Therapists in Oakland, CA

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Photo of Christopher Medina Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Christopher Medina Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
Are you or your child constantly finding yourself feeling lost, overwhelmed, exhausted, powerless or helpless in your daily life or in your relationships with others? Navigating the emotional spaces within our relationships, professions and ourselves is a complex and often, scary place to be in. While these spaces can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate, you deserve the space to be heard and met with with empathetic warmth in acknowledging the experiences, beliefs and feelings that have brought you here today. I warmly invite you to begin or continue that journey with me so we can learn, unlearn, explore and grow together.
Are you or your child constantly finding yourself feeling lost, overwhelmed, exhausted, powerless or helpless in your daily life or in your relationships with others? Navigating the emotional spaces within our relationships, professions and ourselves is a complex and often, scary place to be in. While these spaces can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate, you deserve the space to be heard and met with with empathetic warmth in acknowledging the experiences, beliefs and feelings that have brought you here today. I warmly invite you to begin or continue that journey with me so we can learn, unlearn, explore and grow together.
(510) 737-7959 View (510) 737-7959
Photo of Deanna Jimenez, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Deanna Jimenez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I am called to support individuals and couples ready to liberate themselves from stress and overwhelm to create more fulfilling relationships and lead happier, more balanced lives. Despite what brings you to therapy, my goal is for you to leave with the ability to respond effectively to life's challenges. I provide a safe, supportive environment for you to begin exploring your feelings, needs and internal reality. Through mindfulness, interactive dialogue and practical wisdom we will invite compassionate curiosity around old patterns that no longer serve you. Visit me at www.deannajimenez.com.
I am called to support individuals and couples ready to liberate themselves from stress and overwhelm to create more fulfilling relationships and lead happier, more balanced lives. Despite what brings you to therapy, my goal is for you to leave with the ability to respond effectively to life's challenges. I provide a safe, supportive environment for you to begin exploring your feelings, needs and internal reality. Through mindfulness, interactive dialogue and practical wisdom we will invite compassionate curiosity around old patterns that no longer serve you. Visit me at www.deannajimenez.com.
(510) 275-7180 View (510) 275-7180
Photo of Debra A Bronstein, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Debra A Bronstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94608
I provide a down-to-earth approach to self-exploration and personal development, recognizing the universality of both human suffering and human potential. I take a non-pathological approach to therapy, coming from a core orientation that each person is inherently valuable and has an innate capacity for wisdom and wholeness. My approach is dynamic and relational, being informed by a lifetime of psychological and spiritual inquiry.
I provide a down-to-earth approach to self-exploration and personal development, recognizing the universality of both human suffering and human potential. I take a non-pathological approach to therapy, coming from a core orientation that each person is inherently valuable and has an innate capacity for wisdom and wholeness. My approach is dynamic and relational, being informed by a lifetime of psychological and spiritual inquiry.
(510) 858-2181 View (510) 858-2181
Photo of Theresa Ann Razzano, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CRC
Theresa Ann Razzano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CRC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
What's happening in your life today? How can I help you feel better about yourself and your future? Sometimes painful life experiences get in the way of taking charge of our lives. For some, depression, anxiety or trauma can make you feel stuck. Others want to figure out why their interpersonal relationships are conflicted and stressful or that they still haven't met the person they want to be with. Therapy is such a useful experience to get things out of your head and into the room, where we work together to figure out what's in the way of happiness, while creating a plan for going forward.
What's happening in your life today? How can I help you feel better about yourself and your future? Sometimes painful life experiences get in the way of taking charge of our lives. For some, depression, anxiety or trauma can make you feel stuck. Others want to figure out why their interpersonal relationships are conflicted and stressful or that they still haven't met the person they want to be with. Therapy is such a useful experience to get things out of your head and into the room, where we work together to figure out what's in the way of happiness, while creating a plan for going forward.
(510) 660-0136 View (510) 660-0136
Photo of Jessica Anne Engle - Bay Area Dating Coach, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RDT
Bay Area Dating Coach
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RDT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Dating can be scary. Because when you’re looking for real love (not just a fling), dating matters, and that can make it stressful. Add to that being an introvert and struggling with anxiety, and it can feel like a lonely battle! Thankfully, you don’t need to go through this alone. At Bay Area Dating Coach, our team of experienced, caring therapists want to support you and help you find your Person. We're here to help you discover what’s holding you back in dating and get the tools you need to find love. We’ll guide & support you in your journey to understand yourself and find the loving relationship you’re dreaming about.
