Therapists in Ojai, CA

Photo of Charlyn C Erdek, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ojai, CA
Charlyn C Erdek
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with overwhelming feelings? Has a personal or professional relationship changed and now you feel stuck trying to make a connection? Life is full of challenges and while we can't change the past we can learn to navigate the future with new perspectives and different ways to handle these challenges. I am here to provide you extra support during your current difficulties. Together we can explore new and healthy ways of living to create a meaningful, connected and purposeful life.
Are you struggling with overwhelming feelings? Has a personal or professional relationship changed and now you feel stuck trying to make a connection? Life is full of challenges and while we can't change the past we can learn to navigate the future with new perspectives and different ways to handle these challenges. I am here to provide you extra support during your current difficulties. Together we can explore new and healthy ways of living to create a meaningful, connected and purposeful life.
(213) 279-6447 View (213) 279-6447
Photo of Lacee Dilmore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ojai, CA
Lacee Dilmore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
I’m excited to tell you about the work I do with individuals so your intuition can better inform you whether or not I’m a good fit to support you. I am interested in helping you cultivate a more loving and understanding relationship with yourself and your intuition with the support of a connection to spirituality. I truly believe our own misunderstanding of our hurt supports us in hurting our selves and others, consciously and unconsciously. All individual and collective difficulties stem from that truth and exploring things from a spiritual perspective is what I have seen work most effectively in my many years of doing this work.
I’m excited to tell you about the work I do with individuals so your intuition can better inform you whether or not I’m a good fit to support you. I am interested in helping you cultivate a more loving and understanding relationship with yourself and your intuition with the support of a connection to spirituality. I truly believe our own misunderstanding of our hurt supports us in hurting our selves and others, consciously and unconsciously. All individual and collective difficulties stem from that truth and exploring things from a spiritual perspective is what I have seen work most effectively in my many years of doing this work.
(805) 669-9061 View (805) 669-9061
Photo of John R Galaska in Ojai, CA
John R Galaska
PsyD, BCIA, CHT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
Many people suffer stress from past events, from childhood or later. My neurofeedback, biofeedback, and hypnosis can help reduce or eliminate that stress. I have t wo doctorates in clinical psychology (2012 and 2020) in addition to my certification in neurofeedback and hypnotherapy. I teach psychology at the Masters level at Antioch University in Santa Barbara so I'm really good at explaining what I do. I now have a Certificate in Sport Psychology! I pride myself in delivering these services in the most empathic manner possible. If you are short with your loved ones, generally uptight, and regretting it later I can help.
Many people suffer stress from past events, from childhood or later. My neurofeedback, biofeedback, and hypnosis can help reduce or eliminate that stress. I have t wo doctorates in clinical psychology (2012 and 2020) in addition to my certification in neurofeedback and hypnotherapy. I teach psychology at the Masters level at Antioch University in Santa Barbara so I'm really good at explaining what I do. I now have a Certificate in Sport Psychology! I pride myself in delivering these services in the most empathic manner possible. If you are short with your loved ones, generally uptight, and regretting it later I can help.
(805) 250-8145 View (805) 250-8145
Photo of Elizabeth A Hollon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ojai, CA
Elizabeth A Hollon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
The therapeutic atmosphere provided is safe, encouraging, insight oriented, and flexible. Over the years, I have focused my expertise on working with adults, families, and couples. I make sure that my clients feel validated, heard, and understood in a non-judgmental environment. Their needs, history, and life circumstances are taken into consideration in the therapeutic process. The goal is for my clients to achieve unconditional understanding, peace, and relief from disturbing symptoms. I am passionate about helping my clients achieve health and improvement in their quality of life.
The therapeutic atmosphere provided is safe, encouraging, insight oriented, and flexible. Over the years, I have focused my expertise on working with adults, families, and couples. I make sure that my clients feel validated, heard, and understood in a non-judgmental environment. Their needs, history, and life circumstances are taken into consideration in the therapeutic process. The goal is for my clients to achieve unconditional understanding, peace, and relief from disturbing symptoms. I am passionate about helping my clients achieve health and improvement in their quality of life.
