Therapists in Almaden Valley, San Jose, CA

Photo of Khalil Eskandari - Private, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Private
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Almaden Valley, San Jose, CA 95120
Clients are looking for someone who can help them with their depression, anxiety, and someone who can help them learn more about themselves, and to help them improve their self-awareness. Clients have different issues, and they need to have someone being a good listener, validating, and acknowledging them throughout the sessions. Clients like to see their therapist help them to see the life with better lens, so they become more focused and stay in the present moment by learning healthy coping skills to make better decisions about their personal life, their careers, or when they’re not sure how to live a healthier life.
Clients are looking for someone who can help them with their depression, anxiety, and someone who can help them learn more about themselves, and to help them improve their self-awareness. Clients have different issues, and they need to have someone being a good listener, validating, and acknowledging them throughout the sessions. Clients like to see their therapist help them to see the life with better lens, so they become more focused and stay in the present moment by learning healthy coping skills to make better decisions about their personal life, their careers, or when they’re not sure how to live a healthier life.
(408) 547-3098 View (408) 547-3098
Photo of Anahita Mazdiyassni, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Anahita Mazdiyassni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Almaden Valley, San Jose, CA 95120
If you feel overwhelmed, lost, lonely, depressed or anxious, you are not alone. In our world today, many people experience these feelings. I have dedicated the past 17 years of my life working with and helping individuals, couples, families, children and older adults facing different challenges in their lives, such as grief, relationship issues and mental illnesses. I use therapeutic approaches & techniques such as, family system, Emotion-focused therapy (EFT & EFIT), cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), attachment-based therapy and mindfulness.
If you feel overwhelmed, lost, lonely, depressed or anxious, you are not alone. In our world today, many people experience these feelings. I have dedicated the past 17 years of my life working with and helping individuals, couples, families, children and older adults facing different challenges in their lives, such as grief, relationship issues and mental illnesses. I use therapeutic approaches & techniques such as, family system, Emotion-focused therapy (EFT & EFIT), cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), attachment-based therapy and mindfulness.
(562) 386-0870 View (562) 386-0870
Photo of Angela Maldonado-Nunes, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Angela Maldonado-Nunes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Almaden Valley, San Jose, CA 95120
I believe that the relationships we develop with significant people in our lives shape who we are, how we think about ourselves and how we act. I have a great deal of experience working with individuals and couples on a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, communication, birth of a baby, parenting and general couples discord.
I believe that the relationships we develop with significant people in our lives shape who we are, how we think about ourselves and how we act. I have a great deal of experience working with individuals and couples on a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, communication, birth of a baby, parenting and general couples discord.
(408) 763-4868 View (408) 763-4868
Photo of Heather Malin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, PhD
Heather Malin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, PhD
Almaden Valley, San Jose, CA 95120
I create a therapeutic relationship where you feel truly seen, supported, and understood. Together, we’ll explore what keeps you stuck or in pain and draw on your inner resources to create the life you want to live. I work with teens and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or difficult life transitions. In our time together, we’ll compassionately explore and reshape unhelpful patterns, clearing your way to a more connected and purposeful life. I also support parents and families in understanding the dynamics that lead to conflict and building more supportive, fulfilling relationships.
I create a therapeutic relationship where you feel truly seen, supported, and understood. Together, we’ll explore what keeps you stuck or in pain and draw on your inner resources to create the life you want to live. I work with teens and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or difficult life transitions. In our time together, we’ll compassionately explore and reshape unhelpful patterns, clearing your way to a more connected and purposeful life. I also support parents and families in understanding the dynamics that lead to conflict and building more supportive, fulfilling relationships.
