Therapists in Ramsey, NJ

Photo of Keri Cooper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ramsey, NJ
Keri Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NBCCH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Many teens today lack the coping skills that are necessary to address life’s ups and downs. They often feel disconnected emotionally, and are unable to handle stress, peer and relationship issues, or the school, college, or work environment. When a teen is struggling with academics, they receive tutoring or support to develop the skills they need to succeed. Emotional health is no different. Teens need tools to help them regulate their emotions, develop connections with others, and create a healthy, well-rounded lifestyle. You can find both my books on Amazon, Mental Health Uncensored: 10 Foundations Every Parent Needs To Know
Many teens today lack the coping skills that are necessary to address life’s ups and downs. They often feel disconnected emotionally, and are unable to handle stress, peer and relationship issues, or the school, college, or work environment. When a teen is struggling with academics, they receive tutoring or support to develop the skills they need to succeed. Emotional health is no different. Teens need tools to help them regulate their emotions, develop connections with others, and create a healthy, well-rounded lifestyle. You can find both my books on Amazon, Mental Health Uncensored: 10 Foundations Every Parent Needs To Know
(201) 884-2874 View (201) 884-2874
Photo of Krystal Kim, Counselor in Ramsey, NJ
Krystal Kim
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
As a therapist, I have always believed in the strength of the human spirit; the ability to triumph over what is evil and to break maladaptive patterns in order to live a healthier and content life. The complexities of life can often times feel overwhelming and defeating. “When the well is dry, we know the worth of water.” Benjamin Franklin. ​ It is often in that “dryness” that we rise and find true purpose and fearlessness in the face of hardship. Hope is not to be taken lightly! I can help equip you with the tools necessary to build a life that is well worth living. I work with children, teens and adults.
As a therapist, I have always believed in the strength of the human spirit; the ability to triumph over what is evil and to break maladaptive patterns in order to live a healthier and content life. The complexities of life can often times feel overwhelming and defeating. “When the well is dry, we know the worth of water.” Benjamin Franklin. ​ It is often in that “dryness” that we rise and find true purpose and fearlessness in the face of hardship. Hope is not to be taken lightly! I can help equip you with the tools necessary to build a life that is well worth living. I work with children, teens and adults.
(201) 514-3240 View (201) 514-3240
Photo of Deborah J Armstrong, Psychologist in Ramsey, NJ
Deborah J Armstrong
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Are you ready to move beyond simply "coping?" Counseling may increase your ability to relax and experience peace, help you learn to better understand yourself and others, and remove inner obstacles to realizing your dreams. It may improve your ability to build the kind of relationships you want, strengthen your ability to grow through loss, and support you as you rebuild your life after loss. I offer both in-person and telehealth sessions, including telehealth sessions for residents of 38 PSYPACT states and Washington, DC. To find out if your state participates in PSYPACT, visit www.psypact.org/mpage/psypactmap.
Are you ready to move beyond simply "coping?" Counseling may increase your ability to relax and experience peace, help you learn to better understand yourself and others, and remove inner obstacles to realizing your dreams. It may improve your ability to build the kind of relationships you want, strengthen your ability to grow through loss, and support you as you rebuild your life after loss. I offer both in-person and telehealth sessions, including telehealth sessions for residents of 38 PSYPACT states and Washington, DC. To find out if your state participates in PSYPACT, visit www.psypact.org/mpage/psypactmap.
(856) 993-2814 View (856) 993-2814
Photo of Amanda Pollifrone, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Ramsey, NJ
Amanda Pollifrone
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, NCSP, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
I am a licensed therapist passionate about helping others develop self-understanding, insight, and leadership over their lives. Within the therapeutic relationship, my primary focus is on consistency, trust, and safety. Building from there, I love to help others access a mindful life of self-acceptance and self-compassion.
I am a licensed therapist passionate about helping others develop self-understanding, insight, and leadership over their lives. Within the therapeutic relationship, my primary focus is on consistency, trust, and safety. Building from there, I love to help others access a mindful life of self-acceptance and self-compassion.
(201) 733-3677 View (201) 733-3677
Photo of Colleen Amundson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ramsey, NJ
Colleen Amundson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Not accepting new clients
Therapy can be intimidating and scary. Therapy can also be an amazing adventure full of wonderful insight and inspirational growth. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in NJ and PA with a decade of experience I provide therapeutic services to young adults and adults ages 18 and up. I have experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, ADHD, ODD, and anger management. I am certified in telemedicine counseling, anxiety treatment, and dialectical behavior therapy. I am an ally to all and provide judgement free therapy. Currently accepting Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, Oxford, and United health insurance.
