Therapists in 90404

Photo of Maya Rasak, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, IBP
Maya Rasak
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, IBP
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Feeling stuck in familiar self defeating patterns? I can help uncover unconscious behaviors that keep you anxious and depressed. Through active listening, and interactive exercises my direct approach helps you encounter hidden parts of yourself, enabling you to integrate these into one whole, thriving person with much greater capacity to live and love completely. With an extensive background in Western Psychology and Eastern practices I treat the whole person which leads to deeper awareness, changes in behavior and more satisfying relationships. Nothing changes if you don't take action. The journey begins with you.
Feeling stuck in familiar self defeating patterns? I can help uncover unconscious behaviors that keep you anxious and depressed. Through active listening, and interactive exercises my direct approach helps you encounter hidden parts of yourself, enabling you to integrate these into one whole, thriving person with much greater capacity to live and love completely. With an extensive background in Western Psychology and Eastern practices I treat the whole person which leads to deeper awareness, changes in behavior and more satisfying relationships. Nothing changes if you don't take action. The journey begins with you.
(310) 895-9811 View (310) 895-9811
Photo of Kyana Barakett, Psychologist, PsyD
Kyana Barakett
Psychologist, PsyD
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Welcome to a space where your psyche, body, and soul can all speak. Where inituitive insight meets relational depth. Where ancestral threads and energetic patters are honored - not as diagnoses, but as doorways. Where healing unfolds through presence, consent, and inner timing. The security and warmth of a nurturing, sturdy therapeutic relationship can help you to move through fear, shame, grief, anger, and old wounds that influence how you feel and act in the present. We’ll create opportunities for you to finally shift out of familiar patterns, and cope in ways that feel more in line with your goals and values.
Welcome to a space where your psyche, body, and soul can all speak. Where inituitive insight meets relational depth. Where ancestral threads and energetic patters are honored - not as diagnoses, but as doorways. Where healing unfolds through presence, consent, and inner timing. The security and warmth of a nurturing, sturdy therapeutic relationship can help you to move through fear, shame, grief, anger, and old wounds that influence how you feel and act in the present. We’ll create opportunities for you to finally shift out of familiar patterns, and cope in ways that feel more in line with your goals and values.
(310) 314-5067 View (310) 314-5067
Photo of Pamela Warren, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Pamela Warren
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Santa Monica, CA 90404
"YOUR VISION WILL BECOME CLEAR WHEN YOU LOOK INTO YOUR HEART. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakens." Carl Jung. As a therapist, I am here to support each individual define his or her vision and life's purpose. When one feels stuck, sometimes the idea of change or transition can seem overwhelming. Issues such as anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship distress, loneliness and low-self esteem can be an indicator that a shift is imminent. I am here to provide gentle guidance, by providing a safe, warm and compassionate space to explore these issues.
"YOUR VISION WILL BECOME CLEAR WHEN YOU LOOK INTO YOUR HEART. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakens." Carl Jung. As a therapist, I am here to support each individual define his or her vision and life's purpose. When one feels stuck, sometimes the idea of change or transition can seem overwhelming. Issues such as anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship distress, loneliness and low-self esteem can be an indicator that a shift is imminent. I am here to provide gentle guidance, by providing a safe, warm and compassionate space to explore these issues.
(424) 273-8413 View (424) 273-8413
Photo of Cathy Diaz, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Cathy Diaz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Santa Monica, CA 90404
I specialize in supporting adults and teens facing depression, anxiety, grief, and major life transitions. As a Certified Grief Educator, I provide compassionate guidance for those mourning a loss. I also have extensive experience helping clients with learning differences build confidence and use their strengths. Additionally, I am uniquely positioned to support Latina women and first- and second-generation individuals navigating cultural and identity-related challenges. My goal is to help you understand your emotional world and build a foundation for meaningful, lasting change.
I specialize in supporting adults and teens facing depression, anxiety, grief, and major life transitions. As a Certified Grief Educator, I provide compassionate guidance for those mourning a loss. I also have extensive experience helping clients with learning differences build confidence and use their strengths. Additionally, I am uniquely positioned to support Latina women and first- and second-generation individuals navigating cultural and identity-related challenges. My goal is to help you understand your emotional world and build a foundation for meaningful, lasting change.
(424) 544-5519 View (424) 544-5519
Photo of Nicole Widmyer, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Nicole Widmyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Are you feeling stuck, alone or uncertain in where you want to go in your life? Are you suffering from anxiety or depression? You have taken the first step toward improving the quality of your life. I can help you with the next step, which is to develop insight into your thoughts, feelings and behavioral patterns to help you make lasting changes to achieve greater satisfaction in your relationships and in your life.
