Therapists in Bushrod, Oakland, CA

Photo of Assata Harris, Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Assata Harris
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy should be a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported, where you can show up as your full self, without judgment. I’m an associate therapist who brings warmth, humor, and deep compassion to our work together. I believe healing happens in connection, and my approach is collaborative, we’re on the same team, working toward your growth & wellbeing. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed by self-doubt, struggling to set boundaries, or feeling stuck in patterns they can’t quite break. Together, we’ll explore these challenges with curiosity and care, helping you gain insight, build resilience & create change.
Therapy should be a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported, where you can show up as your full self, without judgment. I’m an associate therapist who brings warmth, humor, and deep compassion to our work together. I believe healing happens in connection, and my approach is collaborative, we’re on the same team, working toward your growth & wellbeing. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed by self-doubt, struggling to set boundaries, or feeling stuck in patterns they can’t quite break. Together, we’ll explore these challenges with curiosity and care, helping you gain insight, build resilience & create change.
(925) 940-7426 View (925) 940-7426
Photo of Robert Wolf, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP
Robert Wolf
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
A safe space to be fully yourself—no explanations required. I’m Rob Wolf, a queer-identified Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with advanced training in Trauma-Informed care and Sex Therapy. I specialize in working with LGBTQAI+ adults as well as Neurodivergent people. That being said, I welcome ALL types of people in my practice. I offer therapy from a holistic approach. Together we'll explore how your mind, body, and spirit are navigating the complex intersections of identity, relationships, trauma, and emotional wellbeing, shaping the way you live, love, and connect.
A safe space to be fully yourself—no explanations required. I’m Rob Wolf, a queer-identified Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with advanced training in Trauma-Informed care and Sex Therapy. I specialize in working with LGBTQAI+ adults as well as Neurodivergent people. That being said, I welcome ALL types of people in my practice. I offer therapy from a holistic approach. Together we'll explore how your mind, body, and spirit are navigating the complex intersections of identity, relationships, trauma, and emotional wellbeing, shaping the way you live, love, and connect.
(341) 218-5333 View (341) 218-5333
Photo of Victoria J King, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Victoria J King
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Bushrod, Oakland, CA 94609
As a Sex & Relationship Therapist, I come from a person-centered, open-minded, sex-positive, trauma-informed, attachment-oriented, and multi-cultural perspective, to support my clients in creating a healthy, satisfying, and empowered sexuality and relationship with oneself and others. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and partners struggling with relationship & attachment issues, communication challenges, low libido/sex drive, differing/mismatched desires, and erectile/orgasm issues. I work with diverse populations from various races, cultures, identities and lifestyle choices.
As a Sex & Relationship Therapist, I come from a person-centered, open-minded, sex-positive, trauma-informed, attachment-oriented, and multi-cultural perspective, to support my clients in creating a healthy, satisfying, and empowered sexuality and relationship with oneself and others. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and partners struggling with relationship & attachment issues, communication challenges, low libido/sex drive, differing/mismatched desires, and erectile/orgasm issues. I work with diverse populations from various races, cultures, identities and lifestyle choices.
(510) 756-3510 View (510) 756-3510
Sarah Lazarre-Bloom
Psychologist, PsyD
Bushrod, Oakland, CA 94609
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California. I received my Masters degree in 2005 and my doctorate (PsyD) in 2011, both from the Wright Institute in Berkeley, California. I opened my private practice in 2005. My doctorate is in clinical psychology, and my work involves helping people with a wide range of problems. I see children, adolescents, and adults in my Oakland office.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California. I received my Masters degree in 2005 and my doctorate (PsyD) in 2011, both from the Wright Institute in Berkeley, California. I opened my private practice in 2005. My doctorate is in clinical psychology, and my work involves helping people with a wide range of problems. I see children, adolescents, and adults in my Oakland office.
(510) 901-4032 x6 View (510) 901-4032 x6
Photo of Jackie Brookman, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Jackie Brookman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you ready to stop feeling desperate, anxious, confused, stuck and unable to trust yourself to make decisions? Would you like to heal long-held trauma that's interfering with your life? If this sounds like you, help is available! Using an integrative approach of Internal Family Systems (IFS Therapy), Somatic-Attachment and Relational Psychotherapy, I will collaborate with you to gain confidence and skills to support your growth and healing. You'll learn the skills of emotional regulation as you diminish anxiety and panic. As your healing progresses, you'll experience the joy of being present and connected.
Are you ready to stop feeling desperate, anxious, confused, stuck and unable to trust yourself to make decisions? Would you like to heal long-held trauma that's interfering with your life? If this sounds like you, help is available! Using an integrative approach of Internal Family Systems (IFS Therapy), Somatic-Attachment and Relational Psychotherapy, I will collaborate with you to gain confidence and skills to support your growth and healing. You'll learn the skills of emotional regulation as you diminish anxiety and panic. As your healing progresses, you'll experience the joy of being present and connected.
