Photo of Heidi Xue, AMFT, APPC, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Heidi Xue
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Do you have trouble with anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues due to trauma? Past experiences can create imprints onto your brain that activate your fight/flight responses whenever your emotions feel dysregulated, but life without the constant feeling of being on edge is possible. Those traumatic memories don’t have to permanently influence who you are meant to be. Through therapy, you will gain control of your feelings/thoughts and your response to everyday life hurdles. Healing from trauma can create healthier beliefs about yourself and your relationships along with sustainable changes.
Do you have trouble with anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues due to trauma? Past experiences can create imprints onto your brain that activate your fight/flight responses whenever your emotions feel dysregulated, but life without the constant feeling of being on edge is possible. Those traumatic memories don’t have to permanently influence who you are meant to be. Through therapy, you will gain control of your feelings/thoughts and your response to everyday life hurdles. Healing from trauma can create healthier beliefs about yourself and your relationships along with sustainable changes.
(949) 649-0712 View (949) 649-0712
Photo of Julia Martinez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julia Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Process the past so you can have room to bloom. " Life is full of transition, which can be challenging but with the support of a compassionate therapist, I believe that you can find your own unique strengths to overcome obstacles to achieve your goals. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and a registered art therapist who uses systems/solutions focused approach to guide you through unique, tailored interventions to build insight into problematic patterns and explore solutions to build self-awareness, improve communication and make progress through life's transitions.
Process the past so you can have room to bloom. " Life is full of transition, which can be challenging but with the support of a compassionate therapist, I believe that you can find your own unique strengths to overcome obstacles to achieve your goals. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and a registered art therapist who uses systems/solutions focused approach to guide you through unique, tailored interventions to build insight into problematic patterns and explore solutions to build self-awareness, improve communication and make progress through life's transitions.
(949) 881-6335 View (949) 881-6335
Photo of Cynthia Florido, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia Florido
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Cynthia Florido is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who has been practicing since 2014. She graduated from the University of Southern California with a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Cynthia believes in tailoring her treatment approach to the needs of the specific client. She is a bilingual therapist who is fluent in both English and Spanish and enjoys being able to provide therapy in the language her clients feel most comfortable in. Her main areas of focus include anxiety disorders and depressive disorders. In her spare time, Cynthia enjoys music, traveling, and spending time with her loved ones.
Cynthia Florido is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who has been practicing since 2014. She graduated from the University of Southern California with a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Cynthia believes in tailoring her treatment approach to the needs of the specific client. She is a bilingual therapist who is fluent in both English and Spanish and enjoys being able to provide therapy in the language her clients feel most comfortable in. Her main areas of focus include anxiety disorders and depressive disorders. In her spare time, Cynthia enjoys music, traveling, and spending time with her loved ones.
(949) 669-7719 View (949) 669-7719
Photo of Tara Etemad-Haary, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Tara Etemad-Haary
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92604
Not accepting new clients
As incredible humans, everyone has found ways to adapt to situations that have brought shame, anger, sadness, and grief. Some cope to find relief in experiences that are unsafe, uncontrollable, or traumatic, but these adaptations have stopped serving them. When adaptations are no longer self-serving, some can experience a loud inner critic, low self-esteem, and a disconnection from themselves and others.
As incredible humans, everyone has found ways to adapt to situations that have brought shame, anger, sadness, and grief. Some cope to find relief in experiences that are unsafe, uncontrollable, or traumatic, but these adaptations have stopped serving them. When adaptations are no longer self-serving, some can experience a loud inner critic, low self-esteem, and a disconnection from themselves and others.
(714) 709-2920 View (714) 709-2920
Photo of Laurel Salmon, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Laurel Salmon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma can be hard to navigate on one’s own. Through the use of integrative modalities, my goal is to help you find your way so that you can manage symptoms, feel your best, discover who you truly are, and move forward in the direction of your dreams whereby your past no longer holds you back. Using warmth and compassion, I also aim to provide trauma-informed care to discuss your struggles without judgment and safely process unresolved trauma and feelings.
Experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma can be hard to navigate on one’s own. Through the use of integrative modalities, my goal is to help you find your way so that you can manage symptoms, feel your best, discover who you truly are, and move forward in the direction of your dreams whereby your past no longer holds you back. Using warmth and compassion, I also aim to provide trauma-informed care to discuss your struggles without judgment and safely process unresolved trauma and feelings.
