Photo of Janelle Buchheit, MEd, NCC, CPC, Counselor
Janelle Buchheit
Counselor, MEd, NCC, CPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92145  (Online Only)
We connect to our clients on a deeper level using a unique blend of coaching, soul guidance, and energy healing techniques. Our work is to help you remember who you really are and guide you as you share yourself more fully with the world. Those interested in spirituality, self-awareness, evolution of consciousness and exploring within will likely enjoy and benefit most from our approaches. We specialize in working with empaths, highly sensitive persons and helpers.
We connect to our clients on a deeper level using a unique blend of coaching, soul guidance, and energy healing techniques. Our work is to help you remember who you really are and guide you as you share yourself more fully with the world. Those interested in spirituality, self-awareness, evolution of consciousness and exploring within will likely enjoy and benefit most from our approaches. We specialize in working with empaths, highly sensitive persons and helpers.
Photo of Raymond Peng, PsyD, Psychologist
Raymond Peng
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92145  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome to my page. I am a bilingual and bicultural psychologist with over 15 years of clinical experience. I provide individual and couples therapy to adults and teens. Whether you are feeling stuck or overwhelmed, one of the key factors to predict positive change is the quality of relationship with your therapist. That is my focus.
Hello and welcome to my page. I am a bilingual and bicultural psychologist with over 15 years of clinical experience. I provide individual and couples therapy to adults and teens. Whether you are feeling stuck or overwhelmed, one of the key factors to predict positive change is the quality of relationship with your therapist. That is my focus.
(858) 413-9164 View (858) 413-9164
Photo of Vicki Vander Zwart - Restoration Counseling Team, MS, MFT, SAP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Restoration Counseling Team
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT, SAP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92145
Troy and Vicki Vander Zwart's practice goal is to give you a compassionate, safe, non-judgmental place to express your deepest thoughts and feelings, explore options to resolve the problems you are facing, and support and encourage you as you face them. We believe that a willingness to change and face the hardships in your life will lead toward personal growth and maturity. In therapy, you will gain insight, wisdom, and practical coping skills to face your personal issues with confidence so that you can have a more stable home life, a more rewarding career, or more fulfilling relationships.
Troy and Vicki Vander Zwart's practice goal is to give you a compassionate, safe, non-judgmental place to express your deepest thoughts and feelings, explore options to resolve the problems you are facing, and support and encourage you as you face them. We believe that a willingness to change and face the hardships in your life will lead toward personal growth and maturity. In therapy, you will gain insight, wisdom, and practical coping skills to face your personal issues with confidence so that you can have a more stable home life, a more rewarding career, or more fulfilling relationships.
(858) 367-3917 View (858) 367-3917
Photo of Dr. Mackenzie Clark, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Mackenzie Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92145  (Online Only)
Are you constantly concerned about dating and relationships? Do you find yourself repeating unhealthy patterns despite being self-aware? Are you watching the people around you succeed in life and love and feel like you're falling behind? I help millennial women just like you gain confidence and create authentic, meaningful connections. With my support, you will identify the root of your insecurities, heal underlying traumas, and learn to understand and communicate your emotional needs. You will leave each session with greater clarity and specific tools to address your challenge areas.
Are you constantly concerned about dating and relationships? Do you find yourself repeating unhealthy patterns despite being self-aware? Are you watching the people around you succeed in life and love and feel like you're falling behind? I help millennial women just like you gain confidence and create authentic, meaningful connections. With my support, you will identify the root of your insecurities, heal underlying traumas, and learn to understand and communicate your emotional needs. You will leave each session with greater clarity and specific tools to address your challenge areas.
(619) 344-8378 View (619) 344-8378
Photo of Jamie (Lydia) Shorthill, LMFT, CCTP, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jamie (Lydia) Shorthill
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92145  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of helping clients, I strive to help each person come to a better place of understanding, fulfillment and peace. The quest to understand and conquer trauma, anxiety, mood difficulties, stress and grief in a safe and caring environment is possible. Each plan is tailored to the client and their specific needs and wants to help find relief from symptoms and feel more confident. Connecting through Telehealth and/or Video Therapy to begin the healing process.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of helping clients, I strive to help each person come to a better place of understanding, fulfillment and peace. The quest to understand and conquer trauma, anxiety, mood difficulties, stress and grief in a safe and caring environment is possible. Each plan is tailored to the client and their specific needs and wants to help find relief from symptoms and feel more confident. Connecting through Telehealth and/or Video Therapy to begin the healing process.
(858) 914-2841 View (858) 914-2841
Photo of Dr. Caleb Harris, PsyD, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Caleb Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92145  (Online Only)
