Photo of Kesy Yoon, LPCC, LMHC, Counselor
Kesy Yoon
Counselor, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90808
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I am dedicated to helping my clients understand who they are and how they fit into the world around them. Over the past several years, I have worked in a variety of mental health settings with individuals from all walks of life. Currently, I work with adults struggling with anxiety, perfectionism, trauma, depression and major life transitions. Over the course of my career, I have developed a specialty in working with the first generation Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) population.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I am dedicated to helping my clients understand who they are and how they fit into the world around them. Over the past several years, I have worked in a variety of mental health settings with individuals from all walks of life. Currently, I work with adults struggling with anxiety, perfectionism, trauma, depression and major life transitions. Over the course of my career, I have developed a specialty in working with the first generation Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) population.
(562) 526-6163 View (562) 526-6163
Photo of Melissa Paramo - Melissa Paramo LMFT Therapy, MA , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Paramo LMFT Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90808
Working with individuals and couples is my passion. Couples who have lost their connection, their intimacy, their ability to have fun together, individuals who feel lost and empty; couples who yearn for that connection they once had, but just need some tools to get back there. Being able to assist these clients in these areas is something that I have been doing for over 17 years in a number of various settings which include psychiatric inpatient, court mandated clients, intensive outpatient, etc. I am also a Certified Psychedelic Therapy and Integration Therapist which is also a passion of mine. Reach out with questions!
Working with individuals and couples is my passion. Couples who have lost their connection, their intimacy, their ability to have fun together, individuals who feel lost and empty; couples who yearn for that connection they once had, but just need some tools to get back there. Being able to assist these clients in these areas is something that I have been doing for over 17 years in a number of various settings which include psychiatric inpatient, court mandated clients, intensive outpatient, etc. I am also a Certified Psychedelic Therapy and Integration Therapist which is also a passion of mine. Reach out with questions!
(714) 624-4294 View (714) 624-4294
Photo of Patrick Cleveland, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patrick Cleveland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90808
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 Katharina Kienboeck, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katharina Kienboeck
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808
Hello, I am Katharina! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am based in Petaluma, California, and work with clients statewide via Telehealth. I am honored to be part of conversations that help my clients feel stronger, clearer, and more connected to themselves and their important relationships. I believe therapy can be an incredibly valuable space to find clarity and support when we need it most. Good conversations help us identify what's ours, what old stories we may carry that do not serve us anymore, and what tools we can access and utilize towards the changes we are seeking.
Hello, I am Katharina! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am based in Petaluma, California, and work with clients statewide via Telehealth. I am honored to be part of conversations that help my clients feel stronger, clearer, and more connected to themselves and their important relationships. I believe therapy can be an incredibly valuable space to find clarity and support when we need it most. Good conversations help us identify what's ours, what old stories we may carry that do not serve us anymore, and what tools we can access and utilize towards the changes we are seeking.
(657) 837-1907 View (657) 837-1907
Photo of Elliott H Maruffi-Cowley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elliott H Maruffi-Cowley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90808  (Online Only)
Congratulations on taking the first step toward becoming your best you! My name is Elliott Maruffi-Cowley, CEO of Best You Practice, LLC. For the past 13 years I have been fortunate enough to assist a diverse population with taking control of their lives. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment or for more information please follow the link bellow. I am currently providing counseling services online via tele-therapy to individuals and couples in California and New York.
Congratulations on taking the first step toward becoming your best you! My name is Elliott Maruffi-Cowley, CEO of Best You Practice, LLC. For the past 13 years I have been fortunate enough to assist a diverse population with taking control of their lives. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment or for more information please follow the link bellow. I am currently providing counseling services online via tele-therapy to individuals and couples in California and New York.
(567) 229-9621 View (567) 229-9621
Photo of Raenisha D. Love, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raenisha D. Love
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90808  (Online Only)
Starting therapy can be scary! Therapy is a collaborative process that allows me to guide and empower you to resolve issues that are affecting your life. I work with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and boundary-setting in work and personal life. I provide culturally appropriate services while using your strengths as a starting point. I am queer and trans-affirming and welcome LGBTQAI clients, their families and loved ones.
