Photo of Melissa D. Volchok, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa D. Volchok
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91324
Helping clients realize their desired life changes is one of the most gratifying parts of my job as a Marriage and Family Therapist. Empowering people to live their best lives is my goal, whether my clients (an individual, a couple, or a family) are wanting to heal from pain, gain hope, or achieve something they perceive as out of reach. I approach everyone with compassion and understanding, without judgement. I am honored to be the person who gets to take this journey with others, and I look forward to taking it with you.
Helping clients realize their desired life changes is one of the most gratifying parts of my job as a Marriage and Family Therapist. Empowering people to live their best lives is my goal, whether my clients (an individual, a couple, or a family) are wanting to heal from pain, gain hope, or achieve something they perceive as out of reach. I approach everyone with compassion and understanding, without judgement. I am honored to be the person who gets to take this journey with others, and I look forward to taking it with you.
(818) 960-0786 View (818) 960-0786
Photo of Darrin L Johnson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darrin L Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91324
I specialize in analyzing relationships, connections & emotions. I work with my clients to help them heal from past trauma, loss, anxiety or symptoms of depression. Together at a pace that's comfortable for you, we will get to the root of emotional distress through processing past life events that lead to negative symptoms or outcomes. We will work together to build a stronger sense of self to promote wholeness and an increased sense of well-being. I will work to "unstick" you from unprocessed life encounters or loss where emotion was not felt, nurtured or resolved.
I specialize in analyzing relationships, connections & emotions. I work with my clients to help them heal from past trauma, loss, anxiety or symptoms of depression. Together at a pace that's comfortable for you, we will get to the root of emotional distress through processing past life events that lead to negative symptoms or outcomes. We will work together to build a stronger sense of self to promote wholeness and an increased sense of well-being. I will work to "unstick" you from unprocessed life encounters or loss where emotion was not felt, nurtured or resolved.
(818) 626-3539 View (818) 626-3539
Photo of Edwin Albert Huerta, MSW, ACSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Edwin Albert Huerta
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northridge, CA 91324
Hi there, my name is Edwin! My experience in Social Work has allowed me to work alongside students of all ages (elementary through college) where we worked on topics such as depressive moods, anxiety, stress, and questions surrounding queer identity. Working with these students allowed us to start conversations about communication skills and triggers that they faced in their day to day life. Working alongside them, we were able to identify what steps they were comfortable doing to implement into their lives to see results.
Hi there, my name is Edwin! My experience in Social Work has allowed me to work alongside students of all ages (elementary through college) where we worked on topics such as depressive moods, anxiety, stress, and questions surrounding queer identity. Working with these students allowed us to start conversations about communication skills and triggers that they faced in their day to day life. Working alongside them, we were able to identify what steps they were comfortable doing to implement into their lives to see results.
(747) 347-3590 View (747) 347-3590
Photo of Christine Popaj, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Popaj
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northridge, CA 91324  (Online Only)
Making the choice to start therapy can be intimidating, but taking the steps to care for yourself and your mental health shows that you are ready for some change. In order for this change to develop, I place immense value on the importance of the therapeutic relationship and provide a safe space for clients to feel understood, challenged and empowered without feeling judged. I want all of my clients to feel as though therapy is a safe place to vent, laugh, cry, gain insight, and grow as in individual.
Making the choice to start therapy can be intimidating, but taking the steps to care for yourself and your mental health shows that you are ready for some change. In order for this change to develop, I place immense value on the importance of the therapeutic relationship and provide a safe space for clients to feel understood, challenged and empowered without feeling judged. I want all of my clients to feel as though therapy is a safe place to vent, laugh, cry, gain insight, and grow as in individual.
(818) 280-8796 View (818) 280-8796
Photo of Mark Sergi, PhD, Psychologist
Mark Sergi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northridge, CA 91324
You can overcome the challenges that you face today. Whether you are challenged by depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and/or another emotional health issue; counseling, specifically cognitive behavioral therapy, can help you overcome your mental health issues and transform yourself into the person you hope to become. I, Dr. Mark Sergi, have counseled adults, couples, and elders for over 20 years; helping hundreds of persons improve their emotional health and quality of life.
You can overcome the challenges that you face today. Whether you are challenged by depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and/or another emotional health issue; counseling, specifically cognitive behavioral therapy, can help you overcome your mental health issues and transform yourself into the person you hope to become. I, Dr. Mark Sergi, have counseled adults, couples, and elders for over 20 years; helping hundreds of persons improve their emotional health and quality of life.
