Therapists in Oakland, CA

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Photo of Charmaine Ehrhart, Psychologist, PsyD
Charmaine Ehrhart
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I invite you to visit my website: drehrhart.com for a comprehensive understanding of how I can help you, of who I am, and how I work. In brief, we would explore the dynamic terrain of your relationships - to your self (your emotions, your thoughts, your behavior) and to others. This is done in a relationship of genuine curiosity and compassion, so that understanding and change, can take place. This productive and curious environment or relationship that we foster together, can be internalized and taken with you as one if the many tools for your life journey.
I invite you to visit my website: drehrhart.com for a comprehensive understanding of how I can help you, of who I am, and how I work. In brief, we would explore the dynamic terrain of your relationships - to your self (your emotions, your thoughts, your behavior) and to others. This is done in a relationship of genuine curiosity and compassion, so that understanding and change, can take place. This productive and curious environment or relationship that we foster together, can be internalized and taken with you as one if the many tools for your life journey.
(415) 689-8383 View (415) 689-8383
Photo of Jennifer Lilly, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Jennifer Lilly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you have relationships in your life that are not working, and no matter what you do, it doesn't seem to get better? Are you looking for a partner, but find that it never seems to work out? Do you feel disconnected from others and are longing for relationships that are solid and fulfilling? Relationships take work and psychotherapy is an opportunity to understand who you are in relationship and how to create and healthy and supportive connections. I work with both individuals and couples to explore, cultivate and sustain intimacy.
Do you have relationships in your life that are not working, and no matter what you do, it doesn't seem to get better? Are you looking for a partner, but find that it never seems to work out? Do you feel disconnected from others and are longing for relationships that are solid and fulfilling? Relationships take work and psychotherapy is an opportunity to understand who you are in relationship and how to create and healthy and supportive connections. I work with both individuals and couples to explore, cultivate and sustain intimacy.
(415) 237-2667 View (415) 237-2667
Photo of Grace Parker-Guerrero, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Grace Parker-Guerrero
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
As a practitioner, I am passionate about helping individuals cultivate greater awareness of their emotional, physical, and spiritual experiences. My work helps people understand the ways in which the unconscious shapes their present day reality. Sometimes, this involves a compassionate inquiry into a a person’s family of origin, relational dynamics, trauma, and habituated beliefs. I am committed to helping my clients live purposefully, joyfully, and with greater awareness and self-acceptance.
As a practitioner, I am passionate about helping individuals cultivate greater awareness of their emotional, physical, and spiritual experiences. My work helps people understand the ways in which the unconscious shapes their present day reality. Sometimes, this involves a compassionate inquiry into a a person’s family of origin, relational dynamics, trauma, and habituated beliefs. I am committed to helping my clients live purposefully, joyfully, and with greater awareness and self-acceptance.
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Photo of Jiyoung Kim, Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Jiyoung Kim
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you find difficulties with feelings of depression, anxiety, relationship/family problems, ADHD, and trauma? These emotional disruptions can have a significant impact on our lives. Coping with these events requires various approaches, and I can assist you in recognizing your emotions and identifying possible patterns in your relationships. I can also help you develop resilience and acceptance towards challenging emotions, and support you in setting meaningful goals. I utilize CBT, trauma-informed care, mindfulness, & person-centered therapy to reduce anxiety and trauma symptoms, foster resilience, and enhance the quality of life.
Do you find difficulties with feelings of depression, anxiety, relationship/family problems, ADHD, and trauma? These emotional disruptions can have a significant impact on our lives. Coping with these events requires various approaches, and I can assist you in recognizing your emotions and identifying possible patterns in your relationships. I can also help you develop resilience and acceptance towards challenging emotions, and support you in setting meaningful goals. I utilize CBT, trauma-informed care, mindfulness, & person-centered therapy to reduce anxiety and trauma symptoms, foster resilience, and enhance the quality of life.
