Photo of Laurie Pantell, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94608, CA
Laurie Pantell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I work with individuals and couples in any stage of relationship. If we work together, my goal is to help you access and understand the root causes of your struggles so you can truly heal. In my experience, when the origin of conditioned thoughts, feelings and behaviors are fully felt and understood, they no longer have power, can be let go, and in their place comes a sense of freedom, choice and empowerment. Whether you struggle to manage stress, anxiety, and/or depression, or have found the goal of creating a satisfying relationship or career to be elusive, I believe you can move past any limitations with the right help.
I work with individuals and couples in any stage of relationship. If we work together, my goal is to help you access and understand the root causes of your struggles so you can truly heal. In my experience, when the origin of conditioned thoughts, feelings and behaviors are fully felt and understood, they no longer have power, can be let go, and in their place comes a sense of freedom, choice and empowerment. Whether you struggle to manage stress, anxiety, and/or depression, or have found the goal of creating a satisfying relationship or career to be elusive, I believe you can move past any limitations with the right help.
(415) 799-3972 View (415) 799-3972
Photo of Armand Volkas, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94608, CA
Armand Volkas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFA, MFT, RDT, BCT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94608
I believe that a supportive therapeutic relationship can be the springboard from which many life issues can be addressed and healed. I am warm and gentle, yet firm when appropriate. I am encouraging, nurturing and have a deep capacity for empathy. I am committed to your growth and the changes you want to make in your life. Issues I treat include anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, and relationships. I treat children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have special expertise in working with personal and collective trauma, deepening intimacy in couples, cross-cultural relationships, grief and mourning and healing friendships.
I believe that a supportive therapeutic relationship can be the springboard from which many life issues can be addressed and healed. I am warm and gentle, yet firm when appropriate. I am encouraging, nurturing and have a deep capacity for empathy. I am committed to your growth and the changes you want to make in your life. Issues I treat include anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, and relationships. I treat children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have special expertise in working with personal and collective trauma, deepening intimacy in couples, cross-cultural relationships, grief and mourning and healing friendships.
(510) 595-5500 x11 View (510) 595-5500 x11
Photo of Maria Culcasi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94608, CA
Maria Culcasi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
A little bit of stress is a good thing. It gets us out of bed in the morning and motivates us to work towards our goals. But too little or too much stress are problems that interfere with our ability to be the best possible versions of ourselves and can prevent our minds from being at ease to deal with life’s daily tasks or pursuing opportunities. Often too much stress can lead to anxiety and depression. Through CBT and other modalities, we will discuss your thoughts and emotions as well as ways to help your motivation and any barrier that may be getting in the way of leading the life you would like.
A little bit of stress is a good thing. It gets us out of bed in the morning and motivates us to work towards our goals. But too little or too much stress are problems that interfere with our ability to be the best possible versions of ourselves and can prevent our minds from being at ease to deal with life’s daily tasks or pursuing opportunities. Often too much stress can lead to anxiety and depression. Through CBT and other modalities, we will discuss your thoughts and emotions as well as ways to help your motivation and any barrier that may be getting in the way of leading the life you would like.
(415) 569-7757 View (415) 569-7757
Photo of Rosario Puga Dempsey, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94608, CA
Rosario Puga Dempsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I find great joy in creating a unique therapeutic experience that is tailored to you, which is why I integrate different approaches into my practice. I meaningfully aim to provide you with a different perspective on your situation that can help you obtain clarity and peace. I support you by increasing your awareness of the deep fears and strong emotions that may be holding you back and leaving you feeling stuck.​ Through my extensive work in the field for over the past eight years in various settings and with diverse populations I have developed a multi-faceted approach to helping families, couples, and adults heal.
I find great joy in creating a unique therapeutic experience that is tailored to you, which is why I integrate different approaches into my practice. I meaningfully aim to provide you with a different perspective on your situation that can help you obtain clarity and peace. I support you by increasing your awareness of the deep fears and strong emotions that may be holding you back and leaving you feeling stuck.​ Through my extensive work in the field for over the past eight years in various settings and with diverse populations I have developed a multi-faceted approach to helping families, couples, and adults heal.
(415) 801-8353 View (415) 801-8353
Photo of Shannon McHenry-Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94608, CA
Shannon McHenry-Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I work with individuals to help gain insight into what is happening in order to move forward and achieve a more fulfilling and productive life. My goal is to help you understand yourself more and assist you with living a more free and conscious life. I use attachment theory to assist people in understanding how their past impacts their present. I specialize in treating addiction, trauma, codependency, relationship issues, and axis II disorders using a holistic trauma informed approach and dialectical behavioral techniques.
