Photo of Susan Davies, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90505, CA
Susan Davies
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
I offer a warm, caring and understanding environment so that insight, self-esteem and personal growth can develop. We work together so that you can become your BEST self. To quote Socrates: "the unexamined life is not worth living". A glimpse into our past, helps us understand the present and creates the foundation for a better future. Accessing and understanding our feelings starts the process of knowing ourselves and others, allowing us to take personal responsibility and making healthier choices, that ultimately leads to positive, life-long changes.
I offer a warm, caring and understanding environment so that insight, self-esteem and personal growth can develop. We work together so that you can become your BEST self. To quote Socrates: "the unexamined life is not worth living". A glimpse into our past, helps us understand the present and creates the foundation for a better future. Accessing and understanding our feelings starts the process of knowing ourselves and others, allowing us to take personal responsibility and making healthier choices, that ultimately leads to positive, life-long changes.
(424) 294-8844 View (424) 294-8844
Photo of Donna Savage, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90505, CA
Donna Savage
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSE, MBA, MS
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
I have extensive experience in helping clients overcome all forms of anxiety, including panic, obsessive-compulsive disorders, past trauma and abuse, and the depression that can often result. I am also passionate about working with individuals and couples to help resolve relational challenges and navigate issues related to life and career transitions. Additional areas of specialization include infidelity, grief/loss, chronic illness, and spiritual concerns. I offer an accepting environment in which you can feel known, understood, and honored for the unique person you were created to be individually and in relationship with others.
I have extensive experience in helping clients overcome all forms of anxiety, including panic, obsessive-compulsive disorders, past trauma and abuse, and the depression that can often result. I am also passionate about working with individuals and couples to help resolve relational challenges and navigate issues related to life and career transitions. Additional areas of specialization include infidelity, grief/loss, chronic illness, and spiritual concerns. I offer an accepting environment in which you can feel known, understood, and honored for the unique person you were created to be individually and in relationship with others.
(424) 260-8847 View (424) 260-8847
Photo of Melissa Satram, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90505, CA
Melissa Satram
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Do you ever struggle with feeling like you’re not enough? Do you feel like you have to prove yourself? Do you feel stuck and triggered by childhood trauma? The symptoms of trauma include anxiety, depression, high conflict relationships, occupational impairment, addiction, and much more. I believe therapy can help you develop a more self-awareness and actionable plan to alleviate these symptoms. I specialized in working with people who are willing to explore past, present, and future challenges and to find tools for personal growth.
Do you ever struggle with feeling like you’re not enough? Do you feel like you have to prove yourself? Do you feel stuck and triggered by childhood trauma? The symptoms of trauma include anxiety, depression, high conflict relationships, occupational impairment, addiction, and much more. I believe therapy can help you develop a more self-awareness and actionable plan to alleviate these symptoms. I specialized in working with people who are willing to explore past, present, and future challenges and to find tools for personal growth.
(310) 340-2046 View (310) 340-2046
Photo of Julie Doran, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90505, CA
Julie Doran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505  (Online Only)
When your present circumstances or experiences overwhelm your ability to cope, it may be time to do something different. If you've been struggling to feel like the parent, professional, or partner that you know you want to be, and you're ready to break the cycles that have been holding you back, let's get to work. I utilize evidence-based practices to help you rewire your brain and get out of your own way. We’ll work as a team to support the growth of your strengths and healthy behaviors, and to clear out anything from your past that no longer serves you.
When your present circumstances or experiences overwhelm your ability to cope, it may be time to do something different. If you've been struggling to feel like the parent, professional, or partner that you know you want to be, and you're ready to break the cycles that have been holding you back, let's get to work. I utilize evidence-based practices to help you rewire your brain and get out of your own way. We’ll work as a team to support the growth of your strengths and healthy behaviors, and to clear out anything from your past that no longer serves you.
