Therapists in Willits, CA

Photo of Victoria A Brekelmans, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Willits, CA
Victoria A Brekelmans
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Willits, CA 95490  (Online Only)
I work with a wide range of clients, each facing their own set of challenges. Whether it's dealing with issues related to eating or embracing neurodiversity like autism and ADHD, I strive to create a warm and inviting environment for self-discovery. I have a wealth of experience working with kids, teens, and the LGBTQ+ community. As someone who identifies as queer, my goal is to create a supportive and empowering space for fellow LGBTQ+ individuals.
I work with a wide range of clients, each facing their own set of challenges. Whether it's dealing with issues related to eating or embracing neurodiversity like autism and ADHD, I strive to create a warm and inviting environment for self-discovery. I have a wealth of experience working with kids, teens, and the LGBTQ+ community. As someone who identifies as queer, my goal is to create a supportive and empowering space for fellow LGBTQ+ individuals.
(707) 896-8589 View (707) 896-8589
Photo of Carrie (Carolyn) J Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Willits, CA
Carrie (Carolyn) J Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA
Verified Verified
Willits, CA 95490
Waitlist for new clients
Now in Willits... I have relocated to beautiful Mendocino County from Chico. I have been honored to have my private practice for over 34 years now. I see people of all ages for anxiety, life transitions, depression, and grief. I focus on strengths, supportive therapy, and the sacredness of grief expression. I will help you find your own solutions through reflecting your deeper self. I mainly see individuals including teenagers, and older children for Play Therapy. I have a wait list for children. Please call anytime and leave a message.
Now in Willits... I have relocated to beautiful Mendocino County from Chico. I have been honored to have my private practice for over 34 years now. I see people of all ages for anxiety, life transitions, depression, and grief. I focus on strengths, supportive therapy, and the sacredness of grief expression. I will help you find your own solutions through reflecting your deeper self. I mainly see individuals including teenagers, and older children for Play Therapy. I have a wait list for children. Please call anytime and leave a message.
(530) 763-6988 View (530) 763-6988
Photo of Divora Stern LCSW Energy Psychology, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Willits, CA
Divora Stern LCSW Energy Psychology
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willits, CA 95490  (Online Only)
Working with your strengths for over two decades. I feel like we all have the innate ability to heal, so please allow me to be your support and guide. Please watch https://youtu.be/_SW4gCnmv30 I favor Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I offer many other Complementary and Alternative Modalities as well. Energy Psychology, (EFT,) Tension/Trauma Releasing Exercises and Theta Healing. I can teach you to access the Theta brain wave, associated only with the deepest of meditation practices. The results are fast and lasting. DivoraStern.com with thousands of satisfied clients.
Working with your strengths for over two decades. I feel like we all have the innate ability to heal, so please allow me to be your support and guide. Please watch https://youtu.be/_SW4gCnmv30 I favor Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I offer many other Complementary and Alternative Modalities as well. Energy Psychology, (EFT,) Tension/Trauma Releasing Exercises and Theta Healing. I can teach you to access the Theta brain wave, associated only with the deepest of meditation practices. The results are fast and lasting. DivoraStern.com with thousands of satisfied clients.
(707) 737-6509 View (707) 737-6509
Photo of Lila R. Ryan, Psychologist in Willits, CA
Lila R. Ryan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Willits, CA 95490
Not accepting new clients
For several reasons, including a very full schedule, I am not able to take on new clients at this time.
For several reasons, including a very full schedule, I am not able to take on new clients at this time.
(707) 709-9193 View (707) 709-9193
Photo of Grace Marie Sakurada, Marriage & Family Therapist in Willits, CA
Grace Marie Sakurada
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Willits, CA 95490
Not accepting new clients
A person who would benefit from my services may feel anxious or nervous about reaching out to a therapist, as asking for help is a very difficult thing to do. They may struggle with anxiety and depression on a regular basis. They may be unsure about what symptoms they are experiencing, but they just feel "off". This person may or may not have a history of traumatic experiences. This person will likely be seeking a way to organize/experience/work through thoughts and feelings enough to increase their overall health and enjoyment in their lives.
A person who would benefit from my services may feel anxious or nervous about reaching out to a therapist, as asking for help is a very difficult thing to do. They may struggle with anxiety and depression on a regular basis. They may be unsure about what symptoms they are experiencing, but they just feel "off". This person may or may not have a history of traumatic experiences. This person will likely be seeking a way to organize/experience/work through thoughts and feelings enough to increase their overall health and enjoyment in their lives.