(415) 692-3469 View (415) 692-3469
Photo of Fei Yi, Psychologist, PhD, LP
Fei Yi
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Fei Yi is now accepting new clients with Lyra. If you're seeking a Chinese/English speaking therapist specializing in complex PTSD and family relationships, you’re in the right place. With over 10 years of clinical experience, Dr. Yi, a licensed psychologist in California, helps with anxiety, depression, trauma, work stress, social skills, marriage/family conflict, and LGBTQ+ concerns. She offers evidence-based psychotherapy to adults, couples, and families, combining Western and Eastern wisdom for holistic, providing compassionate listening and immediate, actionable feedback. Email Dr. Yi now for a free 15-minute consultation.
Dr. Fei Yi is now accepting new clients with Lyra. If you're seeking a Chinese/English speaking therapist specializing in complex PTSD and family relationships, you’re in the right place. With over 10 years of clinical experience, Dr. Yi, a licensed psychologist in California, helps with anxiety, depression, trauma, work stress, social skills, marriage/family conflict, and LGBTQ+ concerns. She offers evidence-based psychotherapy to adults, couples, and families, combining Western and Eastern wisdom for holistic, providing compassionate listening and immediate, actionable feedback. Email Dr. Yi now for a free 15-minute consultation.
(415) 549-9151 View (415) 549-9151
Photo of Audrey Dameron, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Audrey Dameron
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
As a first-generation college student, I understand the perseverance and tenacity it takes to thrive or even just to survive in the Bay Area. I am able to relate to your potential struggles of feeling confident/belonged, making impacts, juggling work/life demands, maintaining healthy relationships, and drawing healthy boundaries with family members.
As a first-generation college student, I understand the perseverance and tenacity it takes to thrive or even just to survive in the Bay Area. I am able to relate to your potential struggles of feeling confident/belonged, making impacts, juggling work/life demands, maintaining healthy relationships, and drawing healthy boundaries with family members.
(510) 462-7996 View (510) 462-7996
Photo of Veronica Ochoa - Veronica Ochoa, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Veronica Ochoa, LCSW, BCD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
If you’ve experienced trauma and are struggling to find peace, I want to reassure you: healing is possible and you can regain the ability to experience joy again. In individual therapy, I can support you in confronting traumatic memories, build healthier coping strategies, and regain control of your life. For couples, I offer support to rebuild trust, improve communication, and restore intimacy that trauma may have impacted. My approach combines compassion with scientifically proven therapies, creating a safe space where you can heal.
If you’ve experienced trauma and are struggling to find peace, I want to reassure you: healing is possible and you can regain the ability to experience joy again. In individual therapy, I can support you in confronting traumatic memories, build healthier coping strategies, and regain control of your life. For couples, I offer support to rebuild trust, improve communication, and restore intimacy that trauma may have impacted. My approach combines compassion with scientifically proven therapies, creating a safe space where you can heal.
(415) 943-4580 View (415) 943-4580
Photo of Brandy Dunn - Silver Lake Psychology--Oakland location, Psychologist, PsyD
Silver Lake Psychology--Oakland location
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
(415) 969-7850 View (415) 969-7850
Photo of Irene Schell Capuchino, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, ATR-BC
Irene Schell Capuchino
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My approach to counseling begins with careful listening to understand your unique situation and personal goals. I will listen without judging you or rushing to a quick fix that might not be applicable for your specific situation. Many of my clients enter counseling feeling alone or overwhelmed by feelings of sadness, anxiety, anger, or stress. They may feel stuck in painful relationships that aren't working, or stuck with intense feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, dread, or inner pain. My treatment approach is gentle, educational, and experiential.
My approach to counseling begins with careful listening to understand your unique situation and personal goals. I will listen without judging you or rushing to a quick fix that might not be applicable for your specific situation. Many of my clients enter counseling feeling alone or overwhelmed by feelings of sadness, anxiety, anger, or stress. They may feel stuck in painful relationships that aren't working, or stuck with intense feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, dread, or inner pain. My treatment approach is gentle, educational, and experiential.
(510) 343-7798 View (510) 343-7798
Photo of Johanna Fernandez, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Johanna Fernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! My name is Johanna Fernandez and I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist based in California. I believe in allowing my clients to guide me while teaching them how to ride the waves of life's difficulties. I believe everyone has the answers they are looking for within themselves; I am only a sounding board designed to guide, teach, and empower. I believe there is no "one size fits all" for therapy. I love using different interventions from different approaches depending on the person sitting in front of me. In meeting with me, we can create the best plan suited for you and your needs.
