Therapists in Sherman Oaks, CA

Photo of Robbert Jan Schalekamp, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Robbert Jan Schalekamp
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
The majority of my clients are people over 40, many of them gay men, who want to make sense of their life and its transitions: where they come from, where they are and where they are going. They might have specific issues: work, relationships, health challenges (sometimes HIV), aging parents, substance abuse and other addictive behaviors. Sometimes there is no specific issue, just a desire to sort out things. Their history might include trauma in childhood or later in life, and multiple losses, including loss to suicide. Depression and anxiety often show up as part of the work.
The majority of my clients are people over 40, many of them gay men, who want to make sense of their life and its transitions: where they come from, where they are and where they are going. They might have specific issues: work, relationships, health challenges (sometimes HIV), aging parents, substance abuse and other addictive behaviors. Sometimes there is no specific issue, just a desire to sort out things. Their history might include trauma in childhood or later in life, and multiple losses, including loss to suicide. Depression and anxiety often show up as part of the work.
(310) 697-8524 View (310) 697-8524
Photo of Curated Family Therapeutics in Sherman Oaks, CA
Curated Family Therapeutics
BCBA
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
We specialize in 1-1 neuro-affirming therapy for members of the neurodivergent community who also struggle with their mental health (anxiety, depression, OCD, etc…). With over 15 years of experience, we take pride in supporting teens and adults OR parents who have children with diagnosis' such as Autism, Downs Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Fragile X Syndrome, Intellectual Disabilities, and/or multiple disabilities.
We specialize in 1-1 neuro-affirming therapy for members of the neurodivergent community who also struggle with their mental health (anxiety, depression, OCD, etc…). With over 15 years of experience, we take pride in supporting teens and adults OR parents who have children with diagnosis' such as Autism, Downs Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Fragile X Syndrome, Intellectual Disabilities, and/or multiple disabilities.
(213) 463-5224 View (213) 463-5224
Photo of Eve Ray, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Eve Ray
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I have a reputation as one of the best therapists in Los Angeles. My patients include psychotherapists and psychology students, celebrities and prominent executives, and people from all walks of life. I've been successful helping individuals, couples, and families deal with complicated emotional issues. Patients come from all over Los Angeles to work with me because they get the results they want and need. Take a moment to view my website evearay.com to learn more about me and how you and I can work together. Then call me at 818 430-0741 for a free initial consultation. You'll be glad you did.
I have a reputation as one of the best therapists in Los Angeles. My patients include psychotherapists and psychology students, celebrities and prominent executives, and people from all walks of life. I've been successful helping individuals, couples, and families deal with complicated emotional issues. Patients come from all over Los Angeles to work with me because they get the results they want and need. Take a moment to view my website evearay.com to learn more about me and how you and I can work together. Then call me at 818 430-0741 for a free initial consultation. You'll be glad you did.
(213) 260-4943 View (213) 260-4943
Photo of Stephanie Kavoulakos, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Stephanie Kavoulakos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Reaching out to a therapist can be a difficult step to take. I know the profound pain that can come with dealing with mental health challenges, including addiction...yours, or as a family member affected by another person's addictive behaviors. I understand how traumatic growing up with an alcoholic/addicted or a dysfunctional parent can be, or being involved in an unhealthy relationship. These experiences can lead to devastating feelings - shame, abandonment, depression, anxiety, isolation, anger, and much more. I invite you to share your feelings in a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel understood & heard.
Reaching out to a therapist can be a difficult step to take. I know the profound pain that can come with dealing with mental health challenges, including addiction...yours, or as a family member affected by another person's addictive behaviors. I understand how traumatic growing up with an alcoholic/addicted or a dysfunctional parent can be, or being involved in an unhealthy relationship. These experiences can lead to devastating feelings - shame, abandonment, depression, anxiety, isolation, anger, and much more. I invite you to share your feelings in a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel understood & heard.
(747) 207-4590 View (747) 207-4590
Photo of Shauneet Marduk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Shauneet Marduk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, DCBT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
The choice to begin therapy is a meaningful, brave step toward the life you want. We all experience difficult times in our lives when we may feel stuck, depressed, anxious; that the stumbling blocks we're up against are too difficult to walk through. I can help you with that. I will help you recognize your strengths so you will be able to use them to move through these bumps in the road, transitions, crises, or other difficulties you're facing.
The choice to begin therapy is a meaningful, brave step toward the life you want. We all experience difficult times in our lives when we may feel stuck, depressed, anxious; that the stumbling blocks we're up against are too difficult to walk through. I can help you with that. I will help you recognize your strengths so you will be able to use them to move through these bumps in the road, transitions, crises, or other difficulties you're facing.