(707) 314-3252 View (707) 314-3252
Photo of Pendry Haines, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Willits, CA
Pendry Haines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willits, CA 95490
I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, and relationship issues. I believe in a client-led approach where you decide what works best for you; at times I will guide you, other times stand as witness to your inner work. I will help you process your past and present as you chart your journey towards healing. I will offer coping skills along the way, providing a variety of tools for you to experiment with.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, and relationship issues. I believe in a client-led approach where you decide what works best for you; at times I will guide you, other times stand as witness to your inner work. I will help you process your past and present as you chart your journey towards healing. I will offer coping skills along the way, providing a variety of tools for you to experiment with.
(707) 505-8295 View (707) 505-8295
Larann Henderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willits, CA 95490
With several years of clinical experience working with an array of populations and their mental health challenges. Therapy is a collaboration between myself and the client. Growth and healing start by meeting my clients where they are and guiding them to where they would like to be. I have the significant experience working with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma related issues, as well as LGBTQ+ issues. I have a client centered focus and believe that each person is an expert at living their own life. Sometimes we need support to face and overcome challenges and struggles.
With several years of clinical experience working with an array of populations and their mental health challenges. Therapy is a collaboration between myself and the client. Growth and healing start by meeting my clients where they are and guiding them to where they would like to be. I have the significant experience working with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma related issues, as well as LGBTQ+ issues. I have a client centered focus and believe that each person is an expert at living their own life. Sometimes we need support to face and overcome challenges and struggles.
(707) 846-3821 View (707) 846-3821
Photo of Leigh Lightfoot, Marriage & Family Therapist in Willits, CA
Leigh Lightfoot
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Willits, CA 95490  (Online Only)
Therapy is a collaborative process that can help us move through painful situations and challenging transitions, finding meaning even in darker places. As the poet May Sarton wrote, 'without darkness/nothing comes to birth/As without light/nothing flowers.' Constructing a safe and supportive container for healing allows us to explore patterns in a different light. In this renewed relational field, development and choices take root. Grounded in Somatics, an approach that builds awareness of links between mind and body, I am influenced by Jungian analytic psychology, psychodynamic, cognitive/behavioral, and family systems frameworks.
Therapy is a collaborative process that can help us move through painful situations and challenging transitions, finding meaning even in darker places. As the poet May Sarton wrote, 'without darkness/nothing comes to birth/As without light/nothing flowers.' Constructing a safe and supportive container for healing allows us to explore patterns in a different light. In this renewed relational field, development and choices take root. Grounded in Somatics, an approach that builds awareness of links between mind and body, I am influenced by Jungian analytic psychology, psychodynamic, cognitive/behavioral, and family systems frameworks.
(707) 820-7950 View (707) 820-7950
Photo of Jennifer Sherman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Willits, CA
Jennifer Sherman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Willits, CA 95490
You will face many defeats in your life, but never let yourself be defeated by Maya Angelou. Life is full of positive moments where the strength to define ourselves and develop skills to live more fully are easily found. But when life becomes whittled with challenges, stress, and struggles, the test then becomes learning to navigate our feelings, recognize our thoughts, and make changes in our behavior to live more wholly. Most of the time we are capable of handling life’s stresses, but sometimes things can get too overwhelming and stressful, and we need help.
You will face many defeats in your life, but never let yourself be defeated by Maya Angelou. Life is full of positive moments where the strength to define ourselves and develop skills to live more fully are easily found. But when life becomes whittled with challenges, stress, and struggles, the test then becomes learning to navigate our feelings, recognize our thoughts, and make changes in our behavior to live more wholly. Most of the time we are capable of handling life’s stresses, but sometimes things can get too overwhelming and stressful, and we need help.
