Marsha Utain
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90711
Marsha Utain has thirty years of clinical practice. She is the former co-host of Mental Health Magazine,author of Stepping Out of Chaos and co-author of Scream Louder (later titled: The Healing Relationship). As a Gestalt therapist who is knowledgeable in TA, EMDR and other therapeutic milieu, she has been a sought after clinical trainer and lecturer to both public and professional audiences in the United States,Canada,and Europe.
Marsha Utain has thirty years of clinical practice. She is the former co-host of Mental Health Magazine,author of Stepping Out of Chaos and co-author of Scream Louder (later titled: The Healing Relationship). As a Gestalt therapist who is knowledgeable in TA, EMDR and other therapeutic milieu, she has been a sought after clinical trainer and lecturer to both public and professional audiences in the United States,Canada,and Europe.
(562) 999-2827 View (562) 999-2827
Photo of Carol Bartels, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carol Bartels
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, CA 90711
Is this the best it can be? You know you are not living your life to its fullest. You look around you at the state of the world and you see conflict, disasters, people being awful to each other and changes that happen so fast, no one can seem to keep up. It seems like you either have to shut down to the pain of the world, or you will drown in it. It’s so much easier in any given moment to lose yourself on your phone, or Netflix, or a drink or…. You can see that you’re checking out – and there’s a price to pay for that – but in the moment, you can’t muster anything better.
Is this the best it can be? You know you are not living your life to its fullest. You look around you at the state of the world and you see conflict, disasters, people being awful to each other and changes that happen so fast, no one can seem to keep up. It seems like you either have to shut down to the pain of the world, or you will drown in it. It’s so much easier in any given moment to lose yourself on your phone, or Netflix, or a drink or…. You can see that you’re checking out – and there’s a price to pay for that – but in the moment, you can’t muster anything better.
(424) 281-6518 View (424) 281-6518
Photo of Andrea L Bell, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea L Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CA 90711
I work with many people who feel overwhelmed--by traumatic events, or simply when modern life, feelings or relationships are "too much". Some tried regular talk therapy, but their symptoms didn't shift. This is often because the stress response is stuck in the body. This can show up as PTSD, anxiety, depression, low motivation, panic attacks, substance abuse, eating disorders, etc.My clients learn what their bodies are trying to tell them and how to stop symptoms & support healthy well-being. I have a knack for working with unusual or "out of the box" folks.
I work with many people who feel overwhelmed--by traumatic events, or simply when modern life, feelings or relationships are "too much". Some tried regular talk therapy, but their symptoms didn't shift. This is often because the stress response is stuck in the body. This can show up as PTSD, anxiety, depression, low motivation, panic attacks, substance abuse, eating disorders, etc.My clients learn what their bodies are trying to tell them and how to stop symptoms & support healthy well-being. I have a knack for working with unusual or "out of the box" folks.
(562) 667-5896 View (562) 667-5896
Photo of Steven W Cohen, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Steven W Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90711
I have been counseling professionally for more than 30 years. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples and families experience joy in life that is dependent not upon circumstances, but on making good choices and learning how to develop healthy interpersonal relationships. I am particularly interested in helping married couples experience the most satisfying relationships they can. There is no doubt in my mind that if a couple is committed to improving their relationship and doing the work involved, they will achieve the kind of marriage to which they aspire.
I have been counseling professionally for more than 30 years. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples and families experience joy in life that is dependent not upon circumstances, but on making good choices and learning how to develop healthy interpersonal relationships. I am particularly interested in helping married couples experience the most satisfying relationships they can. There is no doubt in my mind that if a couple is committed to improving their relationship and doing the work involved, they will achieve the kind of marriage to which they aspire.
(714) 312-3149 View (714) 312-3149
Photo of Christina Wood - Personal Light Counseling Services, MS, LMFT, LAADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Personal Light Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CA 90711  (Online Only)
My therapy sessions are conducted over the phone! It is so easy to get stuck in our past or lost in the future and we forget to be mindful of what is going on in the present. Our past can shape who we are and how we perceive our lives today and this can easily get us caught up in a vicious cycle of various emotional and mental struggles. The importance of rebuilding a relationship with ourselves is a critical component in life and can provide a different outlook to mood, behavioral and personality disorders. Let us never underestimate the power that we hold within ourselves!
My therapy sessions are conducted over the phone! It is so easy to get stuck in our past or lost in the future and we forget to be mindful of what is going on in the present. Our past can shape who we are and how we perceive our lives today and this can easily get us caught up in a vicious cycle of various emotional and mental struggles. The importance of rebuilding a relationship with ourselves is a critical component in life and can provide a different outlook to mood, behavioral and personality disorders. Let us never underestimate the power that we hold within ourselves!
