Therapists in Grass Valley, CA

Photo of Susan Garner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grass Valley, CA
Susan Garner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95945  (Online Only)
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for 20 years, working primarily with individuals and couples (including same sex couples): including individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, parents and adult children seeking to heal old wounds and improve communication. My work with individual adult clients has focussed primarily on anxiety, panic attacks, depression, adjusting to life transitions and problems in primary relationships. Whatever your objectives, whether to identify and change self-limiting narratives, heal trauma and losses, improve communication skills and/or need couples therapy, I can help you.
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for 20 years, working primarily with individuals and couples (including same sex couples): including individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, parents and adult children seeking to heal old wounds and improve communication. My work with individual adult clients has focussed primarily on anxiety, panic attacks, depression, adjusting to life transitions and problems in primary relationships. Whatever your objectives, whether to identify and change self-limiting narratives, heal trauma and losses, improve communication skills and/or need couples therapy, I can help you.
(530) 285-2508 View (530) 285-2508
Photo of Danelle Riles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grass Valley, CA
Danelle Riles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, IHP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Grass Valley, CA 95945
Not accepting new clients
As an Integrative Health Practitioner, my approach to therapy is holistic in nature. The intention for my work is to empower individuals to love themselves through devotion to body, mind, and spirit. I use a DESTRESS protocol for supporting the whole person. Together we can learn ways to develop a deeper sense of understanding, compassion, and acceptance of yourself. I enjoy offering effective and practical tools for improving health and well-being. This work is sacred to me and I am deeply honored to join my clients on their healing journey.
As an Integrative Health Practitioner, my approach to therapy is holistic in nature. The intention for my work is to empower individuals to love themselves through devotion to body, mind, and spirit. I use a DESTRESS protocol for supporting the whole person. Together we can learn ways to develop a deeper sense of understanding, compassion, and acceptance of yourself. I enjoy offering effective and practical tools for improving health and well-being. This work is sacred to me and I am deeply honored to join my clients on their healing journey.
(530) 441-0757 View (530) 441-0757
Photo of Support and Solutions, Steve Navisky, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grass Valley, CA
Support and Solutions, Steve Navisky, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95945  (Online Only)
PERSONAL STATEMENT Clear communication, taking risks and responsibility for one's actions and feelings, allow natural, self-healing resources to emerge from within us. Clients are encouraged to face fear and pain, live in the present moment, and not retreat into the past; thus, finding strength, courage and trust, leading to wholeness. A belief in a POWER, greater than our smaller selves, connects us to our healthier and truer SELF. This is a key factor in the healing process. We have experienced this greater SELF, often in times of great trial and/or great joy. It works!
PERSONAL STATEMENT Clear communication, taking risks and responsibility for one's actions and feelings, allow natural, self-healing resources to emerge from within us. Clients are encouraged to face fear and pain, live in the present moment, and not retreat into the past; thus, finding strength, courage and trust, leading to wholeness. A belief in a POWER, greater than our smaller selves, connects us to our healthier and truer SELF. This is a key factor in the healing process. We have experienced this greater SELF, often in times of great trial and/or great joy. It works!
(530) 588-0988 View (530) 588-0988
Photo of Brian David Parker, Counselor in Grass Valley, CA
Brian David Parker
Counselor, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95945
You are on a path toward healing. I would love to partner with you and bring my training and experience to support your healing and growth. Individuals, couples, families, and children are all welcome. I work with Narrative, Existential, and Strengths Based modalities to help you find meaning in suffering, create a new narrative, and capitalize on the strengths you already have. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. I provide therapy in English and in Spanish.
You are on a path toward healing. I would love to partner with you and bring my training and experience to support your healing and growth. Individuals, couples, families, and children are all welcome. I work with Narrative, Existential, and Strengths Based modalities to help you find meaning in suffering, create a new narrative, and capitalize on the strengths you already have. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. I provide therapy in English and in Spanish.