Starting therapy can be scary! Therapy is a collaborative process that allows me to guide and empower you to resolve issues that are affecting your life. I work with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and boundary-setting in work and personal life. I provide culturally appropriate services while using your strengths as a starting point. I am queer and trans-affirming and welcome LGBTQAI clients, their families and loved ones.
(562) 655-8570 View (562) 655-8570
Photo of Veronica Gomez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Gomez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808
My name is Veronica Gomez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with adults (18+) struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem that may stem from grief and loss, life transitions, and more. I provide a safe and positive space for the patient's to feel empowered to be their authentic self. I specialize in working with adults by incorporating various treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Interpersonal Therapy to guide patients find their strengths, community, and self.
My name is Veronica Gomez and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with adults (18+) struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem that may stem from grief and loss, life transitions, and more. I provide a safe and positive space for the patient's to feel empowered to be their authentic self. I specialize in working with adults by incorporating various treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Interpersonal Therapy to guide patients find their strengths, community, and self.
(657) 837-3875 View (657) 837-3875
Photo of Kimberly Finney, PsyD, MS, ABPP, Psychologist
Kimberly Finney
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, ABPP
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808  (Online Only)
I work with individuals who are experiencing psychological stress that is negatively impacting their lives. We work as a team to improve your quality of life. I welcome individuals who are interested in self improvement and awareness. I also welcome therapist and other first responders who are facing burn-out. Life is about team work!
I work with individuals who are experiencing psychological stress that is negatively impacting their lives. We work as a team to improve your quality of life. I welcome individuals who are interested in self improvement and awareness. I also welcome therapist and other first responders who are facing burn-out. Life is about team work!
(424) 312-0542 View (424) 312-0542
Photo of Michelle Joanne Needham, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Joanne Needham
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808
I am here to help an individual in their journey to being more centered, happier, and filled with tools and skills to handle what life throws at us on our way. Are you tired of not feeling like you're not striving in life, barely hanging? Depressed, anxious, confused, feeling like you don't matter, unclear of your purpose? Do you want to feel better about yourself, more confident, and smile more? I'm no magician and can't make all these wishes come true. But I can provide a safe and unconditionally accepting place for you to explore the inner workings of your heart and soul and rid of old ways no longer serving you.
I am here to help an individual in their journey to being more centered, happier, and filled with tools and skills to handle what life throws at us on our way. Are you tired of not feeling like you're not striving in life, barely hanging? Depressed, anxious, confused, feeling like you don't matter, unclear of your purpose? Do you want to feel better about yourself, more confident, and smile more? I'm no magician and can't make all these wishes come true. But I can provide a safe and unconditionally accepting place for you to explore the inner workings of your heart and soul and rid of old ways no longer serving you.
(562) 207-5553 View (562) 207-5553
Photo of Meena Vasishth Montemayor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meena Vasishth Montemayor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808
Launching young adults off to college can be a stressful time. I specialize in treatment of high school and twentysomething clients tailoring to their individual needs giving them a greater understanding of their strengths assisting them to discover their authentic self. I work with clients to map out their unique goals and set attainable targets. Competition, feeling overwhelmed can cause anxiety and fear. Together we will work together to dispel the social discomfort of not feeling good enough, smart enough and want a safe place and a strategy for the next steps at a crucial time.
Launching young adults off to college can be a stressful time. I specialize in treatment of high school and twentysomething clients tailoring to their individual needs giving them a greater understanding of their strengths assisting them to discover their authentic self. I work with clients to map out their unique goals and set attainable targets. Competition, feeling overwhelmed can cause anxiety and fear. Together we will work together to dispel the social discomfort of not feeling good enough, smart enough and want a safe place and a strategy for the next steps at a crucial time.
(562) 526-0957 View (562) 526-0957
Photo of Erica Kurowski, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erica Kurowski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808
I welcome clients of all ethnicities, sexual identities, religious/spiritual belief systems and socioeconomic status' who are struggling with something in their lives that is making it hard to engage in interpersonal and/or other relationships. This could include difficulty functioning in your romantic partnerships, occupational/educational duties, family systems, and, most importantly, your relationship with yourself. Whether you want to heal from something in the past, learn how to be fully present and confident in your life today, or set yourself up for success in the future, no goal is too small.
