Therapists in 93901
![Photo of Rick Peterson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0f3d240-9cf7-4d51-8527-78b1fc84e671/1/320x400.jpeg)
Psychotherapy offers a unique opportunity to examine issues that impact our quality of life, as well as a powerful tool to promote true healing and lasting change. I work together with Individuals and families to help bring awareness and healing to the source of their emotional stress and pain, to hopefully enable them to live their lives more fully and contently. I have over 16 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, children and families in various practice settings, including private practice, schools, and public service agencies.
Psychotherapy offers a unique opportunity to examine issues that impact our quality of life, as well as a powerful tool to promote true healing and lasting change. I work together with Individuals and families to help bring awareness and healing to the source of their emotional stress and pain, to hopefully enable them to live their lives more fully and contently. I have over 16 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, children and families in various practice settings, including private practice, schools, and public service agencies.
![Photo of Caryn Torres, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60c99483-88f8-4cd7-b4c6-9b0f699b9d08/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are there certain aspects of your life that you are dissatisfied with? Are there struggles within that leave you drained? Anxiety, depression, work distress, relationship and family conflict, trauma, grief and loss are all a part of being human. In therapy, I offer support, tools, help with emotional regulation, reframing your false self beliefs and healing your inner child. From the school sandbox, to the hospital, to the privacy of a quiet office, I will meet you where you are at without judgement.
Are there certain aspects of your life that you are dissatisfied with? Are there struggles within that leave you drained? Anxiety, depression, work distress, relationship and family conflict, trauma, grief and loss are all a part of being human. In therapy, I offer support, tools, help with emotional regulation, reframing your false self beliefs and healing your inner child. From the school sandbox, to the hospital, to the privacy of a quiet office, I will meet you where you are at without judgement.
![Photo of Erika J Olivarez, MA, LMFT, ACC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48e67147-153b-47b3-ba05-2da0e7f0d791/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erika is a Mental Performance Coach & Mental Health Therapist with a focus on cultivating growth in elite athletes & high performers. She helps others work on their mindset & performance goals. The goal is mental strength & endurance from within to win the game. Her style is a partnership helping clients overcome performance barriers related to performance anxiety, negative thought patterns, perfectionism, pressure & competition stress. Empowering athletes & high performers out of their comfort zone & accessing their confidence to maximize their strengths. Making the uncomfortable an opportunity to reach their success!
Erika is a Mental Performance Coach & Mental Health Therapist with a focus on cultivating growth in elite athletes & high performers. She helps others work on their mindset & performance goals. The goal is mental strength & endurance from within to win the game. Her style is a partnership helping clients overcome performance barriers related to performance anxiety, negative thought patterns, perfectionism, pressure & competition stress. Empowering athletes & high performers out of their comfort zone & accessing their confidence to maximize their strengths. Making the uncomfortable an opportunity to reach their success!
![Photo of Maria Henry-Castaneda, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfe1a34f-4d99-4816-b0eb-9ca641b8842e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you having a difficult time navigating through uncertainty and life’s challenges? Has it been difficult for you to make changes in your life and find self-fulfillment? I offer a safe place where you may feel comfortable while uncovering deep rooted pain and hurt that has been keeping you from moving forward in life. I am a person-centered therapist. I meet you where you are; meaning, you are in full control of your life. I will assist you to navigate and gain personal insight into yourself. Each individual who comes to therapy is unique and requires individualized interventions, treatment and goals.
Are you having a difficult time navigating through uncertainty and life’s challenges? Has it been difficult for you to make changes in your life and find self-fulfillment? I offer a safe place where you may feel comfortable while uncovering deep rooted pain and hurt that has been keeping you from moving forward in life. I am a person-centered therapist. I meet you where you are; meaning, you are in full control of your life. I will assist you to navigate and gain personal insight into yourself. Each individual who comes to therapy is unique and requires individualized interventions, treatment and goals.
![Photo of Jose Medina, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0abb73eb-67d3-48d3-a70d-5a5b8dda60f6/2/320x400.png)
Therapy isn't just a space where we develop insight into how we got to where we are, but a space that we take to consider who we want to move forward into becoming. You make sense in context, and it's in that context that we'll work together to support you in overcoming barriers to becoming the version of yourself you strive to be.
Therapy isn't just a space where we develop insight into how we got to where we are, but a space that we take to consider who we want to move forward into becoming. You make sense in context, and it's in that context that we'll work together to support you in overcoming barriers to becoming the version of yourself you strive to be.
