Photo of Tara Etemad-Haary, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 92604, CA
Tara Etemad-Haary
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Not accepting new clients
As incredible humans, everyone has found ways to adapt to situations that have brought shame, anger, sadness, and grief. Some cope to find relief in experiences that are unsafe, uncontrollable, or traumatic, but these adaptations have stopped serving them. When adaptations are no longer self-serving, some can experience a loud inner critic, low self-esteem, and a disconnection from themselves and others.
As incredible humans, everyone has found ways to adapt to situations that have brought shame, anger, sadness, and grief. Some cope to find relief in experiences that are unsafe, uncontrollable, or traumatic, but these adaptations have stopped serving them. When adaptations are no longer self-serving, some can experience a loud inner critic, low self-esteem, and a disconnection from themselves and others.
(714) 709-2920 View (714) 709-2920
Photo of Souphaphone Hagan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92604, CA
Souphaphone Hagan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604  (Online Only)
Sandy Hagan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She earned a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling at Walden University and a Master of Science in Social Work at CSU Bakersfield and has been practicing in the mental health field for 5 years. Sandy specializes in anxiety, depression, working with adults, grief, and trauma. She is happy to help you today.
Sandy Hagan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She earned a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling at Walden University and a Master of Science in Social Work at CSU Bakersfield and has been practicing in the mental health field for 5 years. Sandy specializes in anxiety, depression, working with adults, grief, and trauma. She is happy to help you today.
(949) 670-2559 View (949) 670-2559
Photo of Gail Desilets, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92604, CA
Gail Desilets
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92604
Relationship problems troubling you? There is still hope! When your relationship isn't going well it can impact your whole life! Are you arguing a lot? Not feeling like your partner understands you? Couples therapy can really help! More harmony and tranquility could be yours! Let's find better ways to relate to each other. Let me help you find your way back to that loving place again...
Relationship problems troubling you? There is still hope! When your relationship isn't going well it can impact your whole life! Are you arguing a lot? Not feeling like your partner understands you? Couples therapy can really help! More harmony and tranquility could be yours! Let's find better ways to relate to each other. Let me help you find your way back to that loving place again...
(562) 263-9962 View (562) 263-9962
Photo of Heidi Xue, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 92604, CA
Heidi Xue
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Do you have trouble with anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues due to trauma? Past experiences can create imprints onto your brain that activate your fight/flight responses whenever your emotions feel dysregulated, but life without the constant feeling of being on edge is possible. Those traumatic memories don’t have to permanently influence who you are meant to be. Through therapy, you will gain control of your feelings/thoughts and your response to everyday life hurdles. Healing from trauma can create healthier beliefs about yourself and your relationships along with sustainable changes.
Do you have trouble with anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues due to trauma? Past experiences can create imprints onto your brain that activate your fight/flight responses whenever your emotions feel dysregulated, but life without the constant feeling of being on edge is possible. Those traumatic memories don’t have to permanently influence who you are meant to be. Through therapy, you will gain control of your feelings/thoughts and your response to everyday life hurdles. Healing from trauma can create healthier beliefs about yourself and your relationships along with sustainable changes.
(949) 649-0712 View (949) 649-0712
Photo of Justine Gordon, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 92604, CA
Justine Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
(949) 749-6613 View (949) 749-6613
Photo of Chantal Daley, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92604, CA
Chantal Daley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Do you find yourself having a difficult time coping with anxiety, depression, and trauma? Do you have a hard time communicating and setting boundaries with others? Life is full of obstacles and hardships that may be difficult to overcome without the right tools, resources, and, guidance leading to the manifestation of these symptoms. I specialize in working with adults, couples, and adolescents using a Psychodynamic approach to explore unconscious thoughts and behaviors. In doing this, we are able to collaboratively recognize old ineffective patterns and process unresolved feelings and trauma.
Do you find yourself having a difficult time coping with anxiety, depression, and trauma? Do you have a hard time communicating and setting boundaries with others? Life is full of obstacles and hardships that may be difficult to overcome without the right tools, resources, and, guidance leading to the manifestation of these symptoms. I specialize in working with adults, couples, and adolescents using a Psychodynamic approach to explore unconscious thoughts and behaviors. In doing this, we are able to collaboratively recognize old ineffective patterns and process unresolved feelings and trauma.
(949) 635-4171 View (949) 635-4171
Photo of Veronica Ghabour, Counselor in 92604, CA
Veronica Ghabour
Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
(949) 806-4427 View (949) 806-4427
Photo of Brittney Green, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92604, CA
Brittney Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, IFS
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
(949) 749-3155 View (949) 749-3155
Photo of Sterling Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 92604, CA
Sterling Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
(949) 867-6448 View (949) 867-6448
Photo of Debbie Hutchinson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92604, CA