(323) 205-7088 View (323) 205-7088
Photo of Janet G Mendell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Willits, CA
Janet G Mendell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willits, CA 95490
Would you like to better understand yourself? Are you experiencing relationship problems? Are you wishing for clear direction? Having difficulty navigating life's obstacles? I value your ability to discover, through guided exploration and discussion, your strengths and abilities to come up with your own answers.
Would you like to better understand yourself? Are you experiencing relationship problems? Are you wishing for clear direction? Having difficulty navigating life's obstacles? I value your ability to discover, through guided exploration and discussion, your strengths and abilities to come up with your own answers.
(707) 456-4887 View (707) 456-4887
Tom Darcey MFT, LPCC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Willits, CA 95490
I enjoy working with clients who want to improve the quality of their relationships. As part of supporting clients in addressing relationship issues, my work can involve working with clients on individual issues such as reducing depression and anxiety. I assist clients in exploring and processing feelings that contribute to depression and anxiety with the goal of promoting individual well-being which, in turn, contributes to improvement in relationships. I utilize a collaborative approach that involves supporting clients in understanding how past life experiences and current life issues are impacting their lives. Connecting clients with strengths is a primary treatment goal.
I enjoy working with clients who want to improve the quality of their relationships. As part of supporting clients in addressing relationship issues, my work can involve working with clients on individual issues such as reducing depression and anxiety. I assist clients in exploring and processing feelings that contribute to depression and anxiety with the goal of promoting individual well-being which, in turn, contributes to improvement in relationships. I utilize a collaborative approach that involves supporting clients in understanding how past life experiences and current life issues are impacting their lives. Connecting clients with strengths is a primary treatment goal.
(707) 929-4523 View (707) 929-4523
Photo of Dennis Jay Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Willits, CA
Dennis Jay Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Willits, CA 95490
In my 25 years of psychotherapy practice for individuals, couples, and families, I have helped people identify, explore and heal the issues that have kept them from accomplishing what they want with their lives. My experience has shown that moving beyond right/wrong thinking, judgments and emotional reactivity can greatly facilitate growth and freedom. Paying attention to the sensations and feeling in our bodies and relaxing through deep breathing can create insights to quickly reveal one's essential issues. Over the last ten years I have spent considerable time doing couples therapy.
In my 25 years of psychotherapy practice for individuals, couples, and families, I have helped people identify, explore and heal the issues that have kept them from accomplishing what they want with their lives. My experience has shown that moving beyond right/wrong thinking, judgments and emotional reactivity can greatly facilitate growth and freedom. Paying attention to the sensations and feeling in our bodies and relaxing through deep breathing can create insights to quickly reveal one's essential issues. Over the last ten years I have spent considerable time doing couples therapy.
(707) 574-8994 View (707) 574-8994
Photo of Terry Kennedy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Willits, CA
Terry Kennedy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Willits, CA 95490
I have been interested in transformative Consciousness work since the early 1970's and have extensive training in both Freudian and Jungian psychology, and varities of Mindfulness Practice. I practiced psychotherapy in greater Boston from 1973 through 1991 and then came to California to study with a Jungian teacher who studied with Carl Jung, M.D., in Zurich Switzerland in the mid 1950's! I currently combine meditative practice with the best multi-modal psychotherapy practices in order to help clients gain the maximum advantage in their lives!
I have been interested in transformative Consciousness work since the early 1970's and have extensive training in both Freudian and Jungian psychology, and varities of Mindfulness Practice. I practiced psychotherapy in greater Boston from 1973 through 1991 and then came to California to study with a Jungian teacher who studied with Carl Jung, M.D., in Zurich Switzerland in the mid 1950's! I currently combine meditative practice with the best multi-modal psychotherapy practices in order to help clients gain the maximum advantage in their lives!
(413) 213-3015 View (413) 213-3015
Photo of Stephen R Snyder, Marriage & Family Therapist in Willits, CA
Stephen R Snyder
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Willits, CA 95490