Are you feeling stuck, alone or uncertain in where you want to go in your life? Are you suffering from anxiety or depression? You have taken the first step toward improving the quality of your life. I can help you with the next step, which is to develop insight into your thoughts, feelings and behavioral patterns to help you make lasting changes to achieve greater satisfaction in your relationships and in your life.
(424) 373-5618 View (424) 373-5618
Photo of James D Babl, Psychologist, PhD
James D Babl
Psychologist, PhD
Santa Monica, CA 90404
I have a doctorate in clinical psychology from Purdue University, and most recently spent a number of years as the Clinical Director at the UCLA Counseling Center. I have worked in VA and Community Mental Health settings, and received additional extended training at the UCLA Human Sexuality Program. I come across as warm, down to earth, and easy to trust and talk to. I offer confidential, professional services to adults and couples in a relaxed Santa Monica setting, where I have an integrative approach (using insight-oriented, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and other orientations) tailored to your needs and concerns.
I have a doctorate in clinical psychology from Purdue University, and most recently spent a number of years as the Clinical Director at the UCLA Counseling Center. I have worked in VA and Community Mental Health settings, and received additional extended training at the UCLA Human Sexuality Program. I come across as warm, down to earth, and easy to trust and talk to. I offer confidential, professional services to adults and couples in a relaxed Santa Monica setting, where I have an integrative approach (using insight-oriented, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and other orientations) tailored to your needs and concerns.
(424) 508-7715 View (424) 508-7715
Photo of Jenny Hoit, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR, SEP
Jenny Hoit
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR, SEP
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
I’m here to help you creatively navigate your challenges and feel more at home in your life. Your experience of therapy will be uniquely your own. Our work together can focus on specific goals or it can be exploratory and non-linear. While talking will usually be a large part of therapy, we may also include writing, reflective exercises, meditation practices, story telling, role playing, therapeutic touch, and art making. As we work together, we'll continue to discover what approaches work best for you. I offer therapy over the phone, also known as remote therapy, to accommodate challenges you may have with coming to my office.
I’m here to help you creatively navigate your challenges and feel more at home in your life. Your experience of therapy will be uniquely your own. Our work together can focus on specific goals or it can be exploratory and non-linear. While talking will usually be a large part of therapy, we may also include writing, reflective exercises, meditation practices, story telling, role playing, therapeutic touch, and art making. As we work together, we'll continue to discover what approaches work best for you. I offer therapy over the phone, also known as remote therapy, to accommodate challenges you may have with coming to my office.
(323) 948-9018 View (323) 948-9018
Photo of Rebecca Gorin, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Rebecca Gorin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Do you experience overwhelming thoughts and/or emotions? Do you experience inner-conflict and self doubt? Do you find yourself stuck in old patterns/behaviors and unsure of how to change them? For many these experiences can result in feeling frustrated, scared, hopeless and alone, often coping in self-damaging ways. These are normal responses to trauma and overwhelming/painful experiences. While I incorporate more traditional evidenced based modalities such as CBT, and DBT, I also recognize that emotions, implicit memories and trauma can get stuck in the body, which is why talk therapy alone often isn’t enough.
Do you experience overwhelming thoughts and/or emotions? Do you experience inner-conflict and self doubt? Do you find yourself stuck in old patterns/behaviors and unsure of how to change them? For many these experiences can result in feeling frustrated, scared, hopeless and alone, often coping in self-damaging ways. These are normal responses to trauma and overwhelming/painful experiences. While I incorporate more traditional evidenced based modalities such as CBT, and DBT, I also recognize that emotions, implicit memories and trauma can get stuck in the body, which is why talk therapy alone often isn’t enough.
(424) 276-1096 View (424) 276-1096
Photo of Dillon James Baack - The Hope Group, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, SUDCC
The Hope Group
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, SUDCC
Santa Monica, CA 90404
At The Hope Group, we provide personalized, concierge-style recovery and behavioral health support for individuals and families seeking structure, guidance, and stability. Our services include case management, monitoring and accountability, sober coaching, intervention services, and domestic violence support. We specialize in helping clients navigate substance use, co-occurring mental health challenges, and complex family dynamics with compassion, clarity, and discretion. We understand that recovery doesn’t look the same for everyone. Whether you’re transitioning from treatment, supporting a loved one in crisis, or rebuilding trust
At The Hope Group, we provide personalized, concierge-style recovery and behavioral health support for individuals and families seeking structure, guidance, and stability. Our services include case management, monitoring and accountability, sober coaching, intervention services, and domestic violence support. We specialize in helping clients navigate substance use, co-occurring mental health challenges, and complex family dynamics with compassion, clarity, and discretion. We understand that recovery doesn’t look the same for everyone. Whether you’re transitioning from treatment, supporting a loved one in crisis, or rebuilding trust
(424) 279-6696 View (424) 279-6696
Photo of Chris Marquart, Psychologist, PsyD
Chris Marquart
Psychologist, PsyD
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Our experiences shape us and how we look at the world. Often times they give us a sense of strength and direction in our lives, but other times we are confronted with obstacles that keep us from reaching our goals. Together we can explore these obstacles and create a better understanding of how you can work through them, leading to more satisfying experiences and more confidence in your direction in life.
