Therapists in San Mateo County, CA

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Photo of Megan Goodwin, Psychologist, PsyD
Megan Goodwin
Psychologist, PsyD
3 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070
Not accepting new clients
My practice has a specialty of providing tailored, compassionate care for a variety of concerns, particularly anxiety, panic, and other stress and anxiety based issues. I aim to be supportive, collaborative, practical, and warm in my style. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of the healing and change that can happen in therapy. I have been trained in CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), mindfulness approaches, positive psychology, and solutions based therapy and am also interested in the connections between our current experiences and their roots in our past.
My practice has a specialty of providing tailored, compassionate care for a variety of concerns, particularly anxiety, panic, and other stress and anxiety based issues. I aim to be supportive, collaborative, practical, and warm in my style. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of the healing and change that can happen in therapy. I have been trained in CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), mindfulness approaches, positive psychology, and solutions based therapy and am also interested in the connections between our current experiences and their roots in our past.
(650) 204-1370 View (650) 204-1370
Photo of Alyssa Bianconi, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Alyssa Bianconi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Online Only
You’ve been feeling misunderstood, distant, and disconnected from your partner. A sense of hopelessness and fear has crept in from the thought of the relationship ending. There’s been no intimacy or affection for some time, and the feeling of being unwanted is gut-wrenching. You just wish you could have understanding, empathy, and compassion from your partner. Both of you have been questioning your compatibility, but want to do everything possible to save the relationship and fall in love again.
You’ve been feeling misunderstood, distant, and disconnected from your partner. A sense of hopelessness and fear has crept in from the thought of the relationship ending. There’s been no intimacy or affection for some time, and the feeling of being unwanted is gut-wrenching. You just wish you could have understanding, empathy, and compassion from your partner. Both of you have been questioning your compatibility, but want to do everything possible to save the relationship and fall in love again.
(650) 749-1253 View (650) 749-1253
Photo of Jeff K Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jeff K Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Pacifica, CA 94044
I am dedicated to helping clients navigate life's challenges and achieve their full potential. I focus on empowering individuals to overcome obstacles by building resilience and fostering self-awareness, enabling them to reach their personal goals. Through compassionate support, I create a safe, non-judgmental space where growth and healing can take place. My ideal client is someone who is struggling with feelings of self-doubt, anxiety, or past trauma that is preventing them from moving forward in life. I create a safe space for clients to recognize thought patterns that get in the way of them achieving their happiness.
I am dedicated to helping clients navigate life's challenges and achieve their full potential. I focus on empowering individuals to overcome obstacles by building resilience and fostering self-awareness, enabling them to reach their personal goals. Through compassionate support, I create a safe, non-judgmental space where growth and healing can take place. My ideal client is someone who is struggling with feelings of self-doubt, anxiety, or past trauma that is preventing them from moving forward in life. I create a safe space for clients to recognize thought patterns that get in the way of them achieving their happiness.
(650) 761-7429 View (650) 761-7429
Photo of Tom Olsen, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAT
Tom Olsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a client-centered, goal-oriented Licensed Psychotherapist with a decade of professional experience in Clinical Psychotherapy, specializing in Group, Couples, Family, and Individual therapy. My passion for connecting with others and my intuitive awareness of their emotional and psychological needs guide my practice. I hold a master’s degree in Marital and Family Therapy from Western Seminary in Santa Clara, CA, and I am credentialed as a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist. I understand the importance of having someone trustworthy during difficult times. I am here to listen, provide support, and help you navigate your challenges.
I am a client-centered, goal-oriented Licensed Psychotherapist with a decade of professional experience in Clinical Psychotherapy, specializing in Group, Couples, Family, and Individual therapy. My passion for connecting with others and my intuitive awareness of their emotional and psychological needs guide my practice. I hold a master’s degree in Marital and Family Therapy from Western Seminary in Santa Clara, CA, and I am credentialed as a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist. I understand the importance of having someone trustworthy during difficult times. I am here to listen, provide support, and help you navigate your challenges.
(650) 590-7576 View (650) 590-7576
Photo of Lezah Pope, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Lezah Pope
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! My name is Lezah. As a therapist, there are a few beliefs that guide my practice: First, that each person has innate value, worth, and wisdom. Second, our lives are influenced by the systems, environments, and relationships that we are part of. Third, that no matter how broken we may feel, our struggles make sense in the greater context of our stories. I am here to help you to understand how your unique story has shaped you and to provide you with tools for growth. My approach is to go beyond "symptom reduction"; to be by your side as we get to the root of what hurts so that you can reclaim your sense of wholeness.