I welcome clients of all ethnicities, sexual identities, religious/spiritual belief systems and socioeconomic status' who are struggling with something in their lives that is making it hard to engage in interpersonal and/or other relationships. This could include difficulty functioning in your romantic partnerships, occupational/educational duties, family systems, and, most importantly, your relationship with yourself. Whether you want to heal from something in the past, learn how to be fully present and confident in your life today, or set yourself up for success in the future, no goal is too small.
(562) 548-8674 View (562) 548-8674
Photo of Gwen Schwimmer, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gwen Schwimmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808  (Online Only)
It takes courage and humility to seek help for oneself. I strive to create an empathic, collaborative atmosphere to help you address and diminish pain and conflict in your life. My approach is eclectic drawing from two decades of experience treating a wide range of emotional issues. There is no need for you to suffer any longer. I offer guidance and tools for you to reduce distress in your life.
It takes courage and humility to seek help for oneself. I strive to create an empathic, collaborative atmosphere to help you address and diminish pain and conflict in your life. My approach is eclectic drawing from two decades of experience treating a wide range of emotional issues. There is no need for you to suffer any longer. I offer guidance and tools for you to reduce distress in your life.
(562) 553-8388 View (562) 553-8388
Photo of Stacey L. Prothro, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacey L. Prothro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808
My specialty is anxiety, depression, grief and loss, PTSD. I am also a Narcissistic Abuse survivor/thriver who is certified in domestic violence and specialize in serving victims/survivors in trauma recovery. Life presents with many challenges and I am a compassionate and trustworthy therapist who will help you get on the path to healing and recovery - mind, body, and spirit. I am here for you.
My specialty is anxiety, depression, grief and loss, PTSD. I am also a Narcissistic Abuse survivor/thriver who is certified in domestic violence and specialize in serving victims/survivors in trauma recovery. Life presents with many challenges and I am a compassionate and trustworthy therapist who will help you get on the path to healing and recovery - mind, body, and spirit. I am here for you.
(562) 376-5144 View (562) 376-5144
Photo of Shawn Montoya, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shawn Montoya
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90808
Although we come from many different walks of life, your story matters. I am here to assure you that your journey does not have to be navigated through alone. My goal is to work together with you in discovering who you once were, who you are now, & who & where you want to be. I believe we can learn to control our thoughts & emotions in order to heal, discover peace, & find empowerment. In this journey of self-discovery, I hope to provide you with a non-judgmental & supportive, safe space while focusing on developing genuine trust & connection.
Although we come from many different walks of life, your story matters. I am here to assure you that your journey does not have to be navigated through alone. My goal is to work together with you in discovering who you once were, who you are now, & who & where you want to be. I believe we can learn to control our thoughts & emotions in order to heal, discover peace, & find empowerment. In this journey of self-discovery, I hope to provide you with a non-judgmental & supportive, safe space while focusing on developing genuine trust & connection.
(562) 512-6866 View (562) 512-6866
Photo of Jennifer Leupp, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Leupp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90808  (Online Only)
You’ve been putting everything into your job and relationships since you can remember and you are TIRED. Tired of saying yes when you already have too much on your plate, tired of the exhausting task of managing other people’s lives, and just plain tired of not having enough room for YOU in your life. It’s been so long since you prioritized your own needs that you aren’t even sure what having time for yourself would look like or how to get it. Part of you is terrified that people won't like you if you start saying no to their requests and part of you even feels guilty delegating some of these tasks.
You’ve been putting everything into your job and relationships since you can remember and you are TIRED. Tired of saying yes when you already have too much on your plate, tired of the exhausting task of managing other people’s lives, and just plain tired of not having enough room for YOU in your life. It’s been so long since you prioritized your own needs that you aren’t even sure what having time for yourself would look like or how to get it. Part of you is terrified that people won't like you if you start saying no to their requests and part of you even feels guilty delegating some of these tasks.
(562) 276-2479 View (562) 276-2479
Photo of Luis Cardozo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Luis Cardozo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90808  (Online Only)
¡Hola! I'm Luis, a dedicated therapist helping adolescents and men navigate life's challenges. As a Mexican American, I understand how our experiences are shaped by cultural dynamics. My aim is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can uncover your inner strengths. Life's transitions can be tough, leading to low self-esteem and emotional struggles.
¡Hola! I'm Luis, a dedicated therapist helping adolescents and men navigate life's challenges. As a Mexican American, I understand how our experiences are shaped by cultural dynamics. My aim is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can uncover your inner strengths. Life's transitions can be tough, leading to low self-esteem and emotional struggles.
