Therapists in San Francisco, CA

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Photo of Lynn R Byk, Psychologist, PhD
Lynn R Byk
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Welcome! You might be seeking psychotherapy as a way to improve the quality of your life and gain a greater understanding of the thoughts, feelings, experiences and relationships that are getting in the way of living the life you desire. You might be struggling with relationship issues, anxiety, depression or loss. What I bring to the therapeutic relationship is warmth, compassion and acceptance which will allow you to feel a sense of safety and emotional security. I am an active participant and we will be working together, collaboratively. Through our work together, I can help you on your journey.
Welcome! You might be seeking psychotherapy as a way to improve the quality of your life and gain a greater understanding of the thoughts, feelings, experiences and relationships that are getting in the way of living the life you desire. You might be struggling with relationship issues, anxiety, depression or loss. What I bring to the therapeutic relationship is warmth, compassion and acceptance which will allow you to feel a sense of safety and emotional security. I am an active participant and we will be working together, collaboratively. Through our work together, I can help you on your journey.
(415) 301-4359 View (415) 301-4359
Photo of Sarah Weller, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Sarah Weller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I am a licensed psychotherapist serving individuals and couples in breathtaking San Francisco. I specialize in working with those impacted by trauma and navigating life transitions. Through a blend of evidence-based techniques, warmth and humor, I strive to create a safe space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. When you work with me, we will work together to explore and uncover meaning to your whole human experience so that we can move past stuck narratives and find meaningful, lasting change.
I am a licensed psychotherapist serving individuals and couples in breathtaking San Francisco. I specialize in working with those impacted by trauma and navigating life transitions. Through a blend of evidence-based techniques, warmth and humor, I strive to create a safe space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. When you work with me, we will work together to explore and uncover meaning to your whole human experience so that we can move past stuck narratives and find meaningful, lasting change.
(415) 612-6218 View (415) 612-6218
Photo of Alban Lesne, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MBA, CADC-I, AMFT
Alban Lesne
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MBA, CADC-I, AMFT
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94107
My ideal client faces anxiety, depression, or trauma, seeking not just to survive but to thrive. They may be in high-powered roles, dealing with leadership pressures, or from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, navigating systemic challenges. I work with clients from diverse cultural, ethnic, and racial backgrounds, including BIPOC individuals. They seek to better understand themselves, break free from limiting patterns, and find balance in their personal or professional lives, all while pursuing deeper meaning and fulfillment.
My ideal client faces anxiety, depression, or trauma, seeking not just to survive but to thrive. They may be in high-powered roles, dealing with leadership pressures, or from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, navigating systemic challenges. I work with clients from diverse cultural, ethnic, and racial backgrounds, including BIPOC individuals. They seek to better understand themselves, break free from limiting patterns, and find balance in their personal or professional lives, all while pursuing deeper meaning and fulfillment.
(415) 319-6742 View (415) 319-6742
Photo of Qin Fan, Psychologist, PsyD
Qin Fan
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming but you don’t have to face it alone. I'm committed to help individuals & couples navigate life’s challenges with clarity, compassion & confidence. Specializing in burnout, relationships, anxiety, stress & life transitions, I offer relational-based & culturally-attuned therapy. Drawing from psychodynamic & EFT, I tailor each session to your unique needs & goals. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or simply looking for support, I’m here to help you reconnect with your strengths & move forward with intention. I believe therapy should be a safe, empowering space & I’m honored to be part of the journey with you
Life can feel overwhelming but you don’t have to face it alone. I'm committed to help individuals & couples navigate life’s challenges with clarity, compassion & confidence. Specializing in burnout, relationships, anxiety, stress & life transitions, I offer relational-based & culturally-attuned therapy. Drawing from psychodynamic & EFT, I tailor each session to your unique needs & goals. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or simply looking for support, I’m here to help you reconnect with your strengths & move forward with intention. I believe therapy should be a safe, empowering space & I’m honored to be part of the journey with you
(415) 524-0386 View (415) 524-0386
Photo of Phern Hunt, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Phern Hunt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
San Francisco, CA 94102
Waitlist for new clients
Psychotherapy with me will be a guided, supportive exploration of how you think, feel, act and relate to others. I am a relational therapist: an approach to therapy which combines self-understanding and self-acceptance in relationship to your significant others, both past and present. We all need to be understood. This is my primary job with you: to understand how you think and feel. Once you feel understood, together we can figure out what is getting in the way of living a happier, fulfilling life. I am an expressive therapist, and you will never go away from a session wondering what I think.
Psychotherapy with me will be a guided, supportive exploration of how you think, feel, act and relate to others. I am a relational therapist: an approach to therapy which combines self-understanding and self-acceptance in relationship to your significant others, both past and present. We all need to be understood. This is my primary job with you: to understand how you think and feel. Once you feel understood, together we can figure out what is getting in the way of living a happier, fulfilling life. I am an expressive therapist, and you will never go away from a session wondering what I think.