![Photo of Evelyne Gonzalez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74335a01-ba8a-4ef5-b378-b4573fe6ea2a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! I provide online individual therapy services to adults through out California. My goal is to be able to work with you to be able to gain understanding and skills to overcome fear and anxiety, learn to navigate through certain thoughts and emotions to be able to get to a place where you are able to implement better life practices. If you have a lot on your plate, experiencing one transition to another or difficulties and increased stress and/or trying to balance it all, it could definitely feel overwhelming.
Hi there! I provide online individual therapy services to adults through out California. My goal is to be able to work with you to be able to gain understanding and skills to overcome fear and anxiety, learn to navigate through certain thoughts and emotions to be able to get to a place where you are able to implement better life practices. If you have a lot on your plate, experiencing one transition to another or difficulties and increased stress and/or trying to balance it all, it could definitely feel overwhelming.
![Photo of Enrique Morales Bravo, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43d28991-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Living in today's world is complicated and often stressful. If you feel stuck, insecure, stressed, fearful and depressed I am here to assist you to overcome your struggles. Working together you will learn effective coping skills to reduce the effects of stress, trauma, and emotional anguish. If you are looking for a safe place to freely express your emotions, receive unconditional acceptance, be supported and have guidance on resolving your everyday challenges feel free to contact me. I have the experienced of working with individuals, couples, children, and families of diverse cultural backgrounds.
Living in today's world is complicated and often stressful. If you feel stuck, insecure, stressed, fearful and depressed I am here to assist you to overcome your struggles. Working together you will learn effective coping skills to reduce the effects of stress, trauma, and emotional anguish. If you are looking for a safe place to freely express your emotions, receive unconditional acceptance, be supported and have guidance on resolving your everyday challenges feel free to contact me. I have the experienced of working with individuals, couples, children, and families of diverse cultural backgrounds.
![Photo of Hildur R Simonardottir, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46d0f595-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 18 years of experience. I see children, adolescents, and adults in individual therapy who are struggling with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, life cycle challenges, trauma/abuse and many more. People cope with and try to manage their past and present to the best of their ability. However, at times it can be overwhelming and may also create additional barriers as people often outgrow their coping skills, or their skills and tools are simply no longer working for them.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 18 years of experience. I see children, adolescents, and adults in individual therapy who are struggling with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, life cycle challenges, trauma/abuse and many more. People cope with and try to manage their past and present to the best of their ability. However, at times it can be overwhelming and may also create additional barriers as people often outgrow their coping skills, or their skills and tools are simply no longer working for them.
![Photo of Jacquelyn Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9872d103-9c0a-4e87-b112-6f68a7d171b9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Inner peace comes when we accept ourselves, live in the present, find hope for the future and consciously choose how we respond to the world around us. Let’s embark on this healing journey together because you are truly worth it! My theoretical framework is whole person focused (biological, psychological, social and spiritual), client centered, strength based and is collaborative/relational in nature. I have 13 years of work experience in the field of mental health and social work and have practiced psychotherapy services for 9 years.
Inner peace comes when we accept ourselves, live in the present, find hope for the future and consciously choose how we respond to the world around us. Let’s embark on this healing journey together because you are truly worth it! My theoretical framework is whole person focused (biological, psychological, social and spiritual), client centered, strength based and is collaborative/relational in nature. I have 13 years of work experience in the field of mental health and social work and have practiced psychotherapy services for 9 years.
![Photo of Mary Unruh-Tipton, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50de02d7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client has some insight and understands that therapy is work. It's not just about having me (or anyone else) solve their problems -- it's something that has to be done jointly. They also need to be willing to listen and change.
My ideal client has some insight and understands that therapy is work. It's not just about having me (or anyone else) solve their problems -- it's something that has to be done jointly. They also need to be willing to listen and change.
![Photo of Athena Yoneda, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd725499-5337-4eb8-8380-c175fb41397d/1/320x400.png)
Athena Yoneda
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salinas, CA 93901
Not accepting new clients
Life can feel heavy sometimes when we deal with relationships, identity, trauma, life
transitions, or minority stress. If you’re struggling with these complex issues, I’m here to
help. I’m Dr. Athena Yoneda, a licensed clinical psychologist. I specialize in trauma-
related disorders, PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief, and adjustment disorders. I have an
extensive background in highly supported trauma therapies. As a biracial person, I’m passionate about multiculturalism and mindful of all identities. I have expertise providing support for older adolescents, adults, bi/multi-racial individuals, LGBTQI+, and couples.
