Photo of Carla Sotelo, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carla Sotelo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orcutt, CA 93455
Anxiety and the feeling of overwhelm are consuming you. You have experienced stressful /traumatic events. You avoid, isolate or engage in safety behaviors to diminish the distress. You’ve learned to suppress your feelings and now struggle to identify/tolerate difficult emotions. You operate from a mindset of perfectionism and often feel like “you’re not good enough”. You are extremely preoccupied with your body image and/or obsess over food/calories. You are exhausted and want to feel better. Relief is possible and I can help you. I have seen many lives change for the better with the support of therapy and yours can too ;).
Anxiety and the feeling of overwhelm are consuming you. You have experienced stressful /traumatic events. You avoid, isolate or engage in safety behaviors to diminish the distress. You’ve learned to suppress your feelings and now struggle to identify/tolerate difficult emotions. You operate from a mindset of perfectionism and often feel like “you’re not good enough”. You are extremely preoccupied with your body image and/or obsess over food/calories. You are exhausted and want to feel better. Relief is possible and I can help you. I have seen many lives change for the better with the support of therapy and yours can too ;).
(805) 900-3375 View (805) 900-3375
Photo of Marisa Patel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marisa Patel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Maria, CA 93455
You aren’t feeling like yourself, or perhaps you’re trying to figure out who ‘yourself’ is. You’ve become distant from your friends and family, can’t seem to focus on work or school, and are constantly worrying about the future. All of this has left you feeling overwhelmed and consumed by your thoughts, and in need of extra support. As your therapist, I’ll help you identify and shift emotions, thoughts, and patterns that are keeping you stuck. My goal is to broaden self-awareness, give you the tools to deal with future challenges, and guide you in achieving wellness and a positive sense of self.
You aren’t feeling like yourself, or perhaps you’re trying to figure out who ‘yourself’ is. You’ve become distant from your friends and family, can’t seem to focus on work or school, and are constantly worrying about the future. All of this has left you feeling overwhelmed and consumed by your thoughts, and in need of extra support. As your therapist, I’ll help you identify and shift emotions, thoughts, and patterns that are keeping you stuck. My goal is to broaden self-awareness, give you the tools to deal with future challenges, and guide you in achieving wellness and a positive sense of self.
(805) 422-7096 View (805) 422-7096
Photo of Jonathan Gee, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jonathan Gee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orcutt, CA 93455
Now accepting new clients! I believe that every person strives to find meaning and fulfillment in life, and I consider myself privileged to help others walk that journey. As a licensed therapist, I have worked with clients with diverse backgrounds and a range of issues--from relational struggles to severe and persistent mental illness. My treatment approach is collaborative in that I work with you, the expert of your own story, to identify goals, personal strengths, and specific strategies you can employ. My hope is that you will find therapy to be transformative and empowering, giving you tools you can use throughout life.
Now accepting new clients! I believe that every person strives to find meaning and fulfillment in life, and I consider myself privileged to help others walk that journey. As a licensed therapist, I have worked with clients with diverse backgrounds and a range of issues--from relational struggles to severe and persistent mental illness. My treatment approach is collaborative in that I work with you, the expert of your own story, to identify goals, personal strengths, and specific strategies you can employ. My hope is that you will find therapy to be transformative and empowering, giving you tools you can use throughout life.
(805) 920-8953 View (805) 920-8953
Photo of Claudia Kindell-Vandermolen, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claudia Kindell-Vandermolen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Maria, CA 93455
Life can present us with numerous challenges, and it takes great courage to seek assistance in navigating those difficulties. My approach to therapy is rooted in evidence-based practices, tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. I believe in creating a warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative therapeutic environment where you will feel safe to explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
Life can present us with numerous challenges, and it takes great courage to seek assistance in navigating those difficulties. My approach to therapy is rooted in evidence-based practices, tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. I believe in creating a warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative therapeutic environment where you will feel safe to explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
(805) 576-8308 View (805) 576-8308
Photo of Sara Smith, LPCC
Sara Smith
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Orcutt, CA 93455
Hi There, I'm Sara! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I was licensed in 2018 and have been working in mental health for over 10 years! I am based in Los Angeles/Orange County California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I have specialized experience working with culturally diverse adults struggling with various mental health conditions or those hoping for self-growth. I also help couples who want to develop deeper intimacy, increase emotional safety, and communicate more effectively with one another.