I work with individuals to help gain insight into what is happening in order to move forward and achieve a more fulfilling and productive life. My goal is to help you understand yourself more and assist you with living a more free and conscious life. I use attachment theory to assist people in understanding how their past impacts their present. I specialize in treating addiction, trauma, codependency, relationship issues, and axis II disorders using a holistic trauma informed approach and dialectical behavioral techniques.
(415) 707-7928 View (415) 707-7928
Photo of A Sober Choice, Psychologist in 94608, CA
A Sober Choice
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
A Sober Choice is the best choice, for developing tools for change. Founded in 2009, our mission is to provide compassionate, supportive, and professional mental and behavioral health services for adults. At A Sober Choice, we provide Anger Management, individual and group psychotherapy, substance use disorder counseling, mental health consultations, and behavioral coaching.
A Sober Choice is the best choice, for developing tools for change. Founded in 2009, our mission is to provide compassionate, supportive, and professional mental and behavioral health services for adults. At A Sober Choice, we provide Anger Management, individual and group psychotherapy, substance use disorder counseling, mental health consultations, and behavioral coaching.
(510) 420-1800 View (510) 420-1800
Photo of Luke Dowling, Psychologist in 94608, CA
Luke Dowling
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94608  (Online Only)
My ideal client is navigating life's complexities, dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression, or facing challenges in relationships and life transitions. They seek understanding, wish to improve their mental health, and are motivated towards personal growth. Their goal is to find balance, develop coping strategies, and build a more fulfilling life.
My ideal client is navigating life's complexities, dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression, or facing challenges in relationships and life transitions. They seek understanding, wish to improve their mental health, and are motivated towards personal growth. Their goal is to find balance, develop coping strategies, and build a more fulfilling life.
(415) 942-6876 View (415) 942-6876
Barbara Jean A Douglass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and PhD with 15 years experience working with adults, children and youth. My goal is to help you in your path towards feeling better, and experiencing an improved sense of confidence, self-esteem and functioning in your life. My approach is one of respect, warmth, and attention to the dignity of every person. I utilize a humanistic and person-centered perspective, and maintain a psychodynamic framework for understanding my clients' emotional and therapeutic needs, to help you learn coping skills, and help you explore your options towards recovering a stronger sense of self, identity, spirituality, and balance.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and PhD with 15 years experience working with adults, children and youth. My goal is to help you in your path towards feeling better, and experiencing an improved sense of confidence, self-esteem and functioning in your life. My approach is one of respect, warmth, and attention to the dignity of every person. I utilize a humanistic and person-centered perspective, and maintain a psychodynamic framework for understanding my clients' emotional and therapeutic needs, to help you learn coping skills, and help you explore your options towards recovering a stronger sense of self, identity, spirituality, and balance.
(510) 949-3983 View (510) 949-3983
Photo of Anaïs Wong, Psychological Associate in 94608, CA
Anaïs Wong
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I started specializing in neurodivergence as soon as I realized that there were many others who have also struggled to understand who they are and be accepted in a neurotypical society. If like me, you have always felt different, and are now wondering about what makes you different, it may be time for a formal assessment. This is especially important if you are looking for neurodivergent-specific supports (e.g., therapy, couple's counseling, books), personalized recommendations (i.e., "what next?", at-home strategies), and accommodations at work/school.
I started specializing in neurodivergence as soon as I realized that there were many others who have also struggled to understand who they are and be accepted in a neurotypical society. If like me, you have always felt different, and are now wondering about what makes you different, it may be time for a formal assessment. This is especially important if you are looking for neurodivergent-specific supports (e.g., therapy, couple's counseling, books), personalized recommendations (i.e., "what next?", at-home strategies), and accommodations at work/school.
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Photo of Tralee Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94608, CA
Tralee Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PPS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
Transitions can make us feel anxious, depressed, or confused. Having someone to talk about the process of change reduces the stress. Maybe the decisions are around relationships, college, or work. Maybe you need a new direction, a change in your life, or a new life purpose but you're unsure where or how to move forward. With counseling, you can feel more confident about making helpful choices for yourself, and with reduced anxiety, depression, and confusion.
Transitions can make us feel anxious, depressed, or confused. Having someone to talk about the process of change reduces the stress. Maybe the decisions are around relationships, college, or work. Maybe you need a new direction, a change in your life, or a new life purpose but you're unsure where or how to move forward. With counseling, you can feel more confident about making helpful choices for yourself, and with reduced anxiety, depression, and confusion.
(415) 289-5955 View (415) 289-5955
Photo of Ashley Coyle, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94608, CA
Ashley Coyle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
