Therapists in 93210

Photo of Karen Leeann Nelson, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS, BS
Karen Leeann Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS, BS
Coalinga, CA 93210
Hello, I am Karen, a LMFT with a background in forensic addiction and experience working with both adults and children who have experienced trauma, depression, and anxiety. In 2021, I founded Olive Branch Family Therapy to inspire hope and wellness in the community, driven by my belief in listening, learning, teaching, and offering love freely. I specialize in anger management, communication, boundaries, parenting, self-harm, recovery, and life skills, using a holistic, collaborative approach to help clients discover their needs and set healthy boundaries.
Hello, I am Karen, a LMFT with a background in forensic addiction and experience working with both adults and children who have experienced trauma, depression, and anxiety. In 2021, I founded Olive Branch Family Therapy to inspire hope and wellness in the community, driven by my belief in listening, learning, teaching, and offering love freely. I specialize in anger management, communication, boundaries, parenting, self-harm, recovery, and life skills, using a holistic, collaborative approach to help clients discover their needs and set healthy boundaries.
(559) 235-1457 View (559) 235-1457
Photo of Debra L Winegarden - MindDivers, PhD, CST, DI
MindDivers
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Welcome to our newest location in Hanford, Ca. We are happy to offer our mental health and social service to the people in the Hanford area. We have been treating people in Fresno, Clovis, Visalia, and Porterville and are happy to serve this community. MindDivers is the fastest growing group, full-service psychology practice whose friendly clinicians are trained in a wide variety of modalities that fit most people's therapy needs. MindDivers is a Veteran owned and operated, conveniently located near 12th and Lacey Blvd. Our office is well appointed for your comfort. We believe a beautiful environment helps the healing process. We offer therapy services for young children, adolescents, adults and seniors. We can help with behavioral issues, drug, alcohol and addictions, depression, anxiety, anger, or help with issues stopping one from meeting their life goal and ambitions. We gently nudge you from a place of feeling stuck using humor and compassion. Psychiatry services available for medication management. MindDivers accepts most insurance plans Anthem, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Medi-Cal, Cal Viva and many more. We also have a nonprofit branch offering social and homeless services.
Welcome to our newest location in Hanford, Ca. We are happy to offer our mental health and social service to the people in the Hanford area. We have been treating people in Fresno, Clovis, Visalia, and Porterville and are happy to serve this community. MindDivers is the fastest growing group, full-service psychology practice whose friendly clinicians are trained in a wide variety of modalities that fit most people's therapy needs. MindDivers is a Veteran owned and operated, conveniently located near 12th and Lacey Blvd. Our office is well appointed for your comfort. We believe a beautiful environment helps the healing process. We offer therapy services for young children, adolescents, adults and seniors. We can help with behavioral issues, drug, alcohol and addictions, depression, anxiety, anger, or help with issues stopping one from meeting their life goal and ambitions. We gently nudge you from a place of feeling stuck using humor and compassion. Psychiatry services available for medication management. MindDivers accepts most insurance plans Anthem, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Medi-Cal, Cal Viva and many more. We also have a nonprofit branch offering social and homeless services.
(559) 520-4912 View (559) 520-4912
Photo of Cynthia Obershaw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Cynthia Obershaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My name is Cynthia Obershaw. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I believe that people have the ability to heal themselves with guidance and understanding. I am passionate about providing gentle guidance, support, and understanding in the therapeutic journey. I work with clients who have adjustment disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, phase of life issues, addiction, existential issues, and people with spiritual issues. I am currently working towards a credential in sex therapy.
My name is Cynthia Obershaw. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I believe that people have the ability to heal themselves with guidance and understanding. I am passionate about providing gentle guidance, support, and understanding in the therapeutic journey. I work with clients who have adjustment disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, phase of life issues, addiction, existential issues, and people with spiritual issues. I am currently working towards a credential in sex therapy.
(626) 603-5487 View (626) 603-5487
Photo of Cynthia Obershaw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Cynthia Obershaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hi and welcome! I believe that people have the ability to heal themselves with guidance and I work to provide gentle guidance in a relaxed meditative atmosphere. I graduated from Loma Linda University in 1999 and have worked many diverse jobs in social work before moving forward to do therapy. I love the process of seeing people grow and attain their goals and live their dreams.
Hi and welcome! I believe that people have the ability to heal themselves with guidance and I work to provide gentle guidance in a relaxed meditative atmosphere. I graduated from Loma Linda University in 1999 and have worked many diverse jobs in social work before moving forward to do therapy. I love the process of seeing people grow and attain their goals and live their dreams.
(559) 236-5835 View (559) 236-5835
Photo of Alexis McFarlin Watts, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Alexis McFarlin Watts
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and someone who has lived and thrived in polyamorous relationships for the past seven years, I provide a compassionate and affirming space for individuals, couples, and polycules exploring or navigating polyamory and ethical non-monogamy. My personal experience, combined with professional expertise, allows me to deeply understand the unique joys and challenges that come with consensual non-monogamous relationships.
As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and someone who has lived and thrived in polyamorous relationships for the past seven years, I provide a compassionate and affirming space for individuals, couples, and polycules exploring or navigating polyamory and ethical non-monogamy. My personal experience, combined with professional expertise, allows me to deeply understand the unique joys and challenges that come with consensual non-monogamous relationships.
(559) 529-9479 View (559) 529-9479
Photo of Crystal Leon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Crystal Leon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hi! I'm Crystal Leon—License Number: 96139. I'm a mental health provider committed to providing compassionate, person-centered care that addresses your needs and allows you to feel heard. My approach is rooted in empathy, ensuring a safe and understanding environment for your therapeutic journey.