(818) 452-4866 View (818) 452-4866
Photo of Karinna Torres, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Karinna Torres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
As a practicing clinician of over five years, I have honed my expertise in a range of therapeutic approaches including evidence-based practices like CBT, DBT, and mindfulness-based interventions, as well as a trauma-informed care perspective. My overall approach to treatment integrates various therapeutic strategies to cater to the personal journey of each client and their unique reasons for seeking therapy. I treat a variety of disorders, including stress, trauma, anxiety, depression, interpersonal challenges, adjustment disorders, and other mental health issues.
As a practicing clinician of over five years, I have honed my expertise in a range of therapeutic approaches including evidence-based practices like CBT, DBT, and mindfulness-based interventions, as well as a trauma-informed care perspective. My overall approach to treatment integrates various therapeutic strategies to cater to the personal journey of each client and their unique reasons for seeking therapy. I treat a variety of disorders, including stress, trauma, anxiety, depression, interpersonal challenges, adjustment disorders, and other mental health issues.
(747) 281-2997 View (747) 281-2997
Photo of Keren Khait, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Keren Khait
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, #137961
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91401  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Keren, and I am a licensed therapist working virtually in California! If you are finding yourself struggling with your mood, anxiety, have a history of trauma, or have struggles such as perfectionism, imposter syndrome, or high stress, I may be the right therapist for you! In a therapy session with me, clients will have the space to process their past, their day to day life, as well as learn healthy coping skills to deal with symptoms and hardships. I emphasize the importance of building insight and gaining self awareness, while also respecting the pace of each and every client.
Hi, my name is Keren, and I am a licensed therapist working virtually in California! If you are finding yourself struggling with your mood, anxiety, have a history of trauma, or have struggles such as perfectionism, imposter syndrome, or high stress, I may be the right therapist for you! In a therapy session with me, clients will have the space to process their past, their day to day life, as well as learn healthy coping skills to deal with symptoms and hardships. I emphasize the importance of building insight and gaining self awareness, while also respecting the pace of each and every client.
(323) 402-6678 View (323) 402-6678
Photo of Adam Bruno, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Adam Bruno
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PPSA, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I am a licensed MFT with experience as a hospice volunteer, behaviorist, and career counselor. I have worked with everyone from preschool children to centenarians. I have been in the mental health field for over ten years. I have an office in Sherman Oaks, and I offer free evaluations and consultations.
I am a licensed MFT with experience as a hospice volunteer, behaviorist, and career counselor. I have worked with everyone from preschool children to centenarians. I have been in the mental health field for over ten years. I have an office in Sherman Oaks, and I offer free evaluations and consultations.
(424) 257-9613 View (424) 257-9613
Photo of Gregg Ratinoff, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Gregg Ratinoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I recently published my book "Hood Therapist" on Amazon. The book is about my experience as a therapist working with inner-city youth and therapy in general. I am an LMFT with 15 years of experience working with teenagers & adults in individual therapy and couples' therapy. In addition to my private practice experience, I am a Mental Health Clinical Supervisor for the County of Los Angeles Department of Mental Health which has provided me a wealth of clinical experience and training. This experience has allowed me to fine-tune my clinical skill set across a large swath of clients from all walks of life.
I recently published my book "Hood Therapist" on Amazon. The book is about my experience as a therapist working with inner-city youth and therapy in general. I am an LMFT with 15 years of experience working with teenagers & adults in individual therapy and couples' therapy. In addition to my private practice experience, I am a Mental Health Clinical Supervisor for the County of Los Angeles Department of Mental Health which has provided me a wealth of clinical experience and training. This experience has allowed me to fine-tune my clinical skill set across a large swath of clients from all walks of life.
(747) 252-5382 View (747) 252-5382
Photo of Clarity Counseling and Therapy Group, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Clarity Counseling and Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
Are you noticing an increase of stress, anxiety or feeling overwhelmed? Are you working on mending relationships? Are you feeling frustrated, sad, confused or unhappy with where you are in life? Welcome to Clarity Counseling & Therapy Group! We understand that making the decision to start therapy can be a tough one and we congratulate you in taking this first step. Our team was created in order to help solve some of the biggest hurdles people face when it comes to therapy: Affordability, flexibility, and finding the right therapist for you.
Are you noticing an increase of stress, anxiety or feeling overwhelmed? Are you working on mending relationships? Are you feeling frustrated, sad, confused or unhappy with where you are in life? Welcome to Clarity Counseling & Therapy Group! We understand that making the decision to start therapy can be a tough one and we congratulate you in taking this first step. Our team was created in order to help solve some of the biggest hurdles people face when it comes to therapy: Affordability, flexibility, and finding the right therapist for you.