(530) 444-6203 View (530) 444-6203
Photo of Michael J Bader, Psychologist in Grass Valley, CA
Michael J Bader
Psychologist, DMH
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95945
Not accepting new clients
Unfortunately, I'm not accepting new patients at the current time. I've been a psychologist in clinical practice since 1980. I've had advanced training in psychodynamic approaches that combine an emphasis on insight with the beneficial effects of careful listening, empathy, and offering practical advice about changing behaviors that get in the way of patients reaching their potential. I think that most people suffer from painful problems in work and in love and my approach is designed to alleviate this suffering.
Unfortunately, I'm not accepting new patients at the current time. I've been a psychologist in clinical practice since 1980. I've had advanced training in psychodynamic approaches that combine an emphasis on insight with the beneficial effects of careful listening, empathy, and offering practical advice about changing behaviors that get in the way of patients reaching their potential. I think that most people suffer from painful problems in work and in love and my approach is designed to alleviate this suffering.
(415) 639-9868 View (415) 639-9868
Photo of Veronica Monet in Grass Valley, CA
Veronica Monet
ACS
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95945
I want to help you. But are we a good fit? Here's what my clients appreciate most about me: 1. They KNOW they'll be accepted and valued no matter what they share with me. 2. They value my skills as an empath because I can get to the solutions they need much more precisely. 3. They want a dynamic combination of spiritual guidance and concrete steps to their desired goals. 4. They know they can obtain information about sex and sexuality that is not available from their doctor or even online. 5. They trust me to see and foster their personal best!
I want to help you. But are we a good fit? Here's what my clients appreciate most about me: 1. They KNOW they'll be accepted and valued no matter what they share with me. 2. They value my skills as an empath because I can get to the solutions they need much more precisely. 3. They want a dynamic combination of spiritual guidance and concrete steps to their desired goals. 4. They know they can obtain information about sex and sexuality that is not available from their doctor or even online. 5. They trust me to see and foster their personal best!
(415) 691-2832 View (415) 691-2832
Photo of Jenna Lauren Artaz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grass Valley, CA
Jenna Lauren Artaz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95945  (Online Only)
Our work together may include coaching, education, homework, meditative practices or breath work, movement, art therapy, and frank communication. I will meet you with compassion, empathy, warmth, and commitment. At times I will challenge your perceptions and assumptions, and offer different perspectives, as a way to increase the many wonderful benefits of therapy. Therapy is a valuable tool in making positive changes, and I am excited to be on this journey with you!
Our work together may include coaching, education, homework, meditative practices or breath work, movement, art therapy, and frank communication. I will meet you with compassion, empathy, warmth, and commitment. At times I will challenge your perceptions and assumptions, and offer different perspectives, as a way to increase the many wonderful benefits of therapy. Therapy is a valuable tool in making positive changes, and I am excited to be on this journey with you!
(530) 203-6279 View (530) 203-6279
Photo of Christine Shelton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grass Valley, CA
Christine Shelton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95945
I have a special heart to help people. I offer kind and compassionate therapy to help individuals, couples, families, teens, and children smooth out and overcome the bumps in life's path. I encourage, empower, and educate clients on using effective tools to help them on their journey through life. I am an experienced clinician and have been supporting individuals and families since 2002. I will help you gain tools to lead to positive change and a healthy, happy life. Call me to get help with anxiety, depression, communication, stages of life, trauma, self-esteem, stress, co-parenting and problem-solving.
I have a special heart to help people. I offer kind and compassionate therapy to help individuals, couples, families, teens, and children smooth out and overcome the bumps in life's path. I encourage, empower, and educate clients on using effective tools to help them on their journey through life. I am an experienced clinician and have been supporting individuals and families since 2002. I will help you gain tools to lead to positive change and a healthy, happy life. Call me to get help with anxiety, depression, communication, stages of life, trauma, self-esteem, stress, co-parenting and problem-solving.