Hi! I'm Crystal Leon—License Number: 96139. I'm a mental health provider committed to providing compassionate, person-centered care that addresses your needs and allows you to feel heard. My approach is rooted in empathy, ensuring a safe and understanding environment for your therapeutic journey.
(747) 302-2709 View (747) 302-2709
Photo of Yolanda A Gonzalez, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Yolanda A Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Most people experience times or situations in their life in which professional support is needed. I believe I offer comfort and support in a nurturing way of meeting you right where you are, without judgment, being open, and creating a trusting environment to facilitate the desired growth and change within the individual and/or the family. I have worked with multiple populations; teens, adult individuals, couples, and families and have experienced the journey with people who make positive life changes and the joy of watching the changes as the client decides to take the time to learn better to do better with a new skill set.
Most people experience times or situations in their life in which professional support is needed. I believe I offer comfort and support in a nurturing way of meeting you right where you are, without judgment, being open, and creating a trusting environment to facilitate the desired growth and change within the individual and/or the family. I have worked with multiple populations; teens, adult individuals, couples, and families and have experienced the journey with people who make positive life changes and the joy of watching the changes as the client decides to take the time to learn better to do better with a new skill set.
(559) 254-4924 View (559) 254-4924
Photo of Amanda Terronez, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Amanda Terronez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I believe the therapeutic relationship is essential to therapy. Together we will work to accomplish the goals you have for yourself. I believe that your core beliefs about yourself will impact the way you behave and feel; therefore, by considering and examining these beliefs, you can gradually alter them and consequently, alter your behaviors and emotions. I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist; however, my roots in Client-Centered have served me well by giving me the tools needed to build a therapeutic relationship.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I believe the therapeutic relationship is essential to therapy. Together we will work to accomplish the goals you have for yourself. I believe that your core beliefs about yourself will impact the way you behave and feel; therefore, by considering and examining these beliefs, you can gradually alter them and consequently, alter your behaviors and emotions. I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist; however, my roots in Client-Centered have served me well by giving me the tools needed to build a therapeutic relationship.
(213) 693-3655 View (213) 693-3655
Photo of Melissa Anne Behrends-Gelfman, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Melissa Anne Behrends-Gelfman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who is willing to empty their mental cup and be prepared to do some good, productive work on the issues that cause them to continue living lives that are barely functioning. I am NOT the expert of anyone's lives; however, I can offer insight into the experiences that have molded me to become the person I am today. I am extremely transparent, not easily offended, and willing to do the hard work, alongside my clients to help them take the reign of their lives back.
My ideal client is someone who is willing to empty their mental cup and be prepared to do some good, productive work on the issues that cause them to continue living lives that are barely functioning. I am NOT the expert of anyone's lives; however, I can offer insight into the experiences that have molded me to become the person I am today. I am extremely transparent, not easily offended, and willing to do the hard work, alongside my clients to help them take the reign of their lives back.
(760) 462-3647 View (760) 462-3647
Photo of Darrell Hamilton, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Darrell Hamilton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hello! My name is Darrell, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist available to provide services throughout California. My role is to join clients in reducing the symptoms that keep them from being the best versions of themselves. Along the way, I help clients see the strengths they already possess as these strengths become tools to arrive at the change they seek.
Hello! My name is Darrell, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist available to provide services throughout California. My role is to join clients in reducing the symptoms that keep them from being the best versions of themselves. Along the way, I help clients see the strengths they already possess as these strengths become tools to arrive at the change they seek.
(424) 955-2183 View (424) 955-2183
Photo of Haley Martel, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Haley Martel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
My name is Haley Martel and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) providing telehealth services, based in Santa Barbara, California. I have a diverse background working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages, especially young adults. I am deeply committed to providing a supportive, compassionate, and tailored therapeutic experience to promote emotional well-being and interpersonal growth for all my clients.
My name is Haley Martel and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) providing telehealth services, based in Santa Barbara, California. I have a diverse background working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages, especially young adults. I am deeply committed to providing a supportive, compassionate, and tailored therapeutic experience to promote emotional well-being and interpersonal growth for all my clients.
(949) 776-3850 View (949) 776-3850
Photo of Gisela Mondragon, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Gisela Mondragon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Gisela! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California (LMFT) and I have been working in the counseling field since 2014. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including trauma, anger, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. In my work with clients, I use some leading psychological modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and psychodynamic. I would describe my style as warm and supportive. I will support you in finding the root of the problem and heal any parts of you that need to be healed. I look forward to helping you in any way I can!
Hi there, I'm Gisela! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California (LMFT) and I have been working in the counseling field since 2014. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including trauma, anger, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. In my work with clients, I use some leading psychological modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and psychodynamic. I would describe my style as warm and supportive. I will support you in finding the root of the problem and heal any parts of you that need to be healed. I look forward to helping you in any way I can!
(747) 293-4738 View (747) 293-4738