Hello! My name is Lezah. As a therapist, there are a few beliefs that guide my practice: First, that each person has innate value, worth, and wisdom. Second, our lives are influenced by the systems, environments, and relationships that we are part of. Third, that no matter how broken we may feel, our struggles make sense in the greater context of our stories. I am here to help you to understand how your unique story has shaped you and to provide you with tools for growth. My approach is to go beyond "symptom reduction"; to be by your side as we get to the root of what hurts so that you can reclaim your sense of wholeness.
(650) 667-7671 View (650) 667-7671
Photo of Maria Levy Downs - Maria Levy Downs Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Maria Levy Downs Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
4 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94401
I believe for therapy to be effective, there must be established trust, a willingness to be vulnerable and a commitment to be authentic. I work with those seeking for a more balanced sense of themselves. My style is direct, transparent, insight-oriented and Psychodynamic. I use cognitive behavioral techniques and evidence based practices to help clients achieve their goals of working through depression, managing anxiety, replenishing caregiver-burnt out and coping with life stress. I am a family educator and also believe a sense of humor (when appropriate), is necessary for this line of work. Certified SoulCollage® facilitator.
I believe for therapy to be effective, there must be established trust, a willingness to be vulnerable and a commitment to be authentic. I work with those seeking for a more balanced sense of themselves. My style is direct, transparent, insight-oriented and Psychodynamic. I use cognitive behavioral techniques and evidence based practices to help clients achieve their goals of working through depression, managing anxiety, replenishing caregiver-burnt out and coping with life stress. I am a family educator and also believe a sense of humor (when appropriate), is necessary for this line of work. Certified SoulCollage® facilitator.
(650) 435-4348 View (650) 435-4348
Photo of Will Alexander, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Will Alexander
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I use an integrative approach that is based on the individual needs of the people in front of me and begins with compassion and empathy. I believe forming a strong therapeutic relationship is key for therapy to be successful. Rooted in person-centered therapy, I use empathy, respect, humor, and curiosity to guide treatment. From there, I weave various evidenced based practices together like Solution-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, attachment theory and mindfulness strategies to challenge, empower, build insight and guide you to healthier ways of managing life.
I use an integrative approach that is based on the individual needs of the people in front of me and begins with compassion and empathy. I believe forming a strong therapeutic relationship is key for therapy to be successful. Rooted in person-centered therapy, I use empathy, respect, humor, and curiosity to guide treatment. From there, I weave various evidenced based practices together like Solution-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, attachment theory and mindfulness strategies to challenge, empower, build insight and guide you to healthier ways of managing life.
(650) 249-7871 View (650) 249-7871
Photo of Lindsay Lowe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lindsay Lowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Lindsay Lowe is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). She provides psychotherapy to adults navigating a range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, relationship stress, chronic medical conditions, life transitions, grief and chronic or life-limiting illnesses. She also specializes in gender-affirming therapy for LGBTQIA+ clients, offering compassionate and affirming care tailored to their unique experiences.
Lindsay Lowe is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). She provides psychotherapy to adults navigating a range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, relationship stress, chronic medical conditions, life transitions, grief and chronic or life-limiting illnesses. She also specializes in gender-affirming therapy for LGBTQIA+ clients, offering compassionate and affirming care tailored to their unique experiences.
(650) 844-1595 View (650) 844-1595
Photo of Robin Ruth- Eating Disorders, Psychologist, PhD
Robin Ruth- Eating Disorders
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
I am a warm, compassionate psychologist who practices therapy with a "power with" rather than a "power over" approach. I have personal experience with many life events including single parenting, divorce, caring for elderly parents, and overcoming depression. I specialize in treating eating disorders, body image, identity issues, depression, trauma, anxiety, and cancer related distress. I have extensive experience working at the residential & outpatient levels for eating disorders, and provide supportive therapy for not only the client, but for the parent or significant other who supports them.
I am a warm, compassionate psychologist who practices therapy with a "power with" rather than a "power over" approach. I have personal experience with many life events including single parenting, divorce, caring for elderly parents, and overcoming depression. I specialize in treating eating disorders, body image, identity issues, depression, trauma, anxiety, and cancer related distress. I have extensive experience working at the residential & outpatient levels for eating disorders, and provide supportive therapy for not only the client, but for the parent or significant other who supports them.
(650) 800-5516 View (650) 800-5516
Photo of Lorine Estelle Bay, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, EXA
Lorine Estelle Bay
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, EXA
San Mateo, CA 94402
Our thoughts, emotions, and intentions are powerful forces that shape your reality. Much like the observer effect in quantum physics—where the act of observing influences the outcome—your awareness and focus have the power to transform your life. My goal as a therapist is to help you use that power, guiding you to a deeper understanding of yourself and your ability to create a life you are happy any excited about living. Intentional shifts in thought and emotion can vibrate energy outward, influencing not just how you feel but the reality you experience.