(949) 806-4382 View (949) 806-4382
Photo of Sterling Walker, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sterling Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
(949) 867-6448 View (949) 867-6448
Photo of Melanie Maddox, ASW, EMDR
Melanie Maddox
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
(949) 674-3699 View (949) 674-3699
Photo of Bijan Amirshahi, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bijan Amirshahi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604  (Online Only)
My practice emphasizes on helping clients resolve immediate situations, while healing from difficult life experiences and developing strong personal and intimate relationships. I believe successful relationships are the key to having a healthy and rewarding life. The process of psychotherapy can strengthen one's sense of confidence, self-acceptance, and responsibility in daily life. It can also lead to a greater capacity for intimacy, to a more productive use of innate skills, and to experiencing more meaning and pleasure in life.
My practice emphasizes on helping clients resolve immediate situations, while healing from difficult life experiences and developing strong personal and intimate relationships. I believe successful relationships are the key to having a healthy and rewarding life. The process of psychotherapy can strengthen one's sense of confidence, self-acceptance, and responsibility in daily life. It can also lead to a greater capacity for intimacy, to a more productive use of innate skills, and to experiencing more meaning and pleasure in life.
(949) 533-3177 View (949) 533-3177
Photo of Brittney Green, LMFT, EMDR, IFS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brittney Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, IFS
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
(949) 749-3155 View (949) 749-3155
Photo of Ann Anderson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ann Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
(949) 694-2972 View (949) 694-2972
Photo of Amirnaz (Ami) Novid, LMFT, CHT, CSMC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amirnaz (Ami) Novid
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CHT, CSMC
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
I use an integrative approach to therapy which refers to the infusion of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects within a person, as well as the combination of various theories and intervention strategies to better address the person's individuality. Integrative counseling aims to promote healing and facilitates wholeness - ensuring that all levels of a person's being and functioning are maximized to their full potential.
I use an integrative approach to therapy which refers to the infusion of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects within a person, as well as the combination of various theories and intervention strategies to better address the person's individuality. Integrative counseling aims to promote healing and facilitates wholeness - ensuring that all levels of a person's being and functioning are maximized to their full potential.
(949) 544-1604 View (949) 544-1604
Photo of Ray Weaver - Chiron, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chiron
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92604
At Chiron, It is our privilege to journey with you in the exploration, processing, and healing of your emotional and mental health needs, and to instill hope for the trajectory of your life's path. We offer licensed mental health providers who help individuals, families, couples, and kids resolve daily life stressors. We work closely with your doctor to address both your emotional needs and physical health issues that could be impacting your overall mental health and well-being. When indicated, our psychiatry services are helpful in addressing more specifically ongoing issues that might benefit from medication management.
At Chiron, It is our privilege to journey with you in the exploration, processing, and healing of your emotional and mental health needs, and to instill hope for the trajectory of your life's path. We offer licensed mental health providers who help individuals, families, couples, and kids resolve daily life stressors. We work closely with your doctor to address both your emotional needs and physical health issues that could be impacting your overall mental health and well-being. When indicated, our psychiatry services are helpful in addressing more specifically ongoing issues that might benefit from medication management.
(714) 406-0612 View (714) 406-0612
Photo of Nicole Moriarty - Nicole Moriarty: Trauma Resolution Therapy, MS, LPCC
Nicole Moriarty: Trauma Resolution Therapy
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
There is a solution. There is hope. And there is healing. Anxiety, depression, disordered eating, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, disruption in relationships, substance abuse, and on and on. These are curable, changeable, healable issues. When you go straight to the root of the issue, you can bring deep, lasting change. And we now know that the root of every mental health disorder (and many physical diseases as well) is some form of unresolved trauma. Trauma refers to any moment in our lives that we were unsafe in some way. Big or small, single events or years-long patterns-if we aren't able to process it, we store it.
There is a solution. There is hope. And there is healing. Anxiety, depression, disordered eating, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, disruption in relationships, substance abuse, and on and on. These are curable, changeable, healable issues. When you go straight to the root of the issue, you can bring deep, lasting change. And we now know that the root of every mental health disorder (and many physical diseases as well) is some form of unresolved trauma. Trauma refers to any moment in our lives that we were unsafe in some way. Big or small, single events or years-long patterns-if we aren't able to process it, we store it.
