Photo of Jean Lukens - Jean Lukens, LICSW, MSW, LICSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jean Lukens, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
Waitlist for new clients
My favorite kinds of conversations are about feelings and perceptions. If you work with me you will be encouraged to settle and stay with those feelings and perceptions that feel true to you. Within the comfort of a safe therapeutic relationship, we will follow your inner leadings. Sometimes therapy can be deeply sobering. But in every instance, as illusions fall aside we rediscover the joy and vitality that comes with clarity. I strive to provide a warm, accepting and nurturing curiosity within which clients can feel safe to explore their leadings and concerns and thereby regain their confidence.
My favorite kinds of conversations are about feelings and perceptions. If you work with me you will be encouraged to settle and stay with those feelings and perceptions that feel true to you. Within the comfort of a safe therapeutic relationship, we will follow your inner leadings. Sometimes therapy can be deeply sobering. But in every instance, as illusions fall aside we rediscover the joy and vitality that comes with clarity. I strive to provide a warm, accepting and nurturing curiosity within which clients can feel safe to explore their leadings and concerns and thereby regain their confidence.
(413) 241-7614 View (413) 241-7614
Photo of Sheri Weintraub, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheri Weintraub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Life introduces so many challenges which can be painful and difficult. Sometimes we feel that we have no control over what is happening around us. Do you feel sad, stressed out, stuck in day to day life? I provide a safe, supportive, interactive, compassionate place where you can explore thoughts, feelings and identify patterns that do not serve you anymore.
Life introduces so many challenges which can be painful and difficult. Sometimes we feel that we have no control over what is happening around us. Do you feel sad, stressed out, stuck in day to day life? I provide a safe, supportive, interactive, compassionate place where you can explore thoughts, feelings and identify patterns that do not serve you anymore.
(413) 216-2095 View (413) 216-2095
Photo of Chuck Genre, LMHC, LPC, MCCS, Counselor
Chuck Genre
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, MCCS
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
I help adults free their minds from the grip of stress, fixations and unhelpful habits so they can be more present in their lives and skillful with their time, focus and choices. For many, they struggle with stage-of-life demands, caught between lists of expectations yet with a deep, guttural need to recapture vitality and fresh perspective about their life path. They feel held back by something. Others seek ways to abate the stress that unhelpful attachments breed. My clients seek change, not book recommendations. I offer them a forward-moving, holistic, mind-body, active and engaged approach that encourages their evolving self.
I help adults free their minds from the grip of stress, fixations and unhelpful habits so they can be more present in their lives and skillful with their time, focus and choices. For many, they struggle with stage-of-life demands, caught between lists of expectations yet with a deep, guttural need to recapture vitality and fresh perspective about their life path. They feel held back by something. Others seek ways to abate the stress that unhelpful attachments breed. My clients seek change, not book recommendations. I offer them a forward-moving, holistic, mind-body, active and engaged approach that encourages their evolving self.
(413) 299-2726 View (413) 299-2726
Photo of Natasha Dawn Campbell - Multicultural Clinical Services, LLC, MSW, LICSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Multicultural Clinical Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amherst, MA 01002
In life we all need hope, validation, just to know that today, "this too shall pass." I strive to connect with individuals with honesty, warmth, and empathy. When one makes that decision to seek emotional guidance, I understand the vulnerability and the bravery of that moment. While allowing one to take the time they need to reach their desires of the heart and/or identify what one desires through a space of compassion and mindfulness.
In life we all need hope, validation, just to know that today, "this too shall pass." I strive to connect with individuals with honesty, warmth, and empathy. When one makes that decision to seek emotional guidance, I understand the vulnerability and the bravery of that moment. While allowing one to take the time they need to reach their desires of the heart and/or identify what one desires through a space of compassion and mindfulness.
(413) 591-7038 View (413) 591-7038
Photo of Bryony Smith, LMHC, Counselor
Bryony Smith
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amherst, MA 01002  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
With skilled support you can create the life you want. You sense that more is possible for your life and you are ready to make some needed inner and outer changes. You are motivated to prioritize your mental and emotional wellbeing. I can be your ally, coach, and also help you uncover and heal inner blocks that are getting in your way. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional: Complex Trauma. Traditional talk therapy is often not enough. I am trained in IFS (Internal Family Systems) and I offer a somatic/body-centered approach. Please see my website (heartmindhealing.net) for MANY more details about what I offer.
With skilled support you can create the life you want. You sense that more is possible for your life and you are ready to make some needed inner and outer changes. You are motivated to prioritize your mental and emotional wellbeing. I can be your ally, coach, and also help you uncover and heal inner blocks that are getting in your way. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional: Complex Trauma. Traditional talk therapy is often not enough. I am trained in IFS (Internal Family Systems) and I offer a somatic/body-centered approach. Please see my website (heartmindhealing.net) for MANY more details about what I offer.
