Therapists in Ojai, CA

Photo of Moriah Stapf, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Ojai, CA
Moriah Stapf
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
As soon as you enter the world – there is an influx of challenging, stressful, and overwhelming information that begins to shape the person you become. These experiences build resilience, intelligence, and personality, but they also can make you fearful, anxious, avoidant, shut down, and living out of alignment with our intuitive needs and desires. If you are yearning for more confidence, meaning, purpose, positivity, and clarity – you're in the right place. I aim to cultivate a safe and comfortable environment geared to support you in quieting the noise getting in the way of you connecting to the wholeness of who you are.
As soon as you enter the world – there is an influx of challenging, stressful, and overwhelming information that begins to shape the person you become. These experiences build resilience, intelligence, and personality, but they also can make you fearful, anxious, avoidant, shut down, and living out of alignment with our intuitive needs and desires. If you are yearning for more confidence, meaning, purpose, positivity, and clarity – you're in the right place. I aim to cultivate a safe and comfortable environment geared to support you in quieting the noise getting in the way of you connecting to the wholeness of who you are.
(310) 361-1312 View (310) 361-1312
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 Wendy Maureen Elliott, Counselor in Ojai, CA
Wendy Maureen Elliott
Counselor, MA, LPC, SEP, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling unsure or stuck? Unable to get motivated, full of self-doubt? Wanting to make a change but scared to do so? Disconnected from yourself but not sure why? If you are suffering from any of the above, then I can help. Working together, we get to the core of what is going on in a safe and supportive environment so that you can feel calm, clear and empowered to begin to make some changes.
Are you feeling unsure or stuck? Unable to get motivated, full of self-doubt? Wanting to make a change but scared to do so? Disconnected from yourself but not sure why? If you are suffering from any of the above, then I can help. Working together, we get to the core of what is going on in a safe and supportive environment so that you can feel calm, clear and empowered to begin to make some changes.
(805) 639-8610 View (805) 639-8610
Photo of Susan LaCroix, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ojai, CA
Susan LaCroix
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
I provide compassionate guidance and support to individuals and couples who want to confront challenges, gain insight, and improve relationships and communication. I especially enjoy working with adults of all ages who are navigating life transitions, such as entering adulthood, facing midlife, changing careers, ending long-term relationships, or adjusting to an "empty nest." No matter what issues are being addressed, I bring a calm presence, a nonjudgmental attitude, curiosity, and a sense of humor.
I provide compassionate guidance and support to individuals and couples who want to confront challenges, gain insight, and improve relationships and communication. I especially enjoy working with adults of all ages who are navigating life transitions, such as entering adulthood, facing midlife, changing careers, ending long-term relationships, or adjusting to an "empty nest." No matter what issues are being addressed, I bring a calm presence, a nonjudgmental attitude, curiosity, and a sense of humor.
(510) 996-5573 View (510) 996-5573
Photo of Katie Black, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ojai, CA
Katie Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
I help people who want to live authentic and creative lives. They know there is more to their existence and are struggling to clarify their path. Life may be consumed by past trauma, relationship issues, protective behaviors, beliefs and/or feelings. Together we can support an uncovering of what is getting in the way and what works to support truth and understanding. The intention is to guide people to trust and experience their inner knowing and unique path. Together we can support you to take steps that help reveal clarity!
I help people who want to live authentic and creative lives. They know there is more to their existence and are struggling to clarify their path. Life may be consumed by past trauma, relationship issues, protective behaviors, beliefs and/or feelings. Together we can support an uncovering of what is getting in the way and what works to support truth and understanding. The intention is to guide people to trust and experience their inner knowing and unique path. Together we can support you to take steps that help reveal clarity!
(805) 272-7901 View (805) 272-7901
Photo of Brittany Holden, Pre-Licensed Professional in Ojai, CA
Brittany Holden
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
Throughout our life we experience changes, transitions, and milestones that challenge us, provoke reflection, and sometimes stop us in our tracks. My work is dedicated to honoring these moments and working collaboratively to turn potential obstacles into momentous achievements. Inspired by compassion-focused therapy, my goal is to offer a space which invites thoughtful self-examination, devoid of shame, judgement and self-criticism. Through this honest practice you will be able to identify, seek and strengthen the connections that empower you.
Throughout our life we experience changes, transitions, and milestones that challenge us, provoke reflection, and sometimes stop us in our tracks. My work is dedicated to honoring these moments and working collaboratively to turn potential obstacles into momentous achievements. Inspired by compassion-focused therapy, my goal is to offer a space which invites thoughtful self-examination, devoid of shame, judgement and self-criticism. Through this honest practice you will be able to identify, seek and strengthen the connections that empower you.