(805) 918-5927 View (805) 918-5927
Photo of Gale Hayman in Ojai, CA
Gale Hayman
MBA, MA Psyc, MISPA, c
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023  (Online Only)
Counseling Psychology with emphasis in Depth Psychology manifests in the Heroine/Hero Journey. Soul Journey Counseling uses psychological archetypes to guide and enhance your inner search. Inquire within and rejoice with your inner wisdom...finally...It's right in front of you! This inner work gives you the foundational archetypal skills for you to construct confidence and trust in your inner wisdom.
Counseling Psychology with emphasis in Depth Psychology manifests in the Heroine/Hero Journey. Soul Journey Counseling uses psychological archetypes to guide and enhance your inner search. Inquire within and rejoice with your inner wisdom...finally...It's right in front of you! This inner work gives you the foundational archetypal skills for you to construct confidence and trust in your inner wisdom.
(805) 243-2885 View (805) 243-2885
Photo of Shawna Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ojai, CA
Shawna Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
Humans are meant to have support through pain, challenges, and life's many transitions. Yet, life can feel frantic and disconnecting. You may find yourself lost in the chaos, feeling alone, depressed, or anxious. It may be difficult to find spaces where you are truly seen, understood, and accepted, let alone able to express your pain, challenges, and dreams. You are not alone in your longing to authentically speak, feel, and process your life.
Humans are meant to have support through pain, challenges, and life's many transitions. Yet, life can feel frantic and disconnecting. You may find yourself lost in the chaos, feeling alone, depressed, or anxious. It may be difficult to find spaces where you are truly seen, understood, and accepted, let alone able to express your pain, challenges, and dreams. You are not alone in your longing to authentically speak, feel, and process your life.
(805) 272-8529 View (805) 272-8529
Photo of Alan Doyle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ojai, CA
Alan Doyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93024  (Online Only)
I enjoy helping motivated people who are in crisis or distressed find realistic and practical relief for their problems. I have over 40 years of experience working with individuals, children, teens, parents, couples and families. My goal is to be actively engaged in finding solutions for problems people face with relationships, personal growth, work place stresses, and parenting. One of my primary values as a therapist is to help create a positive and successful experience for my clients.
I enjoy helping motivated people who are in crisis or distressed find realistic and practical relief for their problems. I have over 40 years of experience working with individuals, children, teens, parents, couples and families. My goal is to be actively engaged in finding solutions for problems people face with relationships, personal growth, work place stresses, and parenting. One of my primary values as a therapist is to help create a positive and successful experience for my clients.
(805) 214-6639 View (805) 214-6639
Photo of Micheal Frances Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ojai, CA
Micheal Frances Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
Choosing a therapist is not like choosing other medical professionals: there are some specific questions you must ask yourself. Do you feel comfortable in sharing your life with the therapist? Do you feel heard and understood by the therapist? Do you trust the therapist? These are questions a person should ask before deciding who to trust with their life story. I find that it's important to meet in advance to determine if we could make progress together, and I encourage you to ask the above questions of yourself as you speak to me, or any other licensed therapist.
Choosing a therapist is not like choosing other medical professionals: there are some specific questions you must ask yourself. Do you feel comfortable in sharing your life with the therapist? Do you feel heard and understood by the therapist? Do you trust the therapist? These are questions a person should ask before deciding who to trust with their life story. I find that it's important to meet in advance to determine if we could make progress together, and I encourage you to ask the above questions of yourself as you speak to me, or any other licensed therapist.