Debbie Hutchinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CCATP
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Depression is a monster. In the majority of cases, anxiety co-exists with depression making it even more debilitating for the individual. While there may be similarities in stories, each person's experience is very unique. That is why it is critical to work with the uniqueness of each person's experience to create the desired outcome of having joy and peace again in life. I've worked with people from a variety of employment settings who initially found it difficult to come to therapy but were so thankful that they did. I've seen lives completely turn around. Positive Change can occur. NEVER give up! Invest in yourself!
Depression is a monster. In the majority of cases, anxiety co-exists with depression making it even more debilitating for the individual. While there may be similarities in stories, each person's experience is very unique. That is why it is critical to work with the uniqueness of each person's experience to create the desired outcome of having joy and peace again in life. I've worked with people from a variety of employment settings who initially found it difficult to come to therapy but were so thankful that they did. I've seen lives completely turn around. Positive Change can occur. NEVER give up! Invest in yourself!
(949) 430-6664 View (949) 430-6664
Photo of Humberto R Hernandez, Psychologist in 92604, CA
Humberto R Hernandez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92604  (Online Only)
I work from an integrative perspective, often drawing from cognitive, interpersonal and emotion-focused approaches to help clients learn how navigate their relationships and their emotional experiences. I enjoy collaborating with people to help them discover or rediscover their inner strengths and make lasting changes in their lives. In addition to working with individuals on a variety of mental health concerns such as anxiety and depression, I also have a particular interest in working with university students and athletes.
I work from an integrative perspective, often drawing from cognitive, interpersonal and emotion-focused approaches to help clients learn how navigate their relationships and their emotional experiences. I enjoy collaborating with people to help them discover or rediscover their inner strengths and make lasting changes in their lives. In addition to working with individuals on a variety of mental health concerns such as anxiety and depression, I also have a particular interest in working with university students and athletes.
(949) 426-7363 View (949) 426-7363
Photo of Debra Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92604, CA
Debra Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604  (Online Only)
Debra Williams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 13 years of experience assisting teens, adults, and seniors. Her goal has been to focus on examining how the past may be affecting the present, teaching the strength and confidence needed to heal from feelings of anger, pain, helplessness, loneliness, anxiety, and depression, which often surface as a result of trauma.
Debra Williams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 13 years of experience assisting teens, adults, and seniors. Her goal has been to focus on examining how the past may be affecting the present, teaching the strength and confidence needed to heal from feelings of anger, pain, helplessness, loneliness, anxiety, and depression, which often surface as a result of trauma.
(949) 799-4170 View (949) 799-4170
Photo of Bijan Amirshahi, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92604, CA
Bijan Amirshahi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604  (Online Only)
My practice emphasizes on helping clients resolve immediate situations, while healing from difficult life experiences and developing strong personal and intimate relationships. I believe successful relationships are the key to having a healthy and rewarding life. The process of psychotherapy can strengthen one's sense of confidence, self-acceptance, and responsibility in daily life. It can also lead to a greater capacity for intimacy, to a more productive use of innate skills, and to experiencing more meaning and pleasure in life.
My practice emphasizes on helping clients resolve immediate situations, while healing from difficult life experiences and developing strong personal and intimate relationships. I believe successful relationships are the key to having a healthy and rewarding life. The process of psychotherapy can strengthen one's sense of confidence, self-acceptance, and responsibility in daily life. It can also lead to a greater capacity for intimacy, to a more productive use of innate skills, and to experiencing more meaning and pleasure in life.
(949) 533-3177 View (949) 533-3177
Photo of Dorise Hebenstreit, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 92604, CA
Dorise Hebenstreit
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
My focus is to help individuals and families heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship/family issues. As the therapeutic area of concern is introduced, we can begin to work together in developing empowerment of self as we set up together healthy and achievable goals. I aim to establish include compassion, good communication and trust. In our relationship then I will work alongside you to develop your own coping tools. My approach is a person-centered (positive type) direction to further your strengths and resilience which is tailored towards your specific goals and needs.
My focus is to help individuals and families heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship/family issues. As the therapeutic area of concern is introduced, we can begin to work together in developing empowerment of self as we set up together healthy and achievable goals. I aim to establish include compassion, good communication and trust. In our relationship then I will work alongside you to develop your own coping tools. My approach is a person-centered (positive type) direction to further your strengths and resilience which is tailored towards your specific goals and needs.
(949) 997-2859 View (949) 997-2859
Photo of Cynthia Florido, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92604, CA
Cynthia Florido