(415) 350-9480 View (415) 350-9480
Photo of Valerie Crawford, Psychologist, PhD
Valerie Crawford
Psychologist, PhD
San Francisco, CA 94117
I work with my clients in a supportive and engaged way to achieve real personal growth and confidence. I help clients heal anxiety, depression, and relationship struggles and unhealthy patterns. I believe we all have within us what we need to flourish; a nurturing therapeutic relationship can unlock your capacity to heal and thrive. With the support you've been longing for, you can feel better and more confident, more connected in your relationships, and be more successful. I use a variety of evidence-based approaches, depending on clients' needs. My orientation is relational, experiential, based in brain science.
I work with my clients in a supportive and engaged way to achieve real personal growth and confidence. I help clients heal anxiety, depression, and relationship struggles and unhealthy patterns. I believe we all have within us what we need to flourish; a nurturing therapeutic relationship can unlock your capacity to heal and thrive. With the support you've been longing for, you can feel better and more confident, more connected in your relationships, and be more successful. I use a variety of evidence-based approaches, depending on clients' needs. My orientation is relational, experiential, based in brain science.
(415) 390-2872 View (415) 390-2872
Photo of W. Craig McDermit - W. Craig McDermit, PhD, Psychologist, PhD
W. Craig McDermit, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
San Francisco, CA 94117
I'm a "seasoned" psychologist in practice for 40 years. I enjoy working with people from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds and have always preferred having a "general practice" which allows addressing a wide range of personal concerns. While each individual requires a unique approach; the transformative power of therapy is rooted in the trusting relationship that evolves between you & I. It's the alliance between us which helps you become the person you aspire to be. The work is serious but also allows for having a bit of fun while seeking the most gratifying life to foster a sense of fulfilling purpose for yourself.
I'm a "seasoned" psychologist in practice for 40 years. I enjoy working with people from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds and have always preferred having a "general practice" which allows addressing a wide range of personal concerns. While each individual requires a unique approach; the transformative power of therapy is rooted in the trusting relationship that evolves between you & I. It's the alliance between us which helps you become the person you aspire to be. The work is serious but also allows for having a bit of fun while seeking the most gratifying life to foster a sense of fulfilling purpose for yourself.
(415) 534-6559 View (415) 534-6559
Photo of Bianca Jamerson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bianca Jamerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! Being vulnerable and open to change is not easy, but you are in the right place. My name is Bianca Jamerson (she/her/hers) and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
Welcome! Being vulnerable and open to change is not easy, but you are in the right place. My name is Bianca Jamerson (she/her/hers) and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
(657) 837-3337 View (657) 837-3337
Photo of Carolyn Swearingen, Psychologist, PhD
Carolyn Swearingen
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
My approach to therapy is warm, engaged, and focused on getting to the root of the issues you want to address. Often we are scared to face our upsetting thoughts and feelings alone. I feel honored to be able to accompany people on this journey as an experienced guide. In this role I will help you to process unresolved feelings and experiences and also work with and ultimately heal parts of your self that may be keeping you stuck. My aim is to help you get to a place where you feel liberated from old feelings, beliefs and patterns and more authentically and vibrantly connected to yourself and those close to you.
My approach to therapy is warm, engaged, and focused on getting to the root of the issues you want to address. Often we are scared to face our upsetting thoughts and feelings alone. I feel honored to be able to accompany people on this journey as an experienced guide. In this role I will help you to process unresolved feelings and experiences and also work with and ultimately heal parts of your self that may be keeping you stuck. My aim is to help you get to a place where you feel liberated from old feelings, beliefs and patterns and more authentically and vibrantly connected to yourself and those close to you.
(415) 236-5498 View (415) 236-5498
Photo of Alexa Enyart, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Alexa Enyart
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
San Francisco, CA 94114
Do you feel as though your anxiety and depression are unmanageable? How about feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or helplessness like you’ve hit rock bottom and are struggling to find hope for tomorrow? Once we start to unravel the details of our past and trauma we give ourselves the ability to process feelings that we have long suppressed. I aim to collaborate with you and provide tools to decrease the challenging feelings you are currently facing and achieve a more integrated and balanced sense of self, leading to emotional healing and personal growth.
Do you feel as though your anxiety and depression are unmanageable? How about feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or helplessness like you’ve hit rock bottom and are struggling to find hope for tomorrow? Once we start to unravel the details of our past and trauma we give ourselves the ability to process feelings that we have long suppressed. I aim to collaborate with you and provide tools to decrease the challenging feelings you are currently facing and achieve a more integrated and balanced sense of self, leading to emotional healing and personal growth.
(415) 915-0988 View (415) 915-0988
Photo of Sarah Voynow Berman, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Sarah Voynow Berman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Online Only
