Photo of Tamara Hagy-Lopez, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Tamara Hagy-Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Therapy is an investment in you! When life throws unexpected challenges your way, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and stuck. You might be struggling with relationships, your partner, anxiety, unhealthy behaviors, feelings of shame or difficult thoughts and emotions. It's natural to feel hesitant about seeking help due to fear, discomfort, or the worry of being judged. A safe and supportive space can be provided through therapy, where you can explore challenges with compassion and gain insight to find a more hopeful path. Feeling better can be as simple as validating your experiences and shifting your perspective.
Therapy is an investment in you! When life throws unexpected challenges your way, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and stuck. You might be struggling with relationships, your partner, anxiety, unhealthy behaviors, feelings of shame or difficult thoughts and emotions. It's natural to feel hesitant about seeking help due to fear, discomfort, or the worry of being judged. A safe and supportive space can be provided through therapy, where you can explore challenges with compassion and gain insight to find a more hopeful path. Feeling better can be as simple as validating your experiences and shifting your perspective.
(760) 523-4339 View (760) 523-4339
Photo of Richard S Sinacola, Psychologist, PhD
Richard S Sinacola
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palm Desert, CA 92211
I have 43 years of teaching and clinical experience and have treated a variety of issues, but specialize in depression, anxiety, relationship, and sexual issues. I also have extensive experience in substance abuse treatment and behavioral addictions such as obsessive spending and porn addiction. In addition, I also treat religious guilt and help others deal with issues related to spirituality and grief. I tailor the treatment to each person for the greatest personal effectiveness. I do so with many years of clinical experience and a professional and compassionate approach. I am licensed in both CA and MI.
I have 43 years of teaching and clinical experience and have treated a variety of issues, but specialize in depression, anxiety, relationship, and sexual issues. I also have extensive experience in substance abuse treatment and behavioral addictions such as obsessive spending and porn addiction. In addition, I also treat religious guilt and help others deal with issues related to spirituality and grief. I tailor the treatment to each person for the greatest personal effectiveness. I do so with many years of clinical experience and a professional and compassionate approach. I am licensed in both CA and MI.
(442) 245-3704 View (442) 245-3704
Photo of Darcy Aviles, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, CSAT
Darcy Aviles
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Do you feel overwhelmed with feelings of guilt and shame? Do you feel like you keep sabotaging all of your relationships? Wish you could feel more in control of your life? Porn addiction and other compulsive behaviors in adolescence and adulthood can turn lives upside down. Feeling anxious and alone can damage our relationships with ourselves and others.
Do you feel overwhelmed with feelings of guilt and shame? Do you feel like you keep sabotaging all of your relationships? Wish you could feel more in control of your life? Porn addiction and other compulsive behaviors in adolescence and adulthood can turn lives upside down. Feeling anxious and alone can damage our relationships with ourselves and others.
(760) 606-1412 View (760) 606-1412
Photo of Gay Patricia Matheson, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Gay Patricia Matheson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palm Desert, CA 92211
If you are ready to roll up your sleeves and do whatever it takes to create the life you've dreamed of, I would love to work with you! You will design a clear vision, develop an action plan and overcome obstacles with a new skill set. You will become happy, successful, and free. Creating a great life is an art that you can learn. For over two decades, I have helped hundreds of individuals and couples transform their dreams into reality. If you do not think we are a good fit, the session is on me. Please check out my book on Amazon.com. it's called: Your Guide to Self-actualization, how to be happy, successful and free.
If you are ready to roll up your sleeves and do whatever it takes to create the life you've dreamed of, I would love to work with you! You will design a clear vision, develop an action plan and overcome obstacles with a new skill set. You will become happy, successful, and free. Creating a great life is an art that you can learn. For over two decades, I have helped hundreds of individuals and couples transform their dreams into reality. If you do not think we are a good fit, the session is on me. Please check out my book on Amazon.com. it's called: Your Guide to Self-actualization, how to be happy, successful and free.
