Therapists in San Lorenzo, CA

Photo of Laura Goossens, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Laura Goossens
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
On VaCaTiOn ThRoUgH M 7/7. Will respond to requests upon return. Talk Less. Change More. Hello, I'm Laura. I'm passionate about helping people improve their Present by addressing their Past. People describe my style as collaborative, warm, direct, goal-focused, thorough, and patient. I help clients in their work toward self-esteem, healthy relationships, grounded communication, stress management, improved mood, and access to services/resources. Communities I belong to and serve: disabled/chronic illness, sex positive, kink/polyam/alt lifestyle, genderqueer, fat positive, and neurodivergent folks. Free 30-minute video intro call.
On VaCaTiOn ThRoUgH M 7/7. Will respond to requests upon return. Talk Less. Change More. Hello, I'm Laura. I'm passionate about helping people improve their Present by addressing their Past. People describe my style as collaborative, warm, direct, goal-focused, thorough, and patient. I help clients in their work toward self-esteem, healthy relationships, grounded communication, stress management, improved mood, and access to services/resources. Communities I belong to and serve: disabled/chronic illness, sex positive, kink/polyam/alt lifestyle, genderqueer, fat positive, and neurodivergent folks. Free 30-minute video intro call.
(650) 229-8259 View (650) 229-8259
Photo of Stevan Gengo, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT, SAP
Stevan Gengo
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT, SAP
Online Only
We're artists, leaning into the world & willing our lives. And rapture, an essential feeling, leads us outward to be more truly ‘there’. Heidegger thus interprets Nietzsche’s “will to power:” A strong, full-bodied interest & movement towards the world, before us as a possibility but not always chosen. Poignantly, Heidegger (1961) names a “fallen” state: “Of someone who is intoxicated...he [sic] 'has' something like rapture. But his is not enraptured. The rapture of intoxication [does not raise one] beyond himself. What we are here calling rapture is merely...being 'soused,' something depriv[ing] us of every possible state of being."
We're artists, leaning into the world & willing our lives. And rapture, an essential feeling, leads us outward to be more truly ‘there’. Heidegger thus interprets Nietzsche’s “will to power:” A strong, full-bodied interest & movement towards the world, before us as a possibility but not always chosen. Poignantly, Heidegger (1961) names a “fallen” state: “Of someone who is intoxicated...he [sic] 'has' something like rapture. But his is not enraptured. The rapture of intoxication [does not raise one] beyond himself. What we are here calling rapture is merely...being 'soused,' something depriv[ing] us of every possible state of being."
(415) 818-1346 View (415) 818-1346
Photo of Anna Phillips, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PhD
Anna Phillips
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PhD
Online Only
I have been providing direct and clinical supervision for over 15 years. Most of the work I have done has been in community based settings helping individuals and families struggling with addiction, trauma and mental health. I look forward to continuing this work through my private practice as I believe when one individual gets better the whole family can and it can change the trajectory for generations.
I have been providing direct and clinical supervision for over 15 years. Most of the work I have done has been in community based settings helping individuals and families struggling with addiction, trauma and mental health. I look forward to continuing this work through my private practice as I believe when one individual gets better the whole family can and it can change the trajectory for generations.
(925) 732-5859 View (925) 732-5859
Photo of Marie Chacon - Pet Connect Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Letters
Pet Connect Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Letters
