Therapists in Woodbridge, Irvine, CA

Photo of Dr. Sara Clancy Hernandez, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Sara Clancy Hernandez
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, Irvine, CA 92604
Life can be hard. So many of us face difficulties and challenges at different points throughout life. We might feel scared, sad, alone, overwhelmed. Helpless, hopeless. We might become angry with others, and even turn against ourselves. Sometimes we may lose sight of the moment and of ourselves and it becomes difficult to find any kind of meaning or purpose in life. Finding an anchor in the present, cultivating awareness and understanding, and finding compassion for your inner voice and emotional repertoire can be healing, and can cultivate new relationships not only those around you, but also within yourself.
Life can be hard. So many of us face difficulties and challenges at different points throughout life. We might feel scared, sad, alone, overwhelmed. Helpless, hopeless. We might become angry with others, and even turn against ourselves. Sometimes we may lose sight of the moment and of ourselves and it becomes difficult to find any kind of meaning or purpose in life. Finding an anchor in the present, cultivating awareness and understanding, and finding compassion for your inner voice and emotional repertoire can be healing, and can cultivate new relationships not only those around you, but also within yourself.
(949) 558-2115 View (949) 558-2115
Photo of Julia Martinez, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Julia Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Woodbridge, Irvine, CA 92604
Process the past so you can have room to bloom. " Life is full of transition, which can be challenging but with the support of a compassionate therapist, I believe that you can find your own unique strengths to overcome obstacles to achieve your goals. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and a registered art therapist who uses systems/solutions focused approach to guide you through unique, tailored interventions to build insight into problematic patterns and explore solutions to build self-awareness, improve communication and make progress through life's transitions.
Process the past so you can have room to bloom. " Life is full of transition, which can be challenging but with the support of a compassionate therapist, I believe that you can find your own unique strengths to overcome obstacles to achieve your goals. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and a registered art therapist who uses systems/solutions focused approach to guide you through unique, tailored interventions to build insight into problematic patterns and explore solutions to build self-awareness, improve communication and make progress through life's transitions.
(949) 881-6335 View (949) 881-6335
Photo of Allyson Bushnell - LifeStance Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
LifeStance Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Woodbridge, Irvine, CA 92604
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(949) 776-0627 View (949) 776-0627
Photo of Sheron Gershelis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Sheron Gershelis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Woodbridge, Irvine, CA 92604
Are you struggling with work, relational, and life stressors that have overwhelmed you and you are unsure what to do next? You're trying to open the next chapter in your life, but your past traumas and anxiety stop you. This is where I come in and help guide you in making YOUR right decision. I will help you through your journey in becoming worry-free and assist you in processing unresolved feelings and learning healthy coping skills for emotional distress
Are you struggling with work, relational, and life stressors that have overwhelmed you and you are unsure what to do next? You're trying to open the next chapter in your life, but your past traumas and anxiety stop you. This is where I come in and help guide you in making YOUR right decision. I will help you through your journey in becoming worry-free and assist you in processing unresolved feelings and learning healthy coping skills for emotional distress
(949) 670-9318 View (949) 670-9318
Photo of Antoinette Gupta, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, Psy D
Antoinette Gupta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, Psy D
Woodbridge, Irvine, CA 92604
Do you wish to have a deeper connection and intimacy with your partner? Would you like to learn more positive ways of communicating with your partner, parent or child? Or perhaps you may feel stuck with anxious and/or depressed feelings and would like to learn healthy ways to cope and move forward. You hold the key to make positive changes for a more happy, satisfying and fulfilling life.Your Journey begins with a single step which you have already made by reading this information.
Do you wish to have a deeper connection and intimacy with your partner? Would you like to learn more positive ways of communicating with your partner, parent or child? Or perhaps you may feel stuck with anxious and/or depressed feelings and would like to learn healthy ways to cope and move forward. You hold the key to make positive changes for a more happy, satisfying and fulfilling life.Your Journey begins with a single step which you have already made by reading this information.