(323) 902-7545 View (323) 902-7545
Photo of Christine Ferrigno, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90505, CA
Christine Ferrigno
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505
Sadness, anxiety, and self doubt can paralyze us and prevent us from experiencing the full life we deserve. As a compassionate and committed therapist, I want to help you find hope, to reduce your anxiety, and to develop a healthier self-esteem. We can uncover immediate ways to improve your quality of life and to help you to identify and change long stemming harmful patterns that may have you feeling 'stuck.'
Sadness, anxiety, and self doubt can paralyze us and prevent us from experiencing the full life we deserve. As a compassionate and committed therapist, I want to help you find hope, to reduce your anxiety, and to develop a healthier self-esteem. We can uncover immediate ways to improve your quality of life and to help you to identify and change long stemming harmful patterns that may have you feeling 'stuck.'
(424) 296-4947 View (424) 296-4947
Photo of Bridget Tessman, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90505, CA
Bridget Tessman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Life can be overwhelming, stressful, and complicated, and it's okay to reach for support. Therapy is a powerful tool for self-discovery, healing, and expanding personal insight. In our sessions you experience a compassionate, non-judgmental, and tailored experience to your needs. When you feel open we will explore your thougths, feelings, develop coping skills, explore your relationships, and work towards your goals. Sessions will also be from a holistic and spiritual approach to mental health, addressing the mind, body, and soul connections. Together, we will create a plan to empower you to over come the obstacles and find peace.
Life can be overwhelming, stressful, and complicated, and it's okay to reach for support. Therapy is a powerful tool for self-discovery, healing, and expanding personal insight. In our sessions you experience a compassionate, non-judgmental, and tailored experience to your needs. When you feel open we will explore your thougths, feelings, develop coping skills, explore your relationships, and work towards your goals. Sessions will also be from a holistic and spiritual approach to mental health, addressing the mind, body, and soul connections. Together, we will create a plan to empower you to over come the obstacles and find peace.
(310) 818-7679 View (310) 818-7679
Photo of Tania S Dow, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90505, CA
Tania S Dow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505  (Online Only)
I believe that every person is unique and has their own story. I feel honored that I have been selected to share their story and to be a part of their healing journey. With compassion, kindness, non-judgment, and support, I help my clients make sense of their major life events so they take the next steps in their lives. It is a great privilege to see my clients gain insight into their lives, manage their difficulties more effectively, make positive changes, increase awareness, and improve themselves. I look forward to meeting you and participating in your healing experience.
I believe that every person is unique and has their own story. I feel honored that I have been selected to share their story and to be a part of their healing journey. With compassion, kindness, non-judgment, and support, I help my clients make sense of their major life events so they take the next steps in their lives. It is a great privilege to see my clients gain insight into their lives, manage their difficulties more effectively, make positive changes, increase awareness, and improve themselves. I look forward to meeting you and participating in your healing experience.
(323) 458-5149 View (323) 458-5149
Photo of Paige Asawa, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90505, CA
Paige Asawa
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Hello! Thank you for taking a moment to read this. No matter what difficulties you are struggling with, you have the ability to overcome them - loss, anxiety, sadness, or major life changes - you have everything you need to transform these into positive growth, the goal is to tap your innate potential together! Starting the journey can be scary but once you take the first step it can be the start of a new way of life. No matter if it is short term therapy to help you get through a rough patch or longer term process, my approach is client centered so we will set goals and work through it together.
Hello! Thank you for taking a moment to read this. No matter what difficulties you are struggling with, you have the ability to overcome them - loss, anxiety, sadness, or major life changes - you have everything you need to transform these into positive growth, the goal is to tap your innate potential together! Starting the journey can be scary but once you take the first step it can be the start of a new way of life. No matter if it is short term therapy to help you get through a rough patch or longer term process, my approach is client centered so we will set goals and work through it together.