My name is Ashley Coyle, LMFT 127698. My approach to therapy is client-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed. My focus is on how the systems we are a part of impact our lives and well-being. I work with all kinds of clients from many different backgrounds and identities. I love the diversity of my clients. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families. I have treated clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, phase of life challenges, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, and others.
My name is Ashley Coyle, LMFT 127698. My approach to therapy is client-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed. My focus is on how the systems we are a part of impact our lives and well-being. I work with all kinds of clients from many different backgrounds and identities. I love the diversity of my clients. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families. I have treated clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, phase of life challenges, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, and others.
(510) 588-1498 View (510) 588-1498
Photo of Matthew McKernan, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94608, CA
Matthew McKernan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I see therapy as a collaborative process. In a sense, you are my guide—and I am yours. Together, we will explore your nature and seek for an embodied understanding of your path toward well-being—as defined by you and your goals. You are the expert of your own experience. I fully respect and celebrate this fact, and encourage in all my clients the growth of self-awareness, creativity, intuition, self-love, acceptance, empowerment, self-support, compassion, imagination, meaning, and sense of purpose—the roots of a healthy life. I am here to help you align with the natural healing power inherent within life, within you.
I see therapy as a collaborative process. In a sense, you are my guide—and I am yours. Together, we will explore your nature and seek for an embodied understanding of your path toward well-being—as defined by you and your goals. You are the expert of your own experience. I fully respect and celebrate this fact, and encourage in all my clients the growth of self-awareness, creativity, intuition, self-love, acceptance, empowerment, self-support, compassion, imagination, meaning, and sense of purpose—the roots of a healthy life. I am here to help you align with the natural healing power inherent within life, within you.
(510) 369-1672 View (510) 369-1672
Photo of Keri Onan-Levy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94608, CA
Keri Onan-Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
Hello, I'm Keri Onan-Levy, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My work with clients is grounded in respect, empathy, reliability, intelligence, and professionalism. My practice focuses on supporting individuals as they navigate life's challenges, process experiences, and work to better understand themselves. My approach to providing therapy is unique to each individual. I use a variety of theoretical approaches including Attachment Theory, Psychodynamic Theory, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, Trauma Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. All treatment options are discussed with my clients.
Hello, I'm Keri Onan-Levy, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My work with clients is grounded in respect, empathy, reliability, intelligence, and professionalism. My practice focuses on supporting individuals as they navigate life's challenges, process experiences, and work to better understand themselves. My approach to providing therapy is unique to each individual. I use a variety of theoretical approaches including Attachment Theory, Psychodynamic Theory, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, Trauma Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. All treatment options are discussed with my clients.
(510) 486-2148 View (510) 486-2148
Photo of Debra A Bronstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94608, CA
Debra A Bronstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94608
I provide a down-to-earth approach to self-exploration and personal development, recognizing the universality of both human suffering and human potential. I take a non-pathological approach to therapy, coming from a core orientation that each person is inherently valuable and has an innate capacity for wisdom and wholeness. My approach is dynamic and relational, being informed by a lifetime of psychological and spiritual inquiry.
I provide a down-to-earth approach to self-exploration and personal development, recognizing the universality of both human suffering and human potential. I take a non-pathological approach to therapy, coming from a core orientation that each person is inherently valuable and has an innate capacity for wisdom and wholeness. My approach is dynamic and relational, being informed by a lifetime of psychological and spiritual inquiry.
(510) 858-2181 View (510) 858-2181
Photo of Dr. Shea M. Pilgrim, Psychologist in 94608, CA
Dr. Shea M. Pilgrim
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94608
My approach to practicing psychology is transparent and collaborative in nature. Clients report that I am grounding, honest, and easy to talk to. Evaluations follow the philosophy and techniques of collaborative/therapeutic assessment. An important first step in the process is a collaborative conversation to uncover questions that you want to have answered by the assessment. I specialize in working with children, teens, young adults, and families.
My approach to practicing psychology is transparent and collaborative in nature. Clients report that I am grounding, honest, and easy to talk to. Evaluations follow the philosophy and techniques of collaborative/therapeutic assessment. An important first step in the process is a collaborative conversation to uncover questions that you want to have answered by the assessment. I specialize in working with children, teens, young adults, and families.
(510) 216-1551 View (510) 216-1551
Photo of Martha Ton, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94608, CA
Martha Ton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
As a Latina therapist, I have ample experience assisting the LGBTQIA+ population, immigrant people, and couples having difficulty becoming parents or transitioning to parenthood. I offer a warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative approach for clients to find well-being. I have also worked with the elderly population to help them discover new meaning in life. Helping individuals find empowerment and joy in their new phase of life is a true joy as a provider. I am passionate about helping people increase their support systems, self-esteem, and assertive communication.
