Photo of Jaime Ramirez (He Him His), MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jaime Ramirez (He Him His)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90031
As a post modern thinker, I believe that each person has the skills and strengths to create an affirmative narrative, that is not based on negative self-talk or unproductive messages. I like holding conversations that will spark curiosity and explore opportunities to author your new stories.
As a post modern thinker, I believe that each person has the skills and strengths to create an affirmative narrative, that is not based on negative self-talk or unproductive messages. I like holding conversations that will spark curiosity and explore opportunities to author your new stories.
(310) 431-9965 View (310) 431-9965
Photo of David Borof, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Borof
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90031
My name is David Borof, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with the State of California. Providing therapy and being able to serve others is my passion. I consider providing therapy as my art, although I stay on top of the latest research and evidence-based practices. I look forward to working with you! Research shows that what is most effective in therapy is a therapeutic alliance and good rapport. My main focus is to establish a safe space to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with empathy and by supporting the client's self-determination.
My name is David Borof, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with the State of California. Providing therapy and being able to serve others is my passion. I consider providing therapy as my art, although I stay on top of the latest research and evidence-based practices. I look forward to working with you! Research shows that what is most effective in therapy is a therapeutic alliance and good rapport. My main focus is to establish a safe space to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with empathy and by supporting the client's self-determination.
(323) 924-3027 View (323) 924-3027
Photo of Alexander Bailey, LPCC
Alexander Bailey
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90031
Wilderness therapy embraces a relational and transpersonal approach to healing and recovery. Relying on the inherent interconnectedness of all living things, interest within this evidenced-based discipline has generated a variety of modalities for serving individuals who seek to uncover a deeper understanding of their own "wild" and genuine spirit. I have found my own personal healing to be intimately connected to spending time in nature, and it is here that I believe that we can all begin to rediscover our intrinsic humanity and let go of those things that distract us from our higher selves.
Wilderness therapy embraces a relational and transpersonal approach to healing and recovery. Relying on the inherent interconnectedness of all living things, interest within this evidenced-based discipline has generated a variety of modalities for serving individuals who seek to uncover a deeper understanding of their own "wild" and genuine spirit. I have found my own personal healing to be intimately connected to spending time in nature, and it is here that I believe that we can all begin to rediscover our intrinsic humanity and let go of those things that distract us from our higher selves.
(323) 498-3318 View (323) 498-3318
Photo of Erin Smith, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Erin Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90031  (Online Only)
The way we feel about ourselves in the world is heavily influenced by the quality of care we received (or did not receive) in childhood. Being seen and understood is a fundamental experience that allows us to identify our genuine interests and explore them with open curiosity. Feelings of isolation, loneliness, and not being good enough, often get in the way of that exploration. My job is to support the process of uncovering disowned emotions and discovering new ways of being that help people feel more connected to themselves and others.
The way we feel about ourselves in the world is heavily influenced by the quality of care we received (or did not receive) in childhood. Being seen and understood is a fundamental experience that allows us to identify our genuine interests and explore them with open curiosity. Feelings of isolation, loneliness, and not being good enough, often get in the way of that exploration. My job is to support the process of uncovering disowned emotions and discovering new ways of being that help people feel more connected to themselves and others.
(323) 844-8301 View (323) 844-8301
Photo of Pauline L'Herbette, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pauline L'Herbette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90031  (Online Only)
I’m an Associate Clinical Social Worker currently practicing in Los Angeles. I am able to work with clients in California and Connecticut. I have had the privilege of working with teens, adults, parents and families who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and beyond.
I’m an Associate Clinical Social Worker currently practicing in Los Angeles. I am able to work with clients in California and Connecticut. I have had the privilege of working with teens, adults, parents and families who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and beyond.
(323) 689-5944 View (323) 689-5944
Photo of Manuel Mercado, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Manuel Mercado
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90031
Personal growth, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems, issues surrounding sexual orientation or gender identification, life transitions or everyday life impediments are my primary focus for treatment. I draw upon your own personal strengths, talents, and desires to identify the options you have to move past the challenges you've identified and create alternative outcomes. Whatever the need, growth is a process that is worked on collaboratively in treatment. When the challenge exists between you and a loved one, treatment highlights the development of clear, honest, and respectful communication so that all parties may gain a greater appreciation and understanding of the person next to them.