(714) 584-4950 View (714) 584-4950
Photo of Kevin S Thomas, Psychologist, PhD
Kevin S Thomas
Psychologist, PhD
Woodbridge, Irvine, CA 92604
Dr. Kevin is a Clinical Psychologist and a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist who has worked in the field of mental/behavioral health in various capacities for over 25 years. He earned his Master's degree in Clinical Psychology at California State University, Fullerton, as well as his Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology at the California School of Professional Psychology, San Diego. Dr. Kevin has substantial depth and breadth of experience in the diagnosis and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults suffering from a wide range of mental illnesses and disorders (e. g.
Dr. Kevin is a Clinical Psychologist and a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist who has worked in the field of mental/behavioral health in various capacities for over 25 years. He earned his Master's degree in Clinical Psychology at California State University, Fullerton, as well as his Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology at the California School of Professional Psychology, San Diego. Dr. Kevin has substantial depth and breadth of experience in the diagnosis and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults suffering from a wide range of mental illnesses and disorders (e. g.
(949) 806-5351 View (949) 806-5351
Photo of Amy Tierney - Therapy for Twins and Multiples | Amy Tierney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Therapy for Twins and Multiples | Amy Tierney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Woodbridge, Irvine, CA 92604
Twins share a bond that is unlike any other. It begins prior to birth, and lasts a lifetime. It can be a source of comfort and lifelong connection—but it can also bring challenges that others may not fully understand. As a therapist who specializes in working with twins and families of twins, I create a supportive environment for exploring the complex layers of identity, attachment, and relational dynamics specific to the twin relationship. My practice is also dedicated to working with twinless twins, those who lost their twin either before or after birth, navigate the profound grief that follows the loss of a twin.
Twins share a bond that is unlike any other. It begins prior to birth, and lasts a lifetime. It can be a source of comfort and lifelong connection—but it can also bring challenges that others may not fully understand. As a therapist who specializes in working with twins and families of twins, I create a supportive environment for exploring the complex layers of identity, attachment, and relational dynamics specific to the twin relationship. My practice is also dedicated to working with twinless twins, those who lost their twin either before or after birth, navigate the profound grief that follows the loss of a twin.
(949) 617-0862 View (949) 617-0862
Photo of Emma Rockvam, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Emma Rockvam
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Woodbridge, Irvine, CA 92604
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, body image struggles, obsessive thoughts, or the lingering impact of trauma? These experiences can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. In our work together, we’ll gently uncover what’s beneath the surface, giving space to long-held emotions and creating a path toward healing. My goal is to help you process unresolved trauma and reconnect with a more grounded, integrated sense of self so that you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, body image struggles, obsessive thoughts, or the lingering impact of trauma? These experiences can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. In our work together, we’ll gently uncover what’s beneath the surface, giving space to long-held emotions and creating a path toward healing. My goal is to help you process unresolved trauma and reconnect with a more grounded, integrated sense of self so that you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
(949) 989-2970 View (949) 989-2970
Photo of Amal Sigrist, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Amal Sigrist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
Hello, my name is Amal Shaheen and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I graduated with my Bachelors of Arts in Psychology from University of California Riverside and completed my Masters of Arts in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy at Pepperdine University. Life can bring many challenges that feel overwhelming and hopeless. The decision to change takes courage and I am passionate about being a part of your journey towards self improvement and to help provide support through my 9 years of experience as a therapist.
Hello, my name is Amal Shaheen and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I graduated with my Bachelors of Arts in Psychology from University of California Riverside and completed my Masters of Arts in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy at Pepperdine University. Life can bring many challenges that feel overwhelming and hopeless. The decision to change takes courage and I am passionate about being a part of your journey towards self improvement and to help provide support through my 9 years of experience as a therapist.
(323) 381-5132 View (323) 381-5132
Photo of Sherry Vaghefi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMFT
Sherry Vaghefi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMFT
Woodbridge, Irvine, CA 92604
Sherry Vaghefi is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology Marriage and Family Specialization and a Master's degree in Microbiology. Sherry can help clients to not go through life challenges alone. She has experience working with individuals, couples, and families, helping them to restore hope, find solutions, and transform their lives. Sherry has extensive experience working with trauma issues utilizing EMDR therapy. As a therapist, she strives to provide a safe and supportive space for her clients to heal and grow.
