Photo of Karen Miller, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91326
Hi. My name is Karen Miller and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working in the helping field for over 20 years and have worked with substance use, eating disorders, and serious mental illness. I am trained in DBT as well as Levels 1 and 2 of the Gottman Method for couples therapy. I believe in meeting you where you are (metaphorically speaking) and working as a team to identify your goals for therapy as well as a plan to reach your goals.
Hi. My name is Karen Miller and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working in the helping field for over 20 years and have worked with substance use, eating disorders, and serious mental illness. I am trained in DBT as well as Levels 1 and 2 of the Gottman Method for couples therapy. I believe in meeting you where you are (metaphorically speaking) and working as a team to identify your goals for therapy as well as a plan to reach your goals.
(747) 302-3777 View (747) 302-3777
Photo of Angela Lovesmith, CPC, CRC
Angela Lovesmith
CPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Porter Ranch, CA 91326
If today is the day you decide "excuses only sound good to those who make them", and you just can't make them anymore; then today is the day to make big changes and I am here to help you! As a Certified Professional Life Coach, I work with clients who will dig deep and work through the underlining issues that have held them back. We will explore possibilities clearing any obstacles you may struggle with changing your "Impossible" to "Possible". I am experienced, thoughtful, patient and insightful. I can help you overcome your challenges keeping you focused and motivated.
If today is the day you decide "excuses only sound good to those who make them", and you just can't make them anymore; then today is the day to make big changes and I am here to help you! As a Certified Professional Life Coach, I work with clients who will dig deep and work through the underlining issues that have held them back. We will explore possibilities clearing any obstacles you may struggle with changing your "Impossible" to "Possible". I am experienced, thoughtful, patient and insightful. I can help you overcome your challenges keeping you focused and motivated.
(818) 514-7705 View (818) 514-7705
Photo of Jan Rosser, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jan Rosser
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Porter Ranch, CA 91326
You’ve done everything you know to do to help yourself and nothing is working anymore. You’re stuck in repeating patterns and feel like you’re not moving forward. I want you to know you don’t have to keep living this way! Working with me, you will discover a new way to restore yourself in mind, body and spirit.
You’ve done everything you know to do to help yourself and nothing is working anymore. You’re stuck in repeating patterns and feel like you’re not moving forward. I want you to know you don’t have to keep living this way! Working with me, you will discover a new way to restore yourself in mind, body and spirit.
(818) 306-5167 View (818) 306-5167
Photo of Selina Marie Galvan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Selina Marie Galvan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Porter Ranch, CA 91326
I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My expertise is working with children, adolescents, adults and families. My focus as a therapist is to empower my clients to feel in control of their lives and have self-confidence to make positive life changes. I work collaboratively with my clients in creating goals and helping guide them with kindness and compassion. Working with families my goal is to improve communication and foster healthy relationships within the family system.
I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My expertise is working with children, adolescents, adults and families. My focus as a therapist is to empower my clients to feel in control of their lives and have self-confidence to make positive life changes. I work collaboratively with my clients in creating goals and helping guide them with kindness and compassion. Working with families my goal is to improve communication and foster healthy relationships within the family system.
(818) 388-7157 View (818) 388-7157
Photo of Dawn Crugnale Ebner, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dawn Crugnale Ebner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Porter Ranch, CA 91326  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are walking on eggshells all the time and find yourself overthinking everything? You spend so much time trying to please others that you do not even know what you want anymore…and forget decision making! Every task takes so long you dread starting anything. Your to do list is getting longer and you feel angry and irritated with everyone. You feel people take advantage of you. You do not trust your own feelings, so you have given up even trying to ask for what you want. Even in the few times you express anger to someone, you find them talking you out of it. You wonder why you brought up the issue at all.
Do you feel like you are walking on eggshells all the time and find yourself overthinking everything? You spend so much time trying to please others that you do not even know what you want anymore…and forget decision making! Every task takes so long you dread starting anything. Your to do list is getting longer and you feel angry and irritated with everyone. You feel people take advantage of you. You do not trust your own feelings, so you have given up even trying to ask for what you want. Even in the few times you express anger to someone, you find them talking you out of it. You wonder why you brought up the issue at all.
(805) 266-7245 View (805) 266-7245
Photo of Sandra Liu, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sandra Liu
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Porter Ranch, CA 91326  (Online Only)
Do you long for a space to break free from emotional burdens, rebuild self-awareness, and rediscover the joy and spirit within you? Life often presents challenges that weigh us down, leaving us feeling lost and disconnected from our true selves. These struggles may come in many forms – from anxiety and depression to relationship issues and personal crises. During these times, we may feel overwhelmed, isolated, and unsure of how to move forward.