Personal growth, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems, issues surrounding sexual orientation or gender identification, life transitions or everyday life impediments are my primary focus for treatment. I draw upon your own personal strengths, talents, and desires to identify the options you have to move past the challenges you've identified and create alternative outcomes. Whatever the need, growth is a process that is worked on collaboratively in treatment. When the challenge exists between you and a loved one, treatment highlights the development of clear, honest, and respectful communication so that all parties may gain a greater appreciation and understanding of the person next to them.
(626) 325-0107 View (626) 325-0107
Photo of Becky Rau, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Becky Rau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90031
My name is Becky Rau, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I am also a student, working on my doctorate in Clinical Psychology and enjoy bringing the latest in research to share with my patients into the therapy session. I specialize in addiction, trauma, and grief, although, I am trained and enjoy helping people who are suffering from stress, anxiety, depression, and other concerns. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Family Systems.
My name is Becky Rau, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I am also a student, working on my doctorate in Clinical Psychology and enjoy bringing the latest in research to share with my patients into the therapy session. I specialize in addiction, trauma, and grief, although, I am trained and enjoy helping people who are suffering from stress, anxiety, depression, and other concerns. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Family Systems.
(323) 675-3225 View (323) 675-3225
Photo of Vidonna Michailov, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vidonna Michailov
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90031
Are you looking for a therapist who not only listens but truly sees and understands you, embracing your unique being with curiosity, and openness? Look no further – I'm ViDonna, a licensed marriage and family therapist who is dedicated to helping you thrive in a nonjudgmental, safe and empowering environment. My practice is focused on creating a safe space for clients to explore their concerns. I believe in the power of collaboration and will work closely to support your individual path to healing and growth!
Are you looking for a therapist who not only listens but truly sees and understands you, embracing your unique being with curiosity, and openness? Look no further – I'm ViDonna, a licensed marriage and family therapist who is dedicated to helping you thrive in a nonjudgmental, safe and empowering environment. My practice is focused on creating a safe space for clients to explore their concerns. I believe in the power of collaboration and will work closely to support your individual path to healing and growth!
(650) 984-7685 View (650) 984-7685
Photo of Jeremy Rhoades, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeremy Rhoades
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90031
Hi there, I'm Jeremy! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, with special training in Harm Reduction, trauma-informed care, and nondual awareness practice. I have an MA in Transpersonal Counseling Psychology (JFK University) including courses in Dream Studies and Consciousness Studies, and intensive ongoing training in addressing and healing from trauma.
Hi there, I'm Jeremy! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, with special training in Harm Reduction, trauma-informed care, and nondual awareness practice. I have an MA in Transpersonal Counseling Psychology (JFK University) including courses in Dream Studies and Consciousness Studies, and intensive ongoing training in addressing and healing from trauma.
(323) 784-1358 View (323) 784-1358
Photo of Crystal Lawson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Crystal Lawson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90031
I began contributing to the helping fields since 2007 when I started working with families with special needs children. I spent a few years specializing in behavior therapy for children and adolescents with cognitive and emotional challenges. During school, I spent time interning at the Salvation Army's rehabilitation center in Anaheim CA. From that association sprang many years working with and specializing in the techniques that best serve comorbid and addiction issues. Many people feel addiction is a stand along issue; my experience has shown me that many more people have emotional pain at the core of addiction.
I began contributing to the helping fields since 2007 when I started working with families with special needs children. I spent a few years specializing in behavior therapy for children and adolescents with cognitive and emotional challenges. During school, I spent time interning at the Salvation Army's rehabilitation center in Anaheim CA. From that association sprang many years working with and specializing in the techniques that best serve comorbid and addiction issues. Many people feel addiction is a stand along issue; my experience has shown me that many more people have emotional pain at the core of addiction.
(818) 699-0591 View (818) 699-0591
Photo of Kylie Mackenzie, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kylie Mackenzie
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90031
Hello, I’m an LMFT and I thoroughly enjoy my work as a therapist. My name is Kylie Mackenzie, but you can call me Ky. I change my approach with everyone I see, generally speaking, because everyone heals in their own unique way. My most common theoretical approach is client-centered (we are equals) and psychoanalytic (I’m a blank slate) so the focus is purely on you with a split of problem solving and breaking down the emotional parts of the issue. I am very familiar with working with adults and teens. I have experience working with substance abuse and dual diagnoses.
Hello, I’m an LMFT and I thoroughly enjoy my work as a therapist. My name is Kylie Mackenzie, but you can call me Ky. I change my approach with everyone I see, generally speaking, because everyone heals in their own unique way. My most common theoretical approach is client-centered (we are equals) and psychoanalytic (I’m a blank slate) so the focus is purely on you with a split of problem solving and breaking down the emotional parts of the issue. I am very familiar with working with adults and teens. I have experience working with substance abuse and dual diagnoses.