(818) 452-2191 View (818) 452-2191
Photo of Andrea Letts, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Letts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91324
Waitlist for new clients
Do you wonder why you have a big reaction to the small things in life? Seeking therapy, whether for the first time or the tenth time, takes courage and strength. I have heard from clients that even with cognitive insight they have remained stuck in distressing feelings/situations. I strongly believe that living coping skill to coping skill is not a viable long-term solution. Through personal experience, I have ascertained that knowledge of the root cause to a reaction or behavior is paramount to healing. I will not see you as a compilation of symptoms or a diagnosis, but rather as a person with needs that you are trying to get met.
Do you wonder why you have a big reaction to the small things in life? Seeking therapy, whether for the first time or the tenth time, takes courage and strength. I have heard from clients that even with cognitive insight they have remained stuck in distressing feelings/situations. I strongly believe that living coping skill to coping skill is not a viable long-term solution. Through personal experience, I have ascertained that knowledge of the root cause to a reaction or behavior is paramount to healing. I will not see you as a compilation of symptoms or a diagnosis, but rather as a person with needs that you are trying to get met.
(747) 227-7850 View (747) 227-7850
Photo of Theresa Leinweber, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Theresa Leinweber
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91324  (Online Only)
When is the last time you felt good about yourself? Think about it. Do you feel your life's on hold with no end in sight? Loneliness, grief and loss, relationship issues, under-achieving, alcohol, drugs and sex addiction can slowly but surely dull and diminish a full life. Maybe ask for some help getting it together? Whatever your circumstances and powerful feelings that come with them, therapy can be a huge help. If you're seeking to be seen and heard and helped, don't put off calling any longer.
When is the last time you felt good about yourself? Think about it. Do you feel your life's on hold with no end in sight? Loneliness, grief and loss, relationship issues, under-achieving, alcohol, drugs and sex addiction can slowly but surely dull and diminish a full life. Maybe ask for some help getting it together? Whatever your circumstances and powerful feelings that come with them, therapy can be a huge help. If you're seeking to be seen and heard and helped, don't put off calling any longer.
(323) 347-5726 View (323) 347-5726
Photo of Ruby Quiambao, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ruby Quiambao
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northridge, CA 91324  (Online Only)
At times, you might feel alone, hopeless and scared navigating through life's challenges. What we tend to forget is to reflect, become aware of your own strengths and weaknesses to identify your own capabilities and limitations. What I can extend to offer to you is guidance on how you can achieve a better perception of your struggles and gain insight from your experiences. A lesson in life can make it less complicated!
At times, you might feel alone, hopeless and scared navigating through life's challenges. What we tend to forget is to reflect, become aware of your own strengths and weaknesses to identify your own capabilities and limitations. What I can extend to offer to you is guidance on how you can achieve a better perception of your struggles and gain insight from your experiences. A lesson in life can make it less complicated!
(616) 371-2176 View (616) 371-2176
Photo of Christine Johnson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91324
STRESS RELIEF FOR EMERGING ADULTS, TEENS AND PARENTS. Are you a young adult unsure of your life direction or having trouble reaching your goals? Is depression or anxiety interfering with your school success in college? Are you the parent of a teen who is withdrawn, unmotivated or unhappy? My goal is to help young people resolve the emotional distractions that can interfere with school success or create challenges in relationships with family, friends or in the workplace.
STRESS RELIEF FOR EMERGING ADULTS, TEENS AND PARENTS. Are you a young adult unsure of your life direction or having trouble reaching your goals? Is depression or anxiety interfering with your school success in college? Are you the parent of a teen who is withdrawn, unmotivated or unhappy? My goal is to help young people resolve the emotional distractions that can interfere with school success or create challenges in relationships with family, friends or in the workplace.
(818) 214-8696 View (818) 214-8696
Photo of Jennifer Harris - Couples Counseling with Jennifer, AMFT, APCC
Couples Counseling with Jennifer
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91324  (Online Only)
Are you having trouble communicating with your partner? Have you experienced a trauma in your life that has impacted intimacy in your romantic relationship? I work closely with couples who feel as if they have grown apart from one another, experience communication issues, are going through life transitions, and are dealing with past trauma. Perhaps you feel as if your partner does not meet your wants and needs and you see no way to improve your situation. I specialize in helping couples learn to communicate their feelings without alienating their partner and heal from past traumatic events.
Are you having trouble communicating with your partner? Have you experienced a trauma in your life that has impacted intimacy in your romantic relationship? I work closely with couples who feel as if they have grown apart from one another, experience communication issues, are going through life transitions, and are dealing with past trauma. Perhaps you feel as if your partner does not meet your wants and needs and you see no way to improve your situation. I specialize in helping couples learn to communicate their feelings without alienating their partner and heal from past traumatic events.
