Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

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Photo of Betel Christy Ruschmeyer, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Betel Christy Ruschmeyer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As it is with all of nature, it is our human nature to grow. To really live is a creative process, one that is sensitive and responsive to the world in which it emerges. In this way we are attuned and adaptable, and yet sometimes we forget. We find ourselves clinging to internalized messages about who and how we should be, and the confusion, doubt, worry, and fear that follow end up stalling, blocking, or dulling our capacity to flow in connection with our most authentic sense of who we are. Our true nature begins to feel very far away.
As it is with all of nature, it is our human nature to grow. To really live is a creative process, one that is sensitive and responsive to the world in which it emerges. In this way we are attuned and adaptable, and yet sometimes we forget. We find ourselves clinging to internalized messages about who and how we should be, and the confusion, doubt, worry, and fear that follow end up stalling, blocking, or dulling our capacity to flow in connection with our most authentic sense of who we are. Our true nature begins to feel very far away.
(323) 990-8577 View (323) 990-8577
Photo of Deborah McColl, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Deborah McColl
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Evolutionary psychology, neurobiology, Buddhist Psychology and the emerging field of psychedelic therapy are profoundly changing our view of the human experience. We are learning that our individual selves are far less determined than they are emergent.
Evolutionary psychology, neurobiology, Buddhist Psychology and the emerging field of psychedelic therapy are profoundly changing our view of the human experience. We are learning that our individual selves are far less determined than they are emergent.
(626) 414-5288 View (626) 414-5288
Photo of Elle Michel, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Elle Michel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or hopeless? Do you struggle to cope with the effects of past trauma? Are you struggling with relationship problems and difficulty setting healthy boundaries? Give me a call. I can help. Through using a variety of evidence-based therapies, I can help you live the life you want to lead and help you to start feeling better, now. I know that starting therapy can be overwhelming, because I’ve been there. Through my own healing journey I have developed a deep understanding of what it takes to work through difficult emotions, and am uniquely qualified to help my clients heal.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or hopeless? Do you struggle to cope with the effects of past trauma? Are you struggling with relationship problems and difficulty setting healthy boundaries? Give me a call. I can help. Through using a variety of evidence-based therapies, I can help you live the life you want to lead and help you to start feeling better, now. I know that starting therapy can be overwhelming, because I’ve been there. Through my own healing journey I have developed a deep understanding of what it takes to work through difficult emotions, and am uniquely qualified to help my clients heal.
(310) 340-1746 View (310) 340-1746
Photo of Anita M Cabil, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Anita M Cabil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Life is not a simple straight line, but of twist and turns, which can appear daunting. I believe that everyone can defeat these challenges, if given the right set of coping tools, problem-solving strategies, and an experienced therapist to help guide them through it alI. This is why I love being a therapist! I have a passion for helping people. I provide a welcoming and non-judgmental environment, where you feel safe to express your innermost thoughts and feelings. Each session will engage, empower and motivate you, to overcome these hurdles, conquer your fears, find your peace, and live a fulfilling and well-balanced life.
Life is not a simple straight line, but of twist and turns, which can appear daunting. I believe that everyone can defeat these challenges, if given the right set of coping tools, problem-solving strategies, and an experienced therapist to help guide them through it alI. This is why I love being a therapist! I have a passion for helping people. I provide a welcoming and non-judgmental environment, where you feel safe to express your innermost thoughts and feelings. Each session will engage, empower and motivate you, to overcome these hurdles, conquer your fears, find your peace, and live a fulfilling and well-balanced life.
(424) 484-0600 View (424) 484-0600
Photo of Angel Marie Faith - Dr. Angel Faith, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Angel Faith
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with adults who have the following concerns: Lack of productivity, Anxiety, Depression and/or Relationship issues. My approach to therapy is collaborative and catered to your specific needs. I am direct and active in session (as opposed to being a passive listener); I believe that this creates the most potential for rapid progress and growth. In addition to alleviating symptoms, therapy should enhance wellness, which is why I am passionate about using interventions that build upon your unique strengths, values and skills to help you reach your goals.
I specialize in working with adults who have the following concerns: Lack of productivity, Anxiety, Depression and/or Relationship issues. My approach to therapy is collaborative and catered to your specific needs. I am direct and active in session (as opposed to being a passive listener); I believe that this creates the most potential for rapid progress and growth. In addition to alleviating symptoms, therapy should enhance wellness, which is why I am passionate about using interventions that build upon your unique strengths, values and skills to help you reach your goals.
