Therapists in Beverly Hills, CA

Photo of Kristy Crownover, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Kristy Crownover
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I am passionate about helping couples reconnect. Sometimes couples can become disconnected and that can be very painful. Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy is a scientifically proven method that brings couples together in new ways that lead to long-lasting secure attachment. In a safe space, partners can explore their feelings and behaviors in order to understand themselves and each other at a much deeper level. You can escape your negative interactive cycle and create a new beautiful dance with your partner. I would like to help you get there! Please call me for a free consultation in Beverly Hills, Downey or Torrance.
I am passionate about helping couples reconnect. Sometimes couples can become disconnected and that can be very painful. Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy is a scientifically proven method that brings couples together in new ways that lead to long-lasting secure attachment. In a safe space, partners can explore their feelings and behaviors in order to understand themselves and each other at a much deeper level. You can escape your negative interactive cycle and create a new beautiful dance with your partner. I would like to help you get there! Please call me for a free consultation in Beverly Hills, Downey or Torrance.
(310) 746-5832 View (310) 746-5832
Photo of Katie Corrigan, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Katie Corrigan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
I will help you learn how to be more connected - in your relationships, at work and with yourself. We'll work together to empower you with the tools you need to challenge what isn't working and start building a life you love. I will help you understand how your past may be influencing your present and how to enhance your capacity for intimacy. I value authenticity, optimism and truth. My approach is warm, but always direct and honest. I am trained in EMDR, Mindfulness-Based CBT and the Trauma Resiliency Model and regularly integrate these techniques into my practice.
I will help you learn how to be more connected - in your relationships, at work and with yourself. We'll work together to empower you with the tools you need to challenge what isn't working and start building a life you love. I will help you understand how your past may be influencing your present and how to enhance your capacity for intimacy. I value authenticity, optimism and truth. My approach is warm, but always direct and honest. I am trained in EMDR, Mindfulness-Based CBT and the Trauma Resiliency Model and regularly integrate these techniques into my practice.
(424) 277-2598 View (424) 277-2598
Photo of Michele Merlob, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC, LPCC, CEDS
Michele Merlob
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC, LPCC, CEDS
Online Only
Since 1997, I have been treating clients with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions & all associated issues. I am licensed in Florida, Texas, California & Hawaii. As well as a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist through the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals. I have maintained private practices in FL, TX & CA. In addition, I worked at the Renfrew Center in Coconut Creek, FL & Los Angeles, CA and Cedar Springs Austin. It is my belief that an important piece of treatment & recovery is utilizing a multi-disciplinary treatment team to address the individual needs of each client.
Since 1997, I have been treating clients with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions & all associated issues. I am licensed in Florida, Texas, California & Hawaii. As well as a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist through the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals. I have maintained private practices in FL, TX & CA. In addition, I worked at the Renfrew Center in Coconut Creek, FL & Los Angeles, CA and Cedar Springs Austin. It is my belief that an important piece of treatment & recovery is utilizing a multi-disciplinary treatment team to address the individual needs of each client.
(310) 906-4649 View (310) 906-4649
Photo of Jonathan Nadlman, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jonathan Nadlman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
I have been a counselor in the field of Psychology for over 35 years, working with individuals and couples to help them exchange intensity and drama or isolation and loneliness for intimacy, respect, appreciation and love. My time proven techniques will help you to heal past relationship trauma and emotional wounds that continue to resurface and undermine current or potential relationships. Navigating emotional embodiment is mean't to call up intense discomfort. Do not back away from this edge. Your authentic self lives on the other side of uncomfortable.
I have been a counselor in the field of Psychology for over 35 years, working with individuals and couples to help them exchange intensity and drama or isolation and loneliness for intimacy, respect, appreciation and love. My time proven techniques will help you to heal past relationship trauma and emotional wounds that continue to resurface and undermine current or potential relationships. Navigating emotional embodiment is mean't to call up intense discomfort. Do not back away from this edge. Your authentic self lives on the other side of uncomfortable.
(424) 570-2018 View (424) 570-2018
Photo of Gary Bruton, Psychologist, PsyD
Gary Bruton
Psychologist, PsyD
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Not accepting new clients
I am a cognitive-behavioral psychologist who specializes in the treatment of anxiety disorders (e.g., panic, agoraphobia, OCD (BTTI Certified), social and generalized anxiety). The clients I work with are seeking a treatment approach that equips them with tools to function more effectively at work, within interpersonal relationships, or to simply experience less distress in their daily lives. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is an interactive, directive style of therapy with a primary focus on current issues. Once the anxiety has diminished, some of my clients choose to continue in therapy to work on other issues and concerns.