Sherry Vaghefi is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology Marriage and Family Specialization and a Master's degree in Microbiology. Sherry can help clients to not go through life challenges alone. She has experience working with individuals, couples, and families, helping them to restore hope, find solutions, and transform their lives. Sherry has extensive experience working with trauma issues utilizing EMDR therapy. As a therapist, she strives to provide a safe and supportive space for her clients to heal and grow.
(949) 779-8267 View (949) 779-8267
Photo of Heidi Xue, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APPC, EMDR
Heidi Xue
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APPC, EMDR
Online Only
Do you have trouble with anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues due to trauma? Past experiences can create imprints onto your brain that activate your fight/flight responses whenever your emotions feel dysregulated, but life without the constant feeling of being on edge is possible. Those traumatic memories don’t have to permanently influence who you are meant to be. Through therapy, you will gain control of your feelings/thoughts and your response to everyday life hurdles. Healing from trauma can create healthier beliefs about yourself and your relationships along with sustainable changes.
Do you have trouble with anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues due to trauma? Past experiences can create imprints onto your brain that activate your fight/flight responses whenever your emotions feel dysregulated, but life without the constant feeling of being on edge is possible. Those traumatic memories don’t have to permanently influence who you are meant to be. Through therapy, you will gain control of your feelings/thoughts and your response to everyday life hurdles. Healing from trauma can create healthier beliefs about yourself and your relationships along with sustainable changes.
(949) 649-0712 View (949) 649-0712
Photo of Christi Gallon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Christi Gallon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
(949) 354-6516 View (949) 354-6516
Photo of Robert Belanger, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Robert Belanger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
Are you struggling to communicate with your significant other or child? Are your best intentions at reaching out leading to frustrating arguments? Do you struggle to find the right words to express your desires and are surprised by how your loved ones react? Or are you feeling growing tension and hoping to prevent any further distancing in your relationship? Are past traumas making you hesitate in being truly open with your most important relationships? If you feel stuck in your relationships and as a result have growing feelings of depression or anxiety, talk therapy with Robert Belanger, LMFT may be what you need.
Are you struggling to communicate with your significant other or child? Are your best intentions at reaching out leading to frustrating arguments? Do you struggle to find the right words to express your desires and are surprised by how your loved ones react? Or are you feeling growing tension and hoping to prevent any further distancing in your relationship? Are past traumas making you hesitate in being truly open with your most important relationships? If you feel stuck in your relationships and as a result have growing feelings of depression or anxiety, talk therapy with Robert Belanger, LMFT may be what you need.
(661) 332-8015 View (661) 332-8015
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Mitolo, Psychologist, PsyD, PsyD
Dr. Jennifer Mitolo
Psychologist, PsyD, PsyD
Woodbridge, Irvine, CA 92604
Dr. Mitolo is particularly passionate about helping individuals through later life and midlife transitions, recognizing the unique mental health needs that arise during these stages. She offers specialized support for those coping with medical conditions and healthrelated stressors, ensuring that her clients receive the comprehensive care they need to face these challenges with resilience. Dr. Mitolo is also experienced in treating trauma and PTSD, providing a safe and supportive environment where individuals can process their experiences and work towards healing.
Dr. Mitolo is particularly passionate about helping individuals through later life and midlife transitions, recognizing the unique mental health needs that arise during these stages. She offers specialized support for those coping with medical conditions and healthrelated stressors, ensuring that her clients receive the comprehensive care they need to face these challenges with resilience. Dr. Mitolo is also experienced in treating trauma and PTSD, providing a safe and supportive environment where individuals can process their experiences and work towards healing.
(949) 881-5210 View (949) 881-5210
Photo of Dr. Terry Heptinstall, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, LPCC
Dr. Terry Heptinstall
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, LPCC
Online Only
My counseling is based on listening to you, using a combination of the tools that you have developed and the tools that I have learned, from my studies and throughout life. We work together toward the goals of gaining understanding, clarity, direction, and growth, allowing for more enjoyment in your life. I am committed to help you meet those goals.
My counseling is based on listening to you, using a combination of the tools that you have developed and the tools that I have learned, from my studies and throughout life. We work together toward the goals of gaining understanding, clarity, direction, and growth, allowing for more enjoyment in your life. I am committed to help you meet those goals.