Our thoughts, emotions, and intentions are powerful forces that shape your reality. Much like the observer effect in quantum physics—where the act of observing influences the outcome—your awareness and focus have the power to transform your life. My goal as a therapist is to help you use that power, guiding you to a deeper understanding of yourself and your ability to create a life you are happy any excited about living. Intentional shifts in thought and emotion can vibrate energy outward, influencing not just how you feel but the reality you experience.
(650) 456-7753 View (650) 456-7753
Photo of Amanda Speedy, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Amanda Speedy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with teens who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and behavioral issues. I also work with adults who struggle with anxiety, grief and loss, and relationships.
I specialize in working with teens who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and behavioral issues. I also work with adults who struggle with anxiety, grief and loss, and relationships.
(415) 798-9205 View (415) 798-9205
Photo of Laleh Aflatooni, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Laleh Aflatooni
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you feel like nothing makes you happy, no one understands you, and reaching your true potential is an impossible task, I’m here to help. I will give my absolute best so that we together can solve your dilemmas—however small or encompassing. I am an English and Farsi bilingual California-licensed therapist with eight years of extensive professional experience. I have a Doctorate (PsyD) in Marriage and Family Therapy.
If you feel like nothing makes you happy, no one understands you, and reaching your true potential is an impossible task, I’m here to help. I will give my absolute best so that we together can solve your dilemmas—however small or encompassing. I am an English and Farsi bilingual California-licensed therapist with eight years of extensive professional experience. I have a Doctorate (PsyD) in Marriage and Family Therapy.
(650) 770-1647 View (650) 770-1647
Photo of Edna M. Esnil, Psychologist, PsyD, MA, BA
Edna M. Esnil
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, BA
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Carl Rogers wrote, “The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.” If you’re looking to develop a practice for ‘the good life,’ I would be honored to work with you. Whether you’re an adolescent, adult, or someone with a health, social, relational, cultural, educational, or employment issue, my strength-based, integrative approach is designed to meet your unique needs.
Carl Rogers wrote, “The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.” If you’re looking to develop a practice for ‘the good life,’ I would be honored to work with you. Whether you’re an adolescent, adult, or someone with a health, social, relational, cultural, educational, or employment issue, my strength-based, integrative approach is designed to meet your unique needs.
(650) 600-0437 View (650) 600-0437
Photo of Jaq Sarah French, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPC
Jaq Sarah French
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPC
Online Only
You're not broken. You're just carrying a lot. If you're struggling with addiction or substance use, you're probably also dealing with anxiety, shame, relationship stress, or feeling like you're never quite enough—no matter how hard you try. Maybe you're the one everyone leans on, but you're not sure where you get to fall apart. Maybe you keep the peace, put others first, and pretend you're fine—while inside, you're anything but. And honestly? You're exhausted from holding it all together. You don’t have to do it alone.
You're not broken. You're just carrying a lot. If you're struggling with addiction or substance use, you're probably also dealing with anxiety, shame, relationship stress, or feeling like you're never quite enough—no matter how hard you try. Maybe you're the one everyone leans on, but you're not sure where you get to fall apart. Maybe you keep the peace, put others first, and pretend you're fine—while inside, you're anything but. And honestly? You're exhausted from holding it all together. You don’t have to do it alone.
(650) 753-7988 View (650) 753-7988
Photo of Jamie Holden, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Jamie Holden
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
San Carlos, CA 94070
As we evolve through life, we are faced with challenges and new roles that may make us feel inadequate and uncomfortable. It is not uncommon for a person to feel stuck or lost during this time. For the past 25 years, in an educational and therapeutic setting, I have worked along side adults, and couples/families to help create effective ways to tackle such challenges. When we negatively question our self-worth and strengths, it is time to develop productive ways to break old patterns and see through a truthful lenses.
As we evolve through life, we are faced with challenges and new roles that may make us feel inadequate and uncomfortable. It is not uncommon for a person to feel stuck or lost during this time. For the past 25 years, in an educational and therapeutic setting, I have worked along side adults, and couples/families to help create effective ways to tackle such challenges. When we negatively question our self-worth and strengths, it is time to develop productive ways to break old patterns and see through a truthful lenses.
(650) 683-4014 View (650) 683-4014
Photo of Holly M Z Spiers - Holly Spiers, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Holly Spiers, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Redwood City, CA 94062
Hello. I’m glad you reached out. Whether there's a need to feel safe, to bring change to a relationship, manage stress and anxiety, or work through life’s challenges, today is a good day to begin. The discomfort may be your chattering mind? In your tense body? Whether it is discord with a loved one, mental illness issues, behavioral issues, or dissatisfaction and confusion about your inner experience, today is a good day to start addressing your desire to "feel better" and make sense of your personal and interpersonal challenges.