I am a cognitive-behavioral psychologist who specializes in the treatment of anxiety disorders (e.g., panic, agoraphobia, OCD (BTTI Certified), social and generalized anxiety). The clients I work with are seeking a treatment approach that equips them with tools to function more effectively at work, within interpersonal relationships, or to simply experience less distress in their daily lives. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is an interactive, directive style of therapy with a primary focus on current issues. Once the anxiety has diminished, some of my clients choose to continue in therapy to work on other issues and concerns.
(310) 692-9457 View (310) 692-9457
Photo of Joel Becker - Cognitive Behavior Associates, Psychologist, PhD
Cognitive Behavior Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Our practice, Cognitive Behavior Associates, is one of the largest CBT practices in Southern California. All of our clinicians are trained in and practice the most up-to-date, empirically supported treatments. Although all of our clinicians have familarity with "manualized" treatments, we treat each client individually so as to maximize the fit between client and treatment.
Our practice, Cognitive Behavior Associates, is one of the largest CBT practices in Southern California. All of our clinicians are trained in and practice the most up-to-date, empirically supported treatments. Although all of our clinicians have familarity with "manualized" treatments, we treat each client individually so as to maximize the fit between client and treatment.
(323) 498-3665 View (323) 498-3665
Photo of Sylvia Hakim, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Sylvia Hakim
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Congratulations on taking the FIRST courageous step toward dealing with your PAIN that is no longer working for you; or perhaps you like to grow and learn more about yourself; or you want to achieve HEALING from grief/loss related to major life changes. Painful symptoms related to trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, or relational issues are tough to tackle by yourself. Understanding and dealing with addiction ( that could be generational) and facing feelings of blame shame guilt denial anger, and depression ALL by yourself is hard. By giving a non-judgmental and an empathetic therapist a CHANCE and Therapy time, change IS possible.
Congratulations on taking the FIRST courageous step toward dealing with your PAIN that is no longer working for you; or perhaps you like to grow and learn more about yourself; or you want to achieve HEALING from grief/loss related to major life changes. Painful symptoms related to trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, or relational issues are tough to tackle by yourself. Understanding and dealing with addiction ( that could be generational) and facing feelings of blame shame guilt denial anger, and depression ALL by yourself is hard. By giving a non-judgmental and an empathetic therapist a CHANCE and Therapy time, change IS possible.
(310) 627-2607 View (310) 627-2607
Photo of Kevin Wehe, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Kevin Wehe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I help individual clients who feel stuck because of struggles with depression, anxiety, anger, and addictions. I help clients alleviate their depression, overcome their fears and addictions, and soothe their anger so that they can live more fulfilling lives with better relationships and careers. I help couples who have grown apart over the years improve their physical and emotional intimacy, and help couples rebuild trust and uncovering affairs, addictions, and other secrets or lies. I teach parents how to set firm boundaries with their children (infants to teens, ADHD, ODD) while also improving communication and openness.
I help individual clients who feel stuck because of struggles with depression, anxiety, anger, and addictions. I help clients alleviate their depression, overcome their fears and addictions, and soothe their anger so that they can live more fulfilling lives with better relationships and careers. I help couples who have grown apart over the years improve their physical and emotional intimacy, and help couples rebuild trust and uncovering affairs, addictions, and other secrets or lies. I teach parents how to set firm boundaries with their children (infants to teens, ADHD, ODD) while also improving communication and openness.
(323) 693-7823 View (323) 693-7823
Photo of Kyla Diekmann, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Kyla Diekmann
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
I am a registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in relationship issues and trauma. My treatment approach integrates concepts from Psychodynamic Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Attachment Theory to address your mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing. I work within a trauma-informed and multicultural lens to provide individualized treatment tailored to meet your needs.
I am a registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in relationship issues and trauma. My treatment approach integrates concepts from Psychodynamic Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Attachment Theory to address your mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing. I work within a trauma-informed and multicultural lens to provide individualized treatment tailored to meet your needs.
(310) 861-3142 View (310) 861-3142
Photo of Cynthia A. Levy, Psychologist, PsyD
Cynthia A. Levy
Psychologist, PsyD
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who places greatest value in establishing an empathic, warm, & respectful environment (while modeling firm, healthy boundaries) for clients & their families. Over the last 7 years I've treated adults, children, teens, couples, families, & groups in a private practice setting. My strength-based, collaborative approach drawing on numerous techniques (CBT, DBT, Fam Systems, etc.) helps clients get the most from therapy & allows tailoring our work to your needs. When beneficial and appropriate, I work to foster a "team approach," encouraging good communication w/other members of a client's daily life (i.e. other practitioners/physicians, family, teachers, etc.).