(413) 359-6629 View (413) 359-6629
Photo of Elizabeth Weinman, LMHC, Counselor
Elizabeth Weinman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
There are many reasons to seek therapy. Perhaps you would like tools for coping with anxiety, support for dealing with loss, or help with processing trauma. Or perhaps you simply want to take stock and lead a more examined life. Whatever the reason, I meet you where you are and work with you towards exploring, establishing, and meeting your goals for growth.
There are many reasons to seek therapy. Perhaps you would like tools for coping with anxiety, support for dealing with loss, or help with processing trauma. Or perhaps you simply want to take stock and lead a more examined life. Whatever the reason, I meet you where you are and work with you towards exploring, establishing, and meeting your goals for growth.
(413) 423-0103 View (413) 423-0103
Photo of Vida Mendez, LCSW, LICSW, EMDR II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vida Mendez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, EMDR II
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002  (Online Only)
Licensed in CO and MA. It’s like a video stuck on a loop that keeps playing over, and over, and over… You can’t get the images out of your head. Looking over your shoulder, being easily frightened; it wasn’t you before, but it is now. Things look bleaker than they did before it happened. Remembering or not remembering, you’re unsure of which is worse. Is this your new normal? To others, you look like you’re keeping it together. It couldn’t be farther from the truth. You’re hiding behind a thin veil of normalcy and you're worried about what would happen if the curtain were pulled back.
Licensed in CO and MA. It’s like a video stuck on a loop that keeps playing over, and over, and over… You can’t get the images out of your head. Looking over your shoulder, being easily frightened; it wasn’t you before, but it is now. Things look bleaker than they did before it happened. Remembering or not remembering, you’re unsure of which is worse. Is this your new normal? To others, you look like you’re keeping it together. It couldn’t be farther from the truth. You’re hiding behind a thin veil of normalcy and you're worried about what would happen if the curtain were pulled back.
(970) 436-4032 View (970) 436-4032
Photo of Kumbi Ushe, LCSW, MSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kumbi Ushe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
Not accepting new clients
From a social justice and person-in-environment framework, I assist clients in identifying Social Determinants of Health (SDOHs) that have impacted their development, and explore ways to thrive in inequitable conditions.
From a social justice and person-in-environment framework, I assist clients in identifying Social Determinants of Health (SDOHs) that have impacted their development, and explore ways to thrive in inequitable conditions.
(413) 423-0489 View (413) 423-0489
Photo of Andy Steinmark, PsyD, Psychologist
Andy Steinmark
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002  (Online Only)
Hello, and thank you for stopping by to learn how I can be of service to you. I'm a formally trained health psychologist with expertise in the areas of creating and living a healthy life-style, work-life balance, stress management, depression, anxiety, and with specializations in chronic insomnia, and living with chronic illness. I collaborate with individuals interested in taking an active role in creating a life of meaning and fulfillment--of greater vitality. Treatment is focused, values-based, and goal oriented--as well as being frequently brief. Additionally, I also assist individuals in more fully developing their potential.
Hello, and thank you for stopping by to learn how I can be of service to you. I'm a formally trained health psychologist with expertise in the areas of creating and living a healthy life-style, work-life balance, stress management, depression, anxiety, and with specializations in chronic insomnia, and living with chronic illness. I collaborate with individuals interested in taking an active role in creating a life of meaning and fulfillment--of greater vitality. Treatment is focused, values-based, and goal oriented--as well as being frequently brief. Additionally, I also assist individuals in more fully developing their potential.
(413) 998-0851 View (413) 998-0851
Photo of Sarah Shea, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Shea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
Sarah Shea, LICSW, has been a psychotherapist for over 20 years. She has worked in a variety of behavioral health settings including community mental health, adolescent residential, school based mental health, in home based therapy and elder services. Sarah enjoys working with a variety of individuals from adolescents to the elderly. She believes that everyone has the ability to learn and grow to the best they can be.
Sarah Shea, LICSW, has been a psychotherapist for over 20 years. She has worked in a variety of behavioral health settings including community mental health, adolescent residential, school based mental health, in home based therapy and elder services. Sarah enjoys working with a variety of individuals from adolescents to the elderly. She believes that everyone has the ability to learn and grow to the best they can be.
(413) 423-0816 View (413) 423-0816
Photo of Gwendolyn Leaf, LMHC, Counselor
Gwendolyn Leaf
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
Waitlist for new clients
Support and empowerment are the foundation of my work with clients. I center my approach in grounding clients in their strengths and guiding them in building skills to achieve more fulfilling relationships, navigate transitions, and overcome obstacles so they can move forward with more clarity and confidence. Whether you are seeking support in your healing process or on a personal growth journey, we'll work together towards your goals for improved wellbeing - emotional, physical and overall life satisfaction.