Life can feel heavy sometimes when we deal with relationships, identity, trauma, life
transitions, or minority stress. If you’re struggling with these complex issues, I’m here to
help. I’m Dr. Athena Yoneda, a licensed clinical psychologist. I specialize in trauma-
related disorders, PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief, and adjustment disorders. I have an
extensive background in highly supported trauma therapies. As a biracial person, I’m passionate about multiculturalism and mindful of all identities. I have expertise providing support for older adolescents, adults, bi/multi-racial individuals, LGBTQI+, and couples.
15 Second Videos
![Photo of Elizabeth Marie Rodriguez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51e87bc9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
“Therapy, yeah that’s not for me”, may have been a thought that has crossed your mind once, twice or many times. So look at this as a huge step in the right direction for you, as you look at profiles and possibly make a decision to invest in yourself. I've been in your shoes and looking for a therapist can be scary and intimidating. Your story is for you to share when you’re ready and with someone that you trust . You may be at a point in your journey in which you are experiencing difficult and unexpected feelings and emotions that you are trying to make sense of or find answers to. That is where I hope to help you.
“Therapy, yeah that’s not for me”, may have been a thought that has crossed your mind once, twice or many times. So look at this as a huge step in the right direction for you, as you look at profiles and possibly make a decision to invest in yourself. I've been in your shoes and looking for a therapist can be scary and intimidating. Your story is for you to share when you’re ready and with someone that you trust . You may be at a point in your journey in which you are experiencing difficult and unexpected feelings and emotions that you are trying to make sense of or find answers to. That is where I hope to help you.
![Photo of Carla M Romero, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c46e619-47dc-43b8-a274-0fe33260f1ff/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking for a place to explore your thoughts, feelings, and worries without shame or judgment? The decision to seek out therapy is a personal choice made by many teens and adults. Sometimes my clients choose to work on a long-standing mental health struggle such as depression, anxiety, or grief and loss issues. Therapy is useful during times of significant transition or stress such as loss of a loved one, launching into adulthood, bullying, or trauma. Therapy is right for anyone who has a desire to learn more about themselves and make positive changes in their overall wellness, relationships, or daily life.
Are you looking for a place to explore your thoughts, feelings, and worries without shame or judgment? The decision to seek out therapy is a personal choice made by many teens and adults. Sometimes my clients choose to work on a long-standing mental health struggle such as depression, anxiety, or grief and loss issues. Therapy is useful during times of significant transition or stress such as loss of a loved one, launching into adulthood, bullying, or trauma. Therapy is right for anyone who has a desire to learn more about themselves and make positive changes in their overall wellness, relationships, or daily life.
![Photo of Tricia Lara - Connections Family and Behavioral Services, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f78a00f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Connections Family and Behavioral Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salinas, CA 93901
Does the world seem chaotic and to not make sense? Does it seem like you should be able to do more, but just can’t? Does it seem like there are rules to life everyone else knows? Does it seem like when things go wrong, it’s your fault, but you don’t know why? Are you exhausted from ‘playing the role' of yourself in your life, trying to ‘do it right'? All families want peace, all individuals want greater ease and understanding in their lives. With over 25 years of providing services to exceptional individuals, I know the importance of having the right support for the need at hand.
Does the world seem chaotic and to not make sense? Does it seem like you should be able to do more, but just can’t? Does it seem like there are rules to life everyone else knows? Does it seem like when things go wrong, it’s your fault, but you don’t know why? Are you exhausted from ‘playing the role' of yourself in your life, trying to ‘do it right'? All families want peace, all individuals want greater ease and understanding in their lives. With over 25 years of providing services to exceptional individuals, I know the importance of having the right support for the need at hand.
![Photo of Corrina Zandakis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66cb0829-b5c3-4911-8349-dc75ef9aefac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Corrina Zandakis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Has anxiety or depression become an everyday companion? Do you feel like food has taken over your life? Are you missing out on important events or activities because you can’t focus on anything outside of how you look or what others might be thinking about you? Maybe you’ve been struggling with self-criticism or setting appropriate boundaries with yourself or others. Life is hard enough without us getting in our own way. You deserve to live a life that aligns with your values or priorities; a life filled with joy and success, however you want to define it.
Has anxiety or depression become an everyday companion? Do you feel like food has taken over your life? Are you missing out on important events or activities because you can’t focus on anything outside of how you look or what others might be thinking about you? Maybe you’ve been struggling with self-criticism or setting appropriate boundaries with yourself or others. Life is hard enough without us getting in our own way. You deserve to live a life that aligns with your values or priorities; a life filled with joy and success, however you want to define it.