(818) 276-9861 View (818) 276-9861
Photo of Theresa J Leinweber, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Theresa J Leinweber
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91324  (Online Only)
Available immediately. I work with people confronting the consequences of sexual addiction and compulsion. If you’re dealing with the shame of your own sexual behavior or suffering from the painful discovery of an addicted partner’s infidelity (again?), you have suffered enough. Betrayal trauma is all consuming. By booking a consultation with me to honestly confront the problem, you begin the process of restoring your sanity and sexual integrity. You’ll get empathy, understanding and safety to uncover feelings, secrets, lies and patterns that no longer serve you. Making informed decisions about your future begins here.
Available immediately. I work with people confronting the consequences of sexual addiction and compulsion. If you’re dealing with the shame of your own sexual behavior or suffering from the painful discovery of an addicted partner’s infidelity (again?), you have suffered enough. Betrayal trauma is all consuming. By booking a consultation with me to honestly confront the problem, you begin the process of restoring your sanity and sexual integrity. You’ll get empathy, understanding and safety to uncover feelings, secrets, lies and patterns that no longer serve you. Making informed decisions about your future begins here.
(818) 426-3311 View (818) 426-3311
Photo of Alberto Lopez - Dr. Alberto Lopez, LCSW , LCSW, DSW, MSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Alberto Lopez, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DSW, MSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91324
Asking for help or seeking therapy might be new to you, but it is something many individuals do when they are overwhelmed by life stressors such as relationships and work. As a Latino psychotherapist, I am aware of how our upbringing and culture can make seeing a therapist difficult. I want to make this process and experience a positive one. My goal is to assist individuals in how they manage stress, and anxiety in their life. Together we can develop healthy coping skills as well as behavioral changes. I will help you use the strengths you already have to be more effective. Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-awareness
Asking for help or seeking therapy might be new to you, but it is something many individuals do when they are overwhelmed by life stressors such as relationships and work. As a Latino psychotherapist, I am aware of how our upbringing and culture can make seeing a therapist difficult. I want to make this process and experience a positive one. My goal is to assist individuals in how they manage stress, and anxiety in their life. Together we can develop healthy coping skills as well as behavioral changes. I will help you use the strengths you already have to be more effective. Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-awareness
(747) 302-3704 View (747) 302-3704
Photo of Dr. Jose Guerra, PsyD, LMFT, CEAP, Psychologist
Dr. Jose Guerra
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT, CEAP
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Northridge, CA 91324
Life can present unexpected challenges that feel overwhelming. During these times, having a supportive guide can make a difference. Whether you're exploring your sexuality, LGBTQ+ and POC concerns, dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, intimacy issues, or complex relationships, therapy can help you work towards emotional health. We can navigate these difficulties together. If I'm unavailable, rest assured that an associate will provide you with the same compassionate care.
Life can present unexpected challenges that feel overwhelming. During these times, having a supportive guide can make a difference. Whether you're exploring your sexuality, LGBTQ+ and POC concerns, dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, intimacy issues, or complex relationships, therapy can help you work towards emotional health. We can navigate these difficulties together. If I'm unavailable, rest assured that an associate will provide you with the same compassionate care.
(323) 310-1194 View (323) 310-1194
Photo of Anna Cirronis, MA, EXAT, CMLC, RYT
Anna Cirronis
MA, EXAT, CMLC, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northridge, CA 91324
Waitlist for new clients
As a seasoned practitioner in the field of Transformational Psychology, I am dedicated to supporting women through the complex journey of navigating relationships, particularly during pivotal decisions such as contemplating whether to stay or leave a marriage. My mission is to empower you to make informed choices while cultivating the best version of yourself and crafting a fulfilling life that resonates with your desires and aspirations. Through our collaborative work, I will assist you in exploring your values, needs, and goals, so you can gain clarity on the kind of relationship that aligns with your vision for the future.
As a seasoned practitioner in the field of Transformational Psychology, I am dedicated to supporting women through the complex journey of navigating relationships, particularly during pivotal decisions such as contemplating whether to stay or leave a marriage. My mission is to empower you to make informed choices while cultivating the best version of yourself and crafting a fulfilling life that resonates with your desires and aspirations. Through our collaborative work, I will assist you in exploring your values, needs, and goals, so you can gain clarity on the kind of relationship that aligns with your vision for the future.
(818) 946-0951 View (818) 946-0951
Photo of Jaimie T Barnett, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jaimie T Barnett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91324  (Online Only)
I have experience working with all types of people and their current situations such as relationship issues, crisis intervention and prevention, trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use and abuse, bereavement, etc.. One of my passions is working with individuals who are suffering from anxiety. By creating a non judgmental and safe space, I believe that change can happen!
I have experience working with all types of people and their current situations such as relationship issues, crisis intervention and prevention, trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use and abuse, bereavement, etc.. One of my passions is working with individuals who are suffering from anxiety. By creating a non judgmental and safe space, I believe that change can happen!