Therapy can be intimidating and scary. Therapy can also be an amazing adventure full of wonderful insight and inspirational growth. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in NJ and PA with a decade of experience I provide therapeutic services to young adults and adults ages 18 and up. I have experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, ADHD, ODD, and anger management. I am certified in telemedicine counseling, anxiety treatment, and dialectical behavior therapy. I am an ally to all and provide judgement free therapy. Currently accepting Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, Oxford, and United health insurance.
(201) 379-2850 View (201) 379-2850
Photo of Timothy Trenary, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ramsey, NJ
Timothy Trenary
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(551) 264-9565 View (551) 264-9565
Photo of Embodied Healing, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ramsey, NJ
Embodied Healing, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446  (Online Only)
Come as you are and begin your unique process to embody healing. By providing a safe, compassionate, and warm environment, I believe I meet my clients in a space of empathy which enables them to cultivate meaningful change in their lives.
Come as you are and begin your unique process to embody healing. By providing a safe, compassionate, and warm environment, I believe I meet my clients in a space of empathy which enables them to cultivate meaningful change in their lives.
(201) 419-6561 View (201) 419-6561
Photo of Mary Beth McGuinn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ramsey, NJ
Mary Beth McGuinn, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMSW, Author
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
I am a seasoned therapist and a go to person when you are suffering with loss, relationship issues or going through transitions in your life. Worry, depression and anxiety are often a consequence. Feeling disconnected from life, you often feel powerless to make confident decisions. I use my expertise from my 20 years in a therapeutic practice to guide clients to be able to manage their lives, have less anxiety, and be more confident. Mastering techniques to take things down a notch, clients leave sessions with less tension and more hope for resolving what is on their minds.
I am a seasoned therapist and a go to person when you are suffering with loss, relationship issues or going through transitions in your life. Worry, depression and anxiety are often a consequence. Feeling disconnected from life, you often feel powerless to make confident decisions. I use my expertise from my 20 years in a therapeutic practice to guide clients to be able to manage their lives, have less anxiety, and be more confident. Mastering techniques to take things down a notch, clients leave sessions with less tension and more hope for resolving what is on their minds.
(201) 580-3642 View (201) 580-3642
Photo of Jill Essery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ramsey, NJ
Jill Essery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Do you experience anxiety, depression, grief/loss, stress? Together we will identify and explore the issues that cause distress in your life. This deeper understanding often provides opportunities for change. I will help you develop healthy coping skills to better manage emotions, reduce stress and improve your relationships.
Do you experience anxiety, depression, grief/loss, stress? Together we will identify and explore the issues that cause distress in your life. This deeper understanding often provides opportunities for change. I will help you develop healthy coping skills to better manage emotions, reduce stress and improve your relationships.
(917) 722-8665 View (917) 722-8665
Photo of Emily Conte, Counselor in Ramsey, NJ
Emily Conte
Counselor, MA/EdS, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ramsey, NJ 07446  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You've tried implementing all of the changes that your relatives, friends, and influencers have said to be "fixed". You've adjusted your eating habits, started working out more often, decreased your caffeine intake, and limited your cell phone usage before bed. You've even tried that essential oil that's supposed to "cure" anxiety in one sniff! But, there's still this constant feeling of edginess that you just can't shake. You often think that you don’t really know what you’re doing and don’t feel like you “fit” anywhere. You start to wonder if you’re making the “right” decisions or if this is just what being an “adult” feels like.
You've tried implementing all of the changes that your relatives, friends, and influencers have said to be "fixed". You've adjusted your eating habits, started working out more often, decreased your caffeine intake, and limited your cell phone usage before bed. You've even tried that essential oil that's supposed to "cure" anxiety in one sniff! But, there's still this constant feeling of edginess that you just can't shake. You often think that you don’t really know what you’re doing and don’t feel like you “fit” anywhere. You start to wonder if you’re making the “right” decisions or if this is just what being an “adult” feels like.
(201) 389-2869 View (201) 389-2869
Photo of Michelle Y Pearlman, Psychologist in Ramsey, NJ
Michelle Y Pearlman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
I work with people of all ages to face challenges and conquer difficulties in a warm and supportive environment. I have over twenty years of experience helping people feel less anxious, sad, and alone, and more capable and empowered to live their best lives. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which is a therapeutic approach proven effective in the treatment of a wide range of problems, from anxiety, depression and trauma to children’s behavior and positive parenting. If you are struggling, or simply want to handle life and stress more effectively, I am here to help. Together, we can work to create lasting change.
