Therapists in Torrance, CA
Cheryl J Santiago-Venture
Psychologist, PsyD, SEP
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
You are taking the first steps in creating change in your life. The pursuit of health, happiness, and healing are aspects that we all strive for, and that can be accelerated with additional support and insight oriented therapy. In addition to traditional approaches, such as psychodynamic approaches and cognitive behavioral interventions, I utilize mindfulness techniques, Somatic Experiencing, and EMDR. I have experience in treating a variety of condition, such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. Therapy can assist with stress and change of life issues, such as divorce, new parents, health issues, bereavement, or work/peer conflict.
You are taking the first steps in creating change in your life. The pursuit of health, happiness, and healing are aspects that we all strive for, and that can be accelerated with additional support and insight oriented therapy. In addition to traditional approaches, such as psychodynamic approaches and cognitive behavioral interventions, I utilize mindfulness techniques, Somatic Experiencing, and EMDR. I have experience in treating a variety of condition, such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. Therapy can assist with stress and change of life issues, such as divorce, new parents, health issues, bereavement, or work/peer conflict.
Cheyla Bellamy - Hablo Español
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others, especially in relation to past trauma, anxiety and/or depression? Do you find it challenging to navigate life and life transitions, wondering if there's something better out there? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how to manage their relationships, careers and lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for self-care can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe that it shouldn't be so hard to live a fulfilling life & I am here to support you in this journey.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others, especially in relation to past trauma, anxiety and/or depression? Do you find it challenging to navigate life and life transitions, wondering if there's something better out there? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how to manage their relationships, careers and lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for self-care can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe that it shouldn't be so hard to live a fulfilling life & I am here to support you in this journey.
Counseling for Couples & Families
Psychologist, PsyD, MFCC, CHT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503
Relationships between husbands, wives, lovers, boy/girl friends, children or parents can be tricky. Happy, satisfying and fulfilling relationships require attention, energy, fun, humor, communication, time and investment of yourself. Too often relationships are hampered by misunderstandings, hurtful actions, stress, differences of opinions, unmet needs, and different expectations. Personality changes over time, affairs of the heart, infidelity, unmet sexual intimacy, abuse, cruel words, neglect, self-centeredness, different communication styles, different goals, values and dissimilar interests or fun activities also create unhappiness in relationships. Dr. Carol Francis has worked with relationships satisfaction for 32 years. 310-543-1824 or RelationshipSatisfactionNow.com and drcarolfrancis.com pathstosuccesses.com
Relationships between husbands, wives, lovers, boy/girl friends, children or parents can be tricky. Happy, satisfying and fulfilling relationships require attention, energy, fun, humor, communication, time and investment of yourself. Too often relationships are hampered by misunderstandings, hurtful actions, stress, differences of opinions, unmet needs, and different expectations. Personality changes over time, affairs of the heart, infidelity, unmet sexual intimacy, abuse, cruel words, neglect, self-centeredness, different communication styles, different goals, values and dissimilar interests or fun activities also create unhappiness in relationships. Dr. Carol Francis has worked with relationships satisfaction for 32 years. 310-543-1824 or RelationshipSatisfactionNow.com and drcarolfrancis.com pathstosuccesses.com
Julia Baird
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505
Are you tired of being in distress? Are you repeatedly engaging in relationships that cause you pain and don't know how to change? Oftentimes we are unaware of the underlying causes of our suffering. Relief can be felt when underlying beliefs and conflicts are brought to the surface and worked through. If you're ready to begin the process of inner transformation that will finally bring you the relief and freedom you have been looking for, give me a call at 310.712.1656. You can check out my website at DrJuliaBaird.com Look forward to hearing from you!
Are you tired of being in distress? Are you repeatedly engaging in relationships that cause you pain and don't know how to change? Oftentimes we are unaware of the underlying causes of our suffering. Relief can be felt when underlying beliefs and conflicts are brought to the surface and worked through. If you're ready to begin the process of inner transformation that will finally bring you the relief and freedom you have been looking for, give me a call at 310.712.1656. You can check out my website at DrJuliaBaird.com Look forward to hearing from you!
Jeanne Quilling
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503
Thanks for viewing my professional profile. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with 17+ years experience, including working in hospitals, private clinics, and as the clinical director of an in-patient residential facility. My experience includes treating a broad range of problems that people face including addiction, depression, anxiety and divorce. Therapeutically, I strive to create a collaborative experience in therapy. A safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment for you to find your own voice, to figure out who you are and what you truly desire.