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Pet Connect is an Online Provider of Emotional Support Animal (ESA) letters serving California, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Utah. As Licensed Mental Health Professionals (LMHP), we can legally provide official recommendation letters, complete housing forms, and, as needed, communicate with landlords, property managers, and HOAs throughout the year as your LMHP. Our letters are legally recognized and compliant with federal and state laws and in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Fair Housing Act, and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
Pet Connect is an Online Provider of Emotional Support Animal (ESA) letters serving California, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Utah. As Licensed Mental Health Professionals (LMHP), we can legally provide official recommendation letters, complete housing forms, and, as needed, communicate with landlords, property managers, and HOAs throughout the year as your LMHP. Our letters are legally recognized and compliant with federal and state laws and in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Fair Housing Act, and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
(800) 858-6859 View (800) 858-6859
Photo of Laura Escalera, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Laura Escalera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
We have good days and bad days. It is important that during the bad days we learn to use techniques to manage the stress that might impact our mood and how we feel about ourselves and even our interactions with others.
We have good days and bad days. It is important that during the bad days we learn to use techniques to manage the stress that might impact our mood and how we feel about ourselves and even our interactions with others.
(916) 866-8435 View (916) 866-8435
Photo of Jael Vega, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jael Vega
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
How's it going? I'm Jael. I am a LMFT from Los Angeles, California. Welcome! So you're taking the step to look for a therapist, that is awesome! It's a big step and could be overwhelming with all the options you have. Sometimes, making the first move can feel especially overwhelming if you are the first in your family or community to seek therapy or if you are trying it for the 2nd, 3rd or 4th time. Therapy should be a space where you are able to be your true self. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow.
How's it going? I'm Jael. I am a LMFT from Los Angeles, California. Welcome! So you're taking the step to look for a therapist, that is awesome! It's a big step and could be overwhelming with all the options you have. Sometimes, making the first move can feel especially overwhelming if you are the first in your family or community to seek therapy or if you are trying it for the 2nd, 3rd or 4th time. Therapy should be a space where you are able to be your true self. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow.
(650) 420-4687 View (650) 420-4687
Photo of Mayra Ruelas-Ramirez, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mayra Ruelas-Ramirez
Marriage & Family Therapist
Serves Area
Hola! I am a bilingual LMFT. It is my priority to offer culturally responsive, social justice-oriented, LGBTQ+-affirming therapy that serve the unique needs of each client. Are you looking for a trauma-focused therapist that has experience working with individuals and families who have experienced single and or complex trauma events in childhood or adulthood and intergenerational trauma? I have experience working with trauma, family conflict, mood disorders, etc. I practice evidence-based treatments such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems and can tailor other techniques based on your needs.
Hola! I am a bilingual LMFT. It is my priority to offer culturally responsive, social justice-oriented, LGBTQ+-affirming therapy that serve the unique needs of each client. Are you looking for a trauma-focused therapist that has experience working with individuals and families who have experienced single and or complex trauma events in childhood or adulthood and intergenerational trauma? I have experience working with trauma, family conflict, mood disorders, etc. I practice evidence-based treatments such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems and can tailor other techniques based on your needs.
(341) 217-1188 View (341) 217-1188
Photo of Rebecca Brisky, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Rebecca Brisky