(530) 802-8005 View (530) 802-8005
Photo of Christopher Shirey, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Grass Valley, CA
Christopher Shirey
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grass Valley, CA 95945
Not accepting new clients
Now part of Kindred Heart Therapy Group. Many people know where they would like to be, but are unsure of how to get there. You may find yourself worrying about different parts of your life and looking for help. Together, we can process different aspects of your life and work toward reaching your goals. Meeting with a therapist can be an intimidating experience, but I hope you can take the time to give yourself an opportunity to see how I can help.
Now part of Kindred Heart Therapy Group. Many people know where they would like to be, but are unsure of how to get there. You may find yourself worrying about different parts of your life and looking for help. Together, we can process different aspects of your life and work toward reaching your goals. Meeting with a therapist can be an intimidating experience, but I hope you can take the time to give yourself an opportunity to see how I can help.
(530) 236-6873 View (530) 236-6873
Photo of Keith Paul Thompson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grass Valley, CA
Keith Paul Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grass Valley, CA 95945
I enjoy walking alongside individuals, couples, and families as they navigate through life's difficult pathways to those of change, healing, and growth. Deciding to come to counseling is a courageous decision which offers the opportunity to focus on oneself and to sort out the issues. I help: couples and families shift from fighting with each other to enjoying each other; individuals to step away from damaging behaviors and patterns; and adolescents to gain and enhance their strengths and identity. I provide a safe, supportive environment to help you take the next right step towards a happier and healthier life.
I enjoy walking alongside individuals, couples, and families as they navigate through life's difficult pathways to those of change, healing, and growth. Deciding to come to counseling is a courageous decision which offers the opportunity to focus on oneself and to sort out the issues. I help: couples and families shift from fighting with each other to enjoying each other; individuals to step away from damaging behaviors and patterns; and adolescents to gain and enhance their strengths and identity. I provide a safe, supportive environment to help you take the next right step towards a happier and healthier life.
(530) 771-6837 View (530) 771-6837
Photo of Alice Folger Stine, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grass Valley, CA
Alice Folger Stine
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95945
Not accepting new clients
I have a quiet approach to helping clients deal with loss, anxiety, and weathering transitions. I have been a licensed MFT for 35 years. In addition to treating those in locked psychiatric hospitals, I was the clinical director for two different residential treatment programs for over 25 years and have supervised over 100 interns.
I have a quiet approach to helping clients deal with loss, anxiety, and weathering transitions. I have been a licensed MFT for 35 years. In addition to treating those in locked psychiatric hospitals, I was the clinical director for two different residential treatment programs for over 25 years and have supervised over 100 interns.
(530) 665-8582 View (530) 665-8582
Photo of Betsy Perluss, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grass Valley, CA
Betsy Perluss
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95945
Most of my clients come to me because they feel “stuck” in their lives. They may feel stuck in unfulfilling patterns, a trauma cycle, a sense of purposelessness, grief, depression or anxiety. They may be caught in an oppressive societal perspective of what it means to be “healthy.” In most cases, these symptoms are not enemies, but indicators that something new – a new perspective, a new story – is attempting to emerge, like a sapling pushing its way from beneath the ground.
Most of my clients come to me because they feel “stuck” in their lives. They may feel stuck in unfulfilling patterns, a trauma cycle, a sense of purposelessness, grief, depression or anxiety. They may be caught in an oppressive societal perspective of what it means to be “healthy.” In most cases, these symptoms are not enemies, but indicators that something new – a new perspective, a new story – is attempting to emerge, like a sapling pushing its way from beneath the ground.
(530) 665-8632 View (530) 665-8632
Photo of Samantha Rasmusen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grass Valley, CA
Samantha Rasmusen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grass Valley, CA 95945  (Online Only)
Are you ready to heal? Ready to break unhealthy patterns that no longer serve you? I can help. I aim to create a therapeutic relationship and setting that is a living sanctuary for your heart and soul. In the darkest night of unimaginable pain and grief, one hand to hold, one heart to listen, can be all that's needed to make it until the sun rises again.
