Photo of Andrea Brard, PsyD, Psychologist
Andrea Brard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
I am a UCLA-trained Clinical Psychologist specializing in providing therapy to children, adolescents, parents, and young adults with Anxiety, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Depression. My goal is to help you experience reduced stress and an improved quality of life by providing skills and tools supported by scientific research.
I am a UCLA-trained Clinical Psychologist specializing in providing therapy to children, adolescents, parents, and young adults with Anxiety, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Depression. My goal is to help you experience reduced stress and an improved quality of life by providing skills and tools supported by scientific research.
(424) 252-8339 View (424) 252-8339
Photo of Samara Mallers, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Samara Mallers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402  (Online Only)
You feel capable of more, but negative self-talk holds you back. You project a positive image to the world, but inside you feel like you're not enough. I specialize in working with adults who struggle with anxiety related to self-esteem, imposter syndrome, perfectionism and people-pleasing tendencies. We will explore how your unconscious feelings and patterns are impacting you and your relationships so that you can start to feel more agency over your life. With the clarity of understanding who you are, where you come from, and what activates you, you can begin to feel more comfortable in your own skin.
You feel capable of more, but negative self-talk holds you back. You project a positive image to the world, but inside you feel like you're not enough. I specialize in working with adults who struggle with anxiety related to self-esteem, imposter syndrome, perfectionism and people-pleasing tendencies. We will explore how your unconscious feelings and patterns are impacting you and your relationships so that you can start to feel more agency over your life. With the clarity of understanding who you are, where you come from, and what activates you, you can begin to feel more comfortable in your own skin.
(805) 515-3626 View (805) 515-3626
Photo of Leonie Nahamia, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leonie Nahamia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
I am an LMFT. I have worked with people from different walks of life doing couples education, helping with employment transitions, individuals suffering from substance abuse and families whose children are in foster care or at risk of entering foster care. Much of the latter mentioned, was working with individuals through their anxieties and maladaptive behaviors.
I am an LMFT. I have worked with people from different walks of life doing couples education, helping with employment transitions, individuals suffering from substance abuse and families whose children are in foster care or at risk of entering foster care. Much of the latter mentioned, was working with individuals through their anxieties and maladaptive behaviors.
(323) 760-7638 View (323) 760-7638
Photo of Elaine R. Gordon, PhD, Psychologist
Elaine R. Gordon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
I take pride as a psychologist in the area of personal growth when dealing with life's challenges. This involves meeting your needs and starting where you are now and going from there. I work collaboratively in order for you to get to a 'better' place. I have accumulated a wealth of experience helping others combat challenges of not being able to have children by traditional means. I worked with patients exploring 'good' solutions to this heart-rending process. My goal involves helping individuals deal with the normal and not so normal life challenges of depression, self-esteem, anxiety, relationships, children, parents, and more.
I take pride as a psychologist in the area of personal growth when dealing with life's challenges. This involves meeting your needs and starting where you are now and going from there. I work collaboratively in order for you to get to a 'better' place. I have accumulated a wealth of experience helping others combat challenges of not being able to have children by traditional means. I worked with patients exploring 'good' solutions to this heart-rending process. My goal involves helping individuals deal with the normal and not so normal life challenges of depression, self-esteem, anxiety, relationships, children, parents, and more.
(310) 736-4729 View (310) 736-4729
Photo of Donald Mitchell Goodman - Don M Goodman Inc, PhD, CCHt, CDMHRS, Psychologist
Don M Goodman Inc
Psychologist, PhD, CCHt, CDMHRS
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
I believe anxiety and stress to be the foundation of many issues we all face. My first goal is to help my patients reduce stress thereby decreasing chronic pain, depression and even the ravages of disease and illness. By developing rapport and trust and then utilizing healthy coping skills, the goal of anxiety reduction can be achieved. Its important to remember that we are engaged in a collaborative process where we learn to accept, resolve, move on and let go. I find that mindfulness, meditation and breathing is highly effective in decreasing anxiety and depression.
I believe anxiety and stress to be the foundation of many issues we all face. My first goal is to help my patients reduce stress thereby decreasing chronic pain, depression and even the ravages of disease and illness. By developing rapport and trust and then utilizing healthy coping skills, the goal of anxiety reduction can be achieved. Its important to remember that we are engaged in a collaborative process where we learn to accept, resolve, move on and let go. I find that mindfulness, meditation and breathing is highly effective in decreasing anxiety and depression.
(818) 462-8293 View (818) 462-8293
Photo of Kathryn Harrold, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathryn Harrold
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
All of us create patterns of behavior in our formative years to help us survive real and perceived dangers. What are those patterns? How have those patterns inhibited our lives today? How can we break free from those patterns and develop a more alive and integrated sense of self?