(323) 922-5056 View (323) 922-5056
Photo of Monica Barrameda, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Monica Barrameda
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Monica! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). This message is for men who are on the search for new inner meaning and strength through struggles of life, whether it be trauma, anxiety, or depression. I’m here to help you tap into your masculine genius hidden underneath your self-doubt.
Hi there, I'm Monica! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). This message is for men who are on the search for new inner meaning and strength through struggles of life, whether it be trauma, anxiety, or depression. I’m here to help you tap into your masculine genius hidden underneath your self-doubt.
(213) 558-3296 View (213) 558-3296
Photo of Fabrice Paracuellos, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Fabrice Paracuellos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in emotions, relationships, self-esteem, and culture. I bring a warm approach to therapy, one informed by my experiences in Europe and Asia. I also supervise therapists in training. I became a therapist after discovering the meaning of fatherhood. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I integrate approaches that provide empathy, help regulate the nervous system, and deepen self-awareness. These bring direct relief with regards to the immediate stress associated with current issue(s) and long-term support with self-esteem, empowerment, quality of relationship, and meaning.
I specialize in emotions, relationships, self-esteem, and culture. I bring a warm approach to therapy, one informed by my experiences in Europe and Asia. I also supervise therapists in training. I became a therapist after discovering the meaning of fatherhood. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I integrate approaches that provide empathy, help regulate the nervous system, and deepen self-awareness. These bring direct relief with regards to the immediate stress associated with current issue(s) and long-term support with self-esteem, empowerment, quality of relationship, and meaning.
(818) 536-7983 View (818) 536-7983
Photo of Claudia Elizabeth Williams - Facing It Together, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Facing It Together
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Hi, my name is Dia Williams, I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with diverse populations. I very much like a positive and holistic approach to therapy. Starting your healing journey can seem overwhelming and lonely. My aim is to walk alongside and help you gain a better understanding of how your experiences have impacted the way you approach life.
Hi, my name is Dia Williams, I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with diverse populations. I very much like a positive and holistic approach to therapy. Starting your healing journey can seem overwhelming and lonely. My aim is to walk alongside and help you gain a better understanding of how your experiences have impacted the way you approach life.
(424) 581-0580 View (424) 581-0580
Photo of Oren Raz, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Oren Raz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048
My goal is to provide a warm, caring, respectful, and compassionate environment to help you uncover the roots of emotional pain, suffer and unlock pathways for joyous, resilient, and meaningful living. My core values are: kindness, compassion, respect, and understanding. Within this kind of relationship, deep healing naturally unfolds, transforming cycles of abuse, neglect, addiction, depression, and anxiety, to make way for fulfilling relationships,peaceful existence and wellness.
My goal is to provide a warm, caring, respectful, and compassionate environment to help you uncover the roots of emotional pain, suffer and unlock pathways for joyous, resilient, and meaningful living. My core values are: kindness, compassion, respect, and understanding. Within this kind of relationship, deep healing naturally unfolds, transforming cycles of abuse, neglect, addiction, depression, and anxiety, to make way for fulfilling relationships,peaceful existence and wellness.
(323) 315-0600 View (323) 315-0600
Photo of Christina 'cat' Jensen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, KAP, IFS, EMDR
Christina 'cat' Jensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, KAP, IFS, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I work with Older Millennial/Xennial/Gen X’ers who are spiritual seekers, ready to reclaim more of themselves and their power in mid-life so they can have deeper presence, joy, aliveness & connection. I also hold space for psychedelic journeys for people who want to go deep into consciousness to better understand themselves and life’s great mysteries (ind/grp/couples.) In addition, I teach and mentor other therapists and wellness practitioners on how to bring energy work into their practices to better support themselves and their clients so they can experience feeling more energized and inspired as they share their wisdom and gifts.
I work with Older Millennial/Xennial/Gen X’ers who are spiritual seekers, ready to reclaim more of themselves and their power in mid-life so they can have deeper presence, joy, aliveness & connection. I also hold space for psychedelic journeys for people who want to go deep into consciousness to better understand themselves and life’s great mysteries (ind/grp/couples.) In addition, I teach and mentor other therapists and wellness practitioners on how to bring energy work into their practices to better support themselves and their clients so they can experience feeling more energized and inspired as they share their wisdom and gifts.