(818) 319-4422 View (818) 319-4422
Photo of Katie Heeran, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Katie Heeran
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, RYT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
"(Humans) will do anything, no matter how absurd, to avoid facing (their) own soul(s)." - Carl Jung. I am looking to work with people who are ready to do this work. I want you to have a meaningful life, as YOU define it. If you don't know what you want, I hope our work together will help you find that. If you know what you want but keep running into the same obstacles, I hope to help you understand what those obstacles mean and show you how to work with them more effectively.
"(Humans) will do anything, no matter how absurd, to avoid facing (their) own soul(s)." - Carl Jung. I am looking to work with people who are ready to do this work. I want you to have a meaningful life, as YOU define it. If you don't know what you want, I hope our work together will help you find that. If you know what you want but keep running into the same obstacles, I hope to help you understand what those obstacles mean and show you how to work with them more effectively.
(818) 946-0774 View (818) 946-0774
Roya Tiarraz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
Do you struggle in your relationship? Are you not feeling like yourself? Do you experience depressive or anxious symptoms that are bothersome? If you find yourself answering yes to any of these questions, seeking therapy can help.
Do you struggle in your relationship? Are you not feeling like yourself? Do you experience depressive or anxious symptoms that are bothersome? If you find yourself answering yes to any of these questions, seeking therapy can help.
(818) 721-9186 View (818) 721-9186
Photo of Jordan Kirschner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Jordan Kirschner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91411
For over fourteen years, I've provided holistic individual and couples therapy that focuses on the whole person, not just the symptoms. Many of the people I help are coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, a stressful transition, or unsatisfying relationships. Others are seeking guidance in crystallizing their identity or career path, wanting to invite more meaning, passion, and purpose into their life.
For over fourteen years, I've provided holistic individual and couples therapy that focuses on the whole person, not just the symptoms. Many of the people I help are coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, a stressful transition, or unsatisfying relationships. Others are seeking guidance in crystallizing their identity or career path, wanting to invite more meaning, passion, and purpose into their life.
(818) 253-9881 View (818) 253-9881
Photo of Madeline Karabian, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Sherman Oaks, CA
Madeline Karabian
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
My approach to therapy is one of active, yet gentle collaboration between therapist and client. My practice as a psychotherapist is to help cut through outdated narratives that often prevent us from creating the changes to live a satisfying and enriching life. I draw from my experiences working with individuals, couples, families and kids at a community mental health center, as well as at an elementary school. Additionally, I have training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and am a Prepare/Enright Premarital and Marriage Assessment Facilitator.
My approach to therapy is one of active, yet gentle collaboration between therapist and client. My practice as a psychotherapist is to help cut through outdated narratives that often prevent us from creating the changes to live a satisfying and enriching life. I draw from my experiences working with individuals, couples, families and kids at a community mental health center, as well as at an elementary school. Additionally, I have training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and am a Prepare/Enright Premarital and Marriage Assessment Facilitator.
(747) 330-0436 View (747) 330-0436
Photo of Melissa Shayfer, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Sherman Oaks, CA
Melissa Shayfer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
Our individual work will cultivate a more authentic and meaningful connection to yourself and others. Partners will learn to attune to one another and over time create a healthier relationship patterns. I strive to create an environment where individuals, couples and families feel safe and heard. My approach is warm, collaborative, and respectful with the purpose of improving your sense of well-being and feeling of fulfillment.
Our individual work will cultivate a more authentic and meaningful connection to yourself and others. Partners will learn to attune to one another and over time create a healthier relationship patterns. I strive to create an environment where individuals, couples and families feel safe and heard. My approach is warm, collaborative, and respectful with the purpose of improving your sense of well-being and feeling of fulfillment.
(747) 279-3270 View (747) 279-3270
Photo of Judy Sharp, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Judy Sharp
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
The irony is this--if you don't go in, you can't find out." I love this quote from a Richard Stine greeting card. It's such a succinct description of the therapeutic process. I believe people are relational by nature and our earliest experiences of home, family and friends influence the expectations we bring to future relationships. Our experiences shape us but don't define us. Telling our stories helps us clarify what we want to keep and to change, a choice we didn't have as children. While change can be challenging, it can open up a whole new world of possibility.
The irony is this--if you don't go in, you can't find out." I love this quote from a Richard Stine greeting card. It's such a succinct description of the therapeutic process. I believe people are relational by nature and our earliest experiences of home, family and friends influence the expectations we bring to future relationships. Our experiences shape us but don't define us. Telling our stories helps us clarify what we want to keep and to change, a choice we didn't have as children. While change can be challenging, it can open up a whole new world of possibility.