Do you often feel inadequate or face mental creative blocks due to worry? I help clients develop self-compassion, identify triggers that cause strong reactions, manage intense emotions, and establish a healthy balance in their professional and personal lives. By working with me, you'll gain practical skills that facilitate positive, lasting change, ensuring you stay safe in your body when experiencing intense emotions and maintain a productive and balanced life.
Do you often feel inadequate or face mental creative blocks due to worry? I help clients develop self-compassion, identify triggers that cause strong reactions, manage intense emotions, and establish a healthy balance in their professional and personal lives. By working with me, you'll gain practical skills that facilitate positive, lasting change, ensuring you stay safe in your body when experiencing intense emotions and maintain a productive and balanced life.
(415) 578-5358 View (415) 578-5358
Photo of Melissa Liptak, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Melissa Liptak
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
San Francisco, CA 94114
All of us struggle at different points in our life—from anxiety, stress or unexpected challenges. Whatever you’re facing, you don’t have to go through it alone. Through individual therapy, I offer a supportive space to help you find clarity, work through challenges, and gain a fresh perspective. I enjoy helping clients explore the stories and patterns that keep them feeling stuck, and support them in making new choices that open the door to growth and lasting change.
All of us struggle at different points in our life—from anxiety, stress or unexpected challenges. Whatever you’re facing, you don’t have to go through it alone. Through individual therapy, I offer a supportive space to help you find clarity, work through challenges, and gain a fresh perspective. I enjoy helping clients explore the stories and patterns that keep them feeling stuck, and support them in making new choices that open the door to growth and lasting change.
(415) 446-1253 View (415) 446-1253
Photo of Lauren Korshak - Lovewell Relationship Therapy , Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Lovewell Relationship Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
We help high-achieving professionals and sensitive spiritual seekers navigating challenges in love, career, and personal growth with warmth, compassion, and practical tools. Our approach is collaborative, compassionate, mindful, and grounded, empowering you to break free from old patterns, deepen self-trust, and create the meaningful connections you desire.
We help high-achieving professionals and sensitive spiritual seekers navigating challenges in love, career, and personal growth with warmth, compassion, and practical tools. Our approach is collaborative, compassionate, mindful, and grounded, empowering you to break free from old patterns, deepen self-trust, and create the meaningful connections you desire.
(415) 818-0214 View (415) 818-0214
Photo of Emma Bargetto, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Emma Bargetto
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94127
Emma Bargetto is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist passionate about supporting individuals through anxiety, and life transitions. She primarily works with individuals experiencing challenges related to athletic and work performance. With a warm and compassionate approach, she draws from various therapeutic modalities, including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Narrative Therapy. Emma is also privileged to work with clients seeking walk-and-talk sessions.
Emma Bargetto is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist passionate about supporting individuals through anxiety, and life transitions. She primarily works with individuals experiencing challenges related to athletic and work performance. With a warm and compassionate approach, she draws from various therapeutic modalities, including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Narrative Therapy. Emma is also privileged to work with clients seeking walk-and-talk sessions.
(415) 707-3249 View (415) 707-3249
Photo of Theresa Rodriguez, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Theresa Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
My name is Theresa Rodriguez, CADC, LMFT. I have been in the helping field for over 14 years. My experience and background are with individuals who need further assistance with mental health, substance use, trauma, LGBTQ+. Using Acceptance and Commitment therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relapse Prevention techniques to help clients make progress and start feeling better about where they are and where they have yet to go. I have experience working with the LGBTQ+ community, individuals struggling with co-occurring disorders, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and trauma.
My name is Theresa Rodriguez, CADC, LMFT. I have been in the helping field for over 14 years. My experience and background are with individuals who need further assistance with mental health, substance use, trauma, LGBTQ+. Using Acceptance and Commitment therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relapse Prevention techniques to help clients make progress and start feeling better about where they are and where they have yet to go. I have experience working with the LGBTQ+ community, individuals struggling with co-occurring disorders, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and trauma.
(415) 949-2885 View (415) 949-2885
Photo of Eugene Durrah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Eugene Durrah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
As a licensed clinical social worker, I specialize in helping Black and other underserved communities navigate stress, anger, trauma, depression, and anxiety. My approach is strength-based and culturally responsive, creating a supportive space to build on your resilience and move toward peace and healing. In our initial sessions, we'll take the time to get to know one another, explore the challenges you're facing, and identify the goals you hope to achieve in therapy. I'm deeply passionate about helping others thrive by turning pain into purpose, and I am committed to offering a helping hand to guide you on your journey.