(415) 857-2292 View (415) 857-2292
Photo of Ct Wilkes, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Ct Wilkes
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life has many twists and turns sometimes feeling like a highway, a rollercoaster, and even a dead end. For those struggling, I aim to be your co-collaborator in finding what works for you to bring about desired changes in relationships and your own behaviors and patterns. To do this, I use a therapeutic approach that combines exploring the underlying feelings and thoughts with a focus on your strengths and goals, guiding you toward positive changes in your life. Working with me will look like a lot of humor and validation to create a safe space to begin your healing journey.
Life has many twists and turns sometimes feeling like a highway, a rollercoaster, and even a dead end. For those struggling, I aim to be your co-collaborator in finding what works for you to bring about desired changes in relationships and your own behaviors and patterns. To do this, I use a therapeutic approach that combines exploring the underlying feelings and thoughts with a focus on your strengths and goals, guiding you toward positive changes in your life. Working with me will look like a lot of humor and validation to create a safe space to begin your healing journey.
(310) 742-8406 View (310) 742-8406
Photo of Dean Moses - Spearhead Health, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC
Spearhead Health
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Regardless of the circumstances, my ideal participant is one who has any amount of motivation and hope that things can be different in their life. I struggled for many years with a substance abuse disorder (specifically opiates among many other substances) that caused wreckage in my life on so many levels. I can empathize with the human that is using and does not know how to stop. I believe in your power, your resilience, and your spirit. I have helped people with complex mental health issues that include bipolar with psychotic features, depression, anxiety, and a range of substance use disorders & addiction.
Regardless of the circumstances, my ideal participant is one who has any amount of motivation and hope that things can be different in their life. I struggled for many years with a substance abuse disorder (specifically opiates among many other substances) that caused wreckage in my life on so many levels. I can empathize with the human that is using and does not know how to stop. I believe in your power, your resilience, and your spirit. I have helped people with complex mental health issues that include bipolar with psychotic features, depression, anxiety, and a range of substance use disorders & addiction.
(469) 489-3775 View (469) 489-3775
Photo of David Aaron Rhone, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
David Aaron Rhone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90047
I view therapy as a place and space that is sacred. It is the place that is safe and allows you to be your authentic self without judgement or pretense. This is the place where the unspoken finally becomes spoken in a way and manner that is transparent, dignifying and healing. The goal is for you to be honest about your values, dreams and expectations of your life and we partner together to get it figured out. Our work will create a space that is compassionate, nonjudgmental, accepting, affirmative and empowering for each one of my clients in order to move beyond the problem story and find their preferred identity.
I view therapy as a place and space that is sacred. It is the place that is safe and allows you to be your authentic self without judgement or pretense. This is the place where the unspoken finally becomes spoken in a way and manner that is transparent, dignifying and healing. The goal is for you to be honest about your values, dreams and expectations of your life and we partner together to get it figured out. Our work will create a space that is compassionate, nonjudgmental, accepting, affirmative and empowering for each one of my clients in order to move beyond the problem story and find their preferred identity.
(213) 513-5740 View (213) 513-5740
Photo of Antionette Brookins, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Antionette Brookins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, I'm Dr. Brookins licensed marriage and family therapist. I'm also a senior pastor's wife and I specialize in counseling Christian women. Growing up in the church I understand firsthand, the sensitive and often complex needs of Christian believers. And as a skilled licensed mental health professional, I also understand that our mental health matters. And Jesus does not want us to suffer. As a Strengths-Based therapist, I utilize CBT and Solution Focused interventions in treatment. I also offer a variety of coaching packages specifically designed for the Christian woman.
Hi, I'm Dr. Brookins licensed marriage and family therapist. I'm also a senior pastor's wife and I specialize in counseling Christian women. Growing up in the church I understand firsthand, the sensitive and often complex needs of Christian believers. And as a skilled licensed mental health professional, I also understand that our mental health matters. And Jesus does not want us to suffer. As a Strengths-Based therapist, I utilize CBT and Solution Focused interventions in treatment. I also offer a variety of coaching packages specifically designed for the Christian woman.
(424) 622-1581 View (424) 622-1581
Photo of Hedwig L Aerts, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MS
Hedwig L Aerts
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90014
I believe that healing happens in relationship and growth begins with simple curiosity. We grow in the direction that we inquire about, and I strive to create a space where you feel safe to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Whether you're healing from trauma, managing anxiety or depression, navigating the complexities of ADHD, or transitioning as an athlete into a new chapter of life, or simply seeking deeper connection in your relationships, the journey starts with fostering radical acceptance of where we are. Together, we will uncover your strengths and build on them to nurture vitality, clarity, and resilience.