(408) 317-4666 View (408) 317-4666
Photo of Nydia M Medina, Psychologist, PhD
Nydia M Medina
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Almaden Valley, San Jose, CA 95120
As a therapist with over 25 years of experience, my style is an interactive one that focuses on providing support, understanding, and constructive feedback to my clients. My goal is to help my clients deal with the challenges and obstacles they encounter in their lives in a more positive and effective manner. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each individual. I help my clients explore and understand their issues, build on their strengths, and learn new, more effective coping skills. I really enjoy working with individuals and helping them achieve their goals. I am also fully bilingual/bicultural in Spanish.
As a therapist with over 25 years of experience, my style is an interactive one that focuses on providing support, understanding, and constructive feedback to my clients. My goal is to help my clients deal with the challenges and obstacles they encounter in their lives in a more positive and effective manner. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each individual. I help my clients explore and understand their issues, build on their strengths, and learn new, more effective coping skills. I really enjoy working with individuals and helping them achieve their goals. I am also fully bilingual/bicultural in Spanish.
(408) 703-5711 View (408) 703-5711
Photo of Anahita Mazdiyassni, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Anahita Mazdiyassni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Almaden Valley, San Jose, CA 95120
Life may feel heavier than usual—like you’re carrying too much and don’t know how to set it down. Maybe you’re feeling anxious, withdrawn, overwhelmed by grief, or just unsure how to move forward. You might be a parent trying to hold everything together, a partner wanting more connection, or someone facing big life changes alone. My clients often seek therapy when emotions become too much to manage on their own. You don’t need to have the perfect words—just the willingness to show up. We’ll start there, and work together toward healing and hope.
Life may feel heavier than usual—like you’re carrying too much and don’t know how to set it down. Maybe you’re feeling anxious, withdrawn, overwhelmed by grief, or just unsure how to move forward. You might be a parent trying to hold everything together, a partner wanting more connection, or someone facing big life changes alone. My clients often seek therapy when emotions become too much to manage on their own. You don’t need to have the perfect words—just the willingness to show up. We’ll start there, and work together toward healing and hope.
(408) 359-4154 View (408) 359-4154
Photo of Michael Demarco, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Michael Demarco
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Almaden Valley, San Jose, CA 95120
I am licensed marriage and family therapist and a board-certified clinical sexologist and psychedelic therapist. I have practiced since 2002 specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy. I have specialized in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy specifically with ketamine since 2021.
I am licensed marriage and family therapist and a board-certified clinical sexologist and psychedelic therapist. I have practiced since 2002 specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy. I have specialized in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy specifically with ketamine since 2021.
(646) 917-8360 View (646) 917-8360
Photo of Therese Frey, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, MAC
Therese Frey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, MAC
Almaden Valley, San Jose, CA 95120
Are you relying on unhealthy habits to cope with stress, anxiety, depression or life's challenges? Is it time to make some changes in your life but you feel stuck and don't know where to begin? Are you tired of feeling lonely, empty, sad or misunderstood? Do you struggle with allowing yourself to feel vulnerable with others? Does a healthy work-life balance seem impossible for you? If any of these questions ring true for you, some support might be just what you need.
Are you relying on unhealthy habits to cope with stress, anxiety, depression or life's challenges? Is it time to make some changes in your life but you feel stuck and don't know where to begin? Are you tired of feeling lonely, empty, sad or misunderstood? Do you struggle with allowing yourself to feel vulnerable with others? Does a healthy work-life balance seem impossible for you? If any of these questions ring true for you, some support might be just what you need.
(408) 242-8743 View (408) 242-8743
Photo of Morgan Joines, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Morgan Joines
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
11 Endorsed
Almaden Valley, San Jose, CA 95120
Welcome! There comes a time in everyone's life when talking to someone is a healthy step in bringing peace and balance to ones life. If you are reading this, you are one step closer to deciding if talking to a therapist is right for you at this time in your life. My goal is to help you feel comfortable and safe in the therapeutic process. To help build trust, that therapy can be a useful and effective tool to help achieve the health, healing and balance that you wish to bring to your life.