Thanks for viewing my professional profile. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with 17+ years experience, including working in hospitals, private clinics, and as the clinical director of an in-patient residential facility. My experience includes treating a broad range of problems that people face including addiction, depression, anxiety and divorce. Therapeutically, I strive to create a collaborative experience in therapy. A safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment for you to find your own voice, to figure out who you are and what you truly desire.
Lance Miller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503
I believe in providing a supportive and empowering environment in which my clients can feel heard, safe, and confident that their needs are being met. The best therapists combine competent techniques with genuine empathy and connection to help you achieve the goals and outcome you desire. I work primarily with individuals or couples struggling with traumatic backgrounds, anxiety or depression, addiction, relationship problems, and personality disorders. I strive to ensure that the interaction I have with my clients is always honest, sincere, and compassionate yet effective.
I believe in providing a supportive and empowering environment in which my clients can feel heard, safe, and confident that their needs are being met. The best therapists combine competent techniques with genuine empathy and connection to help you achieve the goals and outcome you desire. I work primarily with individuals or couples struggling with traumatic backgrounds, anxiety or depression, addiction, relationship problems, and personality disorders. I strive to ensure that the interaction I have with my clients is always honest, sincere, and compassionate yet effective.
John Valenzuela
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90501
My name is John M. Valenzuela and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, and stress. Additional areas of specialized practice include healthy relationship building, men's issues, and LGBTQ+ affirmative counseling. I am certified in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and well-versed in several additional modalities.
My name is John M. Valenzuela and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, and stress. Additional areas of specialized practice include healthy relationship building, men's issues, and LGBTQ+ affirmative counseling. I am certified in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and well-versed in several additional modalities.
John Andrew Hosier - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503
John Hosier is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist born and raised in Southern California. Andrew completed his Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology from the Vanguard University of Southern California. Has work history ranging from non-profit social service agencies, private psychiatric offices, inpatient addiction treatment centers, and outpatient primary mental health facilities.
John Hosier is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist born and raised in Southern California. Andrew completed his Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology from the Vanguard University of Southern California. Has work history ranging from non-profit social service agencies, private psychiatric offices, inpatient addiction treatment centers, and outpatient primary mental health facilities.
Katrin Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503 (Online Only)
You are already enough. No holes to be filled. No cracks to be plastered. I understand. Choosing self love can be hard. Everyone needs guidance.You might feel empty and desperate. I know it hurts to live in disconnect between what you are currently going through and what potential resides outside of you without effort. I know that life feels exhausting at times and you forget to breathe. I know there are parts you want to hide. You want to be gentle when doubt visits and fear obstructs you to your own guiding light. When you are down you deserve support towards self love.
You are already enough. No holes to be filled. No cracks to be plastered. I understand. Choosing self love can be hard. Everyone needs guidance.You might feel empty and desperate. I know it hurts to live in disconnect between what you are currently going through and what potential resides outside of you without effort. I know that life feels exhausting at times and you forget to breathe. I know there are parts you want to hide. You want to be gentle when doubt visits and fear obstructs you to your own guiding light. When you are down you deserve support towards self love.
Suzannah E Noch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
A lot of healing can happen in the context of a supportive and caring relationship. If you are struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, marriage/relationship problems, parenting/family issues, painful life experiences or unhealthy habits, I consider it a privilege to walk that journey with you for a little while -- talking through feelings and circumstances, and helping you find a path toward change and healing. As a Christian, I believe that our emotional and spiritual sides are intertwined, and I incorporate Biblical principles in all aspects of the counseling.
A lot of healing can happen in the context of a supportive and caring relationship. If you are struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, marriage/relationship problems, parenting/family issues, painful life experiences or unhealthy habits, I consider it a privilege to walk that journey with you for a little while -- talking through feelings and circumstances, and helping you find a path toward change and healing. As a Christian, I believe that our emotional and spiritual sides are intertwined, and I incorporate Biblical principles in all aspects of the counseling.
Doric George
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505
THERAPY WORKS. IT CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE. Will it work for you? It depends. Y'ever wonder why you're not where you want to be in your life - why things aren't turning out as planned? Image that changing. I have opinions and theories, and I'm willing to share them with you fairly early on. I'm not just going to watch you make the same mistakes over and over again without saying something to you. I won't make your decisions for you, but I will help you examine consequences and encourage you to make better choices.