(818) 963-9056 View (818) 963-9056
Photo of Norra MacReady, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Norra MacReady
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
Sometimes it helps just to talk to someone. Someone who can listen with empathy and without judgment. Someone who can see patterns you may not have been aware of, who can help you talk back to that negative voice in your head, and who can help you renew your hopes for yourself and the future. Someone like me. To all of you I say, Come, let's talk about it, and together we'll find a way through this messy business of life. You are not alone.
Sometimes it helps just to talk to someone. Someone who can listen with empathy and without judgment. Someone who can see patterns you may not have been aware of, who can help you talk back to that negative voice in your head, and who can help you renew your hopes for yourself and the future. Someone like me. To all of you I say, Come, let's talk about it, and together we'll find a way through this messy business of life. You are not alone.
(424) 322-2442 View (424) 322-2442
Photo of Joshua Michael Siskin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Joshua Michael Siskin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MS
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
Your ability to change or improve your situation depends on your desire to do so and my job is to awaken that desire within you. The biggest challenge all of us face is negative thinking. This is a reflection of our own disappointment of what we see when we look inside ourselves.
Your ability to change or improve your situation depends on your desire to do so and my job is to awaken that desire within you. The biggest challenge all of us face is negative thinking. This is a reflection of our own disappointment of what we see when we look inside ourselves.
(747) 285-4253 View (747) 285-4253
Photo of Tamara M Sprigel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Tamara M Sprigel
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I work with individuals, couples and adolescents. I am psychodynamic in philosophy but eclectic in my training and approach. Each person's treatment needs are different, so therapy is often a combination of psychotherapy, insight, cognitive and behavioral. I am aware of the many stressors that come to bear on our lives and address the emotional problems that arise with family, work, and interpersonal relationships. I help people cope with and learn from the challenging tasks of living life.
I work with individuals, couples and adolescents. I am psychodynamic in philosophy but eclectic in my training and approach. Each person's treatment needs are different, so therapy is often a combination of psychotherapy, insight, cognitive and behavioral. I am aware of the many stressors that come to bear on our lives and address the emotional problems that arise with family, work, and interpersonal relationships. I help people cope with and learn from the challenging tasks of living life.
(424) 570-3024 View (424) 570-3024
Photo of Joanne Freed, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Joanne Freed
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I work mainly with women 40 and over, who are experiencing life transitions such as career conflicts, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, and spiritual concerns. I also work with males, and females under 40. I am Psychodynamically and Psychoanalytically trained, as well as, experienced and trained in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I also use a Holistic approach in my work with my clients, which means I include the physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions to bring about a deeper and holistic approach to treatment. I have training in many aspects of Spiritual Psychology, and I am trained as an Evidenced Based Practice therapist. I like to work with individuals who are interested in self-reflection and increasing their self-awareness in order to bring about change, balance, and joy in their life's. I use an empathic, supportive, and non-judgemental approach in my work with clients, which creates an environment for growth and symptom relieve. I create a treatment plan unique to the needs and circumstances of each person I see in treatment.
I work mainly with women 40 and over, who are experiencing life transitions such as career conflicts, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, and spiritual concerns. I also work with males, and females under 40. I am Psychodynamically and Psychoanalytically trained, as well as, experienced and trained in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I also use a Holistic approach in my work with my clients, which means I include the physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions to bring about a deeper and holistic approach to treatment. I have training in many aspects of Spiritual Psychology, and I am trained as an Evidenced Based Practice therapist. I like to work with individuals who are interested in self-reflection and increasing their self-awareness in order to bring about change, balance, and joy in their life's. I use an empathic, supportive, and non-judgemental approach in my work with clients, which creates an environment for growth and symptom relieve. I create a treatment plan unique to the needs and circumstances of each person I see in treatment.
(818) 492-4274 View (818) 492-4274

See more therapy options for Sherman Oaks

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Sherman Oaks, CA

600+

Average cost per session

$180

Therapists in Sherman Oaks, CA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
85% Relationship Issues
80% Self Esteem
69% Trauma and PTSD
69% Coping Skills
66% Grief

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

55% Aetna
55% Cigna and Evernorth
46% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Sherman Oaks, CA see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
16% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Sherman Oaks?

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.