Do you long for a space to break free from emotional burdens, rebuild self-awareness, and rediscover the joy and spirit within you? Life often presents challenges that weigh us down, leaving us feeling lost and disconnected from our true selves. These struggles may come in many forms – from anxiety and depression to relationship issues and personal crises. During these times, we may feel overwhelmed, isolated, and unsure of how to move forward.
(818) 873-4152 View (818) 873-4152
Photo of Denise Billingsley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Billingsley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91326
Sometimes, a person who isn't in your immediate circle may offer you a fresh perspective that helps you move through a difficult situation when you feel stuck! My name is Denise Billingsley, and as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I will help you unpack and navigate the difficulties you've indicated. Driven by my background in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, I will tailor our dialogue to meet your specific and unique needs using an effective, proven, "down-to-earth" style.
Sometimes, a person who isn't in your immediate circle may offer you a fresh perspective that helps you move through a difficult situation when you feel stuck! My name is Denise Billingsley, and as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I will help you unpack and navigate the difficulties you've indicated. Driven by my background in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, I will tailor our dialogue to meet your specific and unique needs using an effective, proven, "down-to-earth" style.
(747) 293-3670 View (747) 293-3670
Photo of Lusine Panikyan, ACSW
Lusine Panikyan
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
Porter Ranch, CA 91326  (Online Only)
Stepping into self-awareness and self-discovery takes courage. Often we brush off or delay the process because it feels overwhelming. My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth writing home about. I understand that we cannot change the past, but we can work together to uncover and remove the barriers that block the connection to our authentic self. Together we will explore and eradicate long-standing behavioral and thinking patterns that may be holding you back from experiencing a purposeful life. Are you ready?
Stepping into self-awareness and self-discovery takes courage. Often we brush off or delay the process because it feels overwhelming. My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth writing home about. I understand that we cannot change the past, but we can work together to uncover and remove the barriers that block the connection to our authentic self. Together we will explore and eradicate long-standing behavioral and thinking patterns that may be holding you back from experiencing a purposeful life. Are you ready?
View
Photo of Alejandra Trujillo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alejandra Trujillo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Northridge, CA 91326
Hablo Español. Hispanic, Mexican descent. Specialty: Trauma. EMDR. Do you feel overwhelmed, not good enough, a failure, unimportant, invisible, powerless, helpless, alone, trapped, bad, like you are responsible for everything and everyone? Panic attacks? Do you often find yourself thinking: I should have done something, I have to be in control, I can’t trust my judgment, I am losing control, I'm going to die, I'm in danger? Are you upset from possible traumatic experience or had a major loss: divorce, dead, car accident, sudden death, medical trauma, etc?
Hablo Español. Hispanic, Mexican descent. Specialty: Trauma. EMDR. Do you feel overwhelmed, not good enough, a failure, unimportant, invisible, powerless, helpless, alone, trapped, bad, like you are responsible for everything and everyone? Panic attacks? Do you often find yourself thinking: I should have done something, I have to be in control, I can’t trust my judgment, I am losing control, I'm going to die, I'm in danger? Are you upset from possible traumatic experience or had a major loss: divorce, dead, car accident, sudden death, medical trauma, etc?
(818) 671-1167 View (818) 671-1167
Photo of Wendy Hill Williams, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendy Hill Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Porter Ranch, CA 91326
We all want to live our best life possible with joy and vitality. Sometimes physical, emotional, psychological, or other limitations make it challenging to do so. Recovering from the setbacks and losses of the coronavirus pandemic has been difficult for some people facing the ongoing impact of long Covid or the grief of losing loved ones. The hostile political climate and wars around the world create even greater unrest, anxiety, and a lack of safety. You want to get back on track and need a partner to walk with you through this. It isn’t too late. I trust that we will get through whatever you are facing together. You are not alone.
We all want to live our best life possible with joy and vitality. Sometimes physical, emotional, psychological, or other limitations make it challenging to do so. Recovering from the setbacks and losses of the coronavirus pandemic has been difficult for some people facing the ongoing impact of long Covid or the grief of losing loved ones. The hostile political climate and wars around the world create even greater unrest, anxiety, and a lack of safety. You want to get back on track and need a partner to walk with you through this. It isn’t too late. I trust that we will get through whatever you are facing together. You are not alone.
(818) 293-7116 x2 View (818) 293-7116 x2
Photo of Jill Thomas, MA, MSW, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Porter Ranch, CA 91326  (Online Only)
I have counseled adults, teens, children and families for over 20 years. I specialize in treating adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, grief/loss, and anger management; children/teens with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, ADHD, disruptive behavior, anger management, social skills training, effects of divorce; parents/families with improving communication skills, co-parenting their children, and helping blended families.