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Cynthia Florido is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who has been practicing since 2014. She graduated from the University of Southern California with a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Cynthia believes in tailoring her treatment approach to the needs of the specific client. She is a bilingual therapist who is fluent in both English and Spanish and enjoys being able to provide therapy in the language her clients feel most comfortable in. Her main areas of focus include anxiety disorders and depressive disorders. In her spare time, Cynthia enjoys music, traveling, and spending time with her loved ones.
Cynthia Florido is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who has been practicing since 2014. She graduated from the University of Southern California with a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Cynthia believes in tailoring her treatment approach to the needs of the specific client. She is a bilingual therapist who is fluent in both English and Spanish and enjoys being able to provide therapy in the language her clients feel most comfortable in. Her main areas of focus include anxiety disorders and depressive disorders. In her spare time, Cynthia enjoys music, traveling, and spending time with her loved ones.
(949) 669-7719 View (949) 669-7719
Photo of Cynthia Peikoff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92604, CA
Cynthia Peikoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92604
Can heartbreak be cured? If so, how long will it take? Must it hurt so much? Is therapy going to help? Sadly, a broken heart cannot be cured; as with the loss of any beloved, grieving is unavoidable. But yes, a therapist helps by journeying alongside you, listening, offering comfort and wisdom gained from years of helping others regain their footing and with time, trust in love again. Why not you?
Can heartbreak be cured? If so, how long will it take? Must it hurt so much? Is therapy going to help? Sadly, a broken heart cannot be cured; as with the loss of any beloved, grieving is unavoidable. But yes, a therapist helps by journeying alongside you, listening, offering comfort and wisdom gained from years of helping others regain their footing and with time, trust in love again. Why not you?
(949) 312-5716 View (949) 312-5716
Photo of Christi Gallon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92604, CA
Christi Gallon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
(949) 354-6516 View (949) 354-6516
Photo of Sheron Gershelis, Pre-Licensed Professional in 92604, CA
Sheron Gershelis
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Are you struggling with work, relational, and life stressors that have overwhelmed you and you are unsure what to do next? You're trying to open the next chapter in your life, but your past traumas and anxiety stop you. This is where I come in and help guide you in making YOUR right decision. I will help you through your journey in becoming worry-free and assist you in processing unresolved feelings and learning healthy coping skills for emotional distress
Are you struggling with work, relational, and life stressors that have overwhelmed you and you are unsure what to do next? You're trying to open the next chapter in your life, but your past traumas and anxiety stop you. This is where I come in and help guide you in making YOUR right decision. I will help you through your journey in becoming worry-free and assist you in processing unresolved feelings and learning healthy coping skills for emotional distress
(949) 670-9318 View (949) 670-9318
Photo of Dr. Colleen Daniel and Associates, Psychologist in 92604, CA
Dr. Colleen Daniel and Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Dr. Colleen Daniel and her staff provide comprehensive and holistic mental health treatment for clients of all ages. Our treatment is tailored to match the individual needs of each client or family. Services include: evaluations of learning disabilities, ADHD/ADD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, psychological issues, neurological conditions, and accommodations for SAT/ACT/LSAT/MCAT exams; individual and group therapy for children, teens, and adults.
Dr. Colleen Daniel and her staff provide comprehensive and holistic mental health treatment for clients of all ages. Our treatment is tailored to match the individual needs of each client or family. Services include: evaluations of learning disabilities, ADHD/ADD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, psychological issues, neurological conditions, and accommodations for SAT/ACT/LSAT/MCAT exams; individual and group therapy for children, teens, and adults.
(949) 536-7713 View (949) 536-7713
Photo of Miriam Theresa Lamb, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92604, CA
Miriam Theresa Lamb
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604  (Online Only)
Miriam Lamb is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 10 years in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping youth, adolescents, and adults address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. After attending Sofia University, Miriam worked extensively with individuals and families facing a multitude of challenges. Miriam specializes in depression, LGBTQ+ issues, racial trauma, acculturation, immigration issues, chronic illness/pain, spirituality issues, Hollywood industry concerns, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, youth/adolescent issues, and major life transitions.
Miriam Lamb is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 10 years in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping youth, adolescents, and adults address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. After attending Sofia University, Miriam worked extensively with individuals and families facing a multitude of challenges. Miriam specializes in depression, LGBTQ+ issues, racial trauma, acculturation, immigration issues, chronic illness/pain, spirituality issues, Hollywood industry concerns, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, youth/adolescent issues, and major life transitions.
(949) 996-9561 View (949) 996-9561

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 92604

100+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in 92604 who prioritize treating:

93% Depression
92% Anxiety
87% Relationship Issues
79% Trauma and PTSD
74% Self Esteem
73% Grief
65% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

65% Cigna and Evernorth
60% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
58% Optum

How Therapists in 92604 see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
13% Male
1% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 92604?

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.