Welcome! There comes a time in everyone's life when talking to someone is a healthy step in bringing peace and balance to ones life. If you are reading this, you are one step closer to deciding if talking to a therapist is right for you at this time in your life. My goal is to help you feel comfortable and safe in the therapeutic process. To help build trust, that therapy can be a useful and effective tool to help achieve the health, healing and balance that you wish to bring to your life.
(408) 609-3863 View (408) 609-3863
Photo of Allison McDermott, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Allison McDermott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Almaden Valley, San Jose, CA 95120
I currently have immediate openings for telehealth, and limited in-person availability. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore what's going on in your life, including uncomfortable emotions, relationship issues, and past experiences. I am empathic and open-minded, allowing each person to share their unique self in therapy. Therapy can be challenging and emotional, and together we can set goals that move you towards healing and self-improvement. I take a holistic approach to therapy, with an emphasis on your biological needs (exercise, sleep, nutrition, physical illness, etc). Therapy may be short-term or long-term.
I currently have immediate openings for telehealth, and limited in-person availability. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore what's going on in your life, including uncomfortable emotions, relationship issues, and past experiences. I am empathic and open-minded, allowing each person to share their unique self in therapy. Therapy can be challenging and emotional, and together we can set goals that move you towards healing and self-improvement. I take a holistic approach to therapy, with an emphasis on your biological needs (exercise, sleep, nutrition, physical illness, etc). Therapy may be short-term or long-term.
(408) 763-4730 View (408) 763-4730
Photo of Magda Wroblewska, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Magda Wroblewska
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
It's not easy to look for a therapist. I talk to many nervous people who question if counseling and therapy work. They usually leave my office relaxed, sometimes laughing, most importantly hopeful. My job is to first of all provide a safe space for your self-exploration. I am endlessly fascinated by the growth that happens when people feel safe and not judged. I invite you to be your "uncensored self" because only when we accept who we are; are we open to change.
It's not easy to look for a therapist. I talk to many nervous people who question if counseling and therapy work. They usually leave my office relaxed, sometimes laughing, most importantly hopeful. My job is to first of all provide a safe space for your self-exploration. I am endlessly fascinated by the growth that happens when people feel safe and not judged. I invite you to be your "uncensored self" because only when we accept who we are; are we open to change.
(408) 335-3513 View (408) 335-3513
Photo of Albert Pignataro, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Albert Pignataro
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
You’re high-functioning but feel stuck — anxious, burned out, disconnected, or circling the same patterns that aren’t working. You want more than just coping skills — you want real change that lasts. Maybe you’re a professional under constant pressure, a man wrestling with what strength really means, or someone in the LGBTQ+ community wanting an affirming, judgment-free space. If you’re tired of looking “fine” but feeling off inside and want meaningful, pragmatic, and actionable change — I’m your therapist.
You’re high-functioning but feel stuck — anxious, burned out, disconnected, or circling the same patterns that aren’t working. You want more than just coping skills — you want real change that lasts. Maybe you’re a professional under constant pressure, a man wrestling with what strength really means, or someone in the LGBTQ+ community wanting an affirming, judgment-free space. If you’re tired of looking “fine” but feeling off inside and want meaningful, pragmatic, and actionable change — I’m your therapist.
Photo of Ross MacPhee, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Ross MacPhee
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Many couples come to therapy feeling stuck in cycles of conflict or disconnection they can’t break on their own. Communication feels strained—partners may talk but not feel heard, or avoid hard conversations, leading to resentment. One or both may feel their needs for connection, trust, intimacy, or shared goals aren’t met. Over time, unresolved conflicts and unmet expectations create distance, leaving couples wondering how the relationship got off track and if rebuilding is possible.
Many couples come to therapy feeling stuck in cycles of conflict or disconnection they can’t break on their own. Communication feels strained—partners may talk but not feel heard, or avoid hard conversations, leading to resentment. One or both may feel their needs for connection, trust, intimacy, or shared goals aren’t met. Over time, unresolved conflicts and unmet expectations create distance, leaving couples wondering how the relationship got off track and if rebuilding is possible.