(760) 573-2460 View (760) 573-2460
Photo of Miranda Duncan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Miranda Duncan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
As your therapist, I can help you learn about the relationship between your thoughts, moods, physical symptoms and behaviors. Along the way we can collaborate to develop skills to help you manage stress and any difficult emotions you may be experiencing.
As your therapist, I can help you learn about the relationship between your thoughts, moods, physical symptoms and behaviors. Along the way we can collaborate to develop skills to help you manage stress and any difficult emotions you may be experiencing.
(760) 334-9130 View (760) 334-9130
Photo of Michael Myers - Michael Myers Hypnotherapy, MS, HR, CH, CI
Michael Myers Hypnotherapy
MS, HR, CH, CI
Verified Verified
Palm Desert, CA 92211
You are an everyday ordinary person having everyday ordinary problems with life.. Stress and how effectively you deal with it makes for a happy or unhappy life. There are so many manifestations of stress that can be problematic . This is where I come into the picture to help you deal more effectively with that stress no matter what it is. Seemly every problem in life has it's roots in stress: sleeping, anxiety, weight, smoking, academic, financial, sports, sex,....you get the picture.
You are an everyday ordinary person having everyday ordinary problems with life.. Stress and how effectively you deal with it makes for a happy or unhappy life. There are so many manifestations of stress that can be problematic . This is where I come into the picture to help you deal more effectively with that stress no matter what it is. Seemly every problem in life has it's roots in stress: sleeping, anxiety, weight, smoking, academic, financial, sports, sex,....you get the picture.
(760) 383-7556 View (760) 383-7556
Photo of Joseph H. Share, Psychologist, PhD
Joseph H. Share
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Dr. Share taught educators how to work with special needs & gifted kids. He was a School Psychologist and then Director of Psychological Services for a school district. He supervised college students completing their Marriage/Family, and or Psychologist License. He developed programs in parenting skills, marital improvement, reducing depression, assisting dysfunctional families and dealing with daily life stressors. Dr. Share taught classes as an Assistant Professor with the University of California, Los Angeles. Courses were in parenting, working with ADD/ADHD, learning/behavioral, & emotional issues of children and adults.
Dr. Share taught educators how to work with special needs & gifted kids. He was a School Psychologist and then Director of Psychological Services for a school district. He supervised college students completing their Marriage/Family, and or Psychologist License. He developed programs in parenting skills, marital improvement, reducing depression, assisting dysfunctional families and dealing with daily life stressors. Dr. Share taught classes as an Assistant Professor with the University of California, Los Angeles. Courses were in parenting, working with ADD/ADHD, learning/behavioral, & emotional issues of children and adults.
(442) 282-6474 View (442) 282-6474
Photo of Jeff Walker, Psychologist, MDiv, MA, DMin, PsyD
Jeff Walker
Psychologist, MDiv, MA, DMin, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Are you ready for help with personal life challenges that may feel overwhelming or hopeless? Do you want to acquire skills and gain insights that will move you toward a healthier and brighter future? ANGER MANAGEMENT; SEX ADDICTION; CYBERSEX Addiction; Emotional Intelligence; Depression; Mid-Life Crisis; Marital Conflict & Communication; Intimacy Impairment; Childhood Trauma; Adult Children of Alcoholic challenges and Control Issues are my areas of specialization. In a comfortable, compassionate and supportive environment, I will assist you in evaluating core beliefs, feelings and behaviors. Together, we will develop effective and efficient solutions to problems you are facing. You can move forward!
Are you ready for help with personal life challenges that may feel overwhelming or hopeless? Do you want to acquire skills and gain insights that will move you toward a healthier and brighter future? ANGER MANAGEMENT; SEX ADDICTION; CYBERSEX Addiction; Emotional Intelligence; Depression; Mid-Life Crisis; Marital Conflict & Communication; Intimacy Impairment; Childhood Trauma; Adult Children of Alcoholic challenges and Control Issues are my areas of specialization. In a comfortable, compassionate and supportive environment, I will assist you in evaluating core beliefs, feelings and behaviors. Together, we will develop effective and efficient solutions to problems you are facing. You can move forward!