(408) 351-2993 View (408) 351-2993
Photo of Alexandra Gaty, ACSW
Alexandra Gaty
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90031
I specialize in supporting people with life transitions/transformations, specifically college, career changes, relationships, and parenting. My focus is also on artists and creative individuals. I promote healing through mind and body and have a range of experience working with trauma, as well as symptoms of depression, bipolar, and anxiety. We can explore the ways and alleyways of your thoughts, relationships, and past experiences and how they shape your life. I offer a compassionate space for you to expand self-awareness and accomplish meaningful changes.
I specialize in supporting people with life transitions/transformations, specifically college, career changes, relationships, and parenting. My focus is also on artists and creative individuals. I promote healing through mind and body and have a range of experience working with trauma, as well as symptoms of depression, bipolar, and anxiety. We can explore the ways and alleyways of your thoughts, relationships, and past experiences and how they shape your life. I offer a compassionate space for you to expand self-awareness and accomplish meaningful changes.
(323) 792-2373 View (323) 792-2373
Photo of Becca Waterhouse, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Becca Waterhouse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90031  (Online Only)
I strongly believe in the healing power of a safe therapeutic space and human connection to build resilience and foster a more fulfilling life. I strive to co-create a safe space that is warm, collaborative, and empathic so that, together, we can process and integrate past or current traumatic or disruptive experiences, and explore questions of identity, self-concept, and interpersonal relationships. My client-centered, trauma-informed, and integrative approach lends itself to meeting my clients where they are at and walking alongside you as you uncover the strengths and tools within to face life’s challenges.
I strongly believe in the healing power of a safe therapeutic space and human connection to build resilience and foster a more fulfilling life. I strive to co-create a safe space that is warm, collaborative, and empathic so that, together, we can process and integrate past or current traumatic or disruptive experiences, and explore questions of identity, self-concept, and interpersonal relationships. My client-centered, trauma-informed, and integrative approach lends itself to meeting my clients where they are at and walking alongside you as you uncover the strengths and tools within to face life’s challenges.
(323) 693-8878 View (323) 693-8878
Photo of Shari D Lee, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shari D Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90031
Have you reached a crossroads? Are you seeking new tools to make meaningful decisions consistent with where you are now? Perhaps you are experiencing challenges in relationships, grief and loss, or you just feel the desire to become more of who you want be. You know change is necessary, but “knowing” is usually not enough to make lasting change. Exploring obstacles to your wellbeing while developing new tools for transmuting them can greatly enhance your sense of self, the quality of your relationships, and fortify your vision for the future.
Have you reached a crossroads? Are you seeking new tools to make meaningful decisions consistent with where you are now? Perhaps you are experiencing challenges in relationships, grief and loss, or you just feel the desire to become more of who you want be. You know change is necessary, but “knowing” is usually not enough to make lasting change. Exploring obstacles to your wellbeing while developing new tools for transmuting them can greatly enhance your sense of self, the quality of your relationships, and fortify your vision for the future.
(323) 744-0974 View (323) 744-0974
Photo of Jacqueline Gordon, LPCC, Counselor
Jacqueline Gordon
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90031  (Online Only)
Online Only-The best time to begin or restart your life's journey is NOW!. I provide comprehensive psychotherapy services. I utilize a culturally competent approach to assessment, and believe that psychotherapy requires the ability to understand culture, socioeconomic factors and ethnicity. My approach begins with establishing a therapist-client relationship by creating a safe, nurturing nonjudgmental environment to address your concerns and challenges. In addition, I understand addiction and the challenges that people face who struggle with substance use. I can assist you with determining if your substance use is problematic.
Online Only-The best time to begin or restart your life's journey is NOW!. I provide comprehensive psychotherapy services. I utilize a culturally competent approach to assessment, and believe that psychotherapy requires the ability to understand culture, socioeconomic factors and ethnicity. My approach begins with establishing a therapist-client relationship by creating a safe, nurturing nonjudgmental environment to address your concerns and challenges. In addition, I understand addiction and the challenges that people face who struggle with substance use. I can assist you with determining if your substance use is problematic.
(209) 500-4284 View (209) 500-4284
Photo of Traci Martin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Traci Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90031
Hello, I’m Traci Martin! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist passionate about helping others get through life's obstacles and onto their journey of healing. I believe each person has the inner strength to excel beyond life's difficulties. My Approach My approach to providing therapy is a combination of compassion and understanding. I see the client as a person first. I build on the client's strengths, interests, and resources. I believe clients have the power to grow, change, and make their situation better through inner strength.