(951) 494-6403 View (951) 494-6403
Photo of Zane (Susan) Walshe, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Zane (Susan) Walshe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lakewood, CA 90711
I am a Licensed Marriage, Family Therapist in private practice in Long Beach, California working with individuals, couples, and families. As a Transmasculine person who uses the pronouns they/them/theirs, I am especially qualified and passionate about working with folks in the LGBTQIA+ Community and their allies. An eclectic therapist focused on the healing arts utilizing a wide variety of theories and techniques including Mindfulness, Somatic, Cognitive Behavioral, Existential and Gestalt to serve the diverse needs of my clients. I also supervise wonderful, skilled, and compassionate Associates who offer caring therapy on a scale.
I am a Licensed Marriage, Family Therapist in private practice in Long Beach, California working with individuals, couples, and families. As a Transmasculine person who uses the pronouns they/them/theirs, I am especially qualified and passionate about working with folks in the LGBTQIA+ Community and their allies. An eclectic therapist focused on the healing arts utilizing a wide variety of theories and techniques including Mindfulness, Somatic, Cognitive Behavioral, Existential and Gestalt to serve the diverse needs of my clients. I also supervise wonderful, skilled, and compassionate Associates who offer caring therapy on a scale.
(562) 445-3729 View (562) 445-3729
Photo of Irene Lara - Irene Lara - Integrative Therapy, PsyD, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Irene Lara - Integrative Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lakewood, CA 90711
All is Possible, with Gentleness. -Todo es posible con paciencia.- I am so glad that you are making a big difference in your life. What a courageous and honorable decision. Would you like to call me? Let's have a conversation, & see if we are a good fit. Allow me to embark with you on this journey. Want better sleep? Oxygenate the body. Plus, Breath-Body-Mind meditation taught: Improve Creativity, have more internal Mental, Emotional, Financial Stability, increase Focus and concentration, eliminate trauma, improve Confidence and Relationships. Hope to speak soon. - - Favor de llamarme para tener una conversacion mas profunda.
All is Possible, with Gentleness. -Todo es posible con paciencia.- I am so glad that you are making a big difference in your life. What a courageous and honorable decision. Would you like to call me? Let's have a conversation, & see if we are a good fit. Allow me to embark with you on this journey. Want better sleep? Oxygenate the body. Plus, Breath-Body-Mind meditation taught: Improve Creativity, have more internal Mental, Emotional, Financial Stability, increase Focus and concentration, eliminate trauma, improve Confidence and Relationships. Hope to speak soon. - - Favor de llamarme para tener una conversacion mas profunda.
(323) 739-7975 View (323) 739-7975
Photo of Evelyn Santana, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Evelyn Santana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90711  (Online Only)
Have the last couple of years stretched you thin, affecting your relationships at home and at work? Major life transitions like new jobs, new relationships, or significant loses, can require more from you than you could ever imagine. Many of us have come to a point where we can benefit from additional professional support. As a first generation Latinx, I know first hand the unique strength and resilience it takes to navigate life changes in an ever evolving world. My years of training and real-life experience in developing resilience has led me to be passionate and committed to helping others find their resilience within.
Have the last couple of years stretched you thin, affecting your relationships at home and at work? Major life transitions like new jobs, new relationships, or significant loses, can require more from you than you could ever imagine. Many of us have come to a point where we can benefit from additional professional support. As a first generation Latinx, I know first hand the unique strength and resilience it takes to navigate life changes in an ever evolving world. My years of training and real-life experience in developing resilience has led me to be passionate and committed to helping others find their resilience within.
(562) 667-4715 View (562) 667-4715
Photo of Patrick Cleveland, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patrick Cleveland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakewood, CA 90711
Taking the first step toward getting help is the hardest part and I understand that. I am the founder & clinical director of Daybreak Counseling Center. We are an elite & dedicated group of therapists. We focus on providing a safe and nonjudgemental environment in order to help you speak freely, share your story, ask questions, and face any issues that arise. In beginning this inquiry, today you are one step closer to finding answers and solutions. Whether you are feeling down, anxious, confused, have relationship issues, or just want to grow emotionally and learn more about yourself, therapy can help. Your mental health matters!
Taking the first step toward getting help is the hardest part and I understand that. I am the founder & clinical director of Daybreak Counseling Center. We are an elite & dedicated group of therapists. We focus on providing a safe and nonjudgemental environment in order to help you speak freely, share your story, ask questions, and face any issues that arise. In beginning this inquiry, today you are one step closer to finding answers and solutions. Whether you are feeling down, anxious, confused, have relationship issues, or just want to grow emotionally and learn more about yourself, therapy can help. Your mental health matters!