I would be unable to pen the right words to satisfy the reservations you may have about seeking therapy when you need it. Only you can do that. There are no magic words that make problems go away, and there certainly aren’t numinous websites or YouTube videos that will do the work for you. Therapy is something very personal and wholly unique to you. It is a journey that can often be deeply fulfilling, yet like anything worth doing in life, it can also be challenging.
I would be unable to pen the right words to satisfy the reservations you may have about seeking therapy when you need it. Only you can do that. There are no magic words that make problems go away, and there certainly aren’t numinous websites or YouTube videos that will do the work for you. Therapy is something very personal and wholly unique to you. It is a journey that can often be deeply fulfilling, yet like anything worth doing in life, it can also be challenging.
(858) 358-5275 View (858) 358-5275
Photo of Michelle Cauley At Cauley Associates, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Cauley At Cauley Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92145  (Online Only)
Taking that first step to contact a therapist can feel overwhelmingly anxiety-inducing. If you are grappling with stress, burnout, or mental exhaustion, you may feel as if you’ve hit a dead end or you can’t see beyond your current struggles. You know that saying, "you can’t see the forest for the trees"? This is the case when you live in your own thoughts. It becomes hard to gain perspective. Discovering, learning and applying practical tools to help you manage your stress and make positive changes in your life is possible.
Taking that first step to contact a therapist can feel overwhelmingly anxiety-inducing. If you are grappling with stress, burnout, or mental exhaustion, you may feel as if you’ve hit a dead end or you can’t see beyond your current struggles. You know that saying, "you can’t see the forest for the trees"? This is the case when you live in your own thoughts. It becomes hard to gain perspective. Discovering, learning and applying practical tools to help you manage your stress and make positive changes in your life is possible.
(323) 570-5986 View (323) 570-5986
Photo of Mylene Eduvala, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mylene Eduvala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92145
Not accepting new clients
Are you tired of feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stressed, and even panicked? I can help you manage those emotions when life hands you difficult challenges. You may be struggling to focus on work, school, or even on the relationships you have with other people because of these feelings. I can help you gain back your control. Your thoughts make you question your abilities and may make you feel like an imposter in your own life. Let me show you how to step back into feeling like your authentic self. You're ready to manage your thoughts and feelings to start living the life that you deserve. I can support you with reaching this goal.
Are you tired of feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stressed, and even panicked? I can help you manage those emotions when life hands you difficult challenges. You may be struggling to focus on work, school, or even on the relationships you have with other people because of these feelings. I can help you gain back your control. Your thoughts make you question your abilities and may make you feel like an imposter in your own life. Let me show you how to step back into feeling like your authentic self. You're ready to manage your thoughts and feelings to start living the life that you deserve. I can support you with reaching this goal.
(858) 358-7588 View (858) 358-7588
Photo of Wendy Mendoza, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Mendoza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92145
As the parent of a struggling tween or teen with ADHD or anxiety, you may find yourself wondering how you can best help them feel better. Whether your teenager is struggling with anxiety, depression, emotion regulation, their grades, or social issues, it's not easy to know how to help them. When you're unsure of how you can help your child, reaching out to a therapist is an important step to getting you and your child the support they need.
As the parent of a struggling tween or teen with ADHD or anxiety, you may find yourself wondering how you can best help them feel better. Whether your teenager is struggling with anxiety, depression, emotion regulation, their grades, or social issues, it's not easy to know how to help them. When you're unsure of how you can help your child, reaching out to a therapist is an important step to getting you and your child the support they need.
(858) 533-2468 View (858) 533-2468
Photo of Kaitlyn Torres, APCC
Kaitlyn Torres
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92145
Every parent has their own hopes and expectations for life with their child. You have probably imagined a life full of fun-filled memories. However, when unexpected anxiety or ADHD becomes a part of your family dynamic, you might be left feeling overwhelmed and confused on how to connect with and support your child.
Every parent has their own hopes and expectations for life with their child. You have probably imagined a life full of fun-filled memories. However, when unexpected anxiety or ADHD becomes a part of your family dynamic, you might be left feeling overwhelmed and confused on how to connect with and support your child.
(858) 477-3324 View (858) 477-3324
Photo of Alex Santana, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alex Santana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92145
Accepting the responsibility to change is a difficult task but once you take the initiative, it is highly rewarding. Sometimes we need to take a step back to reflect on a new way to approach situations when "our way" seems to be getting in our way. These are common responses to trauma, depression, and many other conditions that we can't always think our way out of, despite our best efforts.
Accepting the responsibility to change is a difficult task but once you take the initiative, it is highly rewarding. Sometimes we need to take a step back to reflect on a new way to approach situations when "our way" seems to be getting in our way. These are common responses to trauma, depression, and many other conditions that we can't always think our way out of, despite our best efforts.
(619) 759-5847 View (619) 759-5847
Photo of Sharon M. Kim, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sharon M. Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92145  (Online Only)