All of us create patterns of behavior in our formative years to help us survive real and perceived dangers. What are those patterns? How have those patterns inhibited our lives today? How can we break free from those patterns and develop a more alive and integrated sense of self?
(424) 277-2249 View (424) 277-2249
Photo of Molly Schaffer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Molly Schaffer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
People find their way to therapy for various reasons. You may be in crisis or you may be wanting to work on long-standing patterns that aren't working for you anymore. I am committed to helping people explore their lives: what's not working and why. I help people heal, find comfort, self-acceptance, and more successful relationships and careers. In a non-judgmental space, we will endeavor to figure out how to make things better to get you functioning well and hopefully, thriving.
People find their way to therapy for various reasons. You may be in crisis or you may be wanting to work on long-standing patterns that aren't working for you anymore. I am committed to helping people explore their lives: what's not working and why. I help people heal, find comfort, self-acceptance, and more successful relationships and careers. In a non-judgmental space, we will endeavor to figure out how to make things better to get you functioning well and hopefully, thriving.
(424) 322-4928 View (424) 322-4928
Photo of Gonzalo Venecia, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gonzalo Venecia
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402  (Online Only)
One of the most difficult roads to navigate consciously is the path to one's life journey. Do you know where you are going to? Where will your road take you, and who is in the driver's seat? Endless questions arise. How does one listen to one's soul and deepen a better understanding of oneself? Does your soul yearn for acknowledgement, self-inquiry, self-discovery, self-acceptance, self-care, and fulfillment? Are you struggling to find meaning and purpose? Do you feel stuck, powerless, and yet seek a fuller expression of your artistry and creativity? Do you seek freedom and independence, as well as intimacy, connection, and healing?
One of the most difficult roads to navigate consciously is the path to one's life journey. Do you know where you are going to? Where will your road take you, and who is in the driver's seat? Endless questions arise. How does one listen to one's soul and deepen a better understanding of oneself? Does your soul yearn for acknowledgement, self-inquiry, self-discovery, self-acceptance, self-care, and fulfillment? Are you struggling to find meaning and purpose? Do you feel stuck, powerless, and yet seek a fuller expression of your artistry and creativity? Do you seek freedom and independence, as well as intimacy, connection, and healing?
(323) 675-3563 View (323) 675-3563
Photo of Payton Somers, MA, LPCC
Payton Somers
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402  (Online Only)
The clients that feel best served by my care are clients who are either motivated for, or contemplating, change in their life. These clients are curious about their personal patterns of behavior, exploring their past and present experiences, and are striving for a deeply fulfilling life. I serve clients who are experiencing the impact of trauma, depression and/or anxiety, identity changes (marriage, divorce, sobriety, parenthood, graduation, etc.), grief and loss, and perinatal mood disorders (perinatal anxiety and/or depression).
The clients that feel best served by my care are clients who are either motivated for, or contemplating, change in their life. These clients are curious about their personal patterns of behavior, exploring their past and present experiences, and are striving for a deeply fulfilling life. I serve clients who are experiencing the impact of trauma, depression and/or anxiety, identity changes (marriage, divorce, sobriety, parenthood, graduation, etc.), grief and loss, and perinatal mood disorders (perinatal anxiety and/or depression).
(310) 340-1481 View (310) 340-1481
Photo of Shana Bujake, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Shana Bujake
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
As a therapist, I specialize in working with individuals and couples who have experienced trauma, including those who have suffered from narcissistic abuse, as well as those who are struggling with relationship issues. My approach is grounded in trauma-informed care, meaning that I prioritize creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment for my clients to explore and process their experiences. Additionally, I incorporate attachment theory to help clients understand and heal from attachment wounds. I also offer co-parenting classes to assist parents in navigating the challenges of raising children in separated families.
As a therapist, I specialize in working with individuals and couples who have experienced trauma, including those who have suffered from narcissistic abuse, as well as those who are struggling with relationship issues. My approach is grounded in trauma-informed care, meaning that I prioritize creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment for my clients to explore and process their experiences. Additionally, I incorporate attachment theory to help clients understand and heal from attachment wounds. I also offer co-parenting classes to assist parents in navigating the challenges of raising children in separated families.
(213) 725-2390 View (213) 725-2390
Photo of Dr. Joseph Lancaster, PsyD, MFT, Psychologist
Dr. Joseph Lancaster
Psychologist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
You are feeling like life is full of chaos and no matter what you do, you can’t seem to get a handle on what is happening. Your relationships are broken, or strained and not only is it affecting you, but others are pulling away. You feel lost as if you have no purpose in life. You are tired of the spinning wheel. Depression, anxiety, anger, relationship challenges and much more keep you stuck and unable to grow. ENOUGH! You're ready for answers to start a new Holistic, healthy journey and become that whole person you were meant to be - Mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually - whole!