(310) 881-8406 View (310) 881-8406
Photo of Kasin Lau, Psychological Associate in 90505, CA
Kasin Lau
Psychological Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Kasin! If you're seeking compassionate support and understanding, you've come to the right place. I believe in fostering a collaborative and client-centered approach to therapy, tailoring treatment to meet each client's needs, and where clients actively participate in setting goals and shaping their treatment journey. Meeting clients where they are and providing a safe and nonjudgmental environment are essential, as well as ensuring that therapy feels comfortable for each individual and allowing clients to explore their thoughts and emotions at their own pace freely.
Hi, I'm Kasin! If you're seeking compassionate support and understanding, you've come to the right place. I believe in fostering a collaborative and client-centered approach to therapy, tailoring treatment to meet each client's needs, and where clients actively participate in setting goals and shaping their treatment journey. Meeting clients where they are and providing a safe and nonjudgmental environment are essential, as well as ensuring that therapy feels comfortable for each individual and allowing clients to explore their thoughts and emotions at their own pace freely.
(424) 622-4447 View (424) 622-4447
Photo of Valeria Krocak, Psychologist in 90505, CA
Valeria Krocak
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Do you experience anxiety, trouble sleeping, or have difficulty trusting that things will work out? Do you tend to distract yourself with food, exercise, work, alcohol, or other people? Do you struggle with being alone with your thoughts and feelings, have difficulty setting boundaries, and find yourself in co-dependent or toxic relationships? Or perhaps you keep people at an arm’s length, put on a mask and come across as happy and having it all together to others because you’re terrified of being vulnerable? If this sounds like you, we would love to have the opportunity to work with you to change these self-destructive patterns.
Do you experience anxiety, trouble sleeping, or have difficulty trusting that things will work out? Do you tend to distract yourself with food, exercise, work, alcohol, or other people? Do you struggle with being alone with your thoughts and feelings, have difficulty setting boundaries, and find yourself in co-dependent or toxic relationships? Or perhaps you keep people at an arm’s length, put on a mask and come across as happy and having it all together to others because you’re terrified of being vulnerable? If this sounds like you, we would love to have the opportunity to work with you to change these self-destructive patterns.
(424) 339-2387 View (424) 339-2387
Photo of Michael DeWitt, Associate Clinical Social Worker in 90505, CA
Michael DeWitt
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505  (Online Only)
It can be hard to make the decision to start therapy, and equally as hard to stick to it. This is one of the primary reasons I became a therapist, to help those who’ve struggled with conventional methods. My experience has had a big impact on how I’ve structured clinical practice, leading me to throw the proverbial couch out the window and go with a more direct, accountability-based approach. Whether you’re working on processing a negative self-image, relationship difficulty, career stressors, or other symptoms related to anxiety or depression, we’ll always be working to build mindfulness, purpose, and intention towards your goals.
It can be hard to make the decision to start therapy, and equally as hard to stick to it. This is one of the primary reasons I became a therapist, to help those who’ve struggled with conventional methods. My experience has had a big impact on how I’ve structured clinical practice, leading me to throw the proverbial couch out the window and go with a more direct, accountability-based approach. Whether you’re working on processing a negative self-image, relationship difficulty, career stressors, or other symptoms related to anxiety or depression, we’ll always be working to build mindfulness, purpose, and intention towards your goals.
(310) 987-4125 View (310) 987-4125
Photo of Deana R. Straus, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90505, CA
Deana R. Straus
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT, CAMF
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Taking the First Step is the Hardest...it is also the Most COURAGEOUS. I provide Counseling, Anger Management & Parenting. I work with adults, children, individuals, couples & families. I help those having difficulties in life to improve relationships & communication and to deal with STRESS, ANGER, DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, TRAUMA, GRIEF and LOSS in healthy ways. I can help change negative thinking and unhealthy behavior, improve self-esteem AND move past TRAUMA.
Taking the First Step is the Hardest...it is also the Most COURAGEOUS. I provide Counseling, Anger Management & Parenting. I work with adults, children, individuals, couples & families. I help those having difficulties in life to improve relationships & communication and to deal with STRESS, ANGER, DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, TRAUMA, GRIEF and LOSS in healthy ways. I can help change negative thinking and unhealthy behavior, improve self-esteem AND move past TRAUMA.