(562) 285-9957 View (562) 285-9957
Photo of Dr. Karla Escoto, PsyD , MA, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Karla Escoto
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD , MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90711
Hi, I am a licensed marriage and family Bilingual psychotherapist with more than ten years of clinical experience treating individuals and families. I also have a doctorate in psychology. Many individuals I work with have been to therapy before and have felt some relief but eventually reverted to old unhealthy behaviors. Through our work together, we will get to the root of the issues to allow for sustainable healing and growth, and you will notice an improvement in your mood, motivation, and relationships. Therapy can be intimidating and difficult to seek.
Hi, I am a licensed marriage and family Bilingual psychotherapist with more than ten years of clinical experience treating individuals and families. I also have a doctorate in psychology. Many individuals I work with have been to therapy before and have felt some relief but eventually reverted to old unhealthy behaviors. Through our work together, we will get to the root of the issues to allow for sustainable healing and growth, and you will notice an improvement in your mood, motivation, and relationships. Therapy can be intimidating and difficult to seek.
(323) 716-0735 View (323) 716-0735
Photo of Karla Yanelli Perez - Alma Feliz Therapy, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alma Feliz Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90711  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you first generation and dealing with imposter syndrome, anxiety, unresolved trauma, and need help navigating life? Hi, my name is Karla Perez and I am a bilingual licensed clinical social worker; I bring 6 years of experience in the field of supporting others in their mental health journey. I have been able to practice as a therapist in various school settings (elementary through university), in an intensive outpatient program, within the justice court system, and - most recently- in a mobile crisis team. These experiences ignited my passion in supporting other adults, y mi comunidad, as they try to navigate their experiences.
Are you first generation and dealing with imposter syndrome, anxiety, unresolved trauma, and need help navigating life? Hi, my name is Karla Perez and I am a bilingual licensed clinical social worker; I bring 6 years of experience in the field of supporting others in their mental health journey. I have been able to practice as a therapist in various school settings (elementary through university), in an intensive outpatient program, within the justice court system, and - most recently- in a mobile crisis team. These experiences ignited my passion in supporting other adults, y mi comunidad, as they try to navigate their experiences.
(562) 553-8310 View (562) 553-8310
Photo of Fabiola Rodriguez-Cordova, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Fabiola Rodriguez-Cordova
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CA 90711
***NOW OFFERING IN-PERSON SESSIONS****Have you imagined a world filled with peace and joy? Have you walked this journey of life and realized this world is always changing and our emotions go up and down as well? I know, I've been there, I have been affected by the many changes of this world and have questioned my existence and/or my purpose in life. I will walk this journey with you, you are not alone. I am here to help you and equip you with the right tools to navigate this journey. You will get through this. You are one step away from doing something great for yourself. Clientes: OFREZCO TERAPIA POR TELÉFONO/VIDEO O EN PERSONA.
***NOW OFFERING IN-PERSON SESSIONS****Have you imagined a world filled with peace and joy? Have you walked this journey of life and realized this world is always changing and our emotions go up and down as well? I know, I've been there, I have been affected by the many changes of this world and have questioned my existence and/or my purpose in life. I will walk this journey with you, you are not alone. I am here to help you and equip you with the right tools to navigate this journey. You will get through this. You are one step away from doing something great for yourself. Clientes: OFREZCO TERAPIA POR TELÉFONO/VIDEO O EN PERSONA.
(562) 378-4221 View (562) 378-4221
Photo of Stephanie Pinto, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Stephanie Pinto
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90711
Welcome, I am glad you are here! Life can be difficult to navigate at times, but you don’t have to do it alone. Congratulations on taking the first step toward your mental health wellness. My name is Stephanie Pinto, I am a first-generation Latina immigrant. I am passionate about helping Latinx and BIPOC communities reach their full potential. As a bilingual therapist, I offer in-person and telehealth sessions in both English and Spanish. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma-related issues, grief, and identity formation.
Welcome, I am glad you are here! Life can be difficult to navigate at times, but you don’t have to do it alone. Congratulations on taking the first step toward your mental health wellness. My name is Stephanie Pinto, I am a first-generation Latina immigrant. I am passionate about helping Latinx and BIPOC communities reach their full potential. As a bilingual therapist, I offer in-person and telehealth sessions in both English and Spanish. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma-related issues, grief, and identity formation.
(562) 620-5561 View (562) 620-5561
Photo of Lori M Downing, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lori M Downing
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90711
Are life’s struggles causing you to feel overwhelmed, confused, distressed, dissatisfied, or alone? I can help you find hope and healing, and a way forward. I truly believe the connection between therapist and client is essential to successful therapy and connecting with my clients - is my greatest asset. I do this by providing a caring, non-judgmental, supportive presence and a listening ear. In this safe place, I come alongside adult individuals dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Co-dependency, Elder and Caregiving Issues, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Faith Issues and help them move forward.