Sometimes we feel stuck and need understanding into our own feelings, thoughts and behaviors. We may wonder if there is a way to face difficulties in our lives that allow for change and growth. We are all conditioned through our familial, cultural and societal systems. By examining the intersections of our identities, we can look closer at how early experiences have shaped us. Through self-reflection, we may be able to begin to unlock patterns and increase our awareness around areas where we struggle.
Sometimes we feel stuck and need understanding into our own feelings, thoughts and behaviors. We may wonder if there is a way to face difficulties in our lives that allow for change and growth. We are all conditioned through our familial, cultural and societal systems. By examining the intersections of our identities, we can look closer at how early experiences have shaped us. Through self-reflection, we may be able to begin to unlock patterns and increase our awareness around areas where we struggle.
(415) 360-8430 View (415) 360-8430
Photo of Lauren Kathleen Rogers, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren Kathleen Rogers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92145
Life can present many challenges. Most of the time, we can successfully handle the trials and tribulations of daily living; occasionally we get overwhelmed. To help cope and feel better, we consult a professional who sorts and sheds light on the elements that caused these challenges. In the process, we will talk about how you feel and understand why you feel the way you do. Most importantly, we learn to successfully handle the initiating emotional triggers in a way that helps you. In the therapy room I am a therapist that believes that you are the expert in your life and I will facilitate your work in order to reach your goals.
Life can present many challenges. Most of the time, we can successfully handle the trials and tribulations of daily living; occasionally we get overwhelmed. To help cope and feel better, we consult a professional who sorts and sheds light on the elements that caused these challenges. In the process, we will talk about how you feel and understand why you feel the way you do. Most importantly, we learn to successfully handle the initiating emotional triggers in a way that helps you. In the therapy room I am a therapist that believes that you are the expert in your life and I will facilitate your work in order to reach your goals.
(818) 862-8835 View (818) 862-8835
Photo of Nicholas Watkins, CA LMFT, WI LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicholas Watkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, CA LMFT, WI LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92145  (Online Only)
As a member of Joelle Rabow Maletis & Associates Nick specialize in PTSD, addictions, & life transitions. Nick work with clients struggling with hardships such self-harm & various forms of trauma. Nick also help military personnel & first responders with PTSD, with PTSD, trauma, stress, anxiety, vicarious trauma, and the transition back to civilian life using his own experience as a veteran who served 10 years enlisted in the Air Force and 1 deployment in a combat zone.
As a member of Joelle Rabow Maletis & Associates Nick specialize in PTSD, addictions, & life transitions. Nick work with clients struggling with hardships such self-harm & various forms of trauma. Nick also help military personnel & first responders with PTSD, with PTSD, trauma, stress, anxiety, vicarious trauma, and the transition back to civilian life using his own experience as a veteran who served 10 years enlisted in the Air Force and 1 deployment in a combat zone.
(650) 535-8351 View (650) 535-8351
Photo of Truvette M Hollinquest, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Truvette M Hollinquest
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92145  (Online Only)
I think that asking for support is pretty courageous and maybe even a little scary. Trusting that someone can be objective and supportive is hard for anyone, but this can be especially hard when something about your life experiences has made it difficult to trust (even) yourself. Maybe you struggle with making decisions. Maybe past or present trauma has left you feeling depressed or anxious or both. Or maybe you don’t know why you feel the way you feel or what causes you to do the things you do. I understand, from a very deep and personal way, what it’s like to feel like you are not the best version of yourself.
I think that asking for support is pretty courageous and maybe even a little scary. Trusting that someone can be objective and supportive is hard for anyone, but this can be especially hard when something about your life experiences has made it difficult to trust (even) yourself. Maybe you struggle with making decisions. Maybe past or present trauma has left you feeling depressed or anxious or both. Or maybe you don’t know why you feel the way you feel or what causes you to do the things you do. I understand, from a very deep and personal way, what it’s like to feel like you are not the best version of yourself.
(559) 234-3053 View (559) 234-3053
Photo of Dr. Laura Castro, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Laura Castro
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92145
LGBTQIA+ and Gender Affirmative Therapy for adolescents, adults, and their families. Are you struggling with identity- or relationship-related problems? Do you feel stuck or long to overcome trauma, anxiety, & depression? Whether it's dealing with patterns of unhealthy or unsatisfying relationships, societal injustices (transphobia, homophobia, racism, discrimination, and more), or the effects of violence, trauma, or familial rejection, your feelings are valid, and you're not alone. Together, we can work towards healing and building the life you desire in an affirming and supportive environment.
LGBTQIA+ and Gender Affirmative Therapy for adolescents, adults, and their families. Are you struggling with identity- or relationship-related problems? Do you feel stuck or long to overcome trauma, anxiety, & depression? Whether it's dealing with patterns of unhealthy or unsatisfying relationships, societal injustices (transphobia, homophobia, racism, discrimination, and more), or the effects of violence, trauma, or familial rejection, your feelings are valid, and you're not alone. Together, we can work towards healing and building the life you desire in an affirming and supportive environment.