You are feeling like life is full of chaos and no matter what you do, you can’t seem to get a handle on what is happening. Your relationships are broken, or strained and not only is it affecting you, but others are pulling away. You feel lost as if you have no purpose in life. You are tired of the spinning wheel. Depression, anxiety, anger, relationship challenges and much more keep you stuck and unable to grow. ENOUGH! You're ready for answers to start a new Holistic, healthy journey and become that whole person you were meant to be - Mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually - whole!
(818) 483-9968 View (818) 483-9968
Photo of Darlene Lancer, MA, JD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Darlene Lancer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, JD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402  (Online Only)
Relationships bring happiness, but also create longing and loneliness. They can preoccupy us and destroy our sense of safety and self-respect. If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, afraid, or lost, or are unable to decide about staying or leaving, have irresolvable conflicts, unmet needs, or feel devalued, I can help - also if you seek guidance with codependency, trauma, communication, intimacy or self-esteem. You'll gain awareness in your first session and quickly see changes in handling emotions, conflict, and boundaries. Whether seeking individual or couple counseling, you'll find solutions, empower, and an improved sense of well-being
Relationships bring happiness, but also create longing and loneliness. They can preoccupy us and destroy our sense of safety and self-respect. If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, afraid, or lost, or are unable to decide about staying or leaving, have irresolvable conflicts, unmet needs, or feel devalued, I can help - also if you seek guidance with codependency, trauma, communication, intimacy or self-esteem. You'll gain awareness in your first session and quickly see changes in handling emotions, conflict, and boundaries. Whether seeking individual or couple counseling, you'll find solutions, empower, and an improved sense of well-being
(310) 421-8996 View (310) 421-8996
Photo of Dr. Cate Vogl, PsyD, MFT, Psychologist
Dr. Cate Vogl
Psychologist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402  (Online Only)
I provide a warm and non-judgmental space where we can work collaboratively to decrease your symptoms and reach your goals. Together, we can develop awareness of patterns that might be creating stuck points in your life, as well as process things from your past that may be impacting your present. My style is compassionate, interactive and direct when needed. Ultimately, my goal is to help you lead a more fulfilling and authentic life.
I provide a warm and non-judgmental space where we can work collaboratively to decrease your symptoms and reach your goals. Together, we can develop awareness of patterns that might be creating stuck points in your life, as well as process things from your past that may be impacting your present. My style is compassionate, interactive and direct when needed. Ultimately, my goal is to help you lead a more fulfilling and authentic life.
(818) 873-2645 View (818) 873-2645
Photo of Kathryn Sparks, MA,  LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathryn Sparks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
With a background in the entertainment business, I have always been fascinated with other people and their stories. I see therapy as a creative, collaborative process in which I work closely with individuals, couples and families to find new ways of understanding their unique narrative. I believe I can help clients find acceptance, empowerment and purpose.
With a background in the entertainment business, I have always been fascinated with other people and their stories. I see therapy as a creative, collaborative process in which I work closely with individuals, couples and families to find new ways of understanding their unique narrative. I believe I can help clients find acceptance, empowerment and purpose.
(424) 543-1164 View (424) 543-1164
Photo of Eveline Smilack, MFA, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eveline Smilack
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFA, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Do problems feel unmanageable? Are relationships growing more stressful? Sometimes life can be challenging. It can be difficult to know how to move forward. My practice is dedicated to listening carefully and offering insight with compassion and care. I offer a trusting supportive space to understand and heal emotional experiences, develop nurturing relationships, and move towards fulfilling your personal goals. Whatever your reasons for wanting to talk to someone, therapy can help you better understand your experiences. Let psychotherapy help you discover your own potential. Starting the conversation is easier than you think. Reach out to explore the possibilities.
Do problems feel unmanageable? Are relationships growing more stressful? Sometimes life can be challenging. It can be difficult to know how to move forward. My practice is dedicated to listening carefully and offering insight with compassion and care. I offer a trusting supportive space to understand and heal emotional experiences, develop nurturing relationships, and move towards fulfilling your personal goals. Whatever your reasons for wanting to talk to someone, therapy can help you better understand your experiences. Let psychotherapy help you discover your own potential. Starting the conversation is easier than you think. Reach out to explore the possibilities.
(310) 869-1533 View (310) 869-1533
Photo of Gwen Grigsby, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gwen Grigsby
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402  (Online Only)
Do you want to feel more confident in your decisions? More calm and grounded in your body? More present in your everyday life? Have more meaningful and fulfilling relationships? We are all born with the resiliency to handle life's challenges, but we should not face them alone. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, a life transition, a traumatic experience, grief, and/or relationship difficulties, you deserve a supportive and compassionate other to walk alongside you. We will untangle the past, make sense of the present, and work towards what you desire in your future.
