Therapists in 90005

Photo of Jessica Rosenfeld, Psychologist, PsyD
Jessica Rosenfeld
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90005
I’m a licensed clinical psychologist in California and Hawai’i. I earned my Bachelor’s degree from UCLA and both my Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Clinical Psychology from the University of Denver’s Graduate School of Professional Psychology. I'm a member of the National Register of Health Service Psychologists, the Los Angeles Psychological Association, APA Division 38 (Health Psychology), and serve as the Los Angeles Liaison for the Jewish Community Mental Health Initiative.
I’m a licensed clinical psychologist in California and Hawai’i. I earned my Bachelor’s degree from UCLA and both my Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Clinical Psychology from the University of Denver’s Graduate School of Professional Psychology. I'm a member of the National Register of Health Service Psychologists, the Los Angeles Psychological Association, APA Division 38 (Health Psychology), and serve as the Los Angeles Liaison for the Jewish Community Mental Health Initiative.
(213) 266-5448 View (213) 266-5448
Photo of David Hirsch, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
David Hirsch
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90005
I'm an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology, specializing in Child Studies, from Antioch University Los Angeles. During my practicum, I had the opportunity to work with teens, young adults, and their families as they navigated a range of emotional, behavioral, and relational challenges. Together, we'll explore your strengths, identify triggers, and work through emotional barriers so you can move toward greater clarity and authenticity. And while the work can be deep, I believe in making space for compassionate humor-it's a powerful way to stay connected, lighten the load, and remind
I'm an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology, specializing in Child Studies, from Antioch University Los Angeles. During my practicum, I had the opportunity to work with teens, young adults, and their families as they navigated a range of emotional, behavioral, and relational challenges. Together, we'll explore your strengths, identify triggers, and work through emotional barriers so you can move toward greater clarity and authenticity. And while the work can be deep, I believe in making space for compassionate humor-it's a powerful way to stay connected, lighten the load, and remind
(310) 912-7919 View (310) 912-7919
Photo of Lauren Cromer, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Lauren Cromer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90005
Sometimes it feels like your brain is stuck on overdrive — replaying conversations, fixating on what-ifs, or spiraling into worst-case scenarios. Maybe you're constantly second-guessing yourself, juggling a million tabs in your mind, or trying to keep up with expectations that don’t quite fit. On the outside, you might seem fine. On the inside, you’re overwhelmed and exhausted. I work with adults navigating anxiety, OCD, ADHD, perfectionism, burnout, and the quiet pressure of always having to hold it together.
Sometimes it feels like your brain is stuck on overdrive — replaying conversations, fixating on what-ifs, or spiraling into worst-case scenarios. Maybe you're constantly second-guessing yourself, juggling a million tabs in your mind, or trying to keep up with expectations that don’t quite fit. On the outside, you might seem fine. On the inside, you’re overwhelmed and exhausted. I work with adults navigating anxiety, OCD, ADHD, perfectionism, burnout, and the quiet pressure of always having to hold it together.
(213) 466-0198 View (213) 466-0198
Photo of Ciaran Kane Phelps, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Ciaran Kane Phelps
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90005
I am a queer, nonbinary, Narrative therapist who specializes in trauma (including cPTSD & DID), gender, and grief. Other areas of focus include neurodivergence (autism, ADHD, etc), sexuality, spiritual/religious trauma, medical trauma (including psychiatric trauma), & chronic pain/illness. I am relational & collaborative, & center liberation & anti-racism in my work. I seek to honor your agency & creativity. I see people as complex and nuanced, & I believe in the healing potential of the human spirit.
I am a queer, nonbinary, Narrative therapist who specializes in trauma (including cPTSD & DID), gender, and grief. Other areas of focus include neurodivergence (autism, ADHD, etc), sexuality, spiritual/religious trauma, medical trauma (including psychiatric trauma), & chronic pain/illness. I am relational & collaborative, & center liberation & anti-racism in my work. I seek to honor your agency & creativity. I see people as complex and nuanced, & I believe in the healing potential of the human spirit.
(424) 363-4350 View (424) 363-4350
Photo of Aubri Gomez - The Pink Moon Healing Collective, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFT
The Pink Moon Healing Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFT
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90005
The Pink Moon Healing Collective provides psychotherapy services by both licensed therapists and associates in addition to providing conjunctive services i.e. trauma recovery, art therapy, identity exploration, and therapeutic yoga offerings to enhance the therapeutic and healing process.
The Pink Moon Healing Collective provides psychotherapy services by both licensed therapists and associates in addition to providing conjunctive services i.e. trauma recovery, art therapy, identity exploration, and therapeutic yoga offerings to enhance the therapeutic and healing process.
(213) 725-2994 View (213) 725-2994
Photo of Dr. Sandry Z Esquivel, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, SAP
Dr. Sandry Z Esquivel
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, SAP
Los Angeles, CA 90005
We all carry emotional burdens, some deep and lasting that shape how we experience life today. At times, our pain may feel unseen, our emotions misunderstood, and our hearts weary from carrying more than we were meant to bear. Healing begins with courage to look within and invite God into the process. Through His grace and gentle guidance, you can begin to explore the beliefs, experiences, and wounds that have shaped you. In this sacred work, transformation unfolds understanding replaces confusion, peace begins to take root, and hope is restored.
We all carry emotional burdens, some deep and lasting that shape how we experience life today. At times, our pain may feel unseen, our emotions misunderstood, and our hearts weary from carrying more than we were meant to bear. Healing begins with courage to look within and invite God into the process. Through His grace and gentle guidance, you can begin to explore the beliefs, experiences, and wounds that have shaped you. In this sacred work, transformation unfolds understanding replaces confusion, peace begins to take root, and hope is restored.
(213) 805-7621 View (213) 805-7621
Photo of Nhung Chau, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Nhung Chau
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90005
As a first generation Vietnamese-Chinese American, I understand the challenges of blending your home and cultural values with Western values in a way that aligns with who you are today. It is very common to feel a disconnect when trying to juggle expectations and societal norms for how our lives ‘should’ be especially when it does not match who we truly are. I believe in working collaboratively with clients to explore, question, and discover new ways of thinking and being that aligns with the person they want to be.
As a first generation Vietnamese-Chinese American, I understand the challenges of blending your home and cultural values with Western values in a way that aligns with who you are today. It is very common to feel a disconnect when trying to juggle expectations and societal norms for how our lives ‘should’ be especially when it does not match who we truly are. I believe in working collaboratively with clients to explore, question, and discover new ways of thinking and being that aligns with the person they want to be.
(858) 221-9479 View (858) 221-9479
Photo of Angela Nguyen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Angela Nguyen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life can feel difficult and chaotic sometimes. You might find yourself thinking, "I just need to get through this week." Unfortunately, if you feel that way more often than not, that's not a happy or sustainable way to be. I am passionate about supporting clients in finding a path forward that aligns with your wants and needs. In therapy with me, we will explore all parts of yourself, and learn how to move away from patterns and roles that no longer serve you. We will learn tools and techniques to strengthen how you handle stressful situations, communicate in relationships, and pursue your goals.
Life can feel difficult and chaotic sometimes. You might find yourself thinking, "I just need to get through this week." Unfortunately, if you feel that way more often than not, that's not a happy or sustainable way to be. I am passionate about supporting clients in finding a path forward that aligns with your wants and needs. In therapy with me, we will explore all parts of yourself, and learn how to move away from patterns and roles that no longer serve you. We will learn tools and techniques to strengthen how you handle stressful situations, communicate in relationships, and pursue your goals.
(909) 316-1986 View (909) 316-1986
Photo of Maureen Olson, Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP
Maureen Olson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting new clients as of 5/1/2026! Welcome to my practice! I’m Maureen. I specialize in supporting adults navigating anxiety, depression, and ADHD, particularly as these challenges relate to cultural identity, self-esteem, and perfectionism. I also support clients with related concerns, including disordered eating patterns, obesity and weight struggles, adoption-related experiences, medical anxiety and treatment burnout, life transitions, relationship stress and trauma. My approach is grounded in taking a holistic and/or nutrition-informed approach that recognizes the connection between mental and physical well-being.