I believe that healing happens in relationship and growth begins with simple curiosity. We grow in the direction that we inquire about, and I strive to create a space where you feel safe to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Whether you're healing from trauma, managing anxiety or depression, navigating the complexities of ADHD, or transitioning as an athlete into a new chapter of life, or simply seeking deeper connection in your relationships, the journey starts with fostering radical acceptance of where we are. Together, we will uncover your strengths and build on them to nurture vitality, clarity, and resilience.
(213) 561-3657 View (213) 561-3657
Photo of Daniel Terry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Daniel Terry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Daniel Terry, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Military Veteran, former first responder in both Fire and Police. I hope to bring education, training, and life experiences together to help others. I have worked with clients affected by the most traumatic of life events all the way to clients working to adjust to more common life changes. I prefer to utilize the Client-Centered Approach as the client knows themself best. This is supported with Motivational Interviewing as well as a Strength-Based focus.
Daniel Terry, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Military Veteran, former first responder in both Fire and Police. I hope to bring education, training, and life experiences together to help others. I have worked with clients affected by the most traumatic of life events all the way to clients working to adjust to more common life changes. I prefer to utilize the Client-Centered Approach as the client knows themself best. This is supported with Motivational Interviewing as well as a Strength-Based focus.
(213) 376-4196 View (213) 376-4196
Photo of Nina Singh, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Nina Singh
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I applaud you for beginning the search for a therapist. Maybe you have found your way here because you are going through a tough time. Possibly you are feeling more anxious or depressed than usual. Perhaps an important relationship is causing you stress. Or maybe you have just decided to learn more about yourself. Whatever the reason, I want to understand your story and who you are.
Welcome! I applaud you for beginning the search for a therapist. Maybe you have found your way here because you are going through a tough time. Possibly you are feeling more anxious or depressed than usual. Perhaps an important relationship is causing you stress. Or maybe you have just decided to learn more about yourself. Whatever the reason, I want to understand your story and who you are.
(213) 652-6418 View (213) 652-6418
Photo of Marisol Gutierrez-Alvarez, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Marisol Gutierrez-Alvarez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist​ (LMFT) based in the Central Coast of California and work with clients state-wide via telehealth. I have over 15 years of mental health experience, mostly in community mental health and school-based counseling services. I have worked with people with various concerns such as anxiety, stress, depression, and anger issues. It is important my clients feel comfortable and safe expressing themselves to share about their experiences. I will listen and have a calm and friendly approach.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist​ (LMFT) based in the Central Coast of California and work with clients state-wide via telehealth. I have over 15 years of mental health experience, mostly in community mental health and school-based counseling services. I have worked with people with various concerns such as anxiety, stress, depression, and anger issues. It is important my clients feel comfortable and safe expressing themselves to share about their experiences. I will listen and have a calm and friendly approach.
(213) 514-5223 View (213) 514-5223
Photo of Kevin De Kock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kevin De Kock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Depression and anxiety are common nowadays. There is no shame in feeling this way. In your day-to-day life, you have to balance work, money, relationships, your dreams, your health, sleep etc. It would make anyone not feel their best. Talking about your troubles with a licensed clinician who listens, empathizes, and challenges is often the thing you need to get you back on the right path or to find a new one.
Depression and anxiety are common nowadays. There is no shame in feeling this way. In your day-to-day life, you have to balance work, money, relationships, your dreams, your health, sleep etc. It would make anyone not feel their best. Talking about your troubles with a licensed clinician who listens, empathizes, and challenges is often the thing you need to get you back on the right path or to find a new one.
(747) 836-0794 View (747) 836-0794
Photo of Shana Yi, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Shana Yi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My style of working is warm, thoughtful, and direct, and I like to incorporate ideas from various modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, while tailoring my approaches to each client's goals and values. I am committed to helping people discover and enhance their emotional capacity in order to live more satisfying lives. My style tends to be solution-focused while being present with authenticity, empathy, and humor.
My style of working is warm, thoughtful, and direct, and I like to incorporate ideas from various modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, while tailoring my approaches to each client's goals and values. I am committed to helping people discover and enhance their emotional capacity in order to live more satisfying lives. My style tends to be solution-focused while being present with authenticity, empathy, and humor.
(310) 361-3435 View (310) 361-3435
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

3,000+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Los Angeles, CA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
72% Self Esteem
71% Relationship Issues
67% Coping Skills
65% Trauma and PTSD
64% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
70% Cigna and Evernorth
59% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Los Angeles, CA see their clients

62% Online Only
38% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Los Angeles?

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.