Hi There, I'm Sara! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I was licensed in 2018 and have been working in mental health for over 10 years! I am based in Los Angeles/Orange County California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I have specialized experience working with culturally diverse adults struggling with various mental health conditions or those hoping for self-growth. I also help couples who want to develop deeper intimacy, increase emotional safety, and communicate more effectively with one another.
(805) 608-2935 View (805) 608-2935
Photo of Moises Caro, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Moises Caro
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orcutt, CA 93455
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes the challenges of life can be overwhelming. We may feel stagnant, unbalanced, and/or ambivalent. We can either suffer in the current conditions, or be responsible for changing them. The choice is ours. I utilize well-researched, evidence-based practices to help clients develop concrete skills and techniques to effectively manage a variety of concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, interpersonal problems, and relationship issues. My focus is to build a collaborative relationship and assist clients in making positive changes in their lives by applying practical and proven strategies. I place importance on self-awareness, exploring how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected.
Sometimes the challenges of life can be overwhelming. We may feel stagnant, unbalanced, and/or ambivalent. We can either suffer in the current conditions, or be responsible for changing them. The choice is ours. I utilize well-researched, evidence-based practices to help clients develop concrete skills and techniques to effectively manage a variety of concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, interpersonal problems, and relationship issues. My focus is to build a collaborative relationship and assist clients in making positive changes in their lives by applying practical and proven strategies. I place importance on self-awareness, exploring how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected.
(805) 465-6239 View (805) 465-6239
Photo of Robin Inouye, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robin Inouye
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orcutt, CA 93455
Hello! My name is Robin Inouye, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with California License 15119. The primary focus of my practice is on treating mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, including trauma resulting in PTSD, and helping those coping with stressful life transitions, including military lifestyle issues. Although I only treat adults at this time, I have extensive training and expertise in working with children of all ages.
Hello! My name is Robin Inouye, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with California License 15119. The primary focus of my practice is on treating mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, including trauma resulting in PTSD, and helping those coping with stressful life transitions, including military lifestyle issues. Although I only treat adults at this time, I have extensive training and expertise in working with children of all ages.
(805) 243-3703 View (805) 243-3703
Photo of Heidi A Villasenor, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heidi A Villasenor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Heidi Villasenor and I love working with people of various backgrounds and cultures. Some of my areas of focus are, women's health, issues in adolescence, relationships, parenting, anxiety, depression, and improving self-confidence. It is my firm belief that we all possess all of the tools needed to live a life of joy and fulfillment. Sometimes, we just need the right assistance to uncover our greatest potential. My ideal client is the individual that might find themselves often stuck on the “hampster wheel” of negative thoughts and emotions and are seeking more peace and clarity.
My name is Heidi Villasenor and I love working with people of various backgrounds and cultures. Some of my areas of focus are, women's health, issues in adolescence, relationships, parenting, anxiety, depression, and improving self-confidence. It is my firm belief that we all possess all of the tools needed to live a life of joy and fulfillment. Sometimes, we just need the right assistance to uncover our greatest potential. My ideal client is the individual that might find themselves often stuck on the “hampster wheel” of negative thoughts and emotions and are seeking more peace and clarity.
(805) 694-0146 View (805) 694-0146
Photo of Hiroko Gamino, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hiroko Gamino
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Maria, CA 93455
I can work all ages clients with a diverse population and cultural backgrounds. I utilized a system approach focusing on narrative, collaborative, and solution focus approaches. I also utilized cognitive behavioral therapy at the request of the client. I always would like to support others and assist them in improving their situation.
I can work all ages clients with a diverse population and cultural backgrounds. I utilized a system approach focusing on narrative, collaborative, and solution focus approaches. I also utilized cognitive behavioral therapy at the request of the client. I always would like to support others and assist them in improving their situation.