(510) 269-2469 View (510) 269-2469
Photo of Kim Medina, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Kim Medina
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Bushrod, Oakland, CA 94609
Sometimes a very difficult experience from the past, or a series of difficulties, continues to impact us long after the event itself. If you have experienced past physical or sexual abuse, neglect, or trauma it likely has shaped the way you think about yourself and the world. It can make it difficult to trust yourself or others, control your emotions and reactions to events, and can keep your body and nervous system on high alert. For many, it can interfere with daily life in the form of racing thoughts, rumination, anxiety, depression, or panic attacks.
Sometimes a very difficult experience from the past, or a series of difficulties, continues to impact us long after the event itself. If you have experienced past physical or sexual abuse, neglect, or trauma it likely has shaped the way you think about yourself and the world. It can make it difficult to trust yourself or others, control your emotions and reactions to events, and can keep your body and nervous system on high alert. For many, it can interfere with daily life in the form of racing thoughts, rumination, anxiety, depression, or panic attacks.
(510) 513-8911 View (510) 513-8911
Photo of Quincy L Wilkins, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Quincy L Wilkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Bushrod, Oakland, CA 94609
Life isn't always easy. Whether you're dealing with an existing challenge, a current stressful situation, or you're turning a page to start a new chapter of your life, I believe we all can benefit from someone helping us to manage these changes and transitions. My therapeutic goal is to help you better manage your life's challenges and to provide you with tools and strategies to achieve your personal goals.
Life isn't always easy. Whether you're dealing with an existing challenge, a current stressful situation, or you're turning a page to start a new chapter of your life, I believe we all can benefit from someone helping us to manage these changes and transitions. My therapeutic goal is to help you better manage your life's challenges and to provide you with tools and strategies to achieve your personal goals.
(510) 900-8769 View (510) 900-8769
Photo of Analuz Silva Tapia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, 94241
Analuz Silva Tapia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, 94241
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I’m a licensed therapist with experience treating children, adolescents, adults, and families. My background in community mental health informs my therapeutic style - I take an approach rooted in harm reduction and advocacy. I enjoy working with folks navigating emerging adulthood, exploring identity, and navigating life transitions such as career changes. I also enjoy exploring how the past impacts attachment style and relational patterns, and how understanding and naming these aspects of ourselves can support our journey toward healing. My goal is for you to feel safe, seen, and validated.
Welcome! I’m a licensed therapist with experience treating children, adolescents, adults, and families. My background in community mental health informs my therapeutic style - I take an approach rooted in harm reduction and advocacy. I enjoy working with folks navigating emerging adulthood, exploring identity, and navigating life transitions such as career changes. I also enjoy exploring how the past impacts attachment style and relational patterns, and how understanding and naming these aspects of ourselves can support our journey toward healing. My goal is for you to feel safe, seen, and validated.
(510) 674-0632 View (510) 674-0632
Photo of Lauren Massell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lauren Massell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
When you've survived difficult circumstances - learning trust your body's messages can feel like tuning into static between radio channels. Uncomfortable, noisy, nothing's there. Somatic therapy offers the opportunity to practically help you to slow down, bring awareness and compassion to your inner space to listen for the messages that your body is always communicating. This supports changing default patterns, cultivating inner safety, and making decisions from a clear place. We are capable of being our truest selves when we're embodied!
When you've survived difficult circumstances - learning trust your body's messages can feel like tuning into static between radio channels. Uncomfortable, noisy, nothing's there. Somatic therapy offers the opportunity to practically help you to slow down, bring awareness and compassion to your inner space to listen for the messages that your body is always communicating. This supports changing default patterns, cultivating inner safety, and making decisions from a clear place. We are capable of being our truest selves when we're embodied!
(510) 405-4241 View (510) 405-4241
Photo of Areeza Ali, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Areeza Ali
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I believe therapy should be a safe, supportive space where you feel truly heard and understood. It's a place to explore the deeper layers of your life, uncovering how recurring patterns may be influencing your thoughts, behaviors, and relationships. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, but you don’t have to go through life’s challenges alone. Whether you're looking to heal from past wounds or simply seeking more balance in your daily life, I provide a non-judgmental space where you can gain deeper insights into yourself. Together, we can explore the areas where you feel stuck and help you move forward.