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who places greatest value in establishing an empathic, warm, & respectful environment (while modeling firm, healthy boundaries) for clients & their families. Over the last 7 years I've treated adults, children, teens, couples, families, & groups in a private practice setting. My strength-based, collaborative approach drawing on numerous techniques (CBT, DBT, Fam Systems, etc.) helps clients get the most from therapy & allows tailoring our work to your needs. When beneficial and appropriate, I work to foster a "team approach," encouraging good communication w/other members of a client's daily life (i.e. other practitioners/physicians, family, teachers, etc.).
(818) 962-6438 x101 View (818) 962-6438 x101
Photo of Aaron White At Cauley Associates, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Aaron White At Cauley Associates
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
Going through difficult and stressful situations without a support system can be challenging. It's normal to struggle with the emotions and feelings that come with significant loss. You do not have to face challenging situations by yourself. As your therapist, It's my job to be a powerful resource that can assist you in all areas of your life.
Going through difficult and stressful situations without a support system can be challenging. It's normal to struggle with the emotions and feelings that come with significant loss. You do not have to face challenging situations by yourself. As your therapist, It's my job to be a powerful resource that can assist you in all areas of your life.
(310) 340-0799 View (310) 340-0799
Photo of Dr. Laura Tejada, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCPC, RPT-S
Dr. Laura Tejada
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCPC, RPT-S
4 Endorsed
Online Only
If you are doing your absolute best to cope with what is in front of you but still feel like you are coming up short for yourself and/or your loved ones, contact me and let's talk! My office is a place where it's okay to not be okay, and crazy as it may sound, I truly believe you are doing better than you think. Diverse individuals and non-traditional couples and families are welcome in my office. I have a soft spot for made and chosen families, such as grandparents raising grandparents, LGBTQIA+ families, and kinship care or foster/adoptive families, and couples who are struggling to balance family and partnered relationship.
If you are doing your absolute best to cope with what is in front of you but still feel like you are coming up short for yourself and/or your loved ones, contact me and let's talk! My office is a place where it's okay to not be okay, and crazy as it may sound, I truly believe you are doing better than you think. Diverse individuals and non-traditional couples and families are welcome in my office. I have a soft spot for made and chosen families, such as grandparents raising grandparents, LGBTQIA+ families, and kinship care or foster/adoptive families, and couples who are struggling to balance family and partnered relationship.
(872) 231-3693 View (872) 231-3693
Photo of Andrea Bardack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PCC
Andrea Bardack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PCC
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I specialize in helping people reduce stress and manage conflict in their personal and professional lives. Clients learn communication techniques that enhance interpersonal relationships and develop new approaches to minimizing stress. By addressing issues directly and effectively, clients are able to achieve greater work/life balance and personal satisfaction.
I specialize in helping people reduce stress and manage conflict in their personal and professional lives. Clients learn communication techniques that enhance interpersonal relationships and develop new approaches to minimizing stress. By addressing issues directly and effectively, clients are able to achieve greater work/life balance and personal satisfaction.
(310) 895-9712 View (310) 895-9712
Photo of Dr. Nisha Narsai, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Dr. Nisha Narsai
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The internal and external pressures that come with navigating life and nurturing your own self-love is an ongoing journey that requires daily commitment and effort. When you begin to understand the stories that influence your everyday moments, you will acquire the tools to navigate diverse terrains. Healing and transformation are possible, and help lead to reduced anxiety, sadness, and greater self-confidence.
The internal and external pressures that come with navigating life and nurturing your own self-love is an ongoing journey that requires daily commitment and effort. When you begin to understand the stories that influence your everyday moments, you will acquire the tools to navigate diverse terrains. Healing and transformation are possible, and help lead to reduced anxiety, sadness, and greater self-confidence.
(323) 870-6362 View (323) 870-6362
Photo of John Thorpe, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
John Thorpe
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
I am an associate marriage and family therapist. People seek out therapy for many reasons: broken relationships, anxiety, depression, life changes, trauma, or personal growth. Whatever the reason, my goal is to create a non-judgemental space for my clients to be seen and heard. People are often unaware that they are the experts on their lives. You determine your needs and goals, not the therapist. Whether the focus of your problem is on the past or the present, I aspire to help you work through core issues on your terms.
I am an associate marriage and family therapist. People seek out therapy for many reasons: broken relationships, anxiety, depression, life changes, trauma, or personal growth. Whatever the reason, my goal is to create a non-judgemental space for my clients to be seen and heard. People are often unaware that they are the experts on their lives. You determine your needs and goals, not the therapist. Whether the focus of your problem is on the past or the present, I aspire to help you work through core issues on your terms.
(424) 544-8061 View (424) 544-8061
Photo of Noah Manne, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Noah Manne
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I became a psychotherapist as part of an overall commitment to exploring the many different paths to healing and wellbeing. My style is warm, collaborative, flexible and respectful. The goal is to have the best possible experience of living. We cannot accomplish that by rewriting our history, yet together you and I can engage in a process where we understand what your past means to you and the impact it has on your current behaviors and relationships, in order to make space for new meanings and new responses to things and a better experience of living.