Support and empowerment are the foundation of my work with clients. I center my approach in grounding clients in their strengths and guiding them in building skills to achieve more fulfilling relationships, navigate transitions, and overcome obstacles so they can move forward with more clarity and confidence. Whether you are seeking support in your healing process or on a personal growth journey, we'll work together towards your goals for improved wellbeing - emotional, physical and overall life satisfaction.
(413) 992-3352 View (413) 992-3352
Photo of Rosanne Helden, MEd, MA, MSW
Rosanne Helden
MEd, MA, MSW
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
I have over 30 years of experience as a therapist working with clients who struggle with trauma, life transitions, anxiety, depression, self-esteem concerns, relationship issues, and grief and loss. As an interpersonal and relational therapist, I view the relationship between client and therapist as integral in gaining a deep understanding of clients’ emotional experiences. By exploring important insights, this approach establishes a healing connection and allows the client to break repetitive, intergenerational patterns. I work to create an environment which helps to foster agency as well as the ability to work towards change.
I have over 30 years of experience as a therapist working with clients who struggle with trauma, life transitions, anxiety, depression, self-esteem concerns, relationship issues, and grief and loss. As an interpersonal and relational therapist, I view the relationship between client and therapist as integral in gaining a deep understanding of clients’ emotional experiences. By exploring important insights, this approach establishes a healing connection and allows the client to break repetitive, intergenerational patterns. I work to create an environment which helps to foster agency as well as the ability to work towards change.
(413) 252-9836 View (413) 252-9836
Photo of Tara Ferrante, LMHC, Counselor
Tara Ferrante
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amherst, MA 01002
Not accepting new clients
At this time I am full but can take clients onto my waitlist. I am seeing clients between the hours of 9-2:30pm. My approach to therapy is to create a warm, curious, and accepting space where we can explore what is going on and I can assist you in applying concrete evidence-based tools and techniques that can create lasting change. I strive to meet clients where there are at and work collaboratively to create a plan so that you can live as fully as possible. I specialize in the treatment of obsessive- compulsive disorder, hoarding disorder, anxiety disorders, and PTSD.
At this time I am full but can take clients onto my waitlist. I am seeing clients between the hours of 9-2:30pm. My approach to therapy is to create a warm, curious, and accepting space where we can explore what is going on and I can assist you in applying concrete evidence-based tools and techniques that can create lasting change. I strive to meet clients where there are at and work collaboratively to create a plan so that you can live as fully as possible. I specialize in the treatment of obsessive- compulsive disorder, hoarding disorder, anxiety disorders, and PTSD.
(413) 258-8418 View (413) 258-8418
Photo of Emily Reed Howard, LICSW, EdM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Reed Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EdM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amherst, MA 01002
My intention is to create a nurturing relationship that supports your learning and growth. I believe the quality of the therapeutic relationship is the most important element of a helpful counseling experience. Together, we will explore your challenges with compassion and curiosity and discover your strengths and other resources that can help you move towards meaningful change. If you’re interested in working with me, please leave a message with your insurance and best times/days.
My intention is to create a nurturing relationship that supports your learning and growth. I believe the quality of the therapeutic relationship is the most important element of a helpful counseling experience. Together, we will explore your challenges with compassion and curiosity and discover your strengths and other resources that can help you move towards meaningful change. If you’re interested in working with me, please leave a message with your insurance and best times/days.
(413) 251-1397 View (413) 251-1397
Photo of Elisa Gomez, PsyD, Psychologist
Elisa Gomez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
**Practice full as of Nov 2019** I am a licensed psychologist specializing in therapy with children and adolescents. I believe we all develop "ways of being" in the world as a result of our innate temperament and early experiences. Psychotherapy and psychological testing offer the chance to look at these ways of being with a compassionate lens, honoring the value they have held in your life while determining whether they are still useful to you now. Through this process, new ways of being can emerge, leading to greater satisfaction in your life.
**Practice full as of Nov 2019** I am a licensed psychologist specializing in therapy with children and adolescents. I believe we all develop "ways of being" in the world as a result of our innate temperament and early experiences. Psychotherapy and psychological testing offer the chance to look at these ways of being with a compassionate lens, honoring the value they have held in your life while determining whether they are still useful to you now. Through this process, new ways of being can emerge, leading to greater satisfaction in your life.
(413) 340-0529 View (413) 340-0529
Photo of Alexandra Lucey, PsyD, Psychologist
Alexandra Lucey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002  (Online Only)
Are you noticing that you or a loved one is struggling with procrastination, time management, or following through on tasks? Have you received a diagnosis of ADHD or ADD or has it been suggested that you might meet criteria for these disorders? I am a licensed psychologist working at The Haffey Center in Amherst, MA specializing in both ADHD assessment and treatment. I am able to conduct an ADHD assessment battery and write a comprehensive report based on the results of that testing. I am also able to provide ADHD coaching and ADHD-informed psychotherapy based on the latest research in ADHD and symptom management.