(858) 251-6371 View (858) 251-6371
Photo of Amber Ford, EdD, LCSW, NBC-HWC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Ford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92145  (Online Only)
We all need support throughout our lives, and you may be looking for an additional resource in your life to help you process lived experiences, problem-solve, or understand yourself in a deeper way. You may be struggling with anxiety, the challenges of caregiving, work stress and burnout, relationship challenges, or working through grief, loss, or bereavement. Life transitions may bring about new stressors which require new and different coping skills. You want to feel grounded again and regain clarity of purpose in your personal and/or professional lives. You are ready to explore what is possible and are looking for collaboration.
We all need support throughout our lives, and you may be looking for an additional resource in your life to help you process lived experiences, problem-solve, or understand yourself in a deeper way. You may be struggling with anxiety, the challenges of caregiving, work stress and burnout, relationship challenges, or working through grief, loss, or bereavement. Life transitions may bring about new stressors which require new and different coping skills. You want to feel grounded again and regain clarity of purpose in your personal and/or professional lives. You are ready to explore what is possible and are looking for collaboration.
(310) 564-0508 View (310) 564-0508
Photo of Dr. Carlos Alarid, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Carlos Alarid
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92145
I work with individuals who have experienced traumatic events which they may need help overcoming. During my postdoctoral fellowship, I treated active military diagnosed with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse by conducting both individual and group therapy. Working with active military, I learned how to gain the individual's trust and confidence to let me into their lives, providing a nonjudgmental space to process life's events. My research has concentrated on men's issues. My doctoral dissertation focused on professional boxers and how they adjusted to retirement once the fame and fortune was gone.
I work with individuals who have experienced traumatic events which they may need help overcoming. During my postdoctoral fellowship, I treated active military diagnosed with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse by conducting both individual and group therapy. Working with active military, I learned how to gain the individual's trust and confidence to let me into their lives, providing a nonjudgmental space to process life's events. My research has concentrated on men's issues. My doctoral dissertation focused on professional boxers and how they adjusted to retirement once the fame and fortune was gone.
(323) 615-2780 View (323) 615-2780
Photo of Josho R Malfavon, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Josho R Malfavon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92145  (Online Only)
Life will consistently throw challenges at you. Most of them you get through on your own or with the help of your support system. Sometimes, challenges can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate. The good thing is you’re not alone. I am here as a companion on your journey to explore and resolve those sticky challenges. The journey can be painful and arduous. The choices on your journey are yours to make, but I will help you find clarity in uncertainty. I’m ready to start your journey when you are.
Life will consistently throw challenges at you. Most of them you get through on your own or with the help of your support system. Sometimes, challenges can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate. The good thing is you’re not alone. I am here as a companion on your journey to explore and resolve those sticky challenges. The journey can be painful and arduous. The choices on your journey are yours to make, but I will help you find clarity in uncertainty. I’m ready to start your journey when you are.
(858) 345-4071 View (858) 345-4071
Photo of Allyson Byers - Couples And Relationship Therapist, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Allyson Byers - Couples And Relationship Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92145  (Online Only)
I work with couples and those in platonic relationships in all different stages—maybe you and your partner(s) want a dedicated space and time to connect and focus on your relationship or would like to work through challenges and issues as they arise or you’re going through a major life transition (like a new health diagnosis or moving in together) and need some additional support. Maybe you’re interested in opening up your relationship and want to explore ethical nonmonogamy or polyamory. Or you and your best friend had some recent ruptures you’d like to try and repair with the help of someone else. That’s where I come in.
I work with couples and those in platonic relationships in all different stages—maybe you and your partner(s) want a dedicated space and time to connect and focus on your relationship or would like to work through challenges and issues as they arise or you’re going through a major life transition (like a new health diagnosis or moving in together) and need some additional support. Maybe you’re interested in opening up your relationship and want to explore ethical nonmonogamy or polyamory. Or you and your best friend had some recent ruptures you’d like to try and repair with the help of someone else. That’s where I come in.
(323) 643-6104 View (323) 643-6104
1

See more therapy options for 92145

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 92145

20+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in 92145 who prioritize treating:

88% Anxiety
88% Self Esteem
81% Stress
73% Relationship Issues
73% Depression
69% Coping Skills
65% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

64% Aetna
50% Cigna and Evernorth
43% TRICARE

How Therapists in 92145 see their clients

65% Online Only
35% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

74% Female
26% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 92145?

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.