I work with people of all ages to face challenges and conquer difficulties in a warm and supportive environment. I have over twenty years of experience helping people feel less anxious, sad, and alone, and more capable and empowered to live their best lives. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which is a therapeutic approach proven effective in the treatment of a wide range of problems, from anxiety, depression and trauma to children’s behavior and positive parenting. If you are struggling, or simply want to handle life and stress more effectively, I am here to help. Together, we can work to create lasting change.
(201) 639-8779 View (201) 639-8779
Photo of Breann Polidore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ramsey, NJ
Breann Polidore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ramsey, NJ 07446
I am a Licensed Social Worker and have a certificate in Violence Against Women and Children. I received my Bachelors in Family and Child Studies from Montclair State University, and my Masters in Social Work from Rutgers University. I have experience working with individuals, couples, groups, and families in various mental health settings. My therapeutic model combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I understand that all clients come from different backgrounds, and therefore believe in using techniques that are specific and accommodating to individual clients.
I am a Licensed Social Worker and have a certificate in Violence Against Women and Children. I received my Bachelors in Family and Child Studies from Montclair State University, and my Masters in Social Work from Rutgers University. I have experience working with individuals, couples, groups, and families in various mental health settings. My therapeutic model combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I understand that all clients come from different backgrounds, and therefore believe in using techniques that are specific and accommodating to individual clients.
(551) 266-5518 View (551) 266-5518
Photo of John J. Selleck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ramsey, NJ
John J. Selleck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Feeling connected to and understood provides the foundation for any healthy relationship, including the therapeutic relationship. It is my goal to provide a supportive, trusting and non-judgmental environment in order to foster greater self-awareness, insight and personal growth and fulfillment. One parent of a 13-year old client said: "During one of the darkest and most difficult times in our lives, in you came ready to listen, guide, support, and be a beacon of light in an otherwise dark time. My son immediately felt safe with you and trusted you. That is a true gift and says so much about you both personally and professionally."
Feeling connected to and understood provides the foundation for any healthy relationship, including the therapeutic relationship. It is my goal to provide a supportive, trusting and non-judgmental environment in order to foster greater self-awareness, insight and personal growth and fulfillment. One parent of a 13-year old client said: "During one of the darkest and most difficult times in our lives, in you came ready to listen, guide, support, and be a beacon of light in an otherwise dark time. My son immediately felt safe with you and trusted you. That is a true gift and says so much about you both personally and professionally."
(201) 379-2268 View (201) 379-2268
Photo of Loren A. Galese, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ramsey, NJ
Loren A. Galese
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ramsey, NJ 07446
I believe everyone has the ability to make positive changes in their lives with encouragement, positive regard and by building effective lines of communication. My specialty areas include Self esteem in adolescents, Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorders, stress and life changes, family conflict and relationship conflict. I believe in person center therapeutic approach, helping the client feel safe while giving them the tools to work towards overcoming their challenges in life.
I believe everyone has the ability to make positive changes in their lives with encouragement, positive regard and by building effective lines of communication. My specialty areas include Self esteem in adolescents, Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorders, stress and life changes, family conflict and relationship conflict. I believe in person center therapeutic approach, helping the client feel safe while giving them the tools to work towards overcoming their challenges in life.
(201) 584-7927 View (201) 584-7927
Photo of Positive Living Psychological Services, LLC, Psychologist in Ramsey, NJ
Positive Living Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
I believe that therapy is an opportunity for people to get the most out of life. It is a reflection of one’s courage to face familial changes, life stressors and significant emotional experiences. An overarching goal of my practice is to utilize one’s talents, strengths, creativity, wisdom and optimism to help individuals regain control of their complicated lives. As such, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral and Psychodynamic approaches. I find that Psychodynamic Therapy can be particularly beneficial for those who have lost meaning in their lives or have difficulty forming or maintaining relationships.
I believe that therapy is an opportunity for people to get the most out of life. It is a reflection of one’s courage to face familial changes, life stressors and significant emotional experiences. An overarching goal of my practice is to utilize one’s talents, strengths, creativity, wisdom and optimism to help individuals regain control of their complicated lives. As such, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral and Psychodynamic approaches. I find that Psychodynamic Therapy can be particularly beneficial for those who have lost meaning in their lives or have difficulty forming or maintaining relationships.
(551) 210-9163 View (551) 210-9163
Nicole Kangley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