I became a psychotherapist as part of an overall commitment to exploring the many different paths to healing and wellbeing. My style is warm, collaborative, flexible and respectful. The goal is to have the best possible experience of living. We cannot accomplish that by rewriting our history, yet together you and I can engage in a process where we understand what your past means to you and the impact it has on your current behaviors and relationships, in order to make space for new meanings and new responses to things and a better experience of living.
(323) 686-6741 View (323) 686-6741
Photo of Shira M Hefter, Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Shira M Hefter
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
You are a current or former dancer, gymnast or athlete. You have undergone intense training and competition. Now, you feel stuck. You feel high demands, yet you are afraid of your power. You want to be successful. You notice that you fear failure. You may even fear success. Performance anxiety and overwhelm have gotten the best of you lately. Bullying/distrust with peers or coaches may be something you feel bogged down by. Because you’re a high achiever, you need extra love and support and wish to feel confident. However, relationships both in and outside of your craft feel unsubstantial.
You are a current or former dancer, gymnast or athlete. You have undergone intense training and competition. Now, you feel stuck. You feel high demands, yet you are afraid of your power. You want to be successful. You notice that you fear failure. You may even fear success. Performance anxiety and overwhelm have gotten the best of you lately. Bullying/distrust with peers or coaches may be something you feel bogged down by. Because you’re a high achiever, you need extra love and support and wish to feel confident. However, relationships both in and outside of your craft feel unsubstantial.
(323) 370-0942 View (323) 370-0942
Photo of Craig M. Hands, Psychologist, PhD
Craig M. Hands
Psychologist, PhD
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Self-destructive lifestyle patterns? Can't find a meaningful relationship? My emphasis is on addressing the underlying meanings that generate personal distress while interpreting how these meanings produce and perpetuate less than optimal life circumstances. We will focus on issues related to your unique life situation by employing non-judgmental insight, relational and cognitive therapeutic approaches.
Self-destructive lifestyle patterns? Can't find a meaningful relationship? My emphasis is on addressing the underlying meanings that generate personal distress while interpreting how these meanings produce and perpetuate less than optimal life circumstances. We will focus on issues related to your unique life situation by employing non-judgmental insight, relational and cognitive therapeutic approaches.
(424) 254-0170 View (424) 254-0170
Photo of Sharon Johnson-Magar, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Sharon Johnson-Magar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
As an eclectic therapist, I am skilled at meeting the client where they are currently, drawing from all clinical modalities that may be appropriate and helpful to the client. I am warm, directive, engaging, and psychodynamic in orientation and style. I believe in the power of empathy and understanding to foster growth and healing. Finding a balance between self-care and life's demands is where I thrive, making it my "sweet spot" for vibrant living. Guiding others in this journey is not just my profession — it's my passion.
As an eclectic therapist, I am skilled at meeting the client where they are currently, drawing from all clinical modalities that may be appropriate and helpful to the client. I am warm, directive, engaging, and psychodynamic in orientation and style. I believe in the power of empathy and understanding to foster growth and healing. Finding a balance between self-care and life's demands is where I thrive, making it my "sweet spot" for vibrant living. Guiding others in this journey is not just my profession — it's my passion.
(424) 677-1685 View (424) 677-1685
Photo of Sasha Khalili, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Sasha Khalili
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
Therapy offers a space to discover where our inner observer may be hidden and how we can bring it forward through the unconscious layers. It allows us to identify the aspects of our self-dialogue that contribute to our dissatisfaction and to feel emotions aligned with our experiences. This is the path to change, where we, as a team, can help you embark on the life you've been waiting for. Whether you're dealing with addiction, family conflict, identity issues, lack of passion, anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges, I provide a space where we can address these concerns together.
Therapy offers a space to discover where our inner observer may be hidden and how we can bring it forward through the unconscious layers. It allows us to identify the aspects of our self-dialogue that contribute to our dissatisfaction and to feel emotions aligned with our experiences. This is the path to change, where we, as a team, can help you embark on the life you've been waiting for. Whether you're dealing with addiction, family conflict, identity issues, lack of passion, anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges, I provide a space where we can address these concerns together.
(310) 956-1435 View (310) 956-1435

See more therapy options for Beverly Hills

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Beverly Hills, CA

2,000+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in Beverly Hills, CA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
85% Depression
81% Relationship Issues
74% Self Esteem
66% Trauma and PTSD
65% Coping Skills
64% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

77% Aetna
63% Cigna and Evernorth
60% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Beverly Hills, CA see their clients

54% In Person and Online
46% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
23% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Beverly Hills?

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.