Accepting new clients as of 5/1/2026! Welcome to my practice! I’m Maureen. I specialize in supporting adults navigating anxiety, depression, and ADHD, particularly as these challenges relate to cultural identity, self-esteem, and perfectionism. I also support clients with related concerns, including disordered eating patterns, obesity and weight struggles, adoption-related experiences, medical anxiety and treatment burnout, life transitions, relationship stress and trauma. My approach is grounded in taking a holistic and/or nutrition-informed approach that recognizes the connection between mental and physical well-being.
(425) 382-8007 View (425) 382-8007
Photo of Cyndle Rios, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Cyndle Rios
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Serves Area
As a biracial, Black and Mexican, female clinician, I understand the obstacles and barriers to healing the mind, body and soul; and leading an overall physically and mentally healthy life. I take a collaborative approach in helping individuals create life goals that they want to work towards. I aim to create a safe and non- judgmental space for individuals. If you feel as though you can benefit from learning how to develop positive ways to cope with anxiety, sadness, anger, low- self esteem, isolation, racing thoughts and more, please contact me for further information and a consultation. I look forward to starting this journey of
As a biracial, Black and Mexican, female clinician, I understand the obstacles and barriers to healing the mind, body and soul; and leading an overall physically and mentally healthy life. I take a collaborative approach in helping individuals create life goals that they want to work towards. I aim to create a safe and non- judgmental space for individuals. If you feel as though you can benefit from learning how to develop positive ways to cope with anxiety, sadness, anger, low- self esteem, isolation, racing thoughts and more, please contact me for further information and a consultation. I look forward to starting this journey of
(424) 226-3733 View (424) 226-3733
Photo of Chenda Dyck, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Chenda Dyck
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide attachment-based therapy for individuals, couples, and families. Using CBT, EMDR, and other evidence-based approaches, I help clients navigate trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, postpartum transitions, and major life changes with clarity and resilience. I’m pursuing my PhD and bring both clinical expertise and personal cultural insight to my work. Born in Cambodia and raised in the U.S., I hold a master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy and welcome clients through Headway.
I provide attachment-based therapy for individuals, couples, and families. Using CBT, EMDR, and other evidence-based approaches, I help clients navigate trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, postpartum transitions, and major life changes with clarity and resilience. I’m pursuing my PhD and bring both clinical expertise and personal cultural insight to my work. Born in Cambodia and raised in the U.S., I hold a master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy and welcome clients through Headway.
(559) 529-9451 View (559) 529-9451
Photo of Dr. Toni Li, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Toni Li
Psychologist, PsyD
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you describe yourself as a “people pleaser”? Perhaps frozen from imposter syndrome or perfectionism? I help people who frequently struggle with beliefs such as "I'm not good enough" and grew up in critical environments. In my practice, I see adults, children, and teens. The most common concerns I see are those who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma/complex PTSD. Additionally, I see people diagnosed with ADHD, as they often need support for longtime feelings of inadequacy, regret, anxiety, and depression .
Do you describe yourself as a “people pleaser”? Perhaps frozen from imposter syndrome or perfectionism? I help people who frequently struggle with beliefs such as "I'm not good enough" and grew up in critical environments. In my practice, I see adults, children, and teens. The most common concerns I see are those who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma/complex PTSD. Additionally, I see people diagnosed with ADHD, as they often need support for longtime feelings of inadequacy, regret, anxiety, and depression .
(510) 214-4026 View (510) 214-4026
Photo of Dr. Lynn Renfroe, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Lynn Renfroe
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