As a Latina therapist, I have ample experience assisting the LGBTQIA+ population, immigrant people, and couples having difficulty becoming parents or transitioning to parenthood. I offer a warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative approach for clients to find well-being. I have also worked with the elderly population to help them discover new meaning in life. Helping individuals find empowerment and joy in their new phase of life is a true joy as a provider. I am passionate about helping people increase their support systems, self-esteem, and assertive communication.
(415) 996-1863 View (415) 996-1863
Photo of Katherine Roberts, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94608, CA
Katherine Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
Katherine Roberts is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2010. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Santa Clara University and a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology (with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy) degree from the University of San Francisco. Katherine utilizes an eclectic approach to assist individuals in improving functioning and increasing feelings of well-being. Her goal is to provide a safe space for people to explore their emotions and better understand their behaviors.
Katherine Roberts is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2010. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Santa Clara University and a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology (with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy) degree from the University of San Francisco. Katherine utilizes an eclectic approach to assist individuals in improving functioning and increasing feelings of well-being. Her goal is to provide a safe space for people to explore their emotions and better understand their behaviors.
(510) 714-3295 View (510) 714-3295
Photo of Jennifer Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94608, CA
Jennifer Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94608
While you may have been struggling for a long time, you are ready to examine the life you’re living, get curious about patterns you used to take for granted, and pause in moments of discomfort to wonder what it means to be you. You want therapy that weaves together talking, pausing in mindfulness and connecting with sensations. You may question the systems around you, and wonder about different patterns you might be holding. You may have a reverence for the mysterious, esoteric and dreamlike, while also working to stay grounded in the here and now.
While you may have been struggling for a long time, you are ready to examine the life you’re living, get curious about patterns you used to take for granted, and pause in moments of discomfort to wonder what it means to be you. You want therapy that weaves together talking, pausing in mindfulness and connecting with sensations. You may question the systems around you, and wonder about different patterns you might be holding. You may have a reverence for the mysterious, esoteric and dreamlike, while also working to stay grounded in the here and now.
(510) 466-1825 View (510) 466-1825
Photo of Roni Alperin, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94608, CA
Roni Alperin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RDT, BCT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
I believe that no matter how difficult of a time you're having, I can help you find your balance and power. I know that rage; shame, confusion and helplessness can make you feel stuck, lost and hopeless. I also know that there is a way out. In my therapy office you will feel safe and supported to unravel your feelings and thoughts, identify patterns, themes, get clear on what brought you to the place you are currently in and make intelligent new choices.
I believe that no matter how difficult of a time you're having, I can help you find your balance and power. I know that rage; shame, confusion and helplessness can make you feel stuck, lost and hopeless. I also know that there is a way out. In my therapy office you will feel safe and supported to unravel your feelings and thoughts, identify patterns, themes, get clear on what brought you to the place you are currently in and make intelligent new choices.
(408) 628-1776 View (408) 628-1776
Photo of Mercy De Vault, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94608, CA
Mercy De Vault
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
I choose to use an approach that is respectful, non-blaming, and collaborative. We live our lives through stories. Often times, these stories no longer align with our values and beliefs. This is where problems emerge and attach themselves to our stories. By gaining some distance from the problem, we can begin to change our relationship with the problem and discover preferred ways of being that closely align with our beliefs. I aim to empower my clients by positioning them as experts in their lives in a non-pathologizing, inclusive environment, where the problem is the problem and we together find the solution.
I choose to use an approach that is respectful, non-blaming, and collaborative. We live our lives through stories. Often times, these stories no longer align with our values and beliefs. This is where problems emerge and attach themselves to our stories. By gaining some distance from the problem, we can begin to change our relationship with the problem and discover preferred ways of being that closely align with our beliefs. I aim to empower my clients by positioning them as experts in their lives in a non-pathologizing, inclusive environment, where the problem is the problem and we together find the solution.
(510) 422-1767 View (510) 422-1767

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 94608

200+

Average cost per session

$185

Therapists in 94608 who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
87% Depression
74% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
69% Grief
64% Self Esteem
62% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

74% Aetna
53% Anthem | Elevance
51% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 94608 see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
18% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 94608?

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.