Therapists in 90703

Photo of Nicole Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Nicole Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Cerritos, CA 90703
Is depression and anxiety keeping you from living the life you want? Are you that afraid your marriage won’t last? Do you feel like you don’t know your teens anymore and nervous that they are veering down a path they can’t come back from? Did something traumatic happen to you and now you find that you are angry, shut down, or blaming yourself? I can help. I provide therapy to adults, adolescents, couples, and families. I take an integrative approach to therapy by matching evidence-based interventions to your needs so you can experience the best possible outcomes.
Is depression and anxiety keeping you from living the life you want? Are you that afraid your marriage won’t last? Do you feel like you don’t know your teens anymore and nervous that they are veering down a path they can’t come back from? Did something traumatic happen to you and now you find that you are angry, shut down, or blaming yourself? I can help. I provide therapy to adults, adolescents, couples, and families. I take an integrative approach to therapy by matching evidence-based interventions to your needs so you can experience the best possible outcomes.
(562) 222-5286 View (562) 222-5286
Photo of Pauline Ubani, Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MFT, MA
Pauline Ubani
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MFT, MA
Cerritos, CA 90703
I believe that childhood experiences have a deep impact on relationships and perspectives. In order to thrive wholly, we have to get to the heart of the matter. I create a warm environment in order for you to change thought process, rebuild your relationships, and treat depression and anxiety that has rooted from past trauma. I have included virtual sessions for individuals who may not be able to attend office visits.
I believe that childhood experiences have a deep impact on relationships and perspectives. In order to thrive wholly, we have to get to the heart of the matter. I create a warm environment in order for you to change thought process, rebuild your relationships, and treat depression and anxiety that has rooted from past trauma. I have included virtual sessions for individuals who may not be able to attend office visits.
(562) 317-8607 View (562) 317-8607
Photo of Sammie M. Williams - Dr. Sammie Williams, PsyD, Psychologist, PsyD, CAS
Dr. Sammie Williams, PsyD
Psychologist, PsyD, CAS
1 Endorsed
Cerritos, CA 90703
As a Certified Autism Specialist (CAS), I currently provide comprehensive psychological evaluations of children and adolescents (including infants, toddlers, and adults). I specialize in the assessment of various developmental challenges commonly seen in young children and adolescents, specifically developmental delays, behavioral difficulties, and other “mannerisms” likely associated with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). I also provide evaluations of intellectual and learning disabilities, Independent Educational Evaluations (IEE), second opinions, and assessments that provide recommendations and guide treatment planning.
As a Certified Autism Specialist (CAS), I currently provide comprehensive psychological evaluations of children and adolescents (including infants, toddlers, and adults). I specialize in the assessment of various developmental challenges commonly seen in young children and adolescents, specifically developmental delays, behavioral difficulties, and other “mannerisms” likely associated with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). I also provide evaluations of intellectual and learning disabilities, Independent Educational Evaluations (IEE), second opinions, and assessments that provide recommendations and guide treatment planning.
(562) 275-8442 View (562) 275-8442
Photo of Alicia Miller, Psychologist, PsyD
Alicia Miller
Psychologist, PsyD
Cerritos, CA 90703
I’m Dr. Alicia Miller, a licensed psychologist specializing in comprehensive psychological evaluations for children and adolescents. I provide assessments for autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, mood and behavior disorders, and trauma-based conditions, with a focus on helping families understand their child’s unique strengths and needs. With a background as both a clinical psychologist and a school psychologist, I bring over two decades of experience supporting neurodivergent children across home, school, and clinical settings.
I’m Dr. Alicia Miller, a licensed psychologist specializing in comprehensive psychological evaluations for children and adolescents. I provide assessments for autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, mood and behavior disorders, and trauma-based conditions, with a focus on helping families understand their child’s unique strengths and needs. With a background as both a clinical psychologist and a school psychologist, I bring over two decades of experience supporting neurodivergent children across home, school, and clinical settings.
(562) 554-4854 View (562) 554-4854
Photo of Sandra K Kaumaya, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, ARFA
Sandra K Kaumaya
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, ARFA
Cerritos, CA 90703
Hello and Welcome! Many of my clients struggle with feelings of anxiety, depression or lack of control in their lives. Individuals seek effective coping skills to modify interactions with family, friends, or co-workers, producing positive interactions and understanding. I help those individuals experiencing stress with work obligations or family stressors. help identify behaviors or attitudes that have not produced the desired results to help them move forward. We discover methods to replace the negative behaviors and attitudes with positive methods of communication and actions.
Hello and Welcome! Many of my clients struggle with feelings of anxiety, depression or lack of control in their lives. Individuals seek effective coping skills to modify interactions with family, friends, or co-workers, producing positive interactions and understanding. I help those individuals experiencing stress with work obligations or family stressors. help identify behaviors or attitudes that have not produced the desired results to help them move forward. We discover methods to replace the negative behaviors and attitudes with positive methods of communication and actions.
(562) 554-5131 View (562) 554-5131