Our experiences shape us and how we look at the world. Often times they give us a sense of strength and direction in our lives, but other times we are confronted with obstacles that keep us from reaching our goals. Together we can explore these obstacles and create a better understanding of how you can work through them, leading to more satisfying experiences and more confidence in your direction in life.
(424) 955-4172 View (424) 955-4172
Photo of Kadie Bogart, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Kadie Bogart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Being a kid is today’s world can be tough and helping your little one navigate through the struggles and hardships as a parent, can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s where I come in. As a licensed professional therapist with over 10 years of private practice experience, I specialize in child and adolescent behaviors, parenting skills, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. I have a passion for helping children and parents realize their full potential by educating and working with them on issues that may be holding them back.
Being a kid is today’s world can be tough and helping your little one navigate through the struggles and hardships as a parent, can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s where I come in. As a licensed professional therapist with over 10 years of private practice experience, I specialize in child and adolescent behaviors, parenting skills, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. I have a passion for helping children and parents realize their full potential by educating and working with them on issues that may be holding them back.
(424) 275-2562 View (424) 275-2562
Photo of Sara Vicendese - Sara Vicendese & Associates , Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Sara Vicendese & Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety or depression? Is your mood affecting your relationships or career? Sometimes life's challenges become difficult to overcome alone. I offer free phone consultations to see if my practice might be the right fit for your needs. I have diverse training and experience working with adults, adolescents, couples and families. While there are no guarantees of what you will experience, therapy has shown significant benefits for most people who go through it. And being here, on this site, is an important first step.
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety or depression? Is your mood affecting your relationships or career? Sometimes life's challenges become difficult to overcome alone. I offer free phone consultations to see if my practice might be the right fit for your needs. I have diverse training and experience working with adults, adolescents, couples and families. While there are no guarantees of what you will experience, therapy has shown significant benefits for most people who go through it. And being here, on this site, is an important first step.
(310) 504-1898 View (310) 504-1898
Photo of Laressa Desmond, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CPC
Laressa Desmond
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CPC
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Laressa Desmond,PhD, LMFT, 30+ yrs exp. Nothing hurts like constantly stumbling over the same old communication problems with your partner, when all you really want to do is be close. It’s hard to concentrate or have a lightness to the day when relationship struggles drag you down. We fall in love with people who are different enough from us to create a spark. It’s that “completion feeling” of interest & fascination. We feel sad & confused when the spark burns instead of warming us. It’s a baffling betrayal to our emotional logic that we can deeply love someone that we frequently fight with & sometimes emotionally dread.
Laressa Desmond,PhD, LMFT, 30+ yrs exp. Nothing hurts like constantly stumbling over the same old communication problems with your partner, when all you really want to do is be close. It’s hard to concentrate or have a lightness to the day when relationship struggles drag you down. We fall in love with people who are different enough from us to create a spark. It’s that “completion feeling” of interest & fascination. We feel sad & confused when the spark burns instead of warming us. It’s a baffling betrayal to our emotional logic that we can deeply love someone that we frequently fight with & sometimes emotionally dread.
(310) 879-1223 View (310) 879-1223
Photo of Ayala Ofek, Psychologist, PsyD
Ayala Ofek
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
In short, I love my work. I get to help individuals grow and become more of who they are. As they are better able to cope with obstacles such as stress, anxiety, and depression, I watch them find greater fulfillment in their relationships, career/academics, and overall wellbeing. In my practice I treat a breadth of concerns ranging from psychiatric symptoms (e.g., depression, anxiety, eating disorders) to relationship issues, family issues, low self confidence, trauma, and grief.
In short, I love my work. I get to help individuals grow and become more of who they are. As they are better able to cope with obstacles such as stress, anxiety, and depression, I watch them find greater fulfillment in their relationships, career/academics, and overall wellbeing. In my practice I treat a breadth of concerns ranging from psychiatric symptoms (e.g., depression, anxiety, eating disorders) to relationship issues, family issues, low self confidence, trauma, and grief.
(424) 373-3486 View (424) 373-3486
Photo of Sarah Kamdar, Psychologist, PsyD
Sarah Kamdar
Psychologist, PsyD
Santa Monica, CA 90404
I am a licensed clinical psychologist practicing on the westside of Los Angeles. I believe that the therapeutic process can be a healing experience that focuses on your specific needs, with the shared goal of improving quality of life, increasing happiness, creating connections, and enhancing awareness.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist practicing on the westside of Los Angeles. I believe that the therapeutic process can be a healing experience that focuses on your specific needs, with the shared goal of improving quality of life, increasing happiness, creating connections, and enhancing awareness.