Mine is an eclectic orientation. I have been deeply influenced by several years of practice in body oriented physio and psychotherapy. I have training and experience in Ericksonian Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness and Relaxation Therapies, Brief Therapies (Problem and Solution Focused), Trauma Informed (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral) Therapy, CBT, Neo-Jungian Therapy and Neuro-Linguistic Programming. I have worked in private practice, County Mental Health, and Non-Profit Mental Health settings. I prefer to work with adults,18 and older, to aid and assist in healing, personal growth, and self awareness.
Mine is an eclectic orientation. I have been deeply influenced by several years of practice in body oriented physio and psychotherapy. I have training and experience in Ericksonian Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness and Relaxation Therapies, Brief Therapies (Problem and Solution Focused), Trauma Informed (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral) Therapy, CBT, Neo-Jungian Therapy and Neuro-Linguistic Programming. I have worked in private practice, County Mental Health, and Non-Profit Mental Health settings. I prefer to work with adults,18 and older, to aid and assist in healing, personal growth, and self awareness.
(707) 509-8019 View (707) 509-8019
Photo of Kate T Donohue, Psychologist in Willits, CA
Kate T Donohue
Psychologist, PhD, REAT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Willits, CA 95490
In my forty years years in private practice as a licensed psychologist and registered expressive arts therapist, I offer therapy sessions, which weaves together expressive Arts Therapy and Jungian Psychology to individuals, adolescents and couples.This approach allows each client to understand their internal world, trauma, and obsolete styles that hinder their growth and happiness as it opens up new possibilities, resources and creativity to address life issues.As a result of this approach, clients also define what is meaningful to maintain their healing and growth. .
In my forty years years in private practice as a licensed psychologist and registered expressive arts therapist, I offer therapy sessions, which weaves together expressive Arts Therapy and Jungian Psychology to individuals, adolescents and couples.This approach allows each client to understand their internal world, trauma, and obsolete styles that hinder their growth and happiness as it opens up new possibilities, resources and creativity to address life issues.As a result of this approach, clients also define what is meaningful to maintain their healing and growth. .
(415) 695-1464 View (415) 695-1464
Photo of HERA Wellness Center in Willits, CA
HERA Wellness Center
CCht, CCPC, RADT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Willits, CA 95490  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As an interactive, solution-focused Integrative Holistic Therapist I strive to empower YOU to make long lasting behavior changes that are the foundation for a lifetime of health and well-being. I work with a wide spectrum of challenges, ranging from addiction to stress management. I also provide guidance and support to those looking to enhance their life or in the mist of change. Research shows we are impacted by multiple interconnected dimensions. These dimensions include our physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional well-being.
As an interactive, solution-focused Integrative Holistic Therapist I strive to empower YOU to make long lasting behavior changes that are the foundation for a lifetime of health and well-being. I work with a wide spectrum of challenges, ranging from addiction to stress management. I also provide guidance and support to those looking to enhance their life or in the mist of change. Research shows we are impacted by multiple interconnected dimensions. These dimensions include our physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional well-being.
(707) 610-0918 View (707) 610-0918
Photo of Christina Offill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Willits, CA
Christina Offill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willits, CA 95490
Not accepting new clients
Children from 12 months to young adults, families dealing with parenting issues, conflict, divorce, adoptions or foster care challenges. Are you a parent who needs help managing challenging behaviors with your child? Or dealing with issues of self-harm, substance use or suicidal ideation. Do you want to learn new coping skills to regulate your child’s emotions, or to navigate social environments, peer groups and academic challenges? This is where you can discover help if you are struggling to balance work, life commitments and parenting. Ways to manage sibling conflict and blended families/co-parenting issues!
Children from 12 months to young adults, families dealing with parenting issues, conflict, divorce, adoptions or foster care challenges. Are you a parent who needs help managing challenging behaviors with your child? Or dealing with issues of self-harm, substance use or suicidal ideation. Do you want to learn new coping skills to regulate your child’s emotions, or to navigate social environments, peer groups and academic challenges? This is where you can discover help if you are struggling to balance work, life commitments and parenting. Ways to manage sibling conflict and blended families/co-parenting issues!
(707) 207-8412 View (707) 207-8412

