to lead happier and healthier lives.
(941) 803-1724 View (941) 803-1724
Photo of David Koerner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
David Koerner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293  (Online Only)
I did my undergraduate work at Boston University and received my Masters in Social Work and Public Health from the University of South Carolina. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, (LCSW), for over 20 years. I draw upon a wide variety of lived experiences, from being a Peace Corps volunteer in the Dominican Republic to serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. I work primarily with clients experiencing depression, anxiety and the effects of trauma.
I did my undergraduate work at Boston University and received my Masters in Social Work and Public Health from the University of South Carolina. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, (LCSW), for over 20 years. I draw upon a wide variety of lived experiences, from being a Peace Corps volunteer in the Dominican Republic to serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. I work primarily with clients experiencing depression, anxiety and the effects of trauma.
(941) 200-3124 View (941) 200-3124
Photo of Mary Claire O. McNair, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Mary Claire O. McNair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34292  (Online Only)
Life often presents us with challenges. Managing family, work or school, social and personal obligations can be stressful and overwhelming. You may feel your life is out of balance. Whether you are dealing with stressful circumstances, ongoing anxiety, panic, sadness, depression, substance misuse, low confidence, and/or are wanting more work-life harmony, I will provide the space to help you feel supported and heard.
Life often presents us with challenges. Managing family, work or school, social and personal obligations can be stressful and overwhelming. You may feel your life is out of balance. Whether you are dealing with stressful circumstances, ongoing anxiety, panic, sadness, depression, substance misuse, low confidence, and/or are wanting more work-life harmony, I will provide the space to help you feel supported and heard.
(941) 229-7606 View (941) 229-7606
Photo of Cosmic Warrior Wisdom, LLC in Venice, FL
Cosmic Warrior Wisdom, LLC
BCC
Verified Verified
Venice, FL 34293
Julie Clark is a Board-Certified Coach specializing in Narcissistic Abuse Recovery, Psychospiritual Coaching and Entheogenic Medicine Integration. Clients recovering from Narcissistic Abuse are guided to establish a solid and lasting inner identification with the Authentic Self, dissolving trauma-bonding patterns and restoring a healthy inner vibration. For those integrating Entheogenic Medicine Work, clients will decode and ground messages from their journeys to deepen the transformation process. All coaching incorporates Psychospiritual principles and is designed to efficiently evoke profound results that will not fade with time.
Julie Clark is a Board-Certified Coach specializing in Narcissistic Abuse Recovery, Psychospiritual Coaching and Entheogenic Medicine Integration. Clients recovering from Narcissistic Abuse are guided to establish a solid and lasting inner identification with the Authentic Self, dissolving trauma-bonding patterns and restoring a healthy inner vibration. For those integrating Entheogenic Medicine Work, clients will decode and ground messages from their journeys to deepen the transformation process. All coaching incorporates Psychospiritual principles and is designed to efficiently evoke profound results that will not fade with time.
(504) 814-7420 View (504) 814-7420
Photo of Confidential Care Professional Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Venice, FL
Confidential Care Professional Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Venice, FL 34285  (Online Only)
Is your happily ever after turning into the war of the roses? Are you in constant conflict, or are you living like roommates? Your relationship should bring you connection and joy. Couples counseling with me can help you have healthy conversations that help you find solutions to the same old problems. Don't trust your relationship to anyone who isn't specifically trained to treat couples! I have 4 years of specialty training in specific couples models and I have over 30 years of experience. I help struggling couples reconnect and heal from wounding that took place in the relationship and in childhood.
Is your happily ever after turning into the war of the roses? Are you in constant conflict, or are you living like roommates? Your relationship should bring you connection and joy. Couples counseling with me can help you have healthy conversations that help you find solutions to the same old problems. Don't trust your relationship to anyone who isn't specifically trained to treat couples! I have 4 years of specialty training in specific couples models and I have over 30 years of experience. I help struggling couples reconnect and heal from wounding that took place in the relationship and in childhood.
(817) 909-1820 View (817) 909-1820

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Venice, FL

100+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Venice, FL who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
90% Depression
80% Trauma and PTSD
79% Relationship Issues
76% Coping Skills
76% Self Esteem
71% Grief

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
66% Aetna
54% Optum

How Therapists in Venice, FL see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

87% Female
13% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Venice?

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.