Do you want to feel more confident in your decisions? More calm and grounded in your body? More present in your everyday life? Have more meaningful and fulfilling relationships? We are all born with the resiliency to handle life's challenges, but we should not face them alone. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, a life transition, a traumatic experience, grief, and/or relationship difficulties, you deserve a supportive and compassionate other to walk alongside you. We will untangle the past, make sense of the present, and work towards what you desire in your future.
(858) 295-0624 View (858) 295-0624
Photo of (Shayna) Jean Lester, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
(Shayna) Jean Lester
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402  (Online Only)
I am excited to add a new element to my practice! Soul Retrieval! Learn how to tap your intuition and your authentic self through the use of spiritual,not religious,tools. If you are suffering from past or present traumas,abuse, poor communication or just not feeling cherished, now is the time to seek help. I am able to serve you with solution based and spiritual counseling. I listen deeply with great intention as I work with individuals using techniques that are tailored for you and your situation. We will work toward new awareness for resolution and healing. My intention is to see the authenticity and ‘holy’ soul in everyone.
I am excited to add a new element to my practice! Soul Retrieval! Learn how to tap your intuition and your authentic self through the use of spiritual,not religious,tools. If you are suffering from past or present traumas,abuse, poor communication or just not feeling cherished, now is the time to seek help. I am able to serve you with solution based and spiritual counseling. I listen deeply with great intention as I work with individuals using techniques that are tailored for you and your situation. We will work toward new awareness for resolution and healing. My intention is to see the authenticity and ‘holy’ soul in everyone.
(424) 581-1822 View (424) 581-1822
Photo of Perfectionist Solutions, MA, MCC, MS, LPC, Counselor
Perfectionist Solutions
Counselor, MA, MCC, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
On paper, you’ve got it together— isn’t it time you felt like it? Whether it’s becoming much more present with your family (no more catastrophizing), falling asleep without obsessing over your to-do list or exuding oodles more confidence in everything you do, my speciality is connecting you back to your own inner world (thoughts, emotions, sensations + psychneuroimmunology) so that you finally FEEL as amazing on the inside as your life looks on the outside. If you want proven, patented, science-backed tools to permanently rewire the perfectionistic tendencies currently getting in your way, get in touch today.
On paper, you’ve got it together— isn’t it time you felt like it? Whether it’s becoming much more present with your family (no more catastrophizing), falling asleep without obsessing over your to-do list or exuding oodles more confidence in everything you do, my speciality is connecting you back to your own inner world (thoughts, emotions, sensations + psychneuroimmunology) so that you finally FEEL as amazing on the inside as your life looks on the outside. If you want proven, patented, science-backed tools to permanently rewire the perfectionistic tendencies currently getting in your way, get in touch today.
(424) 667-6625 View (424) 667-6625
Photo of Emily Caroline Pernoll, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily Caroline Pernoll
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
My deepest intention is to grow compassion and human connection. My greatest hope through our work together is for you to know you are whole and worthy of love and belonging. With over 10 years as a therapist, educator and mindfulness facilitator, I offer integrative psychotherapy, spiritual coaching and group programs. My work is informed by mindfulness and compassion practices, the neuroscience of trauma and attachment and the mind-body connection.
My deepest intention is to grow compassion and human connection. My greatest hope through our work together is for you to know you are whole and worthy of love and belonging. With over 10 years as a therapist, educator and mindfulness facilitator, I offer integrative psychotherapy, spiritual coaching and group programs. My work is informed by mindfulness and compassion practices, the neuroscience of trauma and attachment and the mind-body connection.
(310) 254-2304 View (310) 254-2304
Photo of Amy Goldman, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Psychotherapist, private practice, adult, child and family psychotherapy, child custody mediation, co-parenting counseling, couples counseling, reunification counseling, stress reduction, and mindfulness meditation. Other areas of specialization include anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and career counseling. I offer both in person and remote sessions.
Psychotherapist, private practice, adult, child and family psychotherapy, child custody mediation, co-parenting counseling, couples counseling, reunification counseling, stress reduction, and mindfulness meditation. Other areas of specialization include anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and career counseling. I offer both in person and remote sessions.
(424) 324-3329 View (424) 324-3329
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 90402

200+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in 90402 who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
90% Depression
85% Relationship Issues
80% Self Esteem
71% Trauma and PTSD
70% Grief
69% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

57% Other
54% Aetna
38% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 90402 see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 90402?

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.