I see therapy as a partnership built on trust, compassion, and curiosity. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you feel comfortable exploring whatever is present for you—whether that’s difficult emotions, patterns that hold you back, past experiences, or questions about who you are and what you want. I work collaboratively with clients to uncover what may be hidden, challenge limiting beliefs, and open new perspectives. Engaging in this process can bring greater clarity, confidence, and peace, while helping you move toward a more authentic and grounded sense of self in both life and relationships.
I see therapy as a partnership built on trust, compassion, and curiosity. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where you feel comfortable exploring whatever is present for you—whether that’s difficult emotions, patterns that hold you back, past experiences, or questions about who you are and what you want. I work collaboratively with clients to uncover what may be hidden, challenge limiting beliefs, and open new perspectives. Engaging in this process can bring greater clarity, confidence, and peace, while helping you move toward a more authentic and grounded sense of self in both life and relationships.
(213) 322-1567 View (213) 322-1567
Photo of Mary Abzug, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mary Abzug
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
I help adolescents and young adults manage OCD, anxiety, and body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) such as hair pulling or skin picking. Many of the people I work with feel stuck in cycles of checking, reassurance-seeking, or overthinking—it shapes how they see themselves, how they show up in the world, and how they relate to others. My goal is to help them gain tools and strategies to step out of these cycles and feel more in control of their lives.
I help adolescents and young adults manage OCD, anxiety, and body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) such as hair pulling or skin picking. Many of the people I work with feel stuck in cycles of checking, reassurance-seeking, or overthinking—it shapes how they see themselves, how they show up in the world, and how they relate to others. My goal is to help them gain tools and strategies to step out of these cycles and feel more in control of their lives.
(213) 602-8511 View (213) 602-8511
Mari Ann Fortuna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
I believe the relationship between therapist and client is essential in understanding the underlying issues affecting one's obstacles to personal growth and happiness. It is my goal to provide a calm space and safe relationship towards that end. Working with adults, young adults and families for more than 20 years has given me a breadth of experience that I bring to the therapeutic relationship. I have particular experience with early trauma and PTSD; depression/anxiety; life transitions; addiction related symptoms; and, relationship issues.
I believe the relationship between therapist and client is essential in understanding the underlying issues affecting one's obstacles to personal growth and happiness. It is my goal to provide a calm space and safe relationship towards that end. Working with adults, young adults and families for more than 20 years has given me a breadth of experience that I bring to the therapeutic relationship. I have particular experience with early trauma and PTSD; depression/anxiety; life transitions; addiction related symptoms; and, relationship issues.
(323) 745-2381 View (323) 745-2381
Photo of Jiyun Nam, Psychologist, PsyD, ATR
Jiyun Nam
Psychologist, PsyD, ATR
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi! I’m Dr. Jiyun Nam, a licensed clinical psychologist offering psychotherapy throughout California, with a focus on supporting the Asian American community. I provide services in both English and Korean and work with adolescents, adults, and families. I strive to create a warm, affirming environment where you feel understood, respected, and supported as you move toward healing and personal growth.
Hi! I’m Dr. Jiyun Nam, a licensed clinical psychologist offering psychotherapy throughout California, with a focus on supporting the Asian American community. I provide services in both English and Korean and work with adolescents, adults, and families. I strive to create a warm, affirming environment where you feel understood, respected, and supported as you move toward healing and personal growth.
(310) 340-6292 View (310) 340-6292
Photo of Ira Nathanson, Psychologist, PhD
Ira Nathanson
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
I've been a clinical psychologist for over 40 years. I have treated a broad range of clients during this time utilizing humanistic and psychodynamic approaches. My focus in therapy is with adults who struggle with a variety of personal issues including depression, anxiety, self-esteem and relationships. I am quite interested in the concerns that younger adults confront as well as those that individuals face as they transition into their mid-life years including aging, retirement, sexuality, illness, and loss. I believe that I can help clients gain greater clarity as they work to resolve these issues in an atmosphere of support and warmth.