Are you ready to heal? Ready to break unhealthy patterns that no longer serve you? I can help. I aim to create a therapeutic relationship and setting that is a living sanctuary for your heart and soul. In the darkest night of unimaginable pain and grief, one hand to hold, one heart to listen, can be all that's needed to make it until the sun rises again.
(530) 435-7641 View (530) 435-7641
Photo of Agnes Cartry-Jacobsen, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Grass Valley, CA
Agnes Cartry-Jacobsen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, CCHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grass Valley, CA 95945
Waitlist for new clients
If you or your child is suffering from depression, anxiety, relational problems, eating disorders, ADHD, the effect of trauma, grief, loss, as well as a mood or personality disorder, I can help you develop skills in your present life aimed at restoring healthy and meaningful strategies in your daily experience.
If you or your child is suffering from depression, anxiety, relational problems, eating disorders, ADHD, the effect of trauma, grief, loss, as well as a mood or personality disorder, I can help you develop skills in your present life aimed at restoring healthy and meaningful strategies in your daily experience.
(530) 675-8464 View (530) 675-8464
Photo of Joy Molaro, Counselor in Grass Valley, CA
Joy Molaro
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grass Valley, CA 95945
Let’s face it, if you're reading this you are struggling. Maybe you’re feeling depressed, anxious, or confused about a current life situation. You're thinking too much and getting overwhelmed by your emotions, feeling uninspired, or lacking spark and creativity. Do you need to learn more about yourself or practice a new skill? To work through shame and give yourself permission to do you? Life can be hard and sometimes you need extra support. Good for you for being brave and reaching out! I am here to help!
Let’s face it, if you're reading this you are struggling. Maybe you’re feeling depressed, anxious, or confused about a current life situation. You're thinking too much and getting overwhelmed by your emotions, feeling uninspired, or lacking spark and creativity. Do you need to learn more about yourself or practice a new skill? To work through shame and give yourself permission to do you? Life can be hard and sometimes you need extra support. Good for you for being brave and reaching out! I am here to help!
(530) 441-2309 View (530) 441-2309
Photo of Laila Julietta Murfin, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Grass Valley, CA
Laila Julietta Murfin
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Grass Valley, CA 95945
Waitlist for new clients
I am currently accepting adult clients for Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. Are you struggling to find center in a world that is constantly moving out from under your feet? It is possible to find stability in chaos. Are you straining to find pleasure in your daily experience? Do you find yourself pushing away the people you love most while you yearn for the soft heart of connection? It can be terrifying to share your pain with another. While life may feel overwhelming and impossible despite your best efforts, it doesn’t have to be this way forever. You can live with greater inner stability, more joy, and nourishing relationships.
I am currently accepting adult clients for Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. Are you struggling to find center in a world that is constantly moving out from under your feet? It is possible to find stability in chaos. Are you straining to find pleasure in your daily experience? Do you find yourself pushing away the people you love most while you yearn for the soft heart of connection? It can be terrifying to share your pain with another. While life may feel overwhelming and impossible despite your best efforts, it doesn’t have to be this way forever. You can live with greater inner stability, more joy, and nourishing relationships.
(530) 212-7267 View (530) 212-7267
Photo of Caitlin Pell, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Grass Valley, CA
Caitlin Pell
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95949
Waitlist for new clients
My intention is to gently guide you towards your own innate wisdom and fully support you as your transformation unfolds. I prefer to take a direct, experiential approach, meeting each client where they are at and honoring their individual needs. I specialize in body-based (somatic) inquiry to address a variety of issues, with a specific interest in treating trauma, relationship issues, and addiction. My therapeutic approach is uniquely inspired from my own personal experience with healing, drawing from both ancient Eastern philosophy and modern research-based theories of attachment and developmental trauma.