Hello. I’m glad you reached out. Whether there's a need to feel safe, to bring change to a relationship, manage stress and anxiety, or work through life’s challenges, today is a good day to begin. The discomfort may be your chattering mind? In your tense body? Whether it is discord with a loved one, mental illness issues, behavioral issues, or dissatisfaction and confusion about your inner experience, today is a good day to start addressing your desire to "feel better" and make sense of your personal and interpersonal challenges.
(650) 521-9067 View (650) 521-9067
Photo of James Matson, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
James Matson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Online Only
Have you ever felt like you don’t fit into the boxes you’ve been given or struggled to find your place in the world? Growing up, I always knew I was knew I was different from the people around me, but didn’t know where to turn to find answers about my identity or where I belonged. As a counselor, I work with people who have had similar experiences of discomfort in their relationships, families, and communities. Together, we will explore your experiences and their impact, helping you understand and integrate all the parts of who you are. If you’re seeking clarity and a sense of belonging, I’m here to support you on your journey.
Have you ever felt like you don’t fit into the boxes you’ve been given or struggled to find your place in the world? Growing up, I always knew I was knew I was different from the people around me, but didn’t know where to turn to find answers about my identity or where I belonged. As a counselor, I work with people who have had similar experiences of discomfort in their relationships, families, and communities. Together, we will explore your experiences and their impact, helping you understand and integrate all the parts of who you are. If you’re seeking clarity and a sense of belonging, I’m here to support you on your journey.
(650) 789-7571 View (650) 789-7571
Photo of Alice Knowlton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Alice Knowlton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
In a mind-centered world, we have largely forgotten about the innate wisdom and healing capacities of the body. Many of us have learned to avoid uncomfortable and difficult emotions, viewing them as negative or undesirable. This misconception often leads us to escape our bodies and ourselves. I believe that the relational container created in therapy is integral for exploring our multifaceted identities, layer by layer, part by part.
In a mind-centered world, we have largely forgotten about the innate wisdom and healing capacities of the body. Many of us have learned to avoid uncomfortable and difficult emotions, viewing them as negative or undesirable. This misconception often leads us to escape our bodies and ourselves. I believe that the relational container created in therapy is integral for exploring our multifaceted identities, layer by layer, part by part.
(650) 551-9795 View (650) 551-9795
Photo of Melissa Lapides (Trauma And Attachment Expert), Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Melissa Lapides (Trauma And Attachment Expert)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You may be someone who longs for secure, healthy relationships—whether you're single or partnered—but find yourself stuck in patterns of anxiety, avoidance, or confusion. Maybe you grew up with emotional chaos, unavailable caregivers, or had to parent yourself. It’s no wonder relationships feel hard. Even in love, you might feel unseen, unsafe, or unsure if it can ever truly work. I help individuals and couples break free from old attachment wounds and create relationships that feel safe, connected, and real.
You may be someone who longs for secure, healthy relationships—whether you're single or partnered—but find yourself stuck in patterns of anxiety, avoidance, or confusion. Maybe you grew up with emotional chaos, unavailable caregivers, or had to parent yourself. It’s no wonder relationships feel hard. Even in love, you might feel unseen, unsafe, or unsure if it can ever truly work. I help individuals and couples break free from old attachment wounds and create relationships that feel safe, connected, and real.
(714) 874-3773 View (714) 874-3773
Photo of Melanie Stauffer, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Melanie Stauffer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
San Carlos, CA 94070
Experiencing a change of any kind can disrupt one's life in many ways. I specialize in working with clients suffering from depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and relationship problems. I also support clients dealing with grief & loss, infertility and health issues. I have over 15 years of experience working with families and teens in the system who are suffering from trauma, self-harming behaviors, and peer-related issues. I am also skilled in working with First Responders/Military and their families and offer nonjudgmental support. I focus on meeting my clients where they are at and creating a safe space for healing.
Experiencing a change of any kind can disrupt one's life in many ways. I specialize in working with clients suffering from depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and relationship problems. I also support clients dealing with grief & loss, infertility and health issues. I have over 15 years of experience working with families and teens in the system who are suffering from trauma, self-harming behaviors, and peer-related issues. I am also skilled in working with First Responders/Military and their families and offer nonjudgmental support. I focus on meeting my clients where they are at and creating a safe space for healing.
(650) 839-9736 View (650) 839-9736

See more therapy options for San Mateo County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in San Mateo County, CA

2,000+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in San Mateo County, CA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
71% Self Esteem
66% Stress
64% Trauma and PTSD
64% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

71% Aetna
57% Cigna and Evernorth
50% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in San Mateo County, CA see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in San Mateo County?

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.