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Joan Reed, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Joan Reed
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
I am an LPCC in the state of California. My focus areas of treatment are: depression, anxiety, ADHD, goal-setting, relationship issues, family issues, self-esteem, codependency, and stress. The therapeutic approaches I utilize include, but are not limited to, CBT, ACT, Brainspotting, Mindfulness, Person-Centered, and Christian counseling.
I am an LPCC in the state of California. My focus areas of treatment are: depression, anxiety, ADHD, goal-setting, relationship issues, family issues, self-esteem, codependency, and stress. The therapeutic approaches I utilize include, but are not limited to, CBT, ACT, Brainspotting, Mindfulness, Person-Centered, and Christian counseling.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Julie Flores, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Julie Flores
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hi, my name is Julie Flores. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). My approach is client-focused and tailored to meet individual needs. I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, chronic pain, issues of the aging and elderly, and life changes. I have practiced social work and therapy for many years and look forward to providing services and helping clients improve their lives. My focus is primarily on providing services to adults with a variety of concerns such as depression, anxiety, and adjustment-type issues. I focus on those with mild to moderate mental health concerns and would be happy to evaluate any other concerns.
Hi, my name is Julie Flores. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). My approach is client-focused and tailored to meet individual needs. I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief, chronic pain, issues of the aging and elderly, and life changes. I have practiced social work and therapy for many years and look forward to providing services and helping clients improve their lives. My focus is primarily on providing services to adults with a variety of concerns such as depression, anxiety, and adjustment-type issues. I focus on those with mild to moderate mental health concerns and would be happy to evaluate any other concerns.
(858) 428-2692 View (858) 428-2692
Photo of Dr. Juliana Yam, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Juliana Yam
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Couples Therapy: Stress can take a toll on our relationships. By using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Techniques, I can help you recognize the negative cycle that you get caught up in. We’ll work together to begin to change that cycle, improve your communication, and strengthen your bond.
Couples Therapy: Stress can take a toll on our relationships. By using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Techniques, I can help you recognize the negative cycle that you get caught up in. We’ll work together to begin to change that cycle, improve your communication, and strengthen your bond.
(408) 409-8384 View (408) 409-8384