Photo of Julian Juarez, Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, PPSC
Julian Juarez
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, PPSC
Cerritos, CA 90703
You may be feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or life transitions, unsure of where to turn. Maybe you’re struggling with identity, belonging, or painful past experiences, and just want a safe space to be heard. You want practical tools to cope, stronger relationships, and more confidence in yourself. Most of all, you want to feel seen, understood, and empowered to live authentically and move forward with clarity, resilience, and purpose.
You may be feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or life transitions, unsure of where to turn. Maybe you’re struggling with identity, belonging, or painful past experiences, and just want a safe space to be heard. You want practical tools to cope, stronger relationships, and more confidence in yourself. Most of all, you want to feel seen, understood, and empowered to live authentically and move forward with clarity, resilience, and purpose.
(562) 574-8336 View (562) 574-8336
Photo of Lourdes Estrada, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Lourdes Estrada
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Cerritos, CA 90703
Hi, Welcome. Thanks for stopping by. Let me start by saying that you are on the right path to a better you, and a well-balanced individual. Seeking help is not easy. If you are ready to stop feeling sad, or upset, or to set some boundaries for those people who don't respect your voice. You are in the right spot. I am Licensed in both California and Nevada. I am also in the process of completing my Doctorate Degree.
Hi, Welcome. Thanks for stopping by. Let me start by saying that you are on the right path to a better you, and a well-balanced individual. Seeking help is not easy. If you are ready to stop feeling sad, or upset, or to set some boundaries for those people who don't respect your voice. You are in the right spot. I am Licensed in both California and Nevada. I am also in the process of completing my Doctorate Degree.
(949) 991-2742 View (949) 991-2742
Photo of Melissa Alvarez, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, amft
Melissa Alvarez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, amft
1 Endorsed
Cerritos, CA 90703
Life can throw different challenges at you at any time and struggle can show up in our lives in many ways. This can naturally create feelings of discouragement or discomfort that present in life through our thoughts, behaviors, and feelings. Sometimes it can be hard to open up about it, but as your therapist I want you to have a place to do just that. My role is to join you in your journey of overcoming those challenges and struggles and take steps toward your goals. I am currently registered in California as an associate MFT. I have years of experience working in school, remote and in-person settings.
Life can throw different challenges at you at any time and struggle can show up in our lives in many ways. This can naturally create feelings of discouragement or discomfort that present in life through our thoughts, behaviors, and feelings. Sometimes it can be hard to open up about it, but as your therapist I want you to have a place to do just that. My role is to join you in your journey of overcoming those challenges and struggles and take steps toward your goals. I am currently registered in California as an associate MFT. I have years of experience working in school, remote and in-person settings.
(562) 414-4976 View (562) 414-4976
Photo of Roy Ho, Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Roy Ho
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Cerritos, CA 90703
Roy (they/them) is an Associate Clinical Social Worker who graduated from CSU Dominguez Hills, where their training emphasized social justice, cultural humility, and trauma-informed care. Roy has experience in community mental health, inpatient/intensive treatment settings, and crisis response. As an Asian American therapist who speaks conversational Mandarin, Roy brings a culturally responsive lens to their work and strives to create a welcoming space where clients of diverse backgrounds feel seen and understood. They are comfortable blending English and Mandarin in session when it helps support shared understanding and connection.
Roy (they/them) is an Associate Clinical Social Worker who graduated from CSU Dominguez Hills, where their training emphasized social justice, cultural humility, and trauma-informed care. Roy has experience in community mental health, inpatient/intensive treatment settings, and crisis response. As an Asian American therapist who speaks conversational Mandarin, Roy brings a culturally responsive lens to their work and strives to create a welcoming space where clients of diverse backgrounds feel seen and understood. They are comfortable blending English and Mandarin in session when it helps support shared understanding and connection.
(562) 543-5237 View (562) 543-5237
Photo of Dragana Stijepovic, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Dragana Stijepovic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Cerritos, CA 90703
Welcome! Glad to see you are taking steps towards growth and self-care. It can be frightening and challenging. However, we will walk your journey's path together until you are ready to go at it on your own. As you start to walk on the way, the way appears. -Rumi
Welcome! Glad to see you are taking steps towards growth and self-care. It can be frightening and challenging. However, we will walk your journey's path together until you are ready to go at it on your own. As you start to walk on the way, the way appears. -Rumi
(562) 545-4355 View (562) 545-4355
Photo of Dr. Amy La, Psychologist, PhD, MBA
Dr. Amy La
Psychologist, PhD, MBA
5 Endorsed
Cerritos, CA 90703
Are you feeling stuck? Are your problems interfering with your life, your health, and/or your work? Are you having relationship problems with your partner, family members, friends or colleagues? Are you dealing with loss? Do you want to explore your racial/cultural identities? I can help. I personalize treatment based on your individual needs and goals. I acknowledge your courage to invest in yourself and prioritize your wellness. In a supportive and safe environment, we will explore and address your issues and experiences. I will assist you in reaching your goals that align with your values.