Dating can be scary. Because when you’re looking for real love (not just a fling), dating matters, and that can make it stressful. Add to that being an introvert and struggling with anxiety, and it can feel like a lonely battle! Thankfully, you don’t need to go through this alone. At Bay Area Dating Coach, our team of experienced, caring therapists want to support you and help you find your Person. We're here to help you discover what’s holding you back in dating and get the tools you need to find love. We’ll guide & support you in your journey to understand yourself and find the loving relationship you’re dreaming about.
(415) 650-1844 View (415) 650-1844
Photo of Connie C Linas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Connie C Linas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Do you need relief from anxiety or depression? Are you and your partner fighting and trying to move forward together? I often help people who are exactly where you are. A collaborative, focused relationship with a caring professional can be a life-changing experience. I have a goal oriented and interactive style, and my goal is always to help you move forward - at your own pace - with ease and acceptance. Check out my website and call for a phone consultation to see if I'd be a good fit for you.
Do you need relief from anxiety or depression? Are you and your partner fighting and trying to move forward together? I often help people who are exactly where you are. A collaborative, focused relationship with a caring professional can be a life-changing experience. I have a goal oriented and interactive style, and my goal is always to help you move forward - at your own pace - with ease and acceptance. Check out my website and call for a phone consultation to see if I'd be a good fit for you.
(510) 338-6655 View (510) 338-6655
Photo of Uta Maeda, Psychologist, PhD
Uta Maeda
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
The impact of chronic pain often goes far beyond the body, and may leave you feeling depressed, anxious, angry, and isolated. As a pain psychologist, I can help you build effective coping tools to take back control over your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and physical symptoms so that you can live a meaningful life that is not defined by your pain. I emphasize a collaborative, solution-focused approach to therapy, and will work with you to create a treatment plan that takes into account the unique biological, psychological, and social factors that make you who you are.
The impact of chronic pain often goes far beyond the body, and may leave you feeling depressed, anxious, angry, and isolated. As a pain psychologist, I can help you build effective coping tools to take back control over your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and physical symptoms so that you can live a meaningful life that is not defined by your pain. I emphasize a collaborative, solution-focused approach to therapy, and will work with you to create a treatment plan that takes into account the unique biological, psychological, and social factors that make you who you are.
(650) 852-1304 View (650) 852-1304
Photo of Jenna Robinson, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PTR
Jenna Robinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PTR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Are you looking to heal from trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, experiences with abuse and family violence? Or years of navigating systemic oppression? Are you motivated to develop into your most joyful and resilient self? Let me help you metabolize pain into triumph. I’ve been helping individuals, families and groups transcend trauma, abuse and grief for over 10 years in California and Hawai’i. I have a liberatory and integrative approach that is authentic, collaborative, warm, creative and joyful.
Are you looking to heal from trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, experiences with abuse and family violence? Or years of navigating systemic oppression? Are you motivated to develop into your most joyful and resilient self? Let me help you metabolize pain into triumph. I’ve been helping individuals, families and groups transcend trauma, abuse and grief for over 10 years in California and Hawai’i. I have a liberatory and integrative approach that is authentic, collaborative, warm, creative and joyful.
(510) 901-5693 View (510) 901-5693
Photo of Judith Fleming, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Judith Fleming
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in the Bay Area, California with over 6 years of professional experience within the therapeutic world. I come from an art background and am in an interracial partnership. I have experience working with BIPOC communities. I myself am invested in my own health, well-being, learning, and spiritual growth. I consider myself spiritual, not necessarily religious, but my clients don't have to be. I am an appreciator of nature.
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in the Bay Area, California with over 6 years of professional experience within the therapeutic world. I come from an art background and am in an interracial partnership. I have experience working with BIPOC communities. I myself am invested in my own health, well-being, learning, and spiritual growth. I consider myself spiritual, not necessarily religious, but my clients don't have to be. I am an appreciator of nature.
(510) 480-3585 View (510) 480-3585
Photo of Christine K Pess, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Christine K Pess
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I offer both short and long-term therapy with adolescents, adults and seniors. I am experienced with anxiety, grief, depression, identity exploration, relationship issues and trauma. I strive to create a comfortable, accepting and encouraging space, and I believe that the quality of the relationship between therapist and client is essential to the work.
I offer both short and long-term therapy with adolescents, adults and seniors. I am experienced with anxiety, grief, depression, identity exploration, relationship issues and trauma. I strive to create a comfortable, accepting and encouraging space, and I believe that the quality of the relationship between therapist and client is essential to the work.
(510) 288-5115 View (510) 288-5115
Photo of Lori Andrews, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Lori Andrews