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I fully believe that life is a journey, and therapy is a way to explore where we've been, where we're at, and where we're going. You are the expert in your life, and no one else is able to experience it the way you have. However, through therapy, a new understanding of self and dedication to developing healthier ways to cope and manage could benefit anyone. In therapy, you are in the driver's seat deciding where, when, and how we get there, and as a therapist, I am there to guide you and aid in exploration.
I fully believe that life is a journey, and therapy is a way to explore where we've been, where we're at, and where we're going. You are the expert in your life, and no one else is able to experience it the way you have. However, through therapy, a new understanding of self and dedication to developing healthier ways to cope and manage could benefit anyone. In therapy, you are in the driver's seat deciding where, when, and how we get there, and as a therapist, I am there to guide you and aid in exploration.
(559) 235-7165 View (559) 235-7165
Photo of Leslie E Kays, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Leslie E Kays
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Serves Area
Do you feel weary of the constant parade of "failed" relationships that show up in your life? Would you like to discover the secret to attracting and keeping a healthy committed relationship? If you answered "yes" to these questions, you have come to the right place. I have 25 years of experience in helping people just like you to understand how the patterns of unhealthy relationships are laid down very early in life. Relationships are like a "dance" in which each partner performs their "steps". Becoming aware of your "steps" means you can change them, and reap amazing rewards.
Do you feel weary of the constant parade of "failed" relationships that show up in your life? Would you like to discover the secret to attracting and keeping a healthy committed relationship? If you answered "yes" to these questions, you have come to the right place. I have 25 years of experience in helping people just like you to understand how the patterns of unhealthy relationships are laid down very early in life. Relationships are like a "dance" in which each partner performs their "steps". Becoming aware of your "steps" means you can change them, and reap amazing rewards.
(510) 287-9206 View (510) 287-9206
Photo of Emily Serkin, Psychologist, PhD
Emily Serkin
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Many people come to me wondering why they're unhappy, anxious, or unable to find fulfillment. The problem may seem obvious but a solution impossible. The same painful experiences repeat themselves, but why? And how to change them? If we meet, I will work together to discover how you can come to grips with whatever is troubling you. In doing so, you may discover, as sometimes happens, that there are ways to experience yourself and others that are genuinely different from what you've known thus far.
Many people come to me wondering why they're unhappy, anxious, or unable to find fulfillment. The problem may seem obvious but a solution impossible. The same painful experiences repeat themselves, but why? And how to change them? If we meet, I will work together to discover how you can come to grips with whatever is troubling you. In doing so, you may discover, as sometimes happens, that there are ways to experience yourself and others that are genuinely different from what you've known thus far.
(510) 878-3639 View (510) 878-3639
Photo of Leslie Monty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Leslie Monty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Leslie! I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use. My client-centered approach focuses on treating the whole person and meeting you exactly where you are on your recovery journey. I strive to create a relaxed, supportive environment prioritizing trust and rapport-building. My sessions are conversational and flexible, tailored to what works best for you.
Hi, I'm Leslie! I specialize in supporting individuals facing challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use. My client-centered approach focuses on treating the whole person and meeting you exactly where you are on your recovery journey. I strive to create a relaxed, supportive environment prioritizing trust and rapport-building. My sessions are conversational and flexible, tailored to what works best for you.
(661) 228-8050 View (661) 228-8050