(424) 215-6285 View (424) 215-6285
Photo of Erin Mullaney Reese in 90505, CA
Erin Mullaney Reese
CSE, ABS
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Whether you are interested in Pleasure, Love, & Relationship Coaching, Sexuality Education, or Adult Novelties Consulting, the benefits of working with a Love Coach are endless. As an educator & Coach I assist individuals and couples with Sex(uality) Education, Mismatched libido Sexless relationships, Orgasm Concerns, Senory play, Exploring Sexuality, Pleasing our Partner(s), Painful with sex, Erectile Disappointment, Early & Delayed Ejaculation, B.D.S.M. Basics, & Novelties Consulting.
Whether you are interested in Pleasure, Love, & Relationship Coaching, Sexuality Education, or Adult Novelties Consulting, the benefits of working with a Love Coach are endless. As an educator & Coach I assist individuals and couples with Sex(uality) Education, Mismatched libido Sexless relationships, Orgasm Concerns, Senory play, Exploring Sexuality, Pleasing our Partner(s), Painful with sex, Erectile Disappointment, Early & Delayed Ejaculation, B.D.S.M. Basics, & Novelties Consulting.
(424) 571-9487 View (424) 571-9487
Photo of Bernard Nicolas, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90505, CA
Bernard Nicolas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
While superbly educated and experienced as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I always remember that the primary component of any healing I can facilitate is spiritual. I have a background as a creative artist and a community-oriented clinician. I work with children 6 and up, couples, families and individuals regardless of sexual orientation, race, religion, or economic status. I have also done a lot of work with adolescents dealing with substance abuse and adults facing workplace issues.
While superbly educated and experienced as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I always remember that the primary component of any healing I can facilitate is spiritual. I have a background as a creative artist and a community-oriented clinician. I work with children 6 and up, couples, families and individuals regardless of sexual orientation, race, religion, or economic status. I have also done a lot of work with adolescents dealing with substance abuse and adults facing workplace issues.
(424) 273-8475 View (424) 273-8475
Photo of Gelbart and Associates, Psychologist in 90505, CA
Gelbart and Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Having been in practice in the South Bay since 1976, I bring a great deal of experience in helping people with problems related to personal or family drug or alcohol use, as well as depression, anxiety, stress, and marital issues. My work with addiction includes problems related to gambling, sex, and food. At present, in addition to my practice, I am the Director of Behavioral Health at Torrance Memorial Medical Center, and the Executive Director and Supervising Psychologist for the Torrance Memorial Thelma McMillen Recovery Center
Having been in practice in the South Bay since 1976, I bring a great deal of experience in helping people with problems related to personal or family drug or alcohol use, as well as depression, anxiety, stress, and marital issues. My work with addiction includes problems related to gambling, sex, and food. At present, in addition to my practice, I am the Director of Behavioral Health at Torrance Memorial Medical Center, and the Executive Director and Supervising Psychologist for the Torrance Memorial Thelma McMillen Recovery Center
(310) 692-9523 View (310) 692-9523
Photo of David Rivera, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90505, CA
David Rivera
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT , 132838
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
I believe in helping as many people as i can. The growth that people make in therapy along with the difficult process that therapy can be makes the journey worth it.
I believe in helping as many people as i can. The growth that people make in therapy along with the difficult process that therapy can be makes the journey worth it.
(310) 349-3966 View (310) 349-3966
Photo of Jamie Kidd, Pre-Licensed Professional in 90505, CA
Jamie Kidd
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505
I am eager to support you with the hardships that life presents. Whether that's anxiety, depression, trauma, relational issues, communication issues, or struggles with self-love, amongst many other concerns, I believe that everyone deserves to heal; to know and emulate their best selves. Through brief or prolonged therapeutic relationships, it is my goal to help one process difficulties, understand thoughts and behaviors, and to reconstruct one's mindset or behaviors to better suit a beneficial and positive life.