THERAPY WORKS. IT CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE. Will it work for you? It depends. Y'ever wonder why you're not where you want to be in your life - why things aren't turning out as planned? Image that changing. I have opinions and theories, and I'm willing to share them with you fairly early on. I'm not just going to watch you make the same mistakes over and over again without saying something to you. I won't make your decisions for you, but I will help you examine consequences and encourage you to make better choices.
15 Second Videos
Manon Goodrich
Nancy Lachapelle PhD
Jason von Stietz
Jasmynn Abernathy
Annie Hsueh
Kurt Woodruff Sproul
Helena Rosenberg
Angela Leniece Body
Pat Petersen
Jeffrey Ly | Porn Addiction Relationship
Ross A Flowers
Emily Schafer
Maryam Dalili
Amanda Jaworski
Melanie Bomar
Nicole Minor - Expansive Therapy
Nancy Lachapelle PhD
Margaret Mae Chen South Bay Child & Family Therapy
Spencer B Nieves
Mike Pugh
Kimberly Crickette
Ken Ribotsky
Robin Linda Dieda
Richard E Nasef
Kayleigh Soto
Anne C Case
Krissy Thomas
Hayli Evans
Amy Furuyama
Larissa A. Tittle
Jennafer Provinse
Robert Barron
Ashley Cruz
Remarkable Services
Theresa Leone
Anna Liu
Max Maisel
Sara Abadie
Laurise (Lori) Emdr Certified Trull
Shalonda K Crawford
Julie Wensel
Margaret Caroline Wang
Lea Reyes | Relationships
Anna Consla
Francia Telesford
L. Debbie Murad
Kevin Bergen
Kevin Niehaus
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PsyD, LPCC, MBA
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
In my practice I tend to work with clients, ages 4 - 85+, dealing with anything from anxiety, depression, trauma, career, social issues, and other things causing turbulence in their life. Also, I work with individuals, couples, and families on how they can best function in the world. Depending on the client's needs I work with them to create a customized treatment plan best for their needs. I am also a collaborative therapist that wants the client to have an active voice in their journey. Therapy is different for each individual and I value helping the client pursue the change they are seeking.
In my practice I tend to work with clients, ages 4 - 85+, dealing with anything from anxiety, depression, trauma, career, social issues, and other things causing turbulence in their life. Also, I work with individuals, couples, and families on how they can best function in the world. Depending on the client's needs I work with them to create a customized treatment plan best for their needs. I am also a collaborative therapist that wants the client to have an active voice in their journey. Therapy is different for each individual and I value helping the client pursue the change they are seeking.
Mary Jordan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Do you find yourself shut down or suppress your feelings? Do you struggle in relationships due to your trauma? Are you unsure of where you belong? I work with people of all identities to process unresolved feelings due to trauma. I strive to provide you a safe and non-judgmental space, in order for you to develop coping mechanisms for trauma symptoms (anxiety, depression, addiction, etc.) and to explore aspects of yourself. I can help you let go of past HURTS and develop tools to find RELIEF.
Do you find yourself shut down or suppress your feelings? Do you struggle in relationships due to your trauma? Are you unsure of where you belong? I work with people of all identities to process unresolved feelings due to trauma. I strive to provide you a safe and non-judgmental space, in order for you to develop coping mechanisms for trauma symptoms (anxiety, depression, addiction, etc.) and to explore aspects of yourself. I can help you let go of past HURTS and develop tools to find RELIEF.
Peacemeal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90503 (Online Only)
You find yourself worrying about things and it's difficult to stop. You are easily irritable/angered and emotionally reactive. Sometimes you just feel sad. On other days, you have no clue how you're feeling or what you're thinking. Memories and thoughts make it difficult for you to focus. By working together, you will learn how to gain control over your thoughts, feelings, and actions and build a foundation for happiness through emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills.
You find yourself worrying about things and it's difficult to stop. You are easily irritable/angered and emotionally reactive. Sometimes you just feel sad. On other days, you have no clue how you're feeling or what you're thinking. Memories and thoughts make it difficult for you to focus. By working together, you will learn how to gain control over your thoughts, feelings, and actions and build a foundation for happiness through emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills.