My intention is to gently guide you towards your own innate wisdom and fully support you as your transformation unfolds. I prefer to take a direct, experiential approach, meeting each client where they are at and honoring their individual needs. I specialize in body-based (somatic) inquiry to address a variety of issues, with a specific interest in treating trauma, relationship issues, and addiction. My therapeutic approach is uniquely inspired from my own personal experience with healing, drawing from both ancient Eastern philosophy and modern research-based theories of attachment and developmental trauma.
(530) 287-8209 View (530) 287-8209
Photo of Sierra Therapy Center in Grass Valley, CA
Sierra Therapy Center
LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grass Valley, CA 95945
Our story: Some of the best physicians are wounded healers, those who have walked through pain and suffering themselves only to emerge on the other side to help others. We believe strongly in the human capacity to heal. Our counseling specialists work with children/teens, adults, couples and families. With sensitivity and compassion, we help you bring resolution to the struggles you are facing. Modalities range from depth therapy, IMAGO couples therapy, Brainspotting, EMDR, play therapy, addiction groups to solution focused. We are trained in a variety of different therapeutic interventions that will fit what you need.
Our story: Some of the best physicians are wounded healers, those who have walked through pain and suffering themselves only to emerge on the other side to help others. We believe strongly in the human capacity to heal. Our counseling specialists work with children/teens, adults, couples and families. With sensitivity and compassion, we help you bring resolution to the struggles you are facing. Modalities range from depth therapy, IMAGO couples therapy, Brainspotting, EMDR, play therapy, addiction groups to solution focused. We are trained in a variety of different therapeutic interventions that will fit what you need.
(530) 419-5189 View (530) 419-5189
Photo of Susan Byrne, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grass Valley, CA
Susan Byrne
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grass Valley, CA 95949
These are challenging, even scary, times for many. People can feel at a loss about how and where to find support. Many people experience an increase in anxiety, depression and PTSD symptoms due to personal and global challenges. If you are struggling, please know there are resources that can help even if you are not able to go out into your community or to a therapist's office. I am offering phone and video chat sessions via Zoom. A recent episode on NPR.org titled, "How to Get Therapy When You Can't Leave the House" might be of interest and helpful. You can also go to www.NPR.org/Life Kit
These are challenging, even scary, times for many. People can feel at a loss about how and where to find support. Many people experience an increase in anxiety, depression and PTSD symptoms due to personal and global challenges. If you are struggling, please know there are resources that can help even if you are not able to go out into your community or to a therapist's office. I am offering phone and video chat sessions via Zoom. A recent episode on NPR.org titled, "How to Get Therapy When You Can't Leave the House" might be of interest and helpful. You can also go to www.NPR.org/Life Kit
(530) 738-5040 View (530) 738-5040
Photo of Murial Barkley-Aylmer, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Grass Valley, CA
Murial Barkley-Aylmer
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95945  (Online Only)
Looking for a therapist can be daunting, especially if you are seeking support for the first time. You may feel pressure to know “what kind” of therapy will be best for you or feel anxiety about what actually happens inside a therapy session. I give the same advice to every friend and client who asks: choose your therapist based largely on the connection you feel when you meet them. Do you feel listened to? Do they speak to you in a way that helps you to understand yourself better?
Looking for a therapist can be daunting, especially if you are seeking support for the first time. You may feel pressure to know “what kind” of therapy will be best for you or feel anxiety about what actually happens inside a therapy session. I give the same advice to every friend and client who asks: choose your therapist based largely on the connection you feel when you meet them. Do you feel listened to? Do they speak to you in a way that helps you to understand yourself better?
(530) 203-6271 View (530) 203-6271

See more therapy options for Grass Valley

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Grass Valley, CA

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Grass Valley, CA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
89% Depression
83% Trauma and PTSD
80% Grief
79% Self Esteem
76% Relationship Issues
68% Stress

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

44% Anthem | Elevance
42% Medi-Cal
40% MHN | Health Net

How Therapists in Grass Valley, CA see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Grass Valley?

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.