(805) 301-9315 View (805) 301-9315
Photo of Chaarenne T. Torris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ojai, CA
Chaarenne T. Torris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADCII, LAADACr, ICADC
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
If you are ready to make a change in your life and a committment to do the work, I will help you regain your health and happiness. I practice transpersonal psychology which focuses on the integration of body, mind and spirit. This helps to bring balance to your life and is effective in bringing about lasting, positive change. Together we will identify your strengths and increase your coping skills. I will be honest,direct and gently challenging, helping you regain your "best self". I work best with issues of trauma, relationships, addictions (all types) and codependency, child custody and co-parenting/mediation.
If you are ready to make a change in your life and a committment to do the work, I will help you regain your health and happiness. I practice transpersonal psychology which focuses on the integration of body, mind and spirit. This helps to bring balance to your life and is effective in bringing about lasting, positive change. Together we will identify your strengths and increase your coping skills. I will be honest,direct and gently challenging, helping you regain your "best self". I work best with issues of trauma, relationships, addictions (all types) and codependency, child custody and co-parenting/mediation.
(805) 669-9683 View (805) 669-9683
Photo of Kimberly Sampson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ojai, CA
Kimberly Sampson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
You are feeling alone, confused, stressed-out. You feel like you have tried everything, but things are still the same. Maybe you are really good at acting like everything is fine on the outside, but you are falling apart on the inside. Your relationships are suffering and your quality of life is being impacted. I’ve been there too. You deserve so much more! Investing in ourselves is one of the most important things we can do to feel healthy and balanced in our lives.
You are feeling alone, confused, stressed-out. You feel like you have tried everything, but things are still the same. Maybe you are really good at acting like everything is fine on the outside, but you are falling apart on the inside. Your relationships are suffering and your quality of life is being impacted. I’ve been there too. You deserve so much more! Investing in ourselves is one of the most important things we can do to feel healthy and balanced in our lives.
(805) 749-2427 View (805) 749-2427
Photo of Meghan Rudd, PhD, Psychologist in Ojai, CA
Meghan Rudd, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
It's possible to access your inner wisdom and feel a sense of safety and belonging in this world; to hear your soul's calling and respond; to live into your deepest truths. When change is desired, the psychotherapy process transforms overwhelming fears, frustrations, and responsibilities into guides that keep one true to one's authentic path. I am here to journey with you; to help you create a place for your most sacred aspects of self so that you can feel more connected to yourself, to others, and to the world.
It's possible to access your inner wisdom and feel a sense of safety and belonging in this world; to hear your soul's calling and respond; to live into your deepest truths. When change is desired, the psychotherapy process transforms overwhelming fears, frustrations, and responsibilities into guides that keep one true to one's authentic path. I am here to journey with you; to help you create a place for your most sacred aspects of self so that you can feel more connected to yourself, to others, and to the world.
(805) 516-0517 View (805) 516-0517
Photo of Shana Creyssels, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ojai, CA
Shana Creyssels
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
Hi! My name is Shana Creyssels and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over twelve years of experience. I celebrate you in taking your first step, which is a huge strength. I believe that you are the expert of you. My goal is to create a safe space that is non-judgmental, inclusive and empowering where we can work collaboratively to achieve what success means to you. Seeking support during difficult times can be a challenge. Life is an incredible journey that comes with experiences that shape who we are or serves as a driving point to where we want to go or who we want to become.
Hi! My name is Shana Creyssels and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over twelve years of experience. I celebrate you in taking your first step, which is a huge strength. I believe that you are the expert of you. My goal is to create a safe space that is non-judgmental, inclusive and empowering where we can work collaboratively to achieve what success means to you. Seeking support during difficult times can be a challenge. Life is an incredible journey that comes with experiences that shape who we are or serves as a driving point to where we want to go or who we want to become.
(805) 793-1263 View (805) 793-1263
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 James K Borgeson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ojai, CA
James K Borgeson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
If you’re reading this you are likely considering speaking with a therapist and exploring current or past areas of your life that are of concern to you. Common areas or concern include relationship problems, exposure to traumatic events, difficult life transitions, parent child conflict, child behavior, school or self esteem issues, as well as many others. Navigating these challenges can be difficult. At times they may even leave you with feelings of depression, anxiety, even hopelessness. By reaching out to a therapist you are reaching out for support and guidance to restore hope and good health for you and your loved ones.