(760) 237-8951 View (760) 237-8951
Photo of Callihan C. Caffery, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Callihan C. Caffery
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palm Desert, CA 92211
No matter what brings you to therapy, I want you to know first of all that you are not alone. Secondly, I want you to know that change is possible and there is hope! Whether you have been carrying a heavy struggle for a long time or recently found yourself experiencing challenges in a relationship, with a child, or within another area of your life, I am here to help lessen the weight of the problem and help you uncover solutions for healing.
No matter what brings you to therapy, I want you to know first of all that you are not alone. Secondly, I want you to know that change is possible and there is hope! Whether you have been carrying a heavy struggle for a long time or recently found yourself experiencing challenges in a relationship, with a child, or within another area of your life, I am here to help lessen the weight of the problem and help you uncover solutions for healing.
(760) 890-9203 View (760) 890-9203
Photo of Saralee Kramer, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Saralee Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Relationship problems? I can help! I am a Telehealth therapist, offering virtual counseling to clients all over California. Sometimes life is overwhelming, and you need individual or couple support. My Practical Strategies, and powerful Tools, help you quickly feel Supported, Optimistic, Balanced, More Connected. I'm a Solution focused, Transpersonal therapist, empowering clients to increase Communication and Commitment, reawaken Love, revive Passion, solve Issues and increase Understanding. I mentor Sensitive Women to learn excellent Self Care, and find Love. I enjoy coaching Women seeking Zest, new Energy, Direction.
Relationship problems? I can help! I am a Telehealth therapist, offering virtual counseling to clients all over California. Sometimes life is overwhelming, and you need individual or couple support. My Practical Strategies, and powerful Tools, help you quickly feel Supported, Optimistic, Balanced, More Connected. I'm a Solution focused, Transpersonal therapist, empowering clients to increase Communication and Commitment, reawaken Love, revive Passion, solve Issues and increase Understanding. I mentor Sensitive Women to learn excellent Self Care, and find Love. I enjoy coaching Women seeking Zest, new Energy, Direction.
(858) 215-1939 View (858) 215-1939
Photo of Wendy M Schill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Wendy M Schill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palm Desert, CA 92211
We are living in a time of uncertainty and constant change which can add to an already stressful or challenging time in one’s life. You don’t have to struggle through difficult times alone. Therapy is a nonjudgmental, safe place to explore life’s challenges, to gain understanding and self-acceptance in order to make changes and enhance your lifelong well-being. If you have been feeling overwhelmed, depressed, anxious for a period of time, or if you find yourself isolating from family/friends and using ineffective coping skills, this may be a sign you need help to move on.
We are living in a time of uncertainty and constant change which can add to an already stressful or challenging time in one’s life. You don’t have to struggle through difficult times alone. Therapy is a nonjudgmental, safe place to explore life’s challenges, to gain understanding and self-acceptance in order to make changes and enhance your lifelong well-being. If you have been feeling overwhelmed, depressed, anxious for a period of time, or if you find yourself isolating from family/friends and using ineffective coping skills, this may be a sign you need help to move on.
(760) 258-4023 View (760) 258-4023
Photo of Sarah Torres, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Sarah Torres
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Are you struggling to get through the day? Dealing with anxiety or depression? Having trouble adjusting to motherhood? Feeling lost or unmotivated? You are not alone if you have experienced any of these burdens. Asking for help can be difficult, even scary at times. Therapy can provide you the safe and confidential space to allow for exploration, processing, and growth to occur. Together we can identify tools that can be used in your daily life that strengthen your self-worth and interpersonal relationships.