Are you noticing that you or a loved one is struggling with procrastination, time management, or following through on tasks? Have you received a diagnosis of ADHD or ADD or has it been suggested that you might meet criteria for these disorders? I am a licensed psychologist working at The Haffey Center in Amherst, MA specializing in both ADHD assessment and treatment. I am able to conduct an ADHD assessment battery and write a comprehensive report based on the results of that testing. I am also able to provide ADHD coaching and ADHD-informed psychotherapy based on the latest research in ADHD and symptom management.
(413) 788-1205 View (413) 788-1205
Photo of Jordan Castonguay, LMHC
Jordan Castonguay
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002
Jordan is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, EMDR Certified Therapist, and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. She strives to provide clients with the support and guidance needed to heal from painful life experiences and achieve meaningful growth. Jordan utilizes an eclectic approach to therapy, drawing from an array of disciplines including: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Polyvagal Informed Therapy and Intuitive Eating counseling.
Jordan is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, EMDR Certified Therapist, and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. She strives to provide clients with the support and guidance needed to heal from painful life experiences and achieve meaningful growth. Jordan utilizes an eclectic approach to therapy, drawing from an array of disciplines including: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Polyvagal Informed Therapy and Intuitive Eating counseling.
(413) 887-3671 View (413) 887-3671
Photo of Patricia Gorman, EdD, LP, LMFT, Psychologist
Patricia Gorman
Psychologist, EdD, LP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a licensed psychologist and licensed marriage and family therapist with a private practice in Amherst. I work with individuals and couples who are feeling overwhelmed and troubled by symptoms such as anxiety or depression, or having difficulty with relationships. My therapy is collaborative and strength-based. I use the best practices emerging from current research and theory. I listen carefully to you to help identify the most effective approach that is personalized to your situation.
I am a licensed psychologist and licensed marriage and family therapist with a private practice in Amherst. I work with individuals and couples who are feeling overwhelmed and troubled by symptoms such as anxiety or depression, or having difficulty with relationships. My therapy is collaborative and strength-based. I use the best practices emerging from current research and theory. I listen carefully to you to help identify the most effective approach that is personalized to your situation.
(413) 349-4054 View (413) 349-4054
Photo of Sarah Lukens, PsyD, Psychologist
Sarah Lukens
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients. I provide individual and couples therapy, and specialize in treating anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, and depression. I am committed to creating a therapeutic space that fosters bravery and invites people to reveal their authentic selves. Because I believe that therapy is most beneficial when it is lively and collaborative, I use a direct and open manner in treatment. I will work with you to create a therapy that is effective for you as an individual. I am licensed in Massachusetts and Colorado.
Accepting New Clients. I provide individual and couples therapy, and specialize in treating anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, and depression. I am committed to creating a therapeutic space that fosters bravery and invites people to reveal their authentic selves. Because I believe that therapy is most beneficial when it is lively and collaborative, I use a direct and open manner in treatment. I will work with you to create a therapy that is effective for you as an individual. I am licensed in Massachusetts and Colorado.
(720) 573-0415 View (720) 573-0415
Photo of Dr. Min Cheng, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Min Cheng
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amherst, MA 01002  (Online Only)
No one can be everything to everyone. Similarly, no therapist can be everything to every client. It is therefore vital for us to find our “fit” amongst what seem to be endless yet confusing options. I am originally from China and I trained with some of the most renowned multicultural psychologists during my Ph.D. career at Columbia University. Since then, I interned and worked as a bilingual therapist at Mt. Sinai-Roosevelt Hospital in NYC, Mt. Sinai-Beth Israel Medical Center in NYC, and Amherst College Counseling Center in Amherst, MA. My own cross-cultural and cross-lingual experiences continue to shape the way I work.
No one can be everything to everyone. Similarly, no therapist can be everything to every client. It is therefore vital for us to find our “fit” amongst what seem to be endless yet confusing options. I am originally from China and I trained with some of the most renowned multicultural psychologists during my Ph.D. career at Columbia University. Since then, I interned and worked as a bilingual therapist at Mt. Sinai-Roosevelt Hospital in NYC, Mt. Sinai-Beth Israel Medical Center in NYC, and Amherst College Counseling Center in Amherst, MA. My own cross-cultural and cross-lingual experiences continue to shape the way I work.
(413) 331-7409 View (413) 331-7409

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 01002

300+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 01002 who prioritize treating:

88% Anxiety
86% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
71% Trauma and PTSD
67% Self Esteem
66% Grief
63% Stress

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% BlueCross and BlueShield
52% Optum
50% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 01002 see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
22% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 01002?

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.