![Photo of Omar Cruz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c873165-4838-43aa-a761-2dc0d23ebed6/3/320x400.jpeg)
My clients are motivated to engage in purposeful work that will allow them to gain insight into problems negatively affecting them, including: sadness, worries, trauma, anger outbursts, grief, life transitions and chronic stress. Our collaborative work will allow space for you to reflect, explore and learn valuable skills to help you navigate life stressors.
My clients are motivated to engage in purposeful work that will allow them to gain insight into problems negatively affecting them, including: sadness, worries, trauma, anger outbursts, grief, life transitions and chronic stress. Our collaborative work will allow space for you to reflect, explore and learn valuable skills to help you navigate life stressors.
![Photo of Marian Carapezza, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c133663-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
People seek therapy because something in their life is not working. They are unhappy. I believe change is always possible and that I can help people live a fuller life. I have trust in everyone's ability to heal. Therapy is a process of being with another human being who wants to change, listening to his/her story, witnessing his/her pain, confusion and uncertainty. I believe that healing comes from acceptance of others and ourselves, remembering our strengths and developing healthy relationships. Therapy is a practice of Mindfulness; giving deep attention to what is happening in the present moment.
People seek therapy because something in their life is not working. They are unhappy. I believe change is always possible and that I can help people live a fuller life. I have trust in everyone's ability to heal. Therapy is a process of being with another human being who wants to change, listening to his/her story, witnessing his/her pain, confusion and uncertainty. I believe that healing comes from acceptance of others and ourselves, remembering our strengths and developing healthy relationships. Therapy is a practice of Mindfulness; giving deep attention to what is happening in the present moment.
![Photo of Sally Kay Huerta, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a3f178f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sally Kay Huerta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salinas, CA 93901
I am a bilingual and bicultural Mexican-American licensed therapist. I have extensive practice assisting survivors of sexual abuse. It is my passion to help all people who might be going through a difficult time and/or have experienced trauma. My goal is give my clients the coping skills and tools to help them grow and spread their wings. I would like to be able to help as many people as possible to help them hurt less, cease any feeling of guilt or shame, and thrive into confident individuals.
I am a bilingual and bicultural Mexican-American licensed therapist. I have extensive practice assisting survivors of sexual abuse. It is my passion to help all people who might be going through a difficult time and/or have experienced trauma. My goal is give my clients the coping skills and tools to help them grow and spread their wings. I would like to be able to help as many people as possible to help them hurt less, cease any feeling of guilt or shame, and thrive into confident individuals.
![Photo of Cesar G. Anaya (Hablo Español), LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d868ae1-0a2c-4687-8920-7100a6f94241/6/320x400.jpeg)
Hablo Español! Spanish speaking Therapist. I have over 20+ years of experience working in various clinical settings and have extensive experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds. Currently my population focus is working with Adults, Youth, and Couples. I am extremely proud to offer all my Therapy services in Spanish, I was born in Mexico and I am a first generation college graduate. Click on my professional website for more info about my services: https:/cesar-anaya.clientsecure.me
Hablo Español! Spanish speaking Therapist. I have over 20+ years of experience working in various clinical settings and have extensive experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds. Currently my population focus is working with Adults, Youth, and Couples. I am extremely proud to offer all my Therapy services in Spanish, I was born in Mexico and I am a first generation college graduate. Click on my professional website for more info about my services: https:/cesar-anaya.clientsecure.me
![Photo of Melissa K Garcia, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0061f2b-02b5-4f2a-86aa-37d87b548418/3/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa K Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Salinas, CA 93901
Not accepting new clients
Hi there, I help women in their 20s and 30s with anxiety and trauma. You may be feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. Anxiety is starting to take over and it is getting hard to control. Your heart rate may sometimes increase, thoughts start to race, and it may feel like you just can’t catch your breath. It feels like little to no people in your life really understand. You are ready to invest in your emotional well-being in therapy.
Hi there, I help women in their 20s and 30s with anxiety and trauma. You may be feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. Anxiety is starting to take over and it is getting hard to control. Your heart rate may sometimes increase, thoughts start to race, and it may feel like you just can’t catch your breath. It feels like little to no people in your life really understand. You are ready to invest in your emotional well-being in therapy.
See more therapy options for 93901
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in 93901
50+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in 93901 who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
75% | Self Esteem |
72% | Relationship Issues |
72% | Stress |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
55% | Carelon Behavioral Health |
48% | Other |
32% | Medi-Cal |
How Therapists in 93901 see their clients
72% | In Person and Online | |
28% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
22% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in 93901?
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
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.
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.
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.