Are you struggling to get through the day? Dealing with anxiety or depression? Having trouble adjusting to motherhood? Feeling lost or unmotivated? You are not alone if you have experienced any of these burdens. Asking for help can be difficult, even scary at times. Therapy can provide you the safe and confidential space to allow for exploration, processing, and growth to occur. Together we can identify tools that can be used in your daily life that strengthen your self-worth and interpersonal relationships.
(760) 334-5682 View (760) 334-5682
Photo of Lynn Scott, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Lynn Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Meet Lynn Scott, a licensed therapist with a specialization in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, and Complex Trauma. With over 10 years of experience in the field, Lynn has helped countless individuals overcome their struggles and improve their mental health. Lynn approaches therapy with compassion and understanding, creating a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to share their thoughts and feelings. Utilizing a holistic approach, Lynn combines mindfulness techniques with cognitive behavioral therapy to help clients gain a deeper understanding of their thoughts and emotions and develop the skills to manage them effectively.
Meet Lynn Scott, a licensed therapist with a specialization in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, and Complex Trauma. With over 10 years of experience in the field, Lynn has helped countless individuals overcome their struggles and improve their mental health. Lynn approaches therapy with compassion and understanding, creating a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to share their thoughts and feelings. Utilizing a holistic approach, Lynn combines mindfulness techniques with cognitive behavioral therapy to help clients gain a deeper understanding of their thoughts and emotions and develop the skills to manage them effectively.
(760) 274-8116 View (760) 274-8116
Photo of Jenna L. Seto - Kuma Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT, EMDR
Kuma Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling stuck? Afraid? Anxious? Are you feeling angry, shameful, depressed, or overwhelmed and don't know why? Do you feel a low sense of self-worth? Do you notice yourself doing certain behaviors or saying things that you normally wouldn't in order to self-soothe? Are you hiding your actions, thoughts, and/or feelings from the ones you care about most? Are you neglecting to take care of you? You are not alone. I am here to provide you support with empathy, compassion, and motivation.
Are you feeling stuck? Afraid? Anxious? Are you feeling angry, shameful, depressed, or overwhelmed and don't know why? Do you feel a low sense of self-worth? Do you notice yourself doing certain behaviors or saying things that you normally wouldn't in order to self-soothe? Are you hiding your actions, thoughts, and/or feelings from the ones you care about most? Are you neglecting to take care of you? You are not alone. I am here to provide you support with empathy, compassion, and motivation.
(760) 465-0372 View (760) 465-0372
Photo of Tania J McCormick, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Tania J McCormick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Meet Tania McCormick, a licensed Therapist for over 20 years, working with adults and teens. Tania is experienced in working with anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, life changing events, unresolved childhoods, codependency, and interracial issues. I have raised two children, with all the pleasures and challenges. Let me support you, give you an outsider's honest perspective, and then challenge, and support you to find your solutions.
Meet Tania McCormick, a licensed Therapist for over 20 years, working with adults and teens. Tania is experienced in working with anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, life changing events, unresolved childhoods, codependency, and interracial issues. I have raised two children, with all the pleasures and challenges. Let me support you, give you an outsider's honest perspective, and then challenge, and support you to find your solutions.
(760) 823-7242 View (760) 823-7242
Photo of Kia Ebadat Of Resilience Coaching And Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, Coach
Kia Ebadat Of Resilience Coaching And Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, Coach
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Have you been feeling stuck or limited? Do you believe that you will never feel loved or appreciated? Do you feel that no matter what you do the outcomes are always the same? Or no matter how hard you try you will never be good enough and fail? Well it is not a coincidence. We create negative beliefs and meanings (from our childhood) about ourselves to create these issues. Have you ever said to yourself over and over again "I'll never find love?" or "I'll probably fail" Well, they are not true, but you made it your reality through habitual ways of thinking, feeling, and acting.