(408) 827-9677 View (408) 827-9677
Photo of Kal Zeryihun, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kal Zeryihun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90808  (Online Only)
I value working with individuals who are ready to dive into the journey of self-exploration, self awareness and emotional growth. You want a life filled with purpose, joy, and authentic connections. You're ready to invest in yourself, break free from limiting beliefs, and embrace a future where you thrive. I use a mind and body-integrated approach to treatment, such as increasing awareness of the Gut-Brain connection and incorporating Mindfulness practices along with traditional talk therapy to help you improve your mental wellness using all the ways your body naturally heals itself.
I value working with individuals who are ready to dive into the journey of self-exploration, self awareness and emotional growth. You want a life filled with purpose, joy, and authentic connections. You're ready to invest in yourself, break free from limiting beliefs, and embrace a future where you thrive. I use a mind and body-integrated approach to treatment, such as increasing awareness of the Gut-Brain connection and incorporating Mindfulness practices along with traditional talk therapy to help you improve your mental wellness using all the ways your body naturally heals itself.
(310) 564-7403 View (310) 564-7403
Photo of Bryan Vasquez, CATC-II, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Bryan Vasquez
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CATC-II
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808
Struggling with addiction & feel rehab isn’t an option? Want to adjust your relationship with a substance instead of being told you must quit? Leaving your family, job, school or responsibilities for an extended period of time is not always needed to get yourself healthy & on track. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, I know the challenges of this lifestyle. Being caught in the cycle of addiction is hard...feelings of anxiety, guilt, & shame. You may have tried cutting back or stopping on your own, only to find yourself engaging in the same unhelpful pattern. I specialize in moderation & abstinence based approaches.
Struggling with addiction & feel rehab isn’t an option? Want to adjust your relationship with a substance instead of being told you must quit? Leaving your family, job, school or responsibilities for an extended period of time is not always needed to get yourself healthy & on track. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, I know the challenges of this lifestyle. Being caught in the cycle of addiction is hard...feelings of anxiety, guilt, & shame. You may have tried cutting back or stopping on your own, only to find yourself engaging in the same unhelpful pattern. I specialize in moderation & abstinence based approaches.
(657) 300-9925 View (657) 300-9925
Photo of Stephanie Bornstein, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Bornstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808
Are you unhappy with the way things in your life have been going? Do you experience emotions that cause you to feel out of control? This can be very frustrating and overwhelming. Unfortunately, many people have not been taught how to regulate intense emotions, and it can be difficult navigating life when we don’t feel like we are in the driver’s seat. What would it be like to learn new skills and perspectives that could lead you to achieve the life you have always imagined? As a therapist, I have worked with many individuals struggling with acceptance, managing intense emotions, intrusive thoughts, and interpersonal communication.
Are you unhappy with the way things in your life have been going? Do you experience emotions that cause you to feel out of control? This can be very frustrating and overwhelming. Unfortunately, many people have not been taught how to regulate intense emotions, and it can be difficult navigating life when we don’t feel like we are in the driver’s seat. What would it be like to learn new skills and perspectives that could lead you to achieve the life you have always imagined? As a therapist, I have worked with many individuals struggling with acceptance, managing intense emotions, intrusive thoughts, and interpersonal communication.
(657) 837-2570 View (657) 837-2570
Jillianne Paladino Boyd
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808
Looking for a safe space to talk openly, explore your thoughts and feelings, process trauma, or depression? I have experience working with military veterans and their loved ones. I specialize in addressing moral injury and moral distress. I have had the honor of assisting others on their journey of self discovery. I can help you navigate a path allowing safe exploration and self discovery. Let me help you explore the pain, embrace the joy and live your life to its fullest .
Looking for a safe space to talk openly, explore your thoughts and feelings, process trauma, or depression? I have experience working with military veterans and their loved ones. I specialize in addressing moral injury and moral distress. I have had the honor of assisting others on their journey of self discovery. I can help you navigate a path allowing safe exploration and self discovery. Let me help you explore the pain, embrace the joy and live your life to its fullest .
(657) 332-1719 View (657) 332-1719

See more therapy options for 90808

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 90808

100+

Average cost per session

$170

Therapists in 90808 who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
81% Self Esteem
75% Relationship Issues
72% Coping Skills
70% Stress
64% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Cigna and Evernorth
76% Aetna
72% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 90808 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 90808?

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.