Online Therapists

Photo of Meg Riney, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Willits, CA
Meg Riney
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Yuba City, CA 95991
Asking for support for yourself or your child is a courageous step. Without warning you may find yourself dealing with loss of a relationship, changing schools or jobs, or just feeling like life has lost its spark. Perhaps parenting, which used to be so easy, does not seem to be working. Or carrying so much anxiety & stress, day-in & day-out has become too heavy. Life has turned upside down, magnifying everything to the point that it's just overwhelming. I get it, & I can help you pave a path to reclaim your well-being. Together, we can develop the skills needed to motivate you or your child & enhance your individual strengths.
Asking for support for yourself or your child is a courageous step. Without warning you may find yourself dealing with loss of a relationship, changing schools or jobs, or just feeling like life has lost its spark. Perhaps parenting, which used to be so easy, does not seem to be working. Or carrying so much anxiety & stress, day-in & day-out has become too heavy. Life has turned upside down, magnifying everything to the point that it's just overwhelming. I get it, & I can help you pave a path to reclaim your well-being. Together, we can develop the skills needed to motivate you or your child & enhance your individual strengths.
(530) 296-6346 View (530) 296-6346
Photo of Katie Burrill, Marriage & Family Therapist in Willits, CA
Katie Burrill
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95405  (Online Only)
As we navigate these seemingly endless tumultuous times, having someone reliable to talk to about what we're experiencing that is outside of our immediate bubble can feel like the life boat we need to stay afloat. I can be that person for you. Together we can explore which coping strategies are working for you and which aren't, and how to get to a place that feels a bit more stable and manageable. You will gain insight that will help you now and in the future so that you can live your best life, even when challenges abound.
As we navigate these seemingly endless tumultuous times, having someone reliable to talk to about what we're experiencing that is outside of our immediate bubble can feel like the life boat we need to stay afloat. I can be that person for you. Together we can explore which coping strategies are working for you and which aren't, and how to get to a place that feels a bit more stable and manageable. You will gain insight that will help you now and in the future so that you can live your best life, even when challenges abound.
(510) 629-6938 View (510) 629-6938
Photo of Maureen Seifert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Willits, CA
Maureen Seifert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Redding, CA 96002
Feeling like no matter how hard you try, it’s never enough? Self limiting beliefs such as this can generate anger, guilt, sadness, fear and other feelings that can lead to anxiety, depression, or other symptoms of mental and physical distress. They can impact our identity, relationships, health, and ultimately prevent us from self-actualizing and becoming our true self. Together, we will explore your feelings and beliefs, use curiosity to cultivate understanding of them and ultimately, unburden the parts of you holding these self limiting beliefs so you truly be you.
Feeling like no matter how hard you try, it’s never enough? Self limiting beliefs such as this can generate anger, guilt, sadness, fear and other feelings that can lead to anxiety, depression, or other symptoms of mental and physical distress. They can impact our identity, relationships, health, and ultimately prevent us from self-actualizing and becoming our true self. Together, we will explore your feelings and beliefs, use curiosity to cultivate understanding of them and ultimately, unburden the parts of you holding these self limiting beliefs so you truly be you.
(530) 319-5380 View (530) 319-5380

See more therapy options for Willits

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Willits, CA

10+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Willits, CA who prioritize treating:

94% Relationship Issues
94% Depression
94% Anxiety
82% Grief
76% Trauma and PTSD
76% Self Esteem
71% Parenting

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

64% Anthem | Elevance
64% Beacon Health Options | Carelon
55% Magellan

How Therapists in Willits, CA see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Willits?

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.