Online Therapists

Photo of Tammie Makely, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Tammie Makely
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Fresno, CA 93711
Life got you down? Are you feeling stuck, frustrated, or upset with your current experiences? Many of us are but it's often difficult for us to see it and, for some, even harder to admit it. When people experience any form of trauma, it is not uncommon for them to need help and I would love to be the person to help you get through your life challenges. My clients say my down-to-Earth, friendly, and calming disposition help them feel safe and comfortable so that they can bridge a path on their own away from the trauma.
Life got you down? Are you feeling stuck, frustrated, or upset with your current experiences? Many of us are but it's often difficult for us to see it and, for some, even harder to admit it. When people experience any form of trauma, it is not uncommon for them to need help and I would love to be the person to help you get through your life challenges. My clients say my down-to-Earth, friendly, and calming disposition help them feel safe and comfortable so that they can bridge a path on their own away from the trauma.
(559) 543-9778 View (559) 543-9778
Photo of Michael Scherbinski, Psychologist, PhD
Michael Scherbinski
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Prometheus Psychological Services offers a full range of outpatient psychological services. The services include psychological assessment and a variety of therapies. People use our services for depression, anxiety, and problems in relationships. Treatment can also be utilized to address anger, marital conflict, and low self-esteem. Work with children and adolescents can focus on behavior problems at home and at school, developmental disabilities, and attention deficit disorders. We can also tailor programs for individuals with learning disabilities and problems with daily living. Many athletes are turning to us to help them reach their peak performance. Together we can develop a specific program tailored to your particular sport and your unique strengths and weaknesses. Our services can help athletes manage anxiety, develop relaxation techniques, and enhance leadership skills. Others have sought our services for help with a lack of consistency, to address difficulty maintaining focus, or to aid with recovery from injury. We can assist with goal setting, confidence, and visualizing yourself being successful, in an attempt to help you reach your full potential.
Prometheus Psychological Services offers a full range of outpatient psychological services. The services include psychological assessment and a variety of therapies. People use our services for depression, anxiety, and problems in relationships. Treatment can also be utilized to address anger, marital conflict, and low self-esteem. Work with children and adolescents can focus on behavior problems at home and at school, developmental disabilities, and attention deficit disorders. We can also tailor programs for individuals with learning disabilities and problems with daily living. Many athletes are turning to us to help them reach their peak performance. Together we can develop a specific program tailored to your particular sport and your unique strengths and weaknesses. Our services can help athletes manage anxiety, develop relaxation techniques, and enhance leadership skills. Others have sought our services for help with a lack of consistency, to address difficulty maintaining focus, or to aid with recovery from injury. We can assist with goal setting, confidence, and visualizing yourself being successful, in an attempt to help you reach your full potential.
(805) 749-2742 View (805) 749-2742
Photo of Jesse Tatum, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Jesse Tatum
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
You may be feeling lost, disconnected, or overwhelmed by recurring patterns that seem hard to change — whether from trauma, grief, depression, or relationship difficulties. Many long for healing, deeper connection, and renewed meaning in life. Feeling understood and empowered to move forward can seem challenging, especially if it’s unclear where to begin.
You may be feeling lost, disconnected, or overwhelmed by recurring patterns that seem hard to change — whether from trauma, grief, depression, or relationship difficulties. Many long for healing, deeper connection, and renewed meaning in life. Feeling understood and empowered to move forward can seem challenging, especially if it’s unclear where to begin.
(805) 978-4846 View (805) 978-4846
Photo of Hannah Wright, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Hannah Wright
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
2 Endorsed
Morro Bay, CA 93442
I understand that searching for a therapist can be a difficult decision. I believe the therapeutic process should be collaborative. You are the expert in your own life. My goal is to offer a therapeutic space that is collaborative, compassionate, and directive. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and transitions. Whether you’re facing struggles with identity, relationships, career, or mental health I’m here to help you develop coping skills, build resilience, and create a deeper understanding of the different parts of yourself.
I understand that searching for a therapist can be a difficult decision. I believe the therapeutic process should be collaborative. You are the expert in your own life. My goal is to offer a therapeutic space that is collaborative, compassionate, and directive. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and transitions. Whether you’re facing struggles with identity, relationships, career, or mental health I’m here to help you develop coping skills, build resilience, and create a deeper understanding of the different parts of yourself.
(805) 664-2046 View (805) 664-2046
Photo of Dawn Foster-Ogle, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Dawn Foster-Ogle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Cambria, CA 93428
Free yourself of the problems that hold you back from finding true freedom and happiness. All it takes is the desire for a better life and the right tools. Whether you are having difficulties in your relationship or are experiencing personal difficulties, I am here to help in the areas you feel stuck. Some of these areas may include problems communicating, difficulties relating to one another, parenting problems, depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, eating disorders, self harming behaviors, substance abuse/dependence, working through grief or adjusting to life changes. You don't need to suffer alone. Transform your life now!
Free yourself of the problems that hold you back from finding true freedom and happiness. All it takes is the desire for a better life and the right tools. Whether you are having difficulties in your relationship or are experiencing personal difficulties, I am here to help in the areas you feel stuck. Some of these areas may include problems communicating, difficulties relating to one another, parenting problems, depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, eating disorders, self harming behaviors, substance abuse/dependence, working through grief or adjusting to life changes. You don't need to suffer alone. Transform your life now!
(805) 622-2447 View (805) 622-2447

See more therapy options for 93210

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 93210

10+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in 93210 who prioritize treating:

83% Depression
75% Anxiety
58% Coping Skills
50% Grief
50% Trauma and PTSD
50% Self Esteem
50% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
92% Cigna and Evernorth
92% Blue Cross

How Therapists in 93210 see their clients

83% Online Only
17% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 93210?

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.