As a licensed clinical social worker, I specialize in helping Black and other underserved communities navigate stress, anger, trauma, depression, and anxiety. My approach is strength-based and culturally responsive, creating a supportive space to build on your resilience and move toward peace and healing. In our initial sessions, we'll take the time to get to know one another, explore the challenges you're facing, and identify the goals you hope to achieve in therapy. I'm deeply passionate about helping others thrive by turning pain into purpose, and I am committed to offering a helping hand to guide you on your journey.
(626) 605-2348 View (626) 605-2348
Photo of Janice R Wells, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Janice R Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Are you struggling? Feeling overwhelmed? Stuck? Have you noticed patterns in your life you want to change? Feeling defeated by obstacles to your goals? Are you worried about how you are feeling inside? Is something in your life affecting your ability to be happy or successful or in a relationship? Are you facing an issue you don't know how to resolve? Has someone you care about suggested you talk to a professional? You are not alone. Speaking to an experienced therapist can help you find the path from where you are to where you want to be.
Are you struggling? Feeling overwhelmed? Stuck? Have you noticed patterns in your life you want to change? Feeling defeated by obstacles to your goals? Are you worried about how you are feeling inside? Is something in your life affecting your ability to be happy or successful or in a relationship? Are you facing an issue you don't know how to resolve? Has someone you care about suggested you talk to a professional? You are not alone. Speaking to an experienced therapist can help you find the path from where you are to where you want to be.
(415) 687-2681 View (415) 687-2681
Photo of Corrie Varga, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, 104535
Corrie Varga
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, 104535
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
Have you been struggling with anxiety, loneliness, confusion, or grief in this time of global uncertainty? Do you feel the swirling emotions around you and have trouble controlling your own? I can help. I specialize in supporting people who have experienced trauma or just have that nagging sense in the back of their mind that something isn’t quite right. I enjoy supporting people on developing self-esteem and strengthening their relationships. I also train and supervise associate therapists in my group practice.
Have you been struggling with anxiety, loneliness, confusion, or grief in this time of global uncertainty? Do you feel the swirling emotions around you and have trouble controlling your own? I can help. I specialize in supporting people who have experienced trauma or just have that nagging sense in the back of their mind that something isn’t quite right. I enjoy supporting people on developing self-esteem and strengthening their relationships. I also train and supervise associate therapists in my group practice.
(628) 300-3183 View (628) 300-3183
Photo of Erika Bent - Cypress Wellness Collective- Founder Erika Bent, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LMFT, CEDS
Cypress Wellness Collective- Founder Erika Bent
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LMFT, CEDS
San Francisco, CA 94123
Are you hoping to develop a healthier relationship with food and your body? Does your teen appear more withdrawn? Do you want to improve family relationships? As the founder of Cypress Wellness Collective, Erika Bent, LMFT, is proud to lead a team of highly specialized clinicians offering exceptional mental health care for children, teens, young adults, and families. Cypress was created with the belief that healing is never one-size-fits-all. That’s why our collective brings together evidence-based therapy, nutrition counseling, parent coaching, and more.
Are you hoping to develop a healthier relationship with food and your body? Does your teen appear more withdrawn? Do you want to improve family relationships? As the founder of Cypress Wellness Collective, Erika Bent, LMFT, is proud to lead a team of highly specialized clinicians offering exceptional mental health care for children, teens, young adults, and families. Cypress was created with the belief that healing is never one-size-fits-all. That’s why our collective brings together evidence-based therapy, nutrition counseling, parent coaching, and more.
(415) 964-5286 View (415) 964-5286
Photo of Gabe Kenney, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT
Gabe Kenney Kenney
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94127
Our world is full of stories and it can be hard to decide which of these stories truly serve you. The people in our lives may have lots of ideas about what we should think or do, and it can be hard to cut through the white noise to identify what you really want. Do you ever feel so lost in others' stories that you find it difficult to hear yourself? With so many story tellers around you, is there any space for you to be the author? You have a story to tell. Whether you're anxious about a looming exam, processing the passing of a loved one, or just living your life, your story should be heard - and respected - fully.
Our world is full of stories and it can be hard to decide which of these stories truly serve you. The people in our lives may have lots of ideas about what we should think or do, and it can be hard to cut through the white noise to identify what you really want. Do you ever feel so lost in others' stories that you find it difficult to hear yourself? With so many story tellers around you, is there any space for you to be the author? You have a story to tell. Whether you're anxious about a looming exam, processing the passing of a loved one, or just living your life, your story should be heard - and respected - fully.
(415) 534-3964 View (415) 534-3964

See more therapy options for San Francisco

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in San Francisco, CA

3,000+

Average cost per session

$185

Therapists in San Francisco, CA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
74% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
66% Coping Skills
65% Trauma and PTSD
65% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
67% Cigna and Evernorth
61% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in San Francisco, CA see their clients

65% Online Only
35% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

77% Female
21% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in San Francisco?

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.