If you’re reading this you are likely considering speaking with a therapist and exploring current or past areas of your life that are of concern to you. Common areas or concern include relationship problems, exposure to traumatic events, difficult life transitions, parent child conflict, child behavior, school or self esteem issues, as well as many others. Navigating these challenges can be difficult. At times they may even leave you with feelings of depression, anxiety, even hopelessness. By reaching out to a therapist you are reaching out for support and guidance to restore hope and good health for you and your loved ones.
(805) 272-7683 View (805) 272-7683
Photo of Kimberly A Fouche', Marriage & Family Therapist in Ojai, CA
Kimberly A Fouche'
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023  (Online Only)
The changes in the world today can be unbalancing and having a guide to help one find ways to re-balance is important to one's well-being. I Have had life experience in dealing with trauma which guided me to become engaged in the study of psychology. I saw the need for more understanding of the mind and the human experience. Anxiety and depression affect the whole person: psycho-spiritually, physically, mentally, and physiologically. The signs and symptoms of anxiety and depression will manifest at every level. Imagine working together to find your own therapeutic tune to your life song…
The changes in the world today can be unbalancing and having a guide to help one find ways to re-balance is important to one's well-being. I Have had life experience in dealing with trauma which guided me to become engaged in the study of psychology. I saw the need for more understanding of the mind and the human experience. Anxiety and depression affect the whole person: psycho-spiritually, physically, mentally, and physiologically. The signs and symptoms of anxiety and depression will manifest at every level. Imagine working together to find your own therapeutic tune to your life song…
(805) 742-4577 View (805) 742-4577
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 Joy Thornhill, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ojai, CA
Joy Thornhill
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
Parents, are you finding yourself exhausted from having yet another argument with your spouse about what to do with your children who continue to behave poorly? Or perhaps you look around at your family and feel sad that you aren’t connecting the way you used to. Your child may be moody, anxious, or seem depressed and you don’t know why or how it came to be this way. You would like support and some extra tools in your toolbox to handle the family stress and are in dire need of some relief.
Parents, are you finding yourself exhausted from having yet another argument with your spouse about what to do with your children who continue to behave poorly? Or perhaps you look around at your family and feel sad that you aren’t connecting the way you used to. Your child may be moody, anxious, or seem depressed and you don’t know why or how it came to be this way. You would like support and some extra tools in your toolbox to handle the family stress and are in dire need of some relief.
(805) 429-4562 View (805) 429-4562
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 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 Robert Duff, Psychologist in Ojai, CA
Robert Duff
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
My name is Robert and it would be an honor to be your therapist. The biggest complaint that I hear from people about their previous experiences with therapy is that their therapist didn't DO anything. That's not me. I have a very active, solution-focused approach. Not only do I want to be there for you as an empathetic listener and learn to speak your emotional language, but I also want to help you take ACTION. To me, that means helping you identify the problem and find skills and strategies to make an immediate impact on your situation. My approach is down-to-earth and grounded in reality.
My name is Robert and it would be an honor to be your therapist. The biggest complaint that I hear from people about their previous experiences with therapy is that their therapist didn't DO anything. That's not me. I have a very active, solution-focused approach. Not only do I want to be there for you as an empathetic listener and learn to speak your emotional language, but I also want to help you take ACTION. To me, that means helping you identify the problem and find skills and strategies to make an immediate impact on your situation. My approach is down-to-earth and grounded in reality.
(805) 633-3118 View (805) 633-3118
Photo of Leslie Bouché in Ojai, CA
Leslie Bouché
CHT
Verified Verified
Ojai, CA 93023
I am a Certified Hypnotherapist and a Master of Therapeutic Imagery. I believe all people can connect deeply within and re-create themselves, change their lives, and access their inner resources and guidance. I work in a safe and comfortable partnership with my clients to facilitate being active participants in their own transformation. I work with releasing negative thinking and self-talk, raising self-confidence self-respect and motivation, relieving stress and anxiety, relieving fears and phobias, letting go of the past, pain control, relationship issues, surviving divorce, changing negative habits, releasing anger and guilt.
I am a Certified Hypnotherapist and a Master of Therapeutic Imagery. I believe all people can connect deeply within and re-create themselves, change their lives, and access their inner resources and guidance. I work in a safe and comfortable partnership with my clients to facilitate being active participants in their own transformation. I work with releasing negative thinking and self-talk, raising self-confidence self-respect and motivation, relieving stress and anxiety, relieving fears and phobias, letting go of the past, pain control, relationship issues, surviving divorce, changing negative habits, releasing anger and guilt.
(805) 464-3645 View (805) 464-3645
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

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.