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist in California. I am interested in the changes that you are going through, how you are dealing with challenges, and what you want your life to be. I am committed to helping you access innate strengths, recognize and let go of what no longer serves you, and align with what is important to you.
I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist in California. I am interested in the changes that you are going through, how you are dealing with challenges, and what you want your life to be. I am committed to helping you access innate strengths, recognize and let go of what no longer serves you, and align with what is important to you.
(510) 330-1128 View (510) 330-1128
Photo of Nina Hausman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Nina Hausman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling stuck in life? Maybe you’re struggling with relationship challenges, past traumas or work stress? Is shame, anxiety, anger or numbness affecting your ability to be happy? Maybe you’re wondering how your substance use, or that of a loved one, is related to any of this? I’d like to offer you a non-judgmental space to explore behaviors, beliefs and feelings that keep you from living the life you want to live. You are not broken and I would be honored to help you reconnect to the innate wisdom and power of your authentic self. My style is real, warm and respectful of your choices, whatever they may be.
Are you feeling stuck in life? Maybe you’re struggling with relationship challenges, past traumas or work stress? Is shame, anxiety, anger or numbness affecting your ability to be happy? Maybe you’re wondering how your substance use, or that of a loved one, is related to any of this? I’d like to offer you a non-judgmental space to explore behaviors, beliefs and feelings that keep you from living the life you want to live. You are not broken and I would be honored to help you reconnect to the innate wisdom and power of your authentic self. My style is real, warm and respectful of your choices, whatever they may be.
(510) 405-0628 View (510) 405-0628
Photo of Megan Ellis Van Vlack, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Megan Ellis Van Vlack
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
Not accepting new clients
The decision to begin psychotherapy can come about for a variety of reasons. This may be your first time in therapy or it’s just the right time to get a fresh perspective. You may be struggling with feelings and experiences that are hard to make sense of or you may feel stuck, like you’ve tried everything, and nothing is working. What you do know is that it's getting to be more difficult to stay motivated and enjoy the things that you love. Psychotherapy can help to relieve these stressors and instead help you find ways to thrive.
The decision to begin psychotherapy can come about for a variety of reasons. This may be your first time in therapy or it’s just the right time to get a fresh perspective. You may be struggling with feelings and experiences that are hard to make sense of or you may feel stuck, like you’ve tried everything, and nothing is working. What you do know is that it's getting to be more difficult to stay motivated and enjoy the things that you love. Psychotherapy can help to relieve these stressors and instead help you find ways to thrive.
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Photo of Alex Marterre, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Alex Marterre
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Hi, I'm Alex. I am a white, queer, trans non-binary person. I use they/them pronouns. And I care deeply about justice, collective liberation, mutual aid, and human evolution. I dedicate myself and my work to deconstructing the harmful and misappropriated messages of our white supremacist, capitalist, cis-hetero-patriarchal mainstream culture, while supporting the organic and authentic self-expression that lives beyond toxic constructs. I aim to offer and support an experience of re-humanization.
Hi, I'm Alex. I am a white, queer, trans non-binary person. I use they/them pronouns. And I care deeply about justice, collective liberation, mutual aid, and human evolution. I dedicate myself and my work to deconstructing the harmful and misappropriated messages of our white supremacist, capitalist, cis-hetero-patriarchal mainstream culture, while supporting the organic and authentic self-expression that lives beyond toxic constructs. I aim to offer and support an experience of re-humanization.
(510) 216-1484 View (510) 216-1484
Photo of Cindi Rivera, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Cindi Rivera
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602
I am a bilingual bicultural psychotherapist working with adults and couples who are having problems in their relationships and/or who feel badly about themselves or their life situation. The in-depth work I do focuses on one's feelings and significant relationships - past and present. With compassion and deep personal respect, I help my clients to deal with the painful issues, losses and complex struggles of living. I work well with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, parenting issues, inter-racial couples, life transitions, loss, and trauma; toward repairing the relationships that are inevitably affected by these problems.
I am a bilingual bicultural psychotherapist working with adults and couples who are having problems in their relationships and/or who feel badly about themselves or their life situation. The in-depth work I do focuses on one's feelings and significant relationships - past and present. With compassion and deep personal respect, I help my clients to deal with the painful issues, losses and complex struggles of living. I work well with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, parenting issues, inter-racial couples, life transitions, loss, and trauma; toward repairing the relationships that are inevitably affected by these problems.
(510) 470-7374 View (510) 470-7374
Photo of Ellen Chamberlin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Ellen Chamberlin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