Hi! My name is Johanna Fernandez and I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist based in California. I believe in allowing my clients to guide me while teaching them how to ride the waves of life's difficulties. I believe everyone has the answers they are looking for within themselves; I am only a sounding board designed to guide, teach, and empower. I believe there is no "one size fits all" for therapy. I love using different interventions from different approaches depending on the person sitting in front of me. In meeting with me, we can create the best plan suited for you and your needs.
(510) 781-9729 View (510) 781-9729
Photo of Ariella Popple, Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
Ariella Popple
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
Are you stressed, anxious or depressed? I will listen kindly and focus on your path to getting better. Together, we will identify reachable goals and a plan that you can commit to. This might include CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), EMDR (eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing) or just talking and learning mindfulness and healthy habits. I believe in an integrative approach to wellness. If you want, we can do therapy while walking in nature.
Are you stressed, anxious or depressed? I will listen kindly and focus on your path to getting better. Together, we will identify reachable goals and a plan that you can commit to. This might include CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), EMDR (eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing) or just talking and learning mindfulness and healthy habits. I believe in an integrative approach to wellness. If you want, we can do therapy while walking in nature.
(510) 681-0027 View (510) 681-0027
Photo of Katherine D Czesak, Psychologist, PhD
Katherine D Czesak
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
My approach is to understand you deeply and individualize our work by finding what is most effective for you. All people are unique and their life circumstances are particular to who they are. Through collaboration, we figure out what is what is most beneficial for your wellbeing and also what is realistic for your lifestyle. I look forward to meeting you and exploring what you wish to change through an initial free half hour phone consultation.
My approach is to understand you deeply and individualize our work by finding what is most effective for you. All people are unique and their life circumstances are particular to who they are. Through collaboration, we figure out what is what is most beneficial for your wellbeing and also what is realistic for your lifestyle. I look forward to meeting you and exploring what you wish to change through an initial free half hour phone consultation.
(415) 237-6065 View (415) 237-6065
Photo of Judy Noddin, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Judy Noddin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Waitlist for new clients
I work with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship stressors, and life transitions, as well as those who want to heal from childhood trauma and emotional neglect. I specialize in trauma focused therapy using Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Attachment Therapy, and Expressive Arts Therapy. During individual sessions we will work together to identify and change the thought, behavior patterns, and beliefs that are keeping you stuck and suffering; help you gain greater access to your innate healing capacities and resilience; and grow your capacity for self-compassion, joy, creativity and connection.
I work with people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship stressors, and life transitions, as well as those who want to heal from childhood trauma and emotional neglect. I specialize in trauma focused therapy using Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Attachment Therapy, and Expressive Arts Therapy. During individual sessions we will work together to identify and change the thought, behavior patterns, and beliefs that are keeping you stuck and suffering; help you gain greater access to your innate healing capacities and resilience; and grow your capacity for self-compassion, joy, creativity and connection.
(510) 254-3198 View (510) 254-3198
Photo of Steve Cutshall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Steve Cutshall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a person in long-term recovery providing psychotherapy to people with substance use disorders. I am familiar with many treatment centers and recovery fellowships in the Bay Area. I provide a nonjudgmental, direct approach and a sense of humor to address addiction and its root causes. If recovery through abstinence is your goal, I am able to tailor a relapse prevention plan to your specific needs.
I am a person in long-term recovery providing psychotherapy to people with substance use disorders. I am familiar with many treatment centers and recovery fellowships in the Bay Area. I provide a nonjudgmental, direct approach and a sense of humor to address addiction and its root causes. If recovery through abstinence is your goal, I am able to tailor a relapse prevention plan to your specific needs.
(510) 544-6370 View (510) 544-6370
Photo of Leslie Hammer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Leslie Hammer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602
Welcome! Are you drawn to the natural world when you need to feel more grounded, calm, or inspired? Are you looking to broaden your community of support? I work with people primarily outside in the natural world, engaging in ecotherapy practices. We would meet at a local park in the East Bay Area, where we would sit, walk, or explore the area while tending to whatever stresses, questions, or emotions are arising in you.