Are life’s struggles causing you to feel overwhelmed, confused, distressed, dissatisfied, or alone? I can help you find hope and healing, and a way forward. I truly believe the connection between therapist and client is essential to successful therapy and connecting with my clients - is my greatest asset. I do this by providing a caring, non-judgmental, supportive presence and a listening ear. In this safe place, I come alongside adult individuals dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Co-dependency, Elder and Caregiving Issues, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Faith Issues and help them move forward.
(657) 255-8172 View (657) 255-8172
Photo of Aritcela Vega, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aritcela Vega
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CA 90711  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stressed, depressed, or anxious? I am here to help with ongoing issues that can effect the quality of life that often cause presenting problems. A lot of times it is difficult to ask someone for help so I commend you on your choice to seek therapy. My style of therapy is from an emphatic genuine place. Hablo Espanol.
Are you feeling stressed, depressed, or anxious? I am here to help with ongoing issues that can effect the quality of life that often cause presenting problems. A lot of times it is difficult to ask someone for help so I commend you on your choice to seek therapy. My style of therapy is from an emphatic genuine place. Hablo Espanol.
(562) 837-2863 View (562) 837-2863
Photo of Dr. J. Breland, PhD, MDiv, Pr, Pastoral Counselor
Dr. J. Breland
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, MDiv, Pr
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90711
I'm a licensed Pastoral Counselor and doctoral candidate (www.drjbreland.com). For over the last 18 years, I have been specializing in the treatment of individuals and couples experiencing a range of concerns, including marital discord, grief, depression, anxiety, and phase-of-life challenges. I use a personalized approach that integrates CBT as a certified clinician from the Beck Institute and the Gottman Method as a level 3 certified clinician, attachment-based, and faith-based counseling. We're a non-profit organization... So if you cant afford my services don't worry! (Matthew 10:8)
I'm a licensed Pastoral Counselor and doctoral candidate (www.drjbreland.com). For over the last 18 years, I have been specializing in the treatment of individuals and couples experiencing a range of concerns, including marital discord, grief, depression, anxiety, and phase-of-life challenges. I use a personalized approach that integrates CBT as a certified clinician from the Beck Institute and the Gottman Method as a level 3 certified clinician, attachment-based, and faith-based counseling. We're a non-profit organization... So if you cant afford my services don't worry! (Matthew 10:8)
(562) 307-8746 View (562) 307-8746
Photo of Tina Webb - Dr. Tina Webb, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Tina Webb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90711
Not accepting new clients
As humans, we are all dealing with something, especially during this time of Coronavirus, social injustice, economic uncertainty, grief and loss, and so many more difficulties. Life has a unique way of getting our attention. Whether good or bad, we all go through stressful times. Maybe, you have been finding yourself thinking a lot about the past…past trauma, past unresolved issues, past dreams deferred, past hurt, and you’ve been feeling anxious, depressed, lonely, hopeless, worried, guilty, overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or disconnected. Imagine no longer having to hold it in, or hide how you feel?
As humans, we are all dealing with something, especially during this time of Coronavirus, social injustice, economic uncertainty, grief and loss, and so many more difficulties. Life has a unique way of getting our attention. Whether good or bad, we all go through stressful times. Maybe, you have been finding yourself thinking a lot about the past…past trauma, past unresolved issues, past dreams deferred, past hurt, and you’ve been feeling anxious, depressed, lonely, hopeless, worried, guilty, overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or disconnected. Imagine no longer having to hold it in, or hide how you feel?
(562) 265-3884 View (562) 265-3884
Photo of Tiffany Hooton, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tiffany Hooton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CA 90711
If you vibe with friendly introverts with a dry sense of humor, we'll get along great. My clients tend to be: couples, partners and parents; gamers and geeks; queer and trans folks looking for someone who understands them; and people who can't seem to quiet their inner critic. I do my best work around trauma and chronic PTSD; self-esteem and managing chronic anxiety or depression; and couples therapy.
If you vibe with friendly introverts with a dry sense of humor, we'll get along great. My clients tend to be: couples, partners and parents; gamers and geeks; queer and trans folks looking for someone who understands them; and people who can't seem to quiet their inner critic. I do my best work around trauma and chronic PTSD; self-esteem and managing chronic anxiety or depression; and couples therapy.
(562) 393-6414 View (562) 393-6414

See more therapy options for 90711

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 90711

10+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in 90711 who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
94% Anxiety
83% Relationship Issues
83% Grief
83% Trauma and PTSD
83% Self Esteem
61% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

67% Other
58% Cigna and Evernorth
42% Aetna

How Therapists in 90711 see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
16% Male
11% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 90711?

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.