Are you feeling stuck? Are your problems interfering with your life, your health, and/or your work? Are you having relationship problems with your partner, family members, friends or colleagues? Are you dealing with loss? Do you want to explore your racial/cultural identities? I can help. I personalize treatment based on your individual needs and goals. I acknowledge your courage to invest in yourself and prioritize your wellness. In a supportive and safe environment, we will explore and address your issues and experiences. I will assist you in reaching your goals that align with your values.
(562) 561-2985 View (562) 561-2985
Photo of Sarah Barnes, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Sarah Barnes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Cerritos, CA 90703
As a Marriage and Family Therapist providing mental health services for 15 years to children, adolescents, adults and families, Sarah has a wealth of experience that has given her knowledge and understanding as how to support others with navigating real life issues. These may include but are not limited to relational conflicts, trauma, undesirable symptoms such as sadness, anxiousness, self-harm and so forth. She provides psycho-education to assist others with understanding mental illness. Sarah's therapeutic approach is eclectic with a heavy influence of faith-based, attachment, psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral practices.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist providing mental health services for 15 years to children, adolescents, adults and families, Sarah has a wealth of experience that has given her knowledge and understanding as how to support others with navigating real life issues. These may include but are not limited to relational conflicts, trauma, undesirable symptoms such as sadness, anxiousness, self-harm and so forth. She provides psycho-education to assist others with understanding mental illness. Sarah's therapeutic approach is eclectic with a heavy influence of faith-based, attachment, psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral practices.
(562) 262-8014 View (562) 262-8014
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Evaluations for Court - Dr. Dean, Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Psychological Evaluations for Court - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Cerritos, CA 90703
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct legal / forensic / psychological evaluations for court and provide expert witness testimony. I also do ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic evaluations, risk assessment (violence/sexual), drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, immigration evaluations, pre-adoption evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct legal / forensic / psychological evaluations for court and provide expert witness testimony. I also do ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic evaluations, risk assessment (violence/sexual), drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, immigration evaluations, pre-adoption evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
(562) 568-8203 View (562) 568-8203
Photo of Mildred Ortiz - Buena Vibra Psychological Services, Inc. , Psychologist, PsyD
Buena Vibra! We're a small group practice offering psychotherapy services in English/Spanish. We value the desires and needs of our clients to relate to others in healthy ways, while maintaining a sense of autonomy. We explore with our Clients how symptoms of anxiety and depression may result from inconsistent and poorly defined boundaries and expectations. Together we create healthy boundaries through effective communication strategies and consistent behavioral interventions, while taking great care in exploring, identifying and preserving cultural, traditional value systems within their relationships.
Buena Vibra! We're a small group practice offering psychotherapy services in English/Spanish. We value the desires and needs of our clients to relate to others in healthy ways, while maintaining a sense of autonomy. We explore with our Clients how symptoms of anxiety and depression may result from inconsistent and poorly defined boundaries and expectations. Together we create healthy boundaries through effective communication strategies and consistent behavioral interventions, while taking great care in exploring, identifying and preserving cultural, traditional value systems within their relationships.
(323) 688-6027 View (323) 688-6027
Photo of Salmah Ismail, Associate Social Worker, ACSW
Salmah Ismail
Associate Social Worker, ACSW
1 Endorsed
Cerritos, CA 90703
Hi there, I’m Salmah! I’m dedicated and eager to be a part of your journey to prioritize your mental health and/or work towards your growth and healing. I’m a culturally-informed therapist, taking a client-centered approach as I believe you are the expert of your own life. You have your own story and unique life experience that you know best and the ways in which these experiences have impacted you. I’m here to create a safe and supportive space for you to share your story and work in collaboration with you to achieve what you need from therapy.
Hi there, I’m Salmah! I’m dedicated and eager to be a part of your journey to prioritize your mental health and/or work towards your growth and healing. I’m a culturally-informed therapist, taking a client-centered approach as I believe you are the expert of your own life. You have your own story and unique life experience that you know best and the ways in which these experiences have impacted you. I’m here to create a safe and supportive space for you to share your story and work in collaboration with you to achieve what you need from therapy.
(562) 564-6049 View (562) 564-6049
Photo of Hillary Howard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hillary Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cerritos, CA 90703
Accepting new clients as of November 2025! Postpartum and pregnant clients career/life burnout, recovering from emotionally immature parents, and grief are areas I specialize in. What sets me apart from other therapists is my genuine investment in your wellbeing and the care I provide. We will work to get you support quickly by sharing your story and reworking through past traumas that might have you stuck. We also plan for the future and adjust to life changes. Therapy can help you reset and find more peace Clients I work with want support to create a meaningful life that feels engaging. I also support medical professionals.