Welcome! Are you drawn to the natural world when you need to feel more grounded, calm, or inspired? Are you looking to broaden your community of support? I work with people primarily outside in the natural world, engaging in ecotherapy practices. We would meet at a local park in the East Bay Area, where we would sit, walk, or explore the area while tending to whatever stresses, questions, or emotions are arising in you.
(510) 726-7017 View (510) 726-7017
Photo of Stuart Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Stuart Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Are you seeking a better relationship with yourself or with others? Do you often find yourself in relationships with emotionally unavailable partners? Need support with identifying and deeply experiencing your feelings? Are you striving to live a more purposeful and meaningful life? I will provide a sensitive, genuine supportive presence where you can feel truly acknowledged with acceptance and without judgment. I will be an active participant in our working alliance to help move you towards experiencing the positive changes you seek and meeting your goals.
Are you seeking a better relationship with yourself or with others? Do you often find yourself in relationships with emotionally unavailable partners? Need support with identifying and deeply experiencing your feelings? Are you striving to live a more purposeful and meaningful life? I will provide a sensitive, genuine supportive presence where you can feel truly acknowledged with acceptance and without judgment. I will be an active participant in our working alliance to help move you towards experiencing the positive changes you seek and meeting your goals.
(510) 401-3760 View (510) 401-3760
Photo of Esmeralda Leon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Esmeralda Leon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have been practicing since 1999. I have provided services to teenagers and adults. I have worked with clients who suffer from mood disorders, stress, and relationship issues. I have worked with clients in outpatient settings and incarcerated individuals. I have provided therapy to clients who suffer from depression, anxiety, and marital problems.
I have been practicing since 1999. I have provided services to teenagers and adults. I have worked with clients who suffer from mood disorders, stress, and relationship issues. I have worked with clients in outpatient settings and incarcerated individuals. I have provided therapy to clients who suffer from depression, anxiety, and marital problems.
(510) 390-9342 View (510) 390-9342
Photo of Sunyata Kopriva, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RYT, MSW, LCSW
Sunyata Kopriva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RYT, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
*ACCEPTING CALIFORNIA, ILLINOIS, AND MISSOURI CLIENTS* Come be seen & be known in a relational space with me, so that you can finally arrive home in yourself. Are you curious if you have experienced trauma, or if trauma may still be affecting you? Have you worked with many healers & still feel stuck in certain places? Have you experienced a spiritual awakening & need to integrate the experience(s)? If you answered 'yes' to any of these questions, then you may be in the right place. Trauma can express itself as PTSD and Complex PTSD, various types of depression and anxiety, & many other symptoms. Lets get to the root.
*ACCEPTING CALIFORNIA, ILLINOIS, AND MISSOURI CLIENTS* Come be seen & be known in a relational space with me, so that you can finally arrive home in yourself. Are you curious if you have experienced trauma, or if trauma may still be affecting you? Have you worked with many healers & still feel stuck in certain places? Have you experienced a spiritual awakening & need to integrate the experience(s)? If you answered 'yes' to any of these questions, then you may be in the right place. Trauma can express itself as PTSD and Complex PTSD, various types of depression and anxiety, & many other symptoms. Lets get to the root.
(341) 444-3409 View (341) 444-3409
Photo of Kathlynn Gates, Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Kathlynn Gates
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
(415) 915-0236 View (415) 915-0236
Photo of Sarah McCartney, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Sarah McCartney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Are you a lesbian couple in the process of deciding to become parents? Are you an individual seeking support while you and your partner are thinking about beginning a family? There are unique decisions that you may be currently facing such as, pregnancy or adoption, which partner will become pregnant, and how will both partners feel involved as parents. It is important for you to have a safe space to explore these questions. There are feelings that accompany the decisions that you are making, and partners may feel differently. This sometimes challenges the connection between you.
Are you a lesbian couple in the process of deciding to become parents? Are you an individual seeking support while you and your partner are thinking about beginning a family? There are unique decisions that you may be currently facing such as, pregnancy or adoption, which partner will become pregnant, and how will both partners feel involved as parents. It is important for you to have a safe space to explore these questions. There are feelings that accompany the decisions that you are making, and partners may feel differently. This sometimes challenges the connection between you.
(510) 246-3475 View (510) 246-3475
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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
65% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

71% Aetna
60% 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.