Miwa Emi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505 (Online Only)
My name is Miwa Emi. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Los Angeles. I am a Medical Social Worker and have worked with clients with Chronic Illnesses over the last 13 years. I have worked for a home health agency, a dialysis clinic, a University hospital, and a health insurance company. I have been in the Social Work field for 20 years. I interned at United Nations High Commissioner for Refuges in Tokyo and worked with asylum seekers coming to Japan. I also worked with homeless children through a non-profit organization in Belem, Brazil. These experience made me decide to pursue my career in Social Work.
My name is Miwa Emi. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Los Angeles. I am a Medical Social Worker and have worked with clients with Chronic Illnesses over the last 13 years. I have worked for a home health agency, a dialysis clinic, a University hospital, and a health insurance company. I have been in the Social Work field for 20 years. I interned at United Nations High Commissioner for Refuges in Tokyo and worked with asylum seekers coming to Japan. I also worked with homeless children through a non-profit organization in Belem, Brazil. These experience made me decide to pursue my career in Social Work.
Nicole Woolf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.
Narcissistic Abuse And Childhood Trauma Recovery Amanda Smith
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505
Have you experienced narcissistic abuse or childhood trauma, and you want more than anything to experience true freedom and stop repeating the toxic patterns that are keeping you stuck. You might feel overwhelmed by the past, drained by constant overthinking and people pleasing, or stuck in self-doubt. You are finally ready to break the cycles and toxic patterns you learned to survive the abuse you endured. You want to find your voice, and rediscover your self-worth. Now you are on a mission to find someone who truly understands the depth of your pain and can help you reclaim your life.
Have you experienced narcissistic abuse or childhood trauma, and you want more than anything to experience true freedom and stop repeating the toxic patterns that are keeping you stuck. You might feel overwhelmed by the past, drained by constant overthinking and people pleasing, or stuck in self-doubt. You are finally ready to break the cycles and toxic patterns you learned to survive the abuse you endured. You want to find your voice, and rediscover your self-worth. Now you are on a mission to find someone who truly understands the depth of your pain and can help you reclaim your life.
Devon E Singh-Barrett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
My clinical practice is available to anyone seeking help and hope in their lives. If you are struggling or suffering with depression, anxiety, life transitions, eating issues, parenthood, or living with your parents, I may be able to help you find a path through this difficult season. There is hope and growth that leads to change.
My clinical practice is available to anyone seeking help and hope in their lives. If you are struggling or suffering with depression, anxiety, life transitions, eating issues, parenthood, or living with your parents, I may be able to help you find a path through this difficult season. There is hope and growth that leads to change.
Nancy Muirhead
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
There is nothing more important to a parent than seeing their child succeed at school, make and keep friends, be happy, and achieve to their own capabilities. Our team at Attention, Learning, and Developmental Services have these simple goals: understand your child's unique profile within the context of their family and community, highlight their talents and strengths, identify any specific barriers to their success, and develop an effective intervention plan to support your child's current and future progress.
There is nothing more important to a parent than seeing their child succeed at school, make and keep friends, be happy, and achieve to their own capabilities. Our team at Attention, Learning, and Developmental Services have these simple goals: understand your child's unique profile within the context of their family and community, highlight their talents and strengths, identify any specific barriers to their success, and develop an effective intervention plan to support your child's current and future progress.
Cora Palma
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Dr. Palma is a Licensed Educational Psychologist. She offers counseling, psychological-educational assessment, and Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) services to school-aged youth between the ages of 3 and 18 years old, and consultative and counseling services to parents of school-aged children. For children, Dr. Palma provides trauma-informed counseling services to address a variety of issues that impact children and adolescents, with a focus on resilience-building and educational impact.
Dr. Palma is a Licensed Educational Psychologist. She offers counseling, psychological-educational assessment, and Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) services to school-aged youth between the ages of 3 and 18 years old, and consultative and counseling services to parents of school-aged children. For children, Dr. Palma provides trauma-informed counseling services to address a variety of issues that impact children and adolescents, with a focus on resilience-building and educational impact.
See more therapy options for Torrance
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Torrance, CA
600+
Average cost per session
$170
Therapists in Torrance, CA who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
79% | Relationship Issues |
75% | Self Esteem |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Coping Skills |
67% | Stress |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
68% | Cigna and Evernorth |
63% | Aetna |
59% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Torrance, CA see their clients
76% | In Person and Online | |
24% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Torrance?
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
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.
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.
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.