(805) 926-6760 View (805) 926-6760
Photo of Julia Reynoso, MS, LMFT, Online, Video, Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julia Reynoso
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, Online, Video, Therapy
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed in life or looking to make changes in your current situation? Allow me to provide you a safe and supportive environment to begin the process of developing and achieving your goals. I work with adults in addressing relationship problems, academic difficulties, goal setting, and identity development. My goal is to walk with you as you discover areas of difficulty and gain better insight into your life. We can work together to make necessary changes to create the balance you desire.
Are you feeling overwhelmed in life or looking to make changes in your current situation? Allow me to provide you a safe and supportive environment to begin the process of developing and achieving your goals. I work with adults in addressing relationship problems, academic difficulties, goal setting, and identity development. My goal is to walk with you as you discover areas of difficulty and gain better insight into your life. We can work together to make necessary changes to create the balance you desire.
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Photo of Dr. Candace Bendele, PhD, LMFT, BCBA-D, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Candace Bendele
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Santa Maria, CA 93455
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist, as well as a licensed behavior analyst with a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis and a Master's degree in Psychology. I have 15 years of experience providing mental health and behavioral health services to adults, teens, families, couples, and children as young as 2 years old, as well as children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and various developmental disabilities. My goal is to help you help yourself and develop a strong sense of self by discovering the root cause of the issue that you are having within a supportive and safe environment.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist, as well as a licensed behavior analyst with a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis and a Master's degree in Psychology. I have 15 years of experience providing mental health and behavioral health services to adults, teens, families, couples, and children as young as 2 years old, as well as children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and various developmental disabilities. My goal is to help you help yourself and develop a strong sense of self by discovering the root cause of the issue that you are having within a supportive and safe environment.
(805) 552-5239 View (805) 552-5239
Photo of Andrew Ray Ayala, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrew Ray Ayala
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orcutt, CA 93455
If you find yourself here, I assume you are searching for answers. You are looking to make a change so you can feel better about some thing or some things that is/are giving you difficulty in your life. I am happy to tell you that you are on the right path. It is normal to come to a place in life where you have questions that are difficult to answer. It happens to everyone.
If you find yourself here, I assume you are searching for answers. You are looking to make a change so you can feel better about some thing or some things that is/are giving you difficulty in your life. I am happy to tell you that you are on the right path. It is normal to come to a place in life where you have questions that are difficult to answer. It happens to everyone.
(805) 946-2534 View (805) 946-2534
Photo of Anita Clark, PhD, Psychological Associate
Anita Clark
Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I enjoy working with all ages but especially adolescents. I am most experienced in helping clients who deal with anxiety and those who are survivors of trauma. I also assess for Autism Spectrum Disorder and Learning Disabilities.
I enjoy working with all ages but especially adolescents. I am most experienced in helping clients who deal with anxiety and those who are survivors of trauma. I also assess for Autism Spectrum Disorder and Learning Disabilities.
(805) 567-2428 View (805) 567-2428
Photo of Natasha Quintero, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natasha Quintero
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orcutt, CA 93455
Currently accepting new clients aged 12 years and older. I offer sessions Monday - Thursday 8am to 5pm. The human condition is filled with interactions, exchanges, and events that can lead to debilitating stress, lack of focus, despair, and a sense of total loss. These adverse experiences do not define us, but they can lead to the development of maladaptive thoughts, and behaviors. I look at your transgenerational resilience and foster growth, healing, and recovery. My main objective is to support you in the various stages of change, with my professional & human skills. I look forward to joining you on your journey.
Currently accepting new clients aged 12 years and older. I offer sessions Monday - Thursday 8am to 5pm. The human condition is filled with interactions, exchanges, and events that can lead to debilitating stress, lack of focus, despair, and a sense of total loss. These adverse experiences do not define us, but they can lead to the development of maladaptive thoughts, and behaviors. I look at your transgenerational resilience and foster growth, healing, and recovery. My main objective is to support you in the various stages of change, with my professional & human skills. I look forward to joining you on your journey.
(805) 800-8667 View (805) 800-8667
Photo of Shanti Sanchez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shanti Sanchez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orcutt, CA 93455
Welcome to my profile! My name is Shanti Sanchez, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Walnut Creek, California. I offer mental health services to clients throughout the state of California via telehealth. I work with individuals 18 and older and specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and eating disorders, using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused CBT (TF-CBT), and Family Based Treatment for Eating Disorders (FBT). My vocation is to help others and I am excited to offer my supportive services to you.