People's lives are shaped not as much by their experiences but rather by how they perceive their experiences. "When we change how we look at things, the things we look at change" Wayne Dyer. By expanding what is assumed, expected or believed people become able to change how they experience life. As thinking changes for the positive even challenges can be experienced as an opportunity for growth. Experience includes clinical supervisor for adolescent inpatient program, developed and coordinated adolescent partial hospital program, clinician for adult and adolescent intensive outpatient group for addiction and psychiatric issues.
People's lives are shaped not as much by their experiences but rather by how they perceive their experiences. "When we change how we look at things, the things we look at change" Wayne Dyer. By expanding what is assumed, expected or believed people become able to change how they experience life. As thinking changes for the positive even challenges can be experienced as an opportunity for growth. Experience includes clinical supervisor for adolescent inpatient program, developed and coordinated adolescent partial hospital program, clinician for adult and adolescent intensive outpatient group for addiction and psychiatric issues.
(551) 209-1947 View (551) 209-1947
Raffaela Bartels
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults. I have worked with people to find coping skills, ways to decrease depression and anxiety, couples counseling and family counseling. I am also an approved clinical supervisor (ACS) for those who may need supervision to achieve their LPC.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, families and adults. I have worked with people to find coping skills, ways to decrease depression and anxiety, couples counseling and family counseling. I am also an approved clinical supervisor (ACS) for those who may need supervision to achieve their LPC.
(551) 210-9180 View (551) 210-9180
Photo of Kerry Norris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ramsey, NJ
Kerry Norris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
I have the privilege of working with a diverse range of individuals from children to aging populations, as well as couples and families. I am here to guide and support you through life's ups and downs, helping you overcome personal challenges that may be holding you back from living your best life.
I have the privilege of working with a diverse range of individuals from children to aging populations, as well as couples and families. I am here to guide and support you through life's ups and downs, helping you overcome personal challenges that may be holding you back from living your best life.
(551) 310-2188 x2 View (551) 310-2188 x2
Photo of Dr. Valerie Wood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ramsey, NJ
Dr. Valerie Wood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446  (Online Only)
I work with individuals who struggle with challenges associated with eating, alcohol, prescription medication and mental health issues. If you have struggled with substances or believe you may have an addiction; have problems with eating whether binging, bulimia, have had or are thinking of weight loss surgery*; and/or if you suffer from a mood disorder, I may be able to provide tools to support you in facilitating balance in mind, body and spirit. *Weight loss surgery is a specialty as I have been working in this field since 2001. I am certified in Telebehavioral Health and practice is HIPAA compliant.
I work with individuals who struggle with challenges associated with eating, alcohol, prescription medication and mental health issues. If you have struggled with substances or believe you may have an addiction; have problems with eating whether binging, bulimia, have had or are thinking of weight loss surgery*; and/or if you suffer from a mood disorder, I may be able to provide tools to support you in facilitating balance in mind, body and spirit. *Weight loss surgery is a specialty as I have been working in this field since 2001. I am certified in Telebehavioral Health and practice is HIPAA compliant.
(551) 209-2250 View (551) 209-2250
Photo of Felicia Elaine Polcari, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ramsey, NJ
Felicia Elaine Polcari
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ramsey, NJ 07446
For over 30 years I have maintained a private practice woking with adults, children, couples, families and groups. I am also a certified divorce mediator. I have a degree in Special and Elementary Education.and have taught courses in assertiveness training and a divorce workshop for many years. I supervised the out patient department in Catholic Community Services for Six years. I also have worked in an eating disorders clinic and am familiar with 12 step programs. At this time, due to the amount of people who are in need of counseling, I am limiting my practice and am not working with young children or Anyone with eating disorders.
For over 30 years I have maintained a private practice woking with adults, children, couples, families and groups. I am also a certified divorce mediator. I have a degree in Special and Elementary Education.and have taught courses in assertiveness training and a divorce workshop for many years. I supervised the out patient department in Catholic Community Services for Six years. I also have worked in an eating disorders clinic and am familiar with 12 step programs. At this time, due to the amount of people who are in need of counseling, I am limiting my practice and am not working with young children or Anyone with eating disorders.
(201) 345-1795 View (201) 345-1795

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Ramsey, NJ

100+

Average cost per session

$180

Therapists in Ramsey, NJ who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
86% Relationship Issues
86% Depression
84% Self Esteem
72% Coping Skills
68% Stress
65% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

69% Aetna
60% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
55% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Ramsey, NJ see their clients

85% In Person and Online
15% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Ramsey?

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.