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Katherine Hughes, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Katherine Hughes
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
This is Katherine Hughes, LPCC CA 14670. My approach is to listen to your story and what is standing in your way of becoming happy and mentally healthy. I do not judge, but I do compliment a lot! I love to bring out the best in people and help them make better decisions. Life can be so hard at times; but, talking about struggles and learning new skills to deal with them can help tremendously. Anxiety (worry), depression, addictions, self-esteem, and relationship struggles are a few of my specialties. I help clients identify where they need help redirecting thoughts that affect emotions and behavior. I work with adults 18 to 99.
This is Katherine Hughes, LPCC CA 14670. My approach is to listen to your story and what is standing in your way of becoming happy and mentally healthy. I do not judge, but I do compliment a lot! I love to bring out the best in people and help them make better decisions. Life can be so hard at times; but, talking about struggles and learning new skills to deal with them can help tremendously. Anxiety (worry), depression, addictions, self-esteem, and relationship struggles are a few of my specialties. I help clients identify where they need help redirecting thoughts that affect emotions and behavior. I work with adults 18 to 99.
(510) 544-6396 View (510) 544-6396
Photo of Jennifer Esparza, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jennifer Esparza
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I work with people to help them move through challenges, find clarity, and make meaningful progress toward their goals. My approach is supportive, practical, and always tailored to what matters most to you. My approach to care is grounded in a person-centered, humanistic philosophy. I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and my role is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, respected, and truly seen. Together, we’ll explore your experiences, values, and strengths, allowing your natural capacity for growth and healing to lead the way.
I work with people to help them move through challenges, find clarity, and make meaningful progress toward their goals. My approach is supportive, practical, and always tailored to what matters most to you. My approach to care is grounded in a person-centered, humanistic philosophy. I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and my role is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, respected, and truly seen. Together, we’ll explore your experiences, values, and strengths, allowing your natural capacity for growth and healing to lead the way.
(818) 873-0871 View (818) 873-0871
Photo of Aerin Riegelsberger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Aerin Riegelsberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
7 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with overwhelm, gender identity questions, stuck-ness, shame, or patterns that don’t feel good? I am a licensed clinical social worker providing individual telehealth therapy to adults living in California. I partner with folks in navigating anxiety, PTSD, substance use, gender alignment, and other areas of concern. I help folks feel more at home in their body and aligned with their authentic self. I tend to connect most effectively with folks who are trans, queer, kinky, helping professionals, students, recent graduates, artists, neurodivergent, witchy, and/or spiritually inclined.
Are you struggling with overwhelm, gender identity questions, stuck-ness, shame, or patterns that don’t feel good? I am a licensed clinical social worker providing individual telehealth therapy to adults living in California. I partner with folks in navigating anxiety, PTSD, substance use, gender alignment, and other areas of concern. I help folks feel more at home in their body and aligned with their authentic self. I tend to connect most effectively with folks who are trans, queer, kinky, helping professionals, students, recent graduates, artists, neurodivergent, witchy, and/or spiritually inclined.
(415) 634-3959 View (415) 634-3959
Photo of Mark Dombeck, Psychologist, PhD
Mark Dombeck
Psychologist, PhD
Alameda, CA 94501
I’m Mark Dombeck, Ph.D, a trauma-informed licensed psychologist with 20+ years experience. I’m based in Alameda, CA, near Oakland, CA. I work with adults and seniors (not children), with individuals and couples, both in-person and online. I have three areas of specialization: 1) trauma & dissociation, 2) couples therapy, and 3) adult neurodiversity. I can help you address depression, anger, anxiety and shame issues, emotion-regulation and impulse control issues, executive functioning issues, interpersonal issues, relationship issues, personality issues, attachment issues and trauma issues.
I’m Mark Dombeck, Ph.D, a trauma-informed licensed psychologist with 20+ years experience. I’m based in Alameda, CA, near Oakland, CA. I work with adults and seniors (not children), with individuals and couples, both in-person and online. I have three areas of specialization: 1) trauma & dissociation, 2) couples therapy, and 3) adult neurodiversity. I can help you address depression, anger, anxiety and shame issues, emotion-regulation and impulse control issues, executive functioning issues, interpersonal issues, relationship issues, personality issues, attachment issues and trauma issues.
(510) 466-1424 View (510) 466-1424
Photo of Whitney Richards, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Whitney Richards
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Online Only
It’s a struggle to deal with anxiety, a harmful inner critic, or unsatisfying relationship dynamics. It can be hard to feel playful, to easily connect to others, to get your emotional needs met, or to feel at ease in your body. Whether you feel overwhelmed by your emotions or cut off from them, you know you want to do things differently but aren’t sure how. While I don’t work with couples, I do specialize in working with individuals who are carrying around old negative beliefs about themselves, distressing memories, or relational patterns from childhood that are keeping them anxious or detached in relationships.