(424) 395-2718 View (424) 395-2718
Photo of Danielle Peretz, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Danielle Peretz
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Even in your most difficult moments, growth and healing are possible. Whether you’re facing anxiety, trauma, parenting challenges, or relationship stress, therapy can provide a supportive space to explore, heal, and grow. I work with children, adults, couples, and families seeking to feel more connected, understood, and empowered. You may be longing for calmer days, stronger relationships, or a sense of peace within yourself. Together, we’ll create a safe environment to explore your experiences and work toward meaningful, lasting change. My goal is to help you feel heard and understood as we help you build a more fulfilling future.
Even in your most difficult moments, growth and healing are possible. Whether you’re facing anxiety, trauma, parenting challenges, or relationship stress, therapy can provide a supportive space to explore, heal, and grow. I work with children, adults, couples, and families seeking to feel more connected, understood, and empowered. You may be longing for calmer days, stronger relationships, or a sense of peace within yourself. Together, we’ll create a safe environment to explore your experiences and work toward meaningful, lasting change. My goal is to help you feel heard and understood as we help you build a more fulfilling future.
(310) 564-7461 View (310) 564-7461
Photo of Abigail Atwood, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Abigail Atwood
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Big emotions, overwhelm, and school stress can feel exhausting. I help children, adolescents, and neurodivergent youth develop regulation skills, resilience, and confidence.
Big emotions, overwhelm, and school stress can feel exhausting. I help children, adolescents, and neurodivergent youth develop regulation skills, resilience, and confidence.
(310) 627-2824 View (310) 627-2824
Photo of Maura Tousignant, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Maura Tousignant
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
If you’re looking for a therapist due to trauma, anxiety, grief, or relationship issues, I'm here to help. I offer a warm and nonjudgmental presence, and I will guide you toward cultivating calm, ease, and fulfillment in your life. Trauma and grief can cause heightened stress, difficulty connecting with others, exhaustion, and overwhelm. You may feel stuck or discouraged, but change is possible when you dedicate yourself to growing your awareness of unconscious patterns and learning new ways to support your psyche, mind, and body.
If you’re looking for a therapist due to trauma, anxiety, grief, or relationship issues, I'm here to help. I offer a warm and nonjudgmental presence, and I will guide you toward cultivating calm, ease, and fulfillment in your life. Trauma and grief can cause heightened stress, difficulty connecting with others, exhaustion, and overwhelm. You may feel stuck or discouraged, but change is possible when you dedicate yourself to growing your awareness of unconscious patterns and learning new ways to support your psyche, mind, and body.
(818) 877-7261 View (818) 877-7261
Photo of Stacy Hajarian, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Stacy Hajarian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
7 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
I offer in-person and Telehealth therapy across California. If you’re overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, depression, grief, or life transitions, you’re not alone. You may feel stuck in old patterns, caught between past regrets and future worries, or struggling with questions about identity or purpose. I’m here to support you. My approach is warm, collaborative, and compassionate. I create an empathic, accepting, and safe space to explore, express, and be yourself fully. Together, we’ll find practical steps toward clarity, connection, and fulfillment.
I offer in-person and Telehealth therapy across California. If you’re overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, depression, grief, or life transitions, you’re not alone. You may feel stuck in old patterns, caught between past regrets and future worries, or struggling with questions about identity or purpose. I’m here to support you. My approach is warm, collaborative, and compassionate. I create an empathic, accepting, and safe space to explore, express, and be yourself fully. Together, we’ll find practical steps toward clarity, connection, and fulfillment.
(323) 310-3435 View (323) 310-3435
Photo of James Wood, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, DAC
James Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, DAC
Santa Monica, CA 90404
When I begin a session with a new client, I want to present myself as a real person. I want to create a situation where the client feels comfortable being him/herself and communicating whatever is going on. I will observe closely, being as present as possible. I will listen carefully and respond when appropriate. I may ask questions or make interpretations about what we talk about, but most importantly I want the client to feel free to say whatever is on his/her mind. I want to establish a trusting relationship so we can begin to work on this person’s issues.
When I begin a session with a new client, I want to present myself as a real person. I want to create a situation where the client feels comfortable being him/herself and communicating whatever is going on. I will observe closely, being as present as possible. I will listen carefully and respond when appropriate. I may ask questions or make interpretations about what we talk about, but most importantly I want the client to feel free to say whatever is on his/her mind. I want to establish a trusting relationship so we can begin to work on this person’s issues.
(424) 236-6209 View (424) 236-6209

See more therapy options for 90404

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 90404

300+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in 90404 who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
89% Depression
83% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
69% Trauma and PTSD
64% Grief
64% Marriage Counseling

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
62% Cigna and Evernorth
50% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 90404 see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
15% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 90404?

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.