I believe therapy should be a safe, supportive space where you feel truly heard and understood. It's a place to explore the deeper layers of your life, uncovering how recurring patterns may be influencing your thoughts, behaviors, and relationships. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, but you don’t have to go through life’s challenges alone. Whether you're looking to heal from past wounds or simply seeking more balance in your daily life, I provide a non-judgmental space where you can gain deeper insights into yourself. Together, we can explore the areas where you feel stuck and help you move forward.
(510) 662-0908 View (510) 662-0908
Photo of Connie C Linas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Connie C Linas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bushrod, 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 Evelyn Natalya Fleischman, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Evelyn Natalya Fleischman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Bushrod, Oakland, CA 94609
I specialize in somatic psychotherapy, a body/mind approach that helps you change core beliefs and attitudes that are causing you suffering. My approach is relational and uses mindfulness to bring awareness to the parts of yourself you don't ordinarily notice. In our sessions, we slow down and pay attention the story your body is telling as well as the mind. The work is highly experiential, creative and transformative!
I specialize in somatic psychotherapy, a body/mind approach that helps you change core beliefs and attitudes that are causing you suffering. My approach is relational and uses mindfulness to bring awareness to the parts of yourself you don't ordinarily notice. In our sessions, we slow down and pay attention the story your body is telling as well as the mind. The work is highly experiential, creative and transformative!
(510) 239-5301 View (510) 239-5301
Jeff Sliemers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Bushrod, Oakland, CA 94609
Being felt, heard and seen is the most important part of healing. I believe in giving an attuned presence to help you be the most embodied you can be. This process happens through emotional attunement and somatic mirroring. My training with Thomas Hubl has been instrumental in my own psycho-spiritual transformation. I have experienced my own wounds and view myself as a wounded healer. My own self growth journey and spiritual engagement has made my presence as a therapist one that is likely unique for you. I see wounded humans in a different light. My style of therapy integrates many modalities that help you reach your potential.
Being felt, heard and seen is the most important part of healing. I believe in giving an attuned presence to help you be the most embodied you can be. This process happens through emotional attunement and somatic mirroring. My training with Thomas Hubl has been instrumental in my own psycho-spiritual transformation. I have experienced my own wounds and view myself as a wounded healer. My own self growth journey and spiritual engagement has made my presence as a therapist one that is likely unique for you. I see wounded humans in a different light. My style of therapy integrates many modalities that help you reach your potential.
(341) 222-3678 View (341) 222-3678
Photo of Dr. Jacquie Josephson, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Jacquie Josephson
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
Do you feel stuck, like you are getting in your own way? Feelings hopeless and isolated? Life presents all kinds of challenges which we often try to manage on our own and creates frustrations. This frustration creates barriers that can leave you feeling distant from others and even a stranger to yourself. What is worse is often we don’t even know why we are struggling. I am dedicated to helping you with the difficult and painful experiences by facilitating understanding of yourself and the issues that cause pain.
Do you feel stuck, like you are getting in your own way? Feelings hopeless and isolated? Life presents all kinds of challenges which we often try to manage on our own and creates frustrations. This frustration creates barriers that can leave you feeling distant from others and even a stranger to yourself. What is worse is often we don’t even know why we are struggling. I am dedicated to helping you with the difficult and painful experiences by facilitating understanding of yourself and the issues that cause pain.
(341) 999-4375 View (341) 999-4375
Photo of Jamie Salas, Marriage & Family Therapist, MSc, LMFT
Jamie Salas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSc, LMFT
Online Only
Sometimes life just feels like a lot—especially when anxiety, panic, or stress are weighing you down. Maybe it’s hard to focus, make decisions, unwind and relax, keep up, or connect with others because your mind won’t stop. Maybe you're feeling stuck in that worry loop. If you're feeling overwhelmed or struggling to cope, reaching out for therapy can be a supportive step toward finding skills that work best for you, your values, your goals!
Sometimes life just feels like a lot—especially when anxiety, panic, or stress are weighing you down. Maybe it’s hard to focus, make decisions, unwind and relax, keep up, or connect with others because your mind won’t stop. Maybe you're feeling stuck in that worry loop. If you're feeling overwhelmed or struggling to cope, reaching out for therapy can be a supportive step toward finding skills that work best for you, your values, your goals!
(510) 871-8590 View (510) 871-8590
Photo of Zvi Bellin, Counselor, PhD, LPCC
Zvi Bellin
Counselor, PhD, LPCC
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Struggle in your life, relationships, and family can provide surprising opportunities to cultivate resilience, connection, and meaning. Working with me is a collaborative process. I work with individuals, couples, and families to develop a framework that fosters nourishing joy and holistic health. I welcome clients who experience social/racial marginalization. If you struggle with communication, satisfaction, depression, meaning, or difficulty in life transitions, you will find resonance with my mindfulness-based and narrative approach. I work best with clients who seek to ease suffering and aim for transformation.