(408) 990-9286 View (408) 990-9286
Photo of Nancy Dean, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Nancy Dean
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Serves Area
If you are considering ways to make your life better today, I can help you identify what keeps you stuck and develop new strategies so that you can make successful changes in your life. I am a collaborative and compassionate therapist who will provide support and practical feedback to help you address your personal life challenges.
If you are considering ways to make your life better today, I can help you identify what keeps you stuck and develop new strategies so that you can make successful changes in your life. I am a collaborative and compassionate therapist who will provide support and practical feedback to help you address your personal life challenges.
(408) 637-5828 View (408) 637-5828
Photo of Laura Johnson - Laura Johnson, CBT and Schema Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, LMFT, LPCC
Laura Johnson, CBT and Schema Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, LMFT, LPCC
Serves Area
I get excited when clients come to me with the goal of becoming calmer and more confident. My specialty is anxiety, OCD and personality disorders. I’m one of the few therapists in California certified in both CBT and Schema Therapy. You’ll gain tools to help you now as well as to break long term patterns that keep repeating. I can help you if you have a personality disorder, such avoidant, obsessive-compulsive, or narcissistic. Both Schema Therapy and CBT are evidence-based therapy. Schema Therapy includes cognitive and behavioral tools and adds additional ways to dig deeper into your core beliefs and problematic behavioral cycles.
I get excited when clients come to me with the goal of becoming calmer and more confident. My specialty is anxiety, OCD and personality disorders. I’m one of the few therapists in California certified in both CBT and Schema Therapy. You’ll gain tools to help you now as well as to break long term patterns that keep repeating. I can help you if you have a personality disorder, such avoidant, obsessive-compulsive, or narcissistic. Both Schema Therapy and CBT are evidence-based therapy. Schema Therapy includes cognitive and behavioral tools and adds additional ways to dig deeper into your core beliefs and problematic behavioral cycles.
(408) 676-4734 View (408) 676-4734
Photo of Leanna Immel, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Leanna Immel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
8 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work especially well with thoughtful, curious people who lean towards growth (or want to) even in the midst of uncertainty, pain or ruptures in their relationships, and are seeking a deep, transformative experience in therapy. Those with Childhood Trauma may notice issues with intimacy, loneliness/isolation, anxiety, depression, difficulty expressing emotions, interpersonal conflict, low self-esteem, and built up anger. Adverse Childhood Experiences shape our early life and oftentimes lay the foundation for harmful patterns regarding how we see ourselves, each other, and the world. Therapy can help unpack & recover what was lost.
I work especially well with thoughtful, curious people who lean towards growth (or want to) even in the midst of uncertainty, pain or ruptures in their relationships, and are seeking a deep, transformative experience in therapy. Those with Childhood Trauma may notice issues with intimacy, loneliness/isolation, anxiety, depression, difficulty expressing emotions, interpersonal conflict, low self-esteem, and built up anger. Adverse Childhood Experiences shape our early life and oftentimes lay the foundation for harmful patterns regarding how we see ourselves, each other, and the world. Therapy can help unpack & recover what was lost.
(408) 762-3246 View (408) 762-3246
Photo of Hank Olwell, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CADC
Hank Olwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CADC
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling stuck? Overwhelmed? Unable to manage the stress of life? Are you challenged by compulsive or addictive behaviors that you cannot seem to stop? Struggling in relationships with others or experiencing shame? Many of us need to reach out for assistance in order to figure out how to better manage stress and enjoy life, rather then feel burdened by it. This is not weakness or lack of self-will. Rather it is a fact of our existence as human beings. We often need help from one another to accomplish certain tasks we cannot do alone.