I've been a clinical psychologist for over 40 years. I have treated a broad range of clients during this time utilizing humanistic and psychodynamic approaches. My focus in therapy is with adults who struggle with a variety of personal issues including depression, anxiety, self-esteem and relationships. I am quite interested in the concerns that younger adults confront as well as those that individuals face as they transition into their mid-life years including aging, retirement, sexuality, illness, and loss. I believe that I can help clients gain greater clarity as they work to resolve these issues in an atmosphere of support and warmth.
(424) 254-1340 View (424) 254-1340
Photo of Elisha Harris, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LAADC
Elisha Harris
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LAADC
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor with 8 years of experience. I have a diverse professional background, specializing in substance abuse, mental health, anger management, self-worth. When trauma occurs it affects you to the core. Every part of you is on edge and in fear of the known or unknown. Difficult memories become so overwhelming that your only way of managing is with alcohol and substances. What starts as a temporary relief from reality can turn into an overwhelming cycle of despair and struggle. Your new trauma is now an addiction to alcohol or substances and all of the hopelessness that comes along with it.
I am a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor with 8 years of experience. I have a diverse professional background, specializing in substance abuse, mental health, anger management, self-worth. When trauma occurs it affects you to the core. Every part of you is on edge and in fear of the known or unknown. Difficult memories become so overwhelming that your only way of managing is with alcohol and substances. What starts as a temporary relief from reality can turn into an overwhelming cycle of despair and struggle. Your new trauma is now an addiction to alcohol or substances and all of the hopelessness that comes along with it.
(909) 318-2841 View (909) 318-2841
Photo of Kay Kim - Kay Kim Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Kay Kim Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a psychotherapist who is deeply engaged in therapy with people who have trouble ‘Fitting- in’, please be assured that you can talk to me. I will help you accept and manage your thoughts, feelings and life experiences constructively. I want to help you find the relief and way forward you may need. And I will help you achieve the personal growth and direction you desire.
As a psychotherapist who is deeply engaged in therapy with people who have trouble ‘Fitting- in’, please be assured that you can talk to me. I will help you accept and manage your thoughts, feelings and life experiences constructively. I want to help you find the relief and way forward you may need. And I will help you achieve the personal growth and direction you desire.
(213) 456-8109 View (213) 456-8109
Photo of Alex Holyk Goette, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alex Holyk Goette
Marriage & Family Therapist
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Have you ever asked yourself — how do I keep ending up here? Or, more frustratingly — I know how I got here, but despite that I can’t seem to go anywhere else? I specialize in helping people become what they wish to be by compassionately embracing who they are. We are shaped by our experiences and sometimes difficult or traumatic events create patterned ways of being that, though feeling natural, keep us away from living a fully connected and meaningful life. Only by understanding and embracing ourselves are new paths opened to us in the road ahead.
Have you ever asked yourself — how do I keep ending up here? Or, more frustratingly — I know how I got here, but despite that I can’t seem to go anywhere else? I specialize in helping people become what they wish to be by compassionately embracing who they are. We are shaped by our experiences and sometimes difficult or traumatic events create patterned ways of being that, though feeling natural, keep us away from living a fully connected and meaningful life. Only by understanding and embracing ourselves are new paths opened to us in the road ahead.
(805) 749-5472 View (805) 749-5472

See more therapy options for 90005

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 90005

100+

Average cost per session

$180

Therapists in 90005 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
94% Social Anxiety
94% Health Anxiety
94% Driving Anxiety
90% Depression
74% Relationship Issues
74% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
65% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
64% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 90005 see their clients

58% Online Only
42% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

78% Female
18% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 90005?

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.