I am eager to support you with the hardships that life presents. Whether that's anxiety, depression, trauma, relational issues, communication issues, or struggles with self-love, amongst many other concerns, I believe that everyone deserves to heal; to know and emulate their best selves. Through brief or prolonged therapeutic relationships, it is my goal to help one process difficulties, understand thoughts and behaviors, and to reconstruct one's mindset or behaviors to better suit a beneficial and positive life.
(424) 677-0678 View (424) 677-0678
Photo of Diana Barrett, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90505, CA
Diana Barrett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Are you feeling stressed, sad or stuck in any area of your life? Experiencing problems in your relationships, with your children, at work or socially? Difficult times require support to get through. I'm here to help! I focus on working with you in counseling from a holistic perspective (on the physical, mental, emotional & energetic level), to assist you in getting back in touch with your true self. It is my purpose to help you successfully navigate the tough times, reclaim your clarity, joy and balance, and achieve your goals. It's never too early or too late to get the support you need! Call or email us for your free consultation.
Are you feeling stressed, sad or stuck in any area of your life? Experiencing problems in your relationships, with your children, at work or socially? Difficult times require support to get through. I'm here to help! I focus on working with you in counseling from a holistic perspective (on the physical, mental, emotional & energetic level), to assist you in getting back in touch with your true self. It is my purpose to help you successfully navigate the tough times, reclaim your clarity, joy and balance, and achieve your goals. It's never too early or too late to get the support you need! Call or email us for your free consultation.
(747) 239-5377 View (747) 239-5377
Photo of Joanna Garcia, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90505, CA
Joanna Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Welcome! I applaud you for taking this step towards healing. Whether you are seeking support for yourself or your child, you deserve to find the calm through the chaos of life's struggles. I understand how difficult it can be to seek support and recognize the courage it takes to share your most private vulnerabilities with someone. I am passionate about working with adult women who are looking to find their voice in the world, rebuild their sense of self-worth and self-esteem, and feel empowered to live their life to the fullest. In addition, I am also passionate about working with children, teens, young adults, and couples.
Welcome! I applaud you for taking this step towards healing. Whether you are seeking support for yourself or your child, you deserve to find the calm through the chaos of life's struggles. I understand how difficult it can be to seek support and recognize the courage it takes to share your most private vulnerabilities with someone. I am passionate about working with adult women who are looking to find their voice in the world, rebuild their sense of self-worth and self-esteem, and feel empowered to live their life to the fullest. In addition, I am also passionate about working with children, teens, young adults, and couples.
(310) 878-0636 View (310) 878-0636
Photo of Jodie Marholz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90505, CA
Jodie Marholz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Are you feeling stuck? unmotivated, bored, procrastinating or generally unhappy? You are not alone. I have worked in the Mental Health and Addictions field for over 24 years. In that time, I have helped hundreds of clients gain perspective and move out of their “stuck” place to a more fulfilling life. I do this by clarifying a client’s vision for themselves, the core values that give their lives meaning and purpose and more importantly, to examine the assumptions that keep us stuck.
Are you feeling stuck? unmotivated, bored, procrastinating or generally unhappy? You are not alone. I have worked in the Mental Health and Addictions field for over 24 years. In that time, I have helped hundreds of clients gain perspective and move out of their “stuck” place to a more fulfilling life. I do this by clarifying a client’s vision for themselves, the core values that give their lives meaning and purpose and more importantly, to examine the assumptions that keep us stuck.
(424) 499-4235 View (424) 499-4235

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 90505

300+

Average cost per session

$162

Therapists in 90505 who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
88% Depression
84% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
71% Grief
69% Trauma and PTSD
67% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

63% Cigna and Evernorth
53% Aetna
50% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 90505 see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 90505?

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.