(805) 751-7814 View (805) 751-7814
Photo of Dr. Lydia Grayson Ruark, Psychologist in Ojai, CA
Dr. Lydia Grayson Ruark
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
I am a senior clinician with over 30 years experience in private practice, supervision and teaching. I work with clients on every issue and challenge inherent in being a human being, with a special ability to help people who don't feel at home in the mainstream and find it hard to be their true selves: introverts, highly sensitive people, artists, thinkers, people-pleasers, people with blocks to reaching their full potential. Authenticity, self-actualization, self-acceptance and connection to one's inner self are important concepts in my work.
I am a senior clinician with over 30 years experience in private practice, supervision and teaching. I work with clients on every issue and challenge inherent in being a human being, with a special ability to help people who don't feel at home in the mainstream and find it hard to be their true selves: introverts, highly sensitive people, artists, thinkers, people-pleasers, people with blocks to reaching their full potential. Authenticity, self-actualization, self-acceptance and connection to one's inner self are important concepts in my work.
(310) 464-1367 View (310) 464-1367
Photo of Caroline Berlin Psychotherapist Hypnotherapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ojai, CA
Caroline Berlin Psychotherapist Hypnotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
How do you speak to yourself? This makes us feel the way we do. (We treat others the way we treat ourself.) Learn how to use and align your words, thoughts even, with your own positive intentions. Get rid of whatever is in the way. The brain can't tell the difference between an imagined experience and a real one. You don't have to reinvent the wheel to feel difficult feelings to completion. Mistakes are opportunities for getting what you want. With gentle patience and respect, I can show you how to allow feelings to be fully felt. Change beliefs and align with what you really want. It's a lot simpler than it sounds.
How do you speak to yourself? This makes us feel the way we do. (We treat others the way we treat ourself.) Learn how to use and align your words, thoughts even, with your own positive intentions. Get rid of whatever is in the way. The brain can't tell the difference between an imagined experience and a real one. You don't have to reinvent the wheel to feel difficult feelings to completion. Mistakes are opportunities for getting what you want. With gentle patience and respect, I can show you how to allow feelings to be fully felt. Change beliefs and align with what you really want. It's a lot simpler than it sounds.
(805) 272-7960 View (805) 272-7960
Photo of Rowan Octavia Lommel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ojai, CA
Rowan Octavia Lommel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
I am open to clients with a wide range of backgrounds and challenges. My focus is simply this: to reduce suffering so that the client can lead a more fulfilling life. I love understanding what is holding you back from leading a deeply contented life, and helping you release that. I love working with couple clients because it is so exciting to hold the passion as we work on building harmony and trust. My ideal client wants to grow and change which requires being open to the magic of living beyond habits.
I am open to clients with a wide range of backgrounds and challenges. My focus is simply this: to reduce suffering so that the client can lead a more fulfilling life. I love understanding what is holding you back from leading a deeply contented life, and helping you release that. I love working with couple clients because it is so exciting to hold the passion as we work on building harmony and trust. My ideal client wants to grow and change which requires being open to the magic of living beyond habits.
View
Photo of Robyn L Posin, Psychologist in Ojai, CA
Robyn L Posin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93024
My commitment is to creating safe space in which to help people (re)connect with and honor the wisdom and guidance of their inner knowing selves so that they may live more sanely in this crazy-making, invalidating world. Essential to this process is transforming our inner critics into allies, learning to move only as fast as the slowest part of us feels safe to go, developing the capacity to be tender, gentle and accepting with all the ways that we are (even as we work to change some of those ways) and reclaiming rest as a sacred act.
My commitment is to creating safe space in which to help people (re)connect with and honor the wisdom and guidance of their inner knowing selves so that they may live more sanely in this crazy-making, invalidating world. Essential to this process is transforming our inner critics into allies, learning to move only as fast as the slowest part of us feels safe to go, developing the capacity to be tender, gentle and accepting with all the ways that we are (even as we work to change some of those ways) and reclaiming rest as a sacred act.
(805) 633-1577 View (805) 633-1577
Photo of Ken Ball, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ojai, CA
Ken Ball
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with those of you who suffer (often silently) from emotional pain by guiding you through that pain whether it be from the past or present.  In order to untangle, express and feel a lifetime of traumas, specific life events, or every day sadnesses and anger, my specialty is providing a safe atmosphere in which you can explore those corners of your life you have had to keep hidden or have been unsuccessful in healing.  