Are you feeling stuck? Overwhelmed? Unable to manage the stress of life? Are you challenged by compulsive or addictive behaviors that you cannot seem to stop? Struggling in relationships with others or experiencing shame? Many of us need to reach out for assistance in order to figure out how to better manage stress and enjoy life, rather then feel burdened by it. This is not weakness or lack of self-will. Rather it is a fact of our existence as human beings. We often need help from one another to accomplish certain tasks we cannot do alone.
(818) 616-6412 View (818) 616-6412
Photo of Lauren Smith Conaway, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Lauren Smith Conaway
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you're looking for a safe, warm and gentle space to find peace and clarity for yourself or your child, I'd love to partner with you in your healing work. My passion is guiding children, teens and adult women to develop their inner wisdom, to cultivate tools for peace and grounding, and to reconnect with nature. I utilize a holistic approach for your whole being, addressing mind, body and soul. Together we'll develop a healing plan with modalities such as Ecotherapy, CBT, DBT, Art Therapy or Reiki, tailoring treatment to your needs.
If you're looking for a safe, warm and gentle space to find peace and clarity for yourself or your child, I'd love to partner with you in your healing work. My passion is guiding children, teens and adult women to develop their inner wisdom, to cultivate tools for peace and grounding, and to reconnect with nature. I utilize a holistic approach for your whole being, addressing mind, body and soul. Together we'll develop a healing plan with modalities such as Ecotherapy, CBT, DBT, Art Therapy or Reiki, tailoring treatment to your needs.
(831) 661-8466 View (831) 661-8466
Photo of Dr. Ginny Estupinian, Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Dr. Ginny Estupinian
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Serves Area
Struggling with life's toughest challenges? I'm here to help you reclaim your life. With extensive experience treating devastating anxiety, major depression, Bipolar disorders, and complex trauma, I specialize in helping individuals through seemingly impossible situations. Whether you're dealing with relationship stress, accidents, rape, domestic violence, or unexpected losses, my tailored approach can help you find your way back. I believe everyone can heal and grow with the right support, even when things feel overwhelming. Don't let your current circumstances define your future. Take the first step towards transformation
Struggling with life's toughest challenges? I'm here to help you reclaim your life. With extensive experience treating devastating anxiety, major depression, Bipolar disorders, and complex trauma, I specialize in helping individuals through seemingly impossible situations. Whether you're dealing with relationship stress, accidents, rape, domestic violence, or unexpected losses, my tailored approach can help you find your way back. I believe everyone can heal and grow with the right support, even when things feel overwhelming. Don't let your current circumstances define your future. Take the first step towards transformation
(408) 521-1558 View (408) 521-1558
Photo of David Michalicek, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
David Michalicek
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with couples, individuals, and teens seeking help with relationships, grief, anxiety, low self-esteem, anger, or depression. If any of these make some days a struggle or keep you from enjoying life, I'd like to invite you to talk with someone with compassion who can appreciate your struggle. Counseling can bring real change to reach decisions, manage conflicts, handle stress, improve relationships, or work on deeper personal matters. You'll feel truly heard and valued as we explore as much or as little as you want at a pace and direction of your choosing.
I work with couples, individuals, and teens seeking help with relationships, grief, anxiety, low self-esteem, anger, or depression. If any of these make some days a struggle or keep you from enjoying life, I'd like to invite you to talk with someone with compassion who can appreciate your struggle. Counseling can bring real change to reach decisions, manage conflicts, handle stress, improve relationships, or work on deeper personal matters. You'll feel truly heard and valued as we explore as much or as little as you want at a pace and direction of your choosing.
(408) 427-3378 View (408) 427-3378

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Almaden Valley, San Jose, CA

100+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in Almaden Valley, San Jose, CA who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
86% Depression
81% Relationship Issues
70% Stress
70% Life Transitions
67% Self Esteem
65% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Aetna
76% Cigna and Evernorth
72% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Almaden Valley, San Jose, CA see their clients

65% Online Only
35% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Almaden Valley, San Jose?

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.