Have you been feeling stuck or limited? Do you believe that you will never feel loved or appreciated? Do you feel that no matter what you do the outcomes are always the same? Or no matter how hard you try you will never be good enough and fail? Well it is not a coincidence. We create negative beliefs and meanings (from our childhood) about ourselves to create these issues. Have you ever said to yourself over and over again "I'll never find love?" or "I'll probably fail" Well, they are not true, but you made it your reality through habitual ways of thinking, feeling, and acting.
(760) 314-1503 View (760) 314-1503
Photo of Charlie Nesbitt, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Charlie Nesbitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My areas of specialization include substance abuse, cancer, health-related issues, and trauma. With a background in substance abuse treatment dating back to 2008 and personal experience as a stage 3 lung cancer survivor, I am committed to understanding my clients' unique situations and recommending strategies to facilitate the changes they seek. My goal is to provide genuine assistance.
My areas of specialization include substance abuse, cancer, health-related issues, and trauma. With a background in substance abuse treatment dating back to 2008 and personal experience as a stage 3 lung cancer survivor, I am committed to understanding my clients' unique situations and recommending strategies to facilitate the changes they seek. My goal is to provide genuine assistance.
(760) 624-3783 View (760) 624-3783
Photo of E. Andrew Stenhouse, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, EdD, MS
E. Andrew Stenhouse
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, EdD, MS
Verified Verified
Online Only
A former tenured professor of clinical and organizational psychology at Vanguard University, I also taught graduate psychology courses for Pepperdine University. I still teach Clinical Psychopathology and Diagnosis; Career and Lifestyle Development; Theories of Counseling; Methods and Practice of Research Evaluation; and Human Growth and Development for Concordia University's Townsend Institute for Leadership and Counseling.
A former tenured professor of clinical and organizational psychology at Vanguard University, I also taught graduate psychology courses for Pepperdine University. I still teach Clinical Psychopathology and Diagnosis; Career and Lifestyle Development; Theories of Counseling; Methods and Practice of Research Evaluation; and Human Growth and Development for Concordia University's Townsend Institute for Leadership and Counseling.
(760) 493-7436 View (760) 493-7436
Photo of Hiba Kehdy Lai, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, TFCBT, RPT
Hiba Kehdy Lai
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, TFCBT, RPT
Verified Verified
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Hello and Welcome to my website! I believe that psychotherapy is a collaborative relationship that promotes unification of body, mind, and soul, and promotes improvements in one's quality of life. In my private practice, I provided support for individuals and families from over 15 different cultural backgrounds. From the United States, the MiddleEast, and Latin America.
Hello and Welcome to my website! I believe that psychotherapy is a collaborative relationship that promotes unification of body, mind, and soul, and promotes improvements in one's quality of life. In my private practice, I provided support for individuals and families from over 15 different cultural backgrounds. From the United States, the MiddleEast, and Latin America.
(760) 849-8402 View (760) 849-8402
Photo of Deborah Meints-Pierson, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Deborah Meints-Pierson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Desert, CA 92211
As a licensed therapist for thirty years, Director of the Coachella Valley's most successful counseling center, and host of "It's A Family Affair" on Time Warner Television for ten years, I've helped people with a wide range of personal challenges. I see individuals on a path of spiritual growth and personal transformation. Many of my clients have experienced trauma and are seeking higher answers to life's most difficult questions.
As a licensed therapist for thirty years, Director of the Coachella Valley's most successful counseling center, and host of "It's A Family Affair" on Time Warner Television for ten years, I've helped people with a wide range of personal challenges. I see individuals on a path of spiritual growth and personal transformation. Many of my clients have experienced trauma and are seeking higher answers to life's most difficult questions.
(760) 498-1439 View (760) 498-1439
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 92211

50+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in 92211 who prioritize treating:

90% Depression
90% Anxiety
82% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
71% Family Conflict
65% Coping Skills
61% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

54% Aetna
38% Cigna and Evernorth
36% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 92211 see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 92211?

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.