It can feel like there are so many demands on the modern human that we have no space to slow down and listen our quiet yet wise inner voice. This can result in surprise feelings of anxiety, depression, and overwhelm that have us seeking any means of relief. Whether it be tuning out on social media, overindulging in substances from food to drugs, or creating an over-stuffed social calendar, relief is only temporary. I'm here to help find sustainable ways to live at your own pace.
It can feel like there are so many demands on the modern human that we have no space to slow down and listen our quiet yet wise inner voice. This can result in surprise feelings of anxiety, depression, and overwhelm that have us seeking any means of relief. Whether it be tuning out on social media, overindulging in substances from food to drugs, or creating an over-stuffed social calendar, relief is only temporary. I'm here to help find sustainable ways to live at your own pace.
(341) 217-5634 x15 View (341) 217-5634 x15
Photo of Milka Lara-Rincon, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Milka Lara-Rincon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have specialized training in treating OCD and related disorders, including social anxiety, specific phobias, and health anxiety. I also provide culturally-responsive therapy to multiethnic, Latinx, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ communities. Therapy is a safe space for self-discovery and healing, where I explore how culture, sexuality, gender, spirituality, family, and relationships shape identity and mental health. I also work with mental health practitioners seeking their own therapy. I look forward to helping you integrate all aspects of who you are into a healthy whole.
I have specialized training in treating OCD and related disorders, including social anxiety, specific phobias, and health anxiety. I also provide culturally-responsive therapy to multiethnic, Latinx, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ communities. Therapy is a safe space for self-discovery and healing, where I explore how culture, sexuality, gender, spirituality, family, and relationships shape identity and mental health. I also work with mental health practitioners seeking their own therapy. I look forward to helping you integrate all aspects of who you are into a healthy whole.
(510) 650-1377 View (510) 650-1377
Photo of Shenaaz Janmohamed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Shenaaz Janmohamed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
My practice is grounded in healing justice, where I understand therapy/reflection/individual growth as a necessary part of collective liberation. As Grace Lee Boggs reminds us, "Change yourself to change the world." If we are not supported to do the work of attending to our own woundings, we risk replicating these harms on one another. "Hurt people hurt people." I am re-opening my practice again to support community members and movements struggling against many oppressive conditions, including resisting genocide and fighting for bodily autonomy, gender justice, Black liberation, and towards increased dignity and safety.
My practice is grounded in healing justice, where I understand therapy/reflection/individual growth as a necessary part of collective liberation. As Grace Lee Boggs reminds us, "Change yourself to change the world." If we are not supported to do the work of attending to our own woundings, we risk replicating these harms on one another. "Hurt people hurt people." I am re-opening my practice again to support community members and movements struggling against many oppressive conditions, including resisting genocide and fighting for bodily autonomy, gender justice, Black liberation, and towards increased dignity and safety.
(510) 270-3342 View (510) 270-3342
Photo of Lynnell Morris Sow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Lynnell Morris Sow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94607
I believe life is a journey over mountains and through valleys. At any point along the way a large or small obstacle may seem to obstruct the path and potentially end one's journey. Learning techniques to go over or around obstacles can thus become a valued life skill. Helping people learn the skills to navigate through life's good and not so good times is what therapy is for.
I believe life is a journey over mountains and through valleys. At any point along the way a large or small obstacle may seem to obstruct the path and potentially end one's journey. Learning techniques to go over or around obstacles can thus become a valued life skill. Helping people learn the skills to navigate through life's good and not so good times is what therapy is for.
(510) 953-4270 View (510) 953-4270
Photo of Elizabeth Dausch, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Elizabeth Dausch
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
Are you anxious and struggling to keep hope alive through your breakup, dating, or in your relationship? Maybe part of you still can’t believe it’s over. You miss them more than you can say. You’re so tired of being single but exhausted or intimidated by the dating scene. You might be experiencing a lot of anxiety as you begin a new relationship. Or perhaps you feel defeated and stuck in your efforts to improve your relationship & you’re ready to work on it together with support. If any of this rings true, you’re in the right place.
Are you anxious and struggling to keep hope alive through your breakup, dating, or in your relationship? Maybe part of you still can’t believe it’s over. You miss them more than you can say. You’re so tired of being single but exhausted or intimidated by the dating scene. You might be experiencing a lot of anxiety as you begin a new relationship. Or perhaps you feel defeated and stuck in your efforts to improve your relationship & you’re ready to work on it together with support. If any of this rings true, you’re in the right place.
(510) 738-2530 View (510) 738-2530
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Oakland, CA

3,000+

Average cost per session

$190

Therapists in Oakland, CA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
70% Trauma and PTSD
67% Grief
66% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

71% Aetna
61% Cigna and Evernorth
53% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Oakland, CA see their clients

52% Online Only
48% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

76% Female
20% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Oakland?

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.