I have counseled adults, teens, children and families for over 20 years. I specialize in treating adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, grief/loss, and anger management; children/teens with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, ADHD, disruptive behavior, anger management, social skills training, effects of divorce; parents/families with improving communication skills, co-parenting their children, and helping blended families.
(747) 223-8732 View (747) 223-8732
Photo of Denise Richman, MS, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Denise Richman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Porter Ranch, CA 91326
Having a safe place and a compassionate person with whom to share our struggles, concerns and hopes can help enormously to heal, find relief, and create more joy and satisfaction in our lives. I provide professional, high quality therapy, counseling and coaching, and I am dedicated to serving the needs of my clients. Offices in Porter Ranch, and Santa Clarita.
Having a safe place and a compassionate person with whom to share our struggles, concerns and hopes can help enormously to heal, find relief, and create more joy and satisfaction in our lives. I provide professional, high quality therapy, counseling and coaching, and I am dedicated to serving the needs of my clients. Offices in Porter Ranch, and Santa Clarita.
(818) 962-6439 View (818) 962-6439
Photo of Caroline Kurkcuoglu - Caroline Kurkcuoglu MA MFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Caroline Kurkcuoglu MA MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Porter Ranch, CA 91326
You have taken the first step in your healing process which is awareness that you want to make a change in your life. Because only YOU have the power to create the life that feels peaceful, rewarding and meaningful to you. I applaud you for your courage to seek help. It is a privilege for me to work with you and to guide you in your journey. In 25+ years of my practice, I have experienced some of the most powerful changes that take place in the psychotherapeutic process. I believe everyone has the inner capacity to better themselves.
You have taken the first step in your healing process which is awareness that you want to make a change in your life. Because only YOU have the power to create the life that feels peaceful, rewarding and meaningful to you. I applaud you for your courage to seek help. It is a privilege for me to work with you and to guide you in your journey. In 25+ years of my practice, I have experienced some of the most powerful changes that take place in the psychotherapeutic process. I believe everyone has the inner capacity to better themselves.
(818) 237-9607 View (818) 237-9607
Photo of Jim Curtis Beebe, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jim Curtis Beebe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91326
Life in the 21st century can be challenging. Anxiety, depression, relationship pain and many other struggles seem all too common. And being alone in those struggles without direction or a map out can feel hopeless. But growing through those struggles and turning them into your blessing can be transformative. Our pain can become our purpose. And our misery can become our ministry. I have been working with individuals and couples from a faith-based approach for 40 years. Bringing our Christian resources to bear on our personal and relational struggles can make all the difference.
Life in the 21st century can be challenging. Anxiety, depression, relationship pain and many other struggles seem all too common. And being alone in those struggles without direction or a map out can feel hopeless. But growing through those struggles and turning them into your blessing can be transformative. Our pain can become our purpose. And our misery can become our ministry. I have been working with individuals and couples from a faith-based approach for 40 years. Bringing our Christian resources to bear on our personal and relational struggles can make all the difference.
(747) 326-5589 View (747) 326-5589
Photo of Myrna Isela Aguirre-Bashyam, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Myrna Isela Aguirre-Bashyam
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Porter Ranch, CA 91326  (Online Only)
Consultas disponibles en español. Are you undergoing a major life transition? A survivor of a traumatic experience? Do you find yourself worrying, irritable or just not the same anymore? You are not alone and you can heal! I offer a free fifteen-minute phone consultation where together we can explore your goals, and hopefully begin your healing journey.My name is Myrna, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I currently provide counseling services to children, adolescents and adults who mostly present with trauma related symptomatology, anxiety and depression.
Consultas disponibles en español. Are you undergoing a major life transition? A survivor of a traumatic experience? Do you find yourself worrying, irritable or just not the same anymore? You are not alone and you can heal! I offer a free fifteen-minute phone consultation where together we can explore your goals, and hopefully begin your healing journey.My name is Myrna, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I currently provide counseling services to children, adolescents and adults who mostly present with trauma related symptomatology, anxiety and depression.
(818) 280-8772 View (818) 280-8772
Photo of Desiree Vega, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Desiree Vega
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northridge, CA 91326
Waitlist for new clients
You may be scared to take the first step to get into counseling/therapy--this is something most of my clients have shared with me. Are you fighting the need to be perfect? Do you beat yourself up for all of your mistakes—whether it’s parenting related, work related, or relationship related? Are you completely overwhelmed to the point that you can’t sleep or stress is showing up in your body? It takes courage to ask for help because it requires vulnerability but you can do it!