Accepting new clients as of November 2025! Postpartum and pregnant clients career/life burnout, recovering from emotionally immature parents, and grief are areas I specialize in. What sets me apart from other therapists is my genuine investment in your wellbeing and the care I provide. We will work to get you support quickly by sharing your story and reworking through past traumas that might have you stuck. We also plan for the future and adjust to life changes. Therapy can help you reset and find more peace Clients I work with want support to create a meaningful life that feels engaging. I also support medical professionals.
(714) 970-4253 View (714) 970-4253
Photo of Mavi Martin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Mavi Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Cerritos, CA 90703
I want to acknowledge your courage for taking this first step of prioritizing your mental health. I understand the fear and anxiety of beginning this journey of the unknown as I, too, have experienced the process. So whether this is a small or big step for you, I’m glad you’re here. You may have lived through life’s stressors by having to go on survival mode, causing you to cope in ways that don’t really benefit you in the long term. This can look like isolation, overstepping your boundaries, invalidation of self, or a self-written destructive narrative that fulfills cultural and societal expectations.
I want to acknowledge your courage for taking this first step of prioritizing your mental health. I understand the fear and anxiety of beginning this journey of the unknown as I, too, have experienced the process. So whether this is a small or big step for you, I’m glad you’re here. You may have lived through life’s stressors by having to go on survival mode, causing you to cope in ways that don’t really benefit you in the long term. This can look like isolation, overstepping your boundaries, invalidation of self, or a self-written destructive narrative that fulfills cultural and societal expectations.
(562) 632-5360 View (562) 632-5360
Photo of Stacie Ashley-Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAS
Stacie Ashley-Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAS
Cerritos, CA 90703
Are you struggling with anxiety/depression, repetitive thoughts/behaviors, social and/or communication challenges that impact functioning "in everyday life"? Do you have or suspect you may have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? If so, you have come to the right place. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, social, communication challenges and who have or may have ASD. I assist clients with managing difficult emotions, self-care, building healthy coping, communication, and socialization skills to improve overall functioning.
Are you struggling with anxiety/depression, repetitive thoughts/behaviors, social and/or communication challenges that impact functioning "in everyday life"? Do you have or suspect you may have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? If so, you have come to the right place. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, social, communication challenges and who have or may have ASD. I assist clients with managing difficult emotions, self-care, building healthy coping, communication, and socialization skills to improve overall functioning.
(424) 245-0913 View (424) 245-0913
Photo of David Brown - Remarkable Services, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Remarkable Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Cerritos, CA 90703
Life can feel uncertain and mixed emotions can make it difficult to know what to do. As your therapist, I want you to leave feeling heard, understood, accepted, and empowered. Sessions are centered around you and your experiences. Using a narrative approach, we work together to create a life narrative that highlights your strengths, history, and how you have worked to thrive. My role is to support you and walk alongside you through this time in life.
Life can feel uncertain and mixed emotions can make it difficult to know what to do. As your therapist, I want you to leave feeling heard, understood, accepted, and empowered. Sessions are centered around you and your experiences. Using a narrative approach, we work together to create a life narrative that highlights your strengths, history, and how you have worked to thrive. My role is to support you and walk alongside you through this time in life.
(562) 307-8710 View (562) 307-8710
Photo of Shabnam Shabafroozan, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Shabnam Shabafroozan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Cerritos, CA 90703
Welcome! Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. I’m here to create a supportive and nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes in your life. As an integrative therapist, I tailor my approach to fit your unique needs, drawing from but not limited to CBT, trauma-focused therapy, mindfulness, and creative expression like using art in therapy. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional regulation, or relationship challenges, I’m here to help you navigate these difficulties.
Welcome! Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. I’m here to create a supportive and nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes in your life. As an integrative therapist, I tailor my approach to fit your unique needs, drawing from but not limited to CBT, trauma-focused therapy, mindfulness, and creative expression like using art in therapy. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional regulation, or relationship challenges, I’m here to help you navigate these difficulties.
(562) 586-4794 View (562) 586-4794

See more therapy options for 90703

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 90703

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 90703 who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
86% Depression
73% Coping Skills
64% Self Esteem
62% Relationship Issues
61% Life Transitions
60% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
71% Cigna and Evernorth
67% Other

How Therapists in 90703 see their clients

51% Online Only
49% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

76% Female
23% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 90703?

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.