It’s a struggle to deal with anxiety, a harmful inner critic, or unsatisfying relationship dynamics. It can be hard to feel playful, to easily connect to others, to get your emotional needs met, or to feel at ease in your body. Whether you feel overwhelmed by your emotions or cut off from them, you know you want to do things differently but aren’t sure how. While I don’t work with couples, I do specialize in working with individuals who are carrying around old negative beliefs about themselves, distressing memories, or relational patterns from childhood that are keeping them anxious or detached in relationships.
(628) 212-6769 View (628) 212-6769
Photo of Shannel Benisano, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Shannel Benisano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Have you ever been overwhelmed by the thoughts and feelings of the past? Are you having a hard time completing daily tasks without feeling irritated or sad? Is it difficult to motivate yourself to do things you enjoy? Is it easier to be alone than be with the people you love? Do you freeze when feeling overwhelmed? Whether you have been experiencing these feelings more recently or for a long period of time, it can be so hard to know what to do or where to go. That is where I can help you.
Have you ever been overwhelmed by the thoughts and feelings of the past? Are you having a hard time completing daily tasks without feeling irritated or sad? Is it difficult to motivate yourself to do things you enjoy? Is it easier to be alone than be with the people you love? Do you freeze when feeling overwhelmed? Whether you have been experiencing these feelings more recently or for a long period of time, it can be so hard to know what to do or where to go. That is where I can help you.
(925) 481-5287 View (925) 481-5287
Photo of Rebecca Chandler, Psychologist, DPhil, PsyD
Rebecca Chandler
Psychologist, DPhil, PsyD
Online Only
Hi, it’s nice to meet you! Whatever reason you are here I want to welcome you, because beginning therapy is not always an easy process. I am a Clinical Psychologist (PSY29465) offering video telehealth throughout California and I strive to help clients reach their goals using warmth, compassion, and collaboration. I enjoy working with clients who are seeking assistance for a variety of needs, including, trauma, different types of stressors and anxiety, and depression. I also have a special interest in working with veterans, active duty military, and their families.
Hi, it’s nice to meet you! Whatever reason you are here I want to welcome you, because beginning therapy is not always an easy process. I am a Clinical Psychologist (PSY29465) offering video telehealth throughout California and I strive to help clients reach their goals using warmth, compassion, and collaboration. I enjoy working with clients who are seeking assistance for a variety of needs, including, trauma, different types of stressors and anxiety, and depression. I also have a special interest in working with veterans, active duty military, and their families.
(650) 334-1176 View (650) 334-1176
Photo of Ka Ming Lam, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Ka Ming Lam
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Life is full of challenges. Some break us down to tears. I believe therapy is a safe place for us to sit down and examine your life. In therapy, we work on sorting out feelings, reflecting on self and what happened, and eventually overcoming the obstacles. I am happy to be the person to sit down with you and listen to whatever issues you are facing. Therapy may not be easy, but when you are ready to tackle these challenges, I will be there to support you.
Life is full of challenges. Some break us down to tears. I believe therapy is a safe place for us to sit down and examine your life. In therapy, we work on sorting out feelings, reflecting on self and what happened, and eventually overcoming the obstacles. I am happy to be the person to sit down with you and listen to whatever issues you are facing. Therapy may not be easy, but when you are ready to tackle these challenges, I will be there to support you.
(341) 221-3755 View (341) 221-3755
Photo of Chinwe Ezeonu, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Chinwe Ezeonu
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Chinwe Ezeonu, my pronouns are she/her, and I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Diaspora Therapy Group. I, as a biracial woman proudly come from two very different ethnic backgrounds, which are Filipino and Nigerian. Growing up I witnessed that mental health both in Filipino and Nigerian cultures was unheard of or seen as a weakness, but through much reflection, continual growth, and my therapy, it has helped me mend my views on mental health more positively.
My name is Chinwe Ezeonu, my pronouns are she/her, and I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Diaspora Therapy Group. I, as a biracial woman proudly come from two very different ethnic backgrounds, which are Filipino and Nigerian. Growing up I witnessed that mental health both in Filipino and Nigerian cultures was unheard of or seen as a weakness, but through much reflection, continual growth, and my therapy, it has helped me mend my views on mental health more positively.
(619) 848-3458 View (619) 848-3458

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in San Lorenzo, CA

10+

Average cost per session

$180

Therapists in San Lorenzo, CA who prioritize treating:

82% Depression
73% Trauma and PTSD
64% Relationship Issues
64% Anxiety
64% Family Conflict
45% Self Esteem
36% Divorce

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

63% Aetna
63% Optum
50% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in San Lorenzo, CA see their clients

73% Online Only
27% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

78% Female
11% Male
11% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in San Lorenzo?

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.