(949) 534-0813 View (949) 534-0813
Photo of Katherine Ko, PhD, Psychologist
Katherine Ko
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Ko is an interactive, solution-focused psychologist. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. She integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. With compassion and understanding, she works with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are commit
Dr. Ko is an interactive, solution-focused psychologist. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. She integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. With compassion and understanding, she works with each individual to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are commit
(949) 342-5914 View (949) 342-5914
Photo of Allyson Bushnell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allyson Bushnell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Allyson Bushnell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2014. She has a Master of Social Work. Allyson uses a strengths-based approach and strives to offer clients a safe, nonjudgmental environment. She is certified as an EMDR-trained therapist and specializes in working with adolescents, self-harm, suicidal behavior, and complex trauma. Allyson is skilled in conducting crisis/risk assessments, with extensive experience working in inpatient psychiatric treatment. Outside of work, Allyson loves live music, travel, and comedy shows.
Allyson Bushnell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2014. She has a Master of Social Work. Allyson uses a strengths-based approach and strives to offer clients a safe, nonjudgmental environment. She is certified as an EMDR-trained therapist and specializes in working with adolescents, self-harm, suicidal behavior, and complex trauma. Allyson is skilled in conducting crisis/risk assessments, with extensive experience working in inpatient psychiatric treatment. Outside of work, Allyson loves live music, travel, and comedy shows.
(949) 503-8776 View (949) 503-8776
Photo of Debbie Hutchinson, PsyD, LMFT, CCATP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debbie Hutchinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CCATP
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Depression is a monster. In the majority of cases, anxiety co-exists with depression making it even more debilitating for the individual. While there may be similarities in stories, each person's experience is very unique. That is why it is critical to work with the uniqueness of each person's experience to create the desired outcome of having joy and peace again in life. I've worked with people from a variety of employment settings who initially found it difficult to come to therapy but were so thankful that they did. I've seen lives completely turn around. Positive Change can occur. NEVER give up! Invest in yourself!
Depression is a monster. In the majority of cases, anxiety co-exists with depression making it even more debilitating for the individual. While there may be similarities in stories, each person's experience is very unique. That is why it is critical to work with the uniqueness of each person's experience to create the desired outcome of having joy and peace again in life. I've worked with people from a variety of employment settings who initially found it difficult to come to therapy but were so thankful that they did. I've seen lives completely turn around. Positive Change can occur. NEVER give up! Invest in yourself!
(949) 430-6664 View (949) 430-6664
Photo of Amy Tierney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Tierney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92604  (Online Only)
Amy Tierney is a Licensed Psychotherapist who specializes in the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, trauma/PTSD, binge eating (compulsive overeating) and life transitions. Having worked in several Level 1 trauma centers throughout Southern California, Amy also specializes in working with physicians, nurses, and ancillary healthcare professionals experiencing compassion fatigue and vicarious traumatization.
Amy Tierney is a Licensed Psychotherapist who specializes in the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, trauma/PTSD, binge eating (compulsive overeating) and life transitions. Having worked in several Level 1 trauma centers throughout Southern California, Amy also specializes in working with physicians, nurses, and ancillary healthcare professionals experiencing compassion fatigue and vicarious traumatization.
(424) 233-1622 View (424) 233-1622
Photo of Liana Huang, ASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liana Huang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ASW
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
(949) 220-1191 View (949) 220-1191
Photo of Kathlynn Gates, ASW
Kathlynn Gates
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
(949) 991-6406 View (949) 991-6406
Photo of Cynthia Peikoff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Peikoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92604
Can heartbreak be cured? If so, how long will it take? Must it hurt so much? Is therapy going to help? Sadly, a broken heart cannot be cured; as with the loss of any beloved, grieving is unavoidable. But yes, a therapist helps by journeying alongside you, listening, offering comfort and wisdom gained from years of helping others regain their footing and with time, trust in love again. Why not you?
Can heartbreak be cured? If so, how long will it take? Must it hurt so much? Is therapy going to help? Sadly, a broken heart cannot be cured; as with the loss of any beloved, grieving is unavoidable. But yes, a therapist helps by journeying alongside you, listening, offering comfort and wisdom gained from years of helping others regain their footing and with time, trust in love again. Why