Hello, I’m Traci Martin! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist passionate about helping others get through life's obstacles and onto their journey of healing. I believe each person has the inner strength to excel beyond life's difficulties. My Approach My approach to providing therapy is a combination of compassion and understanding. I see the client as a person first. I build on the client's strengths, interests, and resources. I believe clients have the power to grow, change, and make their situation better through inner strength.
(760) 970-8374 View (760) 970-8374
Photo of Danielle Buckland, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Buckland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90031
My name is Danielle and I am a Licensed Clinical Social passionate about helping others. I consider it an honor and privilege to support my clients through difficult times. When setting goals in therapy I like to help my clients identify what they would like to get out of therapy. I believe it is important to visualize where you would like to be in the near and distant future.
My name is Danielle and I am a Licensed Clinical Social passionate about helping others. I consider it an honor and privilege to support my clients through difficult times. When setting goals in therapy I like to help my clients identify what they would like to get out of therapy. I believe it is important to visualize where you would like to be in the near and distant future.
(661) 213-9618 View (661) 213-9618
Photo of Thana Cochran, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thana Cochran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90031
My name is Thana Cochran, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, emphasizing a collaborative and empowering environment. With a focus on fostering resilience and personal growth, I specialize in areas such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and perinatal mental health. I take joy in specializing in adolescent therapy as well as working with individuals facing challenges with Anxiety and Depression. My specialty includes supporting those navigating fertility issues, postpartum experiences, and helping individuals navigate through complexities of grief and loss.
My name is Thana Cochran, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, emphasizing a collaborative and empowering environment. With a focus on fostering resilience and personal growth, I specialize in areas such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and perinatal mental health. I take joy in specializing in adolescent therapy as well as working with individuals facing challenges with Anxiety and Depression. My specialty includes supporting those navigating fertility issues, postpartum experiences, and helping individuals navigate through complexities of grief and loss.
(951) 417-4024 View (951) 417-4024
Photo of Cynthia Cerrato, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia Cerrato
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90031
As a Woman of Color, I'm very passionate and dedicated towards promoting wellness, healing and recovery. Living in our fast paced world, we often find ourselves feeling empty, depleted, irritable and disconnected. We begin to question life, our existence, and our purpose. My approach is holistic and mindfulness based. I have extensive experience working with diverse communities of color. This has allowed me to understand the mind body connection and how our environments contribute to our dysfunction. I am a bilingual, bi-cultural licensed therapist and graduated from Mt. St. Mary's University.
As a Woman of Color, I'm very passionate and dedicated towards promoting wellness, healing and recovery. Living in our fast paced world, we often find ourselves feeling empty, depleted, irritable and disconnected. We begin to question life, our existence, and our purpose. My approach is holistic and mindfulness based. I have extensive experience working with diverse communities of color. This has allowed me to understand the mind body connection and how our environments contribute to our dysfunction. I am a bilingual, bi-cultural licensed therapist and graduated from Mt. St. Mary's University.
(626) 624-4645 View (626) 624-4645
Photo of Marney E Stofflet, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marney E Stofflet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90031
I have been in private practice as a psychotherapist foreclose to 40 years and have had the good fortune of working with individuals, couples and families dealing with a variety of life's challenges. I work with issues of sexuality,life needs, anxiety, adolescent and family problems,depression,abuse, addictions, special needs children and interpersonal relationships.I also do extensive work with people confronting the hard work of grief and loss and with individuals who have lost someone to suicide. My goals as a clinician are to guide individuals toward healing and self-understanding in an atmosphere of trust and self-respect.
I have been in private practice as a psychotherapist foreclose to 40 years and have had the good fortune of working with individuals, couples and families dealing with a variety of life's challenges. I work with issues of sexuality,life needs, anxiety, adolescent and family problems,depression,abuse, addictions, special needs children and interpersonal relationships.I also do extensive work with people confronting the hard work of grief and loss and with individuals who have lost someone to suicide. My goals as a clinician are to guide individuals toward healing and self-understanding in an atmosphere of trust and self-respect.
(323) 454-2122 View (323) 454-2122
1

See more therapy options for 90031

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 90031

50+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in 90031 who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
84% Depression
72% Relationship Issues
72% Self Esteem
66% Grief
66% Trauma and PTSD
66% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
88% Cigna and Evernorth
88% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 90031 see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

66% Female
28% Male
6% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 90031?

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.