You may be scared to take the first step to get into counseling/therapy--this is something most of my clients have shared with me. Are you fighting the need to be perfect? Do you beat yourself up for all of your mistakes—whether it’s parenting related, work related, or relationship related? Are you completely overwhelmed to the point that you can’t sleep or stress is showing up in your body? It takes courage to ask for help because it requires vulnerability but you can do it!
(818) 446-1858 View (818) 446-1858
Photo of Scott Williams, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Scott Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Porter Ranch, CA 91326
Creating a rich and meaningful life in the 21st century is more complicated now than ever. Sometimes, personal, work, and family responsibilities are difficult to manage in spite of our best intentions. Stress takes its toll on individuals, couples, and families. Mental and physical health deteriorates, relationships suffer or fall apart, and dreams, once vibrant and alive, fade like an aged photograph. Yet, even an old photograph holds memories of previous dreams, however dim, and can provide the impetus for a hopeful future. I can help you create your future by resolving the past and living in the present.
Creating a rich and meaningful life in the 21st century is more complicated now than ever. Sometimes, personal, work, and family responsibilities are difficult to manage in spite of our best intentions. Stress takes its toll on individuals, couples, and families. Mental and physical health deteriorates, relationships suffer or fall apart, and dreams, once vibrant and alive, fade like an aged photograph. Yet, even an old photograph holds memories of previous dreams, however dim, and can provide the impetus for a hopeful future. I can help you create your future by resolving the past and living in the present.
(818) 351-7114 x1 View (818) 351-7114 x1
Photo of Cynthia Bloore, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia Bloore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northridge, CA 91326
Not accepting new clients
I provide psychotherapy and counseling for individuals struggling with anxiety and depression; substance use, abuse, and addiction; relationship difficulties; past trauma; and the effects of dysfunctional family relationships. If you are struggling in your personal or work relationships, if you are finding it hard to adjust to loss or trauma, or if you are finding it difficult to cope with the demands of everyday life, I can offer help in dealing with today's struggles--and hope for facing future challenges. I will work alongside you as you learn new ways to find success and happiness.
I provide psychotherapy and counseling for individuals struggling with anxiety and depression; substance use, abuse, and addiction; relationship difficulties; past trauma; and the effects of dysfunctional family relationships. If you are struggling in your personal or work relationships, if you are finding it hard to adjust to loss or trauma, or if you are finding it difficult to cope with the demands of everyday life, I can offer help in dealing with today's struggles--and hope for facing future challenges. I will work alongside you as you learn new ways to find success and happiness.
(805) 576-7551 View (805) 576-7551
Photo of Joshua Kimball, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joshua Kimball
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Porter Ranch, CA 91326
Navigating life's hurdles can sometimes seem like an uphill battle, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn. Eventually, it can start to feel difficult to imagine things ever changing. If you find yourself in this place of uncertainty, know that you're not alone. Facing challenges like these doesn't mean you're flawed; it means you're human, and you shouldn't have be alone in this journey.
Navigating life's hurdles can sometimes seem like an uphill battle, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn. Eventually, it can start to feel difficult to imagine things ever changing. If you find yourself in this place of uncertainty, know that you're not alone. Facing challenges like these doesn't mean you're flawed; it means you're human, and you shouldn't have be alone in this journey.
(747) 302-3838 View (747) 302-3838
Photo of Daniel Galimberti - Daniel Galimberti Ph.D., PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniel Galimberti Ph.D.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Porter Ranch, CA 91326
Not accepting new clients
“MY EDUCATION, TRAINING, EXPERIENCE, AND WISDOM TO YOUR SERVICE” Dr. Galimberti has more than 20 years of successful clinical experience working with couples, individuals, children and families surrounding issues of depression, anxiety, PTSD, anger management, domestic violence, relationships, sexual dysfunctions, substance abuse, HDHD, and behavioral problems. Much of my practice focuses on people seeking support in improving self worth, increasing motivation and finding direction in life. My approach is tailored to the unique needs of the individuals and couples I work with.
“MY EDUCATION, TRAINING, EXPERIENCE, AND WISDOM TO YOUR SERVICE” Dr. Galimberti has more than 20 years of successful clinical experience working with couples, individuals, children and families surrounding issues of depression, anxiety, PTSD, anger management, domestic violence, relationships, sexual dysfunctions, substance abuse, HDHD, and behavioral problems. Much of my practice focuses on people seeking support in improving self worth, increasing motivation and finding direction in life. My approach is tailored to the unique needs of the individuals and couples I work with.
(818) 435-3979 View (818) 435-3979
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 91326

90+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in 91326 who prioritize treating:

98% Anxiety
89% Depression
78% Self Esteem
77% Relationship Issues
74% Stress
71% Coping Skills
70% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% Aetna
69% Optum
63% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 91326 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
25% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 91326?

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.