Welcome to my profile! My name is Shanti Sanchez, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Walnut Creek, California. I offer mental health services to clients throughout the state of California via telehealth. I work with individuals 18 and older and specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and eating disorders, using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused CBT (TF-CBT), and Family Based Treatment for Eating Disorders (FBT). My vocation is to help others and I am excited to offer my supportive services to you.
(805) 590-9785 View (805) 590-9785
Photo of Celia Barry, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Celia Barry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Maria, CA 93455
Hello, I'm Celia! My name is Celia Barry and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based out of Waddell, Arizona, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, and stress to help my clients continue in their journey to feeling better. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for young adults and adults who may be dealing with the challenges and stressors of life. This often takes the form of stress, anxiety, and depression.
Hello, I'm Celia! My name is Celia Barry and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based out of Waddell, Arizona, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, and stress to help my clients continue in their journey to feeling better. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for young adults and adults who may be dealing with the challenges and stressors of life. This often takes the form of stress, anxiety, and depression.
(805) 977-5505 View (805) 977-5505
Photo of Brenda A Garcia, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Brenda A Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orcutt, CA 93455
Not accepting new clients
Stressful, scary, and life-threatening events happen and can initiate strong emotions and physical reactions that can persist long after the event. Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, problems with alcohol and or drugs? Are you having difficulty at school, your job, your relationships? Are you overwhelmed and stressed out? Are you feeling responsible for solving others’ problems, worried about a loved one, general sense of helplessness, anxiety, or depression? Therapy can help you reduce stress, anxiety, depression, decrease in unhelpful thoughts and self-harming behaviors. Therapy can help you find hope in darkness.
Stressful, scary, and life-threatening events happen and can initiate strong emotions and physical reactions that can persist long after the event. Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, problems with alcohol and or drugs? Are you having difficulty at school, your job, your relationships? Are you overwhelmed and stressed out? Are you feeling responsible for solving others’ problems, worried about a loved one, general sense of helplessness, anxiety, or depression? Therapy can help you reduce stress, anxiety, depression, decrease in unhelpful thoughts and self-harming behaviors. Therapy can help you find hope in darkness.
(805) 918-6239 View (805) 918-6239
Photo of Ana Champagne - Orcutt Marriage and Family Counseling, INC , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Orcutt Marriage and Family Counseling, INC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orcutt, CA 93455
I am currently welcoming new clients and offer support for those navigating relationship. My approach provides a safe space for exploring and resolving conflicts, fostering insights into your feelings and communication patterns. Together, we will work on enhancing emotional awareness and building interpersonal skills, empowering you to cultivate healthier and more fulfilling relationships. I value the unique experiences each client brings to our therapeutic journey and strive to walk gently alongside you.
I am currently welcoming new clients and offer support for those navigating relationship. My approach provides a safe space for exploring and resolving conflicts, fostering insights into your feelings and communication patterns. Together, we will work on enhancing emotional awareness and building interpersonal skills, empowering you to cultivate healthier and more fulfilling relationships. I value the unique experiences each client brings to our therapeutic journey and strive to walk gently alongside you.
(805) 307-3289 View (805) 307-3289
Photo of Dr. Holli Stewart - Dr Holli Stewart  & Associates in Counseling , MS , MA, LMFT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr Holli Stewart & Associates in Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Maria, CA 93455
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
(805) 876-9092 View (805) 876-9092
Photo of Vanessa Paul - Vanessa Paul, MFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vanessa Paul, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orcutt, CA 93455
I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental and collaborative working relationship with each client in therapy. I believe it is important to meet a client where they're at in order to facilitate awareness and change.
I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental and collaborative working relationship with each client in therapy. I believe it is important to meet a client where they're at in order to facilitate awareness and change.
(805) 395-4541 View (805) 395-4541
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 93455

80+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 93455 who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
91% Depression
82% Coping Skills
71% Self Esteem
70% Relationship Issues
67% Grief
66% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

69% Aetna
65% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
63% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 93455 see their clients

85% In Person and Online
15% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
10% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 93455?

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.