I enjoy working with those of you who suffer (often silently) from emotional pain by guiding you through that pain whether it be from the past or present.  In order to untangle, express and feel a lifetime of traumas, specific life events, or every day sadnesses and anger, my specialty is providing a safe atmosphere in which you can explore those corners of your life you have had to keep hidden or have been unsuccessful in healing.  
(805) 669-9589 View (805) 669-9589
Photo of Amanda Marie Coleman, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Ojai, CA
Amanda Marie Coleman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
Are you feeling ready to journey within? My goal in the therapeutic work is to gently provide support as you peer into your innermost intricacies. You may be suffering from shame that enhances your anxiety, depression that isolates you from the connection you desire, or a frame of mind that keeps you stuck from the dreams you want to achieve. You may have faced many adversities in your life experience and need the support of a therapist to help you find better meaning in life and change the course. My goal as your therapist is to provide you support and tools that will empower you to show up in the world in the way you have dreamed.
Are you feeling ready to journey within? My goal in the therapeutic work is to gently provide support as you peer into your innermost intricacies. You may be suffering from shame that enhances your anxiety, depression that isolates you from the connection you desire, or a frame of mind that keeps you stuck from the dreams you want to achieve. You may have faced many adversities in your life experience and need the support of a therapist to help you find better meaning in life and change the course. My goal as your therapist is to provide you support and tools that will empower you to show up in the world in the way you have dreamed.
(805) 394-3822 View (805) 394-3822
Photo of Tessa Magill, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ojai, CA
Tessa Magill
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023  (Online Only)
I work with teens and adults that are looking to discuss their troubles, adjustments and triumphs with warm support. My approach for my clients is a combination of collaborative reflection and strategic action toward their goals. My work focuses on feeling heard, managing life's challenges with healthy coping strategies, replacing old habits with more functional ones and expanding our understanding and love for ourselves. I run therapeutic hiking groups that address the shared struggles of preteens, teens and adults. Most commonly girl's and women's issues around topics like self-love, disconnection and anxiety.
I work with teens and adults that are looking to discuss their troubles, adjustments and triumphs with warm support. My approach for my clients is a combination of collaborative reflection and strategic action toward their goals. My work focuses on feeling heard, managing life's challenges with healthy coping strategies, replacing old habits with more functional ones and expanding our understanding and love for ourselves. I run therapeutic hiking groups that address the shared struggles of preteens, teens and adults. Most commonly girl's and women's issues around topics like self-love, disconnection and anxiety.
(805) 918-6115 View (805) 918-6115
Photo of Kim Reinman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ojai, CA
Kim Reinman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
What makes therapy work is the relationship/connection between the therapist and client, as well as the skills and technical expertise the therapist brings to the table. I am supportive, caring and committed to being totally present, meeting people where they are right now, hearing them in their own terms. Relationships between individuals, couples and families have become so stressful in these crazy-making times. I see my job as helping clients untangle life's challenges and assisting them in getting in touch with their own inner resources.
What makes therapy work is the relationship/connection between the therapist and client, as well as the skills and technical expertise the therapist brings to the table. I am supportive, caring and committed to being totally present, meeting people where they are right now, hearing them in their own terms. Relationships between individuals, couples and families have become so stressful in these crazy-making times. I see my job as helping clients untangle life's challenges and assisting them in getting in touch with their own inner resources.
(805) 409-8495 View (805) 409-8495
Photo of Kathy Leary-Wilde, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ojai, CA
Kathy Leary-Wilde
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
I truly enjoy the process of collaboration and sense of discovery as we form a therapeutic alliance. I love working with adults, both young and old, male and female. Establishing the relationship is foundational to our work together. Trust develops naturally as our connection grows. The pace is always determined by your comfort level and readiness. I can offer new coping skills and join with you to form therapy goals. As an experienced EMDR therapist I sometimes utilize Flash and EMDR to reduce and clear triggering remnants of the past. The result is greater ease and joy in your life.