Struggle in your life, relationships, and family can provide surprising opportunities to cultivate resilience, connection, and meaning. Working with me is a collaborative process. I work with individuals, couples, and families to develop a framework that fosters nourishing joy and holistic health. I welcome clients who experience social/racial marginalization. If you struggle with communication, satisfaction, depression, meaning, or difficulty in life transitions, you will find resonance with my mindfulness-based and narrative approach. I work best with clients who seek to ease suffering and aim for transformation.
(510) 924-0291 View (510) 924-0291
Photo of Alexis Lyon, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Alexis Lyon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Bushrod, Oakland, CA 94609
I love discovering the emerging potential of my clients, and supporting their unique personal development and evolution. I'm experienced working with highly sensitive individuals, and those who self-identify as having a history of trauma. Adults who are self-motivated, and those who have or desire a mind-body-spirit practice, are a good fit for the support I provide. I adapt to the needs of children and adults alike. I believe therapy can be a powerful tool to unlock our greater creativity and feelings of interconnectivity and trust, so that my clients can thrive in the web of life.
I love discovering the emerging potential of my clients, and supporting their unique personal development and evolution. I'm experienced working with highly sensitive individuals, and those who self-identify as having a history of trauma. Adults who are self-motivated, and those who have or desire a mind-body-spirit practice, are a good fit for the support I provide. I adapt to the needs of children and adults alike. I believe therapy can be a powerful tool to unlock our greater creativity and feelings of interconnectivity and trust, so that my clients can thrive in the web of life.
(510) 880-4194 View (510) 880-4194
Photo of Halleli Toder, Psychologist, PsyD
Halleli Toder
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Bushrod, Oakland, CA 94609
Most people who reach out to me feel like there's some sort of a gap between what they want and what they have. This gap is uncomfortable, upsetting, or might be painful. And often it's unclear why this gap exists or what can be done to close it or at least narrow it down a bit. Each one of us has a set of life circumstances that need to be taken into account when attempting to improve on our lived-experience. Psychotherapy is the arena in which those personal circumstances, individual preferences, needs, wants, and struggles can be explored.
Most people who reach out to me feel like there's some sort of a gap between what they want and what they have. This gap is uncomfortable, upsetting, or might be painful. And often it's unclear why this gap exists or what can be done to close it or at least narrow it down a bit. Each one of us has a set of life circumstances that need to be taken into account when attempting to improve on our lived-experience. Psychotherapy is the arena in which those personal circumstances, individual preferences, needs, wants, and struggles can be explored.
(510) 318-3976 View (510) 318-3976
Photo of Patrick Ford, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Patrick Ford
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Bushrod, Oakland, CA 94609
I use evidence-based therapies to help kids, adults, and couples overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relational stress. I work collaboratively, focus on strengths, and engage as my genuine self. My clients of all ages tell me that they feel like they're talking to an actual human, not a stereotype of a therapist. I believe in everybody's capacity to grow and move past whatever's holding them back, given the right support.
I use evidence-based therapies to help kids, adults, and couples overcome challenges like anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relational stress. I work collaboratively, focus on strengths, and engage as my genuine self. My clients of all ages tell me that they feel like they're talking to an actual human, not a stereotype of a therapist. I believe in everybody's capacity to grow and move past whatever's holding them back, given the right support.
(510) 405-0625 View (510) 405-0625
Photo of Francisca Lizana Turner, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Francisca Lizana Turner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
8 Endorsed
Bushrod, Oakland, CA 94609
Welcome to Blooming Hearts Therapy. I love what I do and care to support those who want a safe place to express and explore, whether a life transition, change, relocation/acculturation, hardships, anxiety, depression or simply not feeling happy. Similarly, I support children who are experiencing family changes or transitions, behavioral challenges, who would benefit from learning social-emotional skills towards better self-regulation, as well as support in overcoming trauma, depression, anxiety. My style is interactive, warm and caring. My goal is for you to get to your preferred way of being.
Welcome to Blooming Hearts Therapy. I love what I do and care to support those who want a safe place to express and explore, whether a life transition, change, relocation/acculturation, hardships, anxiety, depression or simply not feeling happy. Similarly, I support children who are experiencing family changes or transitions, behavioral challenges, who would benefit from learning social-emotional skills towards better self-regulation, as well as support in overcoming trauma, depression, anxiety. My style is interactive, warm and caring. My goal is for you to get to your preferred way of being.
(925) 255-7936 View (925) 255-7936

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bushrod, Oakland, CA

30+

Average cost per session

$182

Therapists in Bushrod, Oakland, CA who prioritize treating:

91% Relationship Issues
91% Anxiety
78% Depression
75% Self Esteem
72% Trauma and PTSD
66% Grief
66% Stress

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

70% Aetna
50% Cigna and Evernorth
40% Other

How Therapists in Bushrod, Oakland, CA see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

69% Female
24% Male
7% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bushrod, 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.