(818) 960-7990 View (818) 960-7990
Photo of Nicoli Tucker, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicoli Tucker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91324
As a therapist I have a longstanding interest in helping clients heal their psychological issues against the background of their faith orientation. I graduated from Fuller Theological Seminary where integration of faith and psychology is primary and I continue to read a diverse number of classics in spiritual and theological literature. I am an Oblate at St. Andrew's Abbey a Catholic Benedictine Monastery. I have experience with clients from protestant, orthodox, Jewish, Christian and Roman Catholic denominations. I am familiar with issues facing pastors priests and religious. I also run a spiritual growth group on Tuesday nights.
As a therapist I have a longstanding interest in helping clients heal their psychological issues against the background of their faith orientation. I graduated from Fuller Theological Seminary where integration of faith and psychology is primary and I continue to read a diverse number of classics in spiritual and theological literature. I am an Oblate at St. Andrew's Abbey a Catholic Benedictine Monastery. I have experience with clients from protestant, orthodox, Jewish, Christian and Roman Catholic denominations. I am familiar with issues facing pastors priests and religious. I also run a spiritual growth group on Tuesday nights.
(213) 290-5950 View (213) 290-5950
Photo of Austin C Johnson, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Austin C Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northridge, CA 91324
For many individuals, recognizing and addressing an issue, comprehending its complexities, or articulating it to others can be incredibly challenging. I believe empathy, active listening, unconditional positive regard, and creating a nurturing and nonjudgmental space where my clients can feel heard and understood are instrumental in creating a therapeutic alliance. Once rapport is established, I aim for my clients to freely share their deepest thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities, fostering meaningful and positive progress toward their needs and goals without fear of judgment or rejection.
For many individuals, recognizing and addressing an issue, comprehending its complexities, or articulating it to others can be incredibly challenging. I believe empathy, active listening, unconditional positive regard, and creating a nurturing and nonjudgmental space where my clients can feel heard and understood are instrumental in creating a therapeutic alliance. Once rapport is established, I aim for my clients to freely share their deepest thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities, fostering meaningful and positive progress toward their needs and goals without fear of judgment or rejection.
(747) 447-7113 View (747) 447-7113
Photo of Rita Baer, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rita Baer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91324
Not accepting new clients
Finding a therapist you connect with is extremely important. I have worked extensively with individuals, couples, and, families, to improve, or repair, their relationships and their lives. I specialize in relationship issues, traumas (including victims of crimes), separation, divorce, and mid-life changes. I believe everyone has the ability within, to enhance their lives, their relationships, and to stop the pain that has become unbearable by depression, anxiety, grief, and/or loss. Please call for a free consultation to see if I may be the therapist you feel comfortable with.
Finding a therapist you connect with is extremely important. I have worked extensively with individuals, couples, and, families, to improve, or repair, their relationships and their lives. I specialize in relationship issues, traumas (including victims of crimes), separation, divorce, and mid-life changes. I believe everyone has the ability within, to enhance their lives, their relationships, and to stop the pain that has become unbearable by depression, anxiety, grief, and/or loss. Please call for a free consultation to see if I may be the therapist you feel comfortable with.
(805) 367-5875 View (805) 367-5875
Photo of Dawn Richards, PsyD, LEP, ABSNP
Dawn Richards
PsyD, LEP, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91324
I provide psycho-educational and neuropsychological assessments for children, adolescents, and young adults. I assess for multiple disorders including ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, depression, anxiety, etc. Depending on the outcomes of the assessment, I may also recommend educational consultation and/or educational counseling to help with any weaknesses or deficits that may be identified.
I provide psycho-educational and neuropsychological assessments for children, adolescents, and young adults. I assess for multiple disorders including ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, depression, anxiety, etc. Depending on the outcomes of the assessment, I may also recommend educational consultation and/or educational counseling to help with any weaknesses or deficits that may be identified.
(626) 269-6805 View (626) 269-6805
Photo of Pamela Thompson, LPCC
Pamela Thompson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91324
Hi! My name is Pamela Thompson and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I love working with individuals of all ages and primarily use cognitive behavioral therapy with patients as it has been proven to be the most effective treatment for the majority of mental health issues. Having said that, I believe that therapy should be tailored for each patient and that often means incorporating other types of therapy techniques into treatment.
Hi! My name is Pamela Thompson and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I love working with individuals of all ages and primarily use cognitive behavioral therapy with patients as it has been proven to be the most effective treatment for the majority of mental health issues. Having said that, I believe that therapy should be tailored for each patient and that often means incorporating other types of therapy techniques into treatment.
(818) 962-6389 View (818) 962-6389
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 91324

90+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 91324 who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
89% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
81% Self Esteem
78% Trauma and PTSD
73% Stress
71% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
71% Optum
69% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 91324 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
18% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 91324?

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.