I truly enjoy the process of collaboration and sense of discovery as we form a therapeutic alliance. I love working with adults, both young and old, male and female. Establishing the relationship is foundational to our work together. Trust develops naturally as our connection grows. The pace is always determined by your comfort level and readiness. I can offer new coping skills and join with you to form therapy goals. As an experienced EMDR therapist I sometimes utilize Flash and EMDR to reduce and clear triggering remnants of the past. The result is greater ease and joy in your life.
(805) 424-5432 View (805) 424-5432
Photo of Matianna Baldassari, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ojai, CA
Matianna Baldassari
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023  (Online Only)
Have you ever had a not-so-great therapy experience? Maybe you left a session feeling more misunderstood, judged, or alone than when you walked in. The therapist may have made assumptions that proved they didn't get you at all - or tried to make decisions for you. With 15 years of experience, one of my highest values is to listen carefully to my clients and treat you with the utmost respect. I do my best to leave my prior assumptions at the door and believe clients are the experts in their lives. Don't know where to begin?
Have you ever had a not-so-great therapy experience? Maybe you left a session feeling more misunderstood, judged, or alone than when you walked in. The therapist may have made assumptions that proved they didn't get you at all - or tried to make decisions for you. With 15 years of experience, one of my highest values is to listen carefully to my clients and treat you with the utmost respect. I do my best to leave my prior assumptions at the door and believe clients are the experts in their lives. Don't know where to begin?
(805) 765-8630 View (805) 765-8630
Photo of Hal Waite in Ojai, CA
Hal Waite
TRAUMA, HEALING, MA, MBA, SEP
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
PTSD / TRAUMA: Feel safe again. TRAUMA, big and small can be resolved. I will guide you through a gentle healing process. Get grounded, emotionally balanced. Your nervous system, once triggered, will remain in "flight or fright" mode indefinitely until you learn how to turn off the alarm signals from your brain. Using cutting edge techniques, Somatic Experiencing, Process Acupressure and EMDR, helps reset your nervous system allowing you to feel calm and centered. If you have ADDICTIVE tendencies, just know they are flawed solutions to deal with trauma. Please call for a free 30 minute phone consultation today.
PTSD / TRAUMA: Feel safe again. TRAUMA, big and small can be resolved. I will guide you through a gentle healing process. Get grounded, emotionally balanced. Your nervous system, once triggered, will remain in "flight or fright" mode indefinitely until you learn how to turn off the alarm signals from your brain. Using cutting edge techniques, Somatic Experiencing, Process Acupressure and EMDR, helps reset your nervous system allowing you to feel calm and centered. If you have ADDICTIVE tendencies, just know they are flawed solutions to deal with trauma. Please call for a free 30 minute phone consultation today.
(805) 669-9768 View (805) 669-9768
Photo of Jessie Bannister, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ojai, CA
Jessie Bannister, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
Not accepting new clients
Therapy is an opportunity to asses the areas of your life that are and are not working. It provides a welcoming and non-judgmental space to gain self-insight, develop new practical every day strategies, improve your relationship with yourself and others and regain hope. I believe that each person has the capacity to better their life experience.
Therapy is an opportunity to asses the areas of your life that are and are not working. It provides a welcoming and non-judgmental space to gain self-insight, develop new practical every day strategies, improve your relationship with yourself and others and regain hope. I believe that each person has the capacity to better their life experience.
(415) 582-4484 View (415) 582-4484

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Ojai, CA

100+

Average cost per session

$170

Therapists in Ojai, CA who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
85% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
71% Grief
71% Trauma and PTSD
66% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

56% Aetna
44% Cigna and Evernorth
42% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Ojai, CA see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Ojai?

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.