(714) 406-4836 View (714) 406-4836
Photo of Melanie Maddox, Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR, BSP
Melanie Maddox
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR, BSP
Online Only
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
(949) 674-3699 View (949) 674-3699
Photo of Nader Albadawi, Psychologist, PsyD
Nader Albadawi
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling stuck? Whether you know the cause or not, it can be challenging to navigate through experiences like anxiety, depression, loss, anger, or relationship issues. These feelings and challenges can create barriers in your life, making it feel hard to move forward.
Are you feeling stuck? Whether you know the cause or not, it can be challenging to navigate through experiences like anxiety, depression, loss, anger, or relationship issues. These feelings and challenges can create barriers in your life, making it feel hard to move forward.
(909) 326-7433 View (909) 326-7433
Photo of Elizabeth Huck, Associate Clinical Social Worker, EMDR, DBT, IFS
Elizabeth Huck
Associate Clinical Social Worker, EMDR, DBT, IFS
Online Only
The toll of trauma, stress, anxiety, & depression builds over time, things that once seemed manageable turn into a life that's not our own, because we're stuck in survival mode. It's exhausting. As a therapist, my goal is to collaborate with you to safely navigate your inner landscape and put pieces together so you can uncover your unique abilities and create a mental health toolkit that will carry you through a lifetime. I am here to support you in working through unresolved feelings and conflicts and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
The toll of trauma, stress, anxiety, & depression builds over time, things that once seemed manageable turn into a life that's not our own, because we're stuck in survival mode. It's exhausting. As a therapist, my goal is to collaborate with you to safely navigate your inner landscape and put pieces together so you can uncover your unique abilities and create a mental health toolkit that will carry you through a lifetime. I am here to support you in working through unresolved feelings and conflicts and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
(949) 771-7536 View (949) 771-7536
Photo of Amirnaz (Ami) Novid, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CHT, CSMC
Amirnaz (Ami) Novid
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CHT, CSMC
Woodbridge, Irvine, CA 92604
I use an integrative approach to therapy which refers to the infusion of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects within a person, as well as the combination of various theories and intervention strategies to better address the person's individuality. Integrative counseling aims to promote healing and facilitates wholeness - ensuring that all levels of a person's being and functioning are maximized to their full potential.
I use an integrative approach to therapy which refers to the infusion of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects within a person, as well as the combination of various theories and intervention strategies to better address the person's individuality. Integrative counseling aims to promote healing and facilitates wholeness - ensuring that all levels of a person's being and functioning are maximized to their full potential.
(949) 544-1604 View (949) 544-1604
Photo of Zainab Waheed, Pre-Licensed Professional, EMDR, IFS
Zainab Waheed
Pre-Licensed Professional, EMDR, IFS
Online Only
Do you find yourself feeling anxious, depressed, angry, and overwhelmed? Do you continue to repeat the same patterns of being in unhealthy relationships, engaging in harmful behaviors that are not serving you in a good way, and continuously trying to find a way to numb the pain? I am a process-oriented and trauma-informed therapist who meets clients where they are at. I draw from the psychodynamic approach focusing on bringing the unconscious to the conscious to get to the root of the issue and explore defense mechanisms that have been adapted along the way.
Do you find yourself feeling anxious, depressed, angry, and overwhelmed? Do you continue to repeat the same patterns of being in unhealthy relationships, engaging in harmful behaviors that are not serving you in a good way, and continuously trying to find a way to numb the pain? I am a process-oriented and trauma-informed therapist who meets clients where they are at. I draw from the psychodynamic approach focusing on bringing the unconscious to the conscious to get to the root of the issue and explore defense mechanisms that have been adapted along the way.
(949) 998-3918 View (949) 998-3918

See more therapy options for Woodbridge, Irvine

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Woodbridge, Irvine, CA

200+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Woodbridge, Irvine, CA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
91% Depression
81% Relationship Issues
76% Trauma and PTSD
72% Self Esteem
65% Grief
61% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

77% Aetna
70% Cigna and Evernorth
69% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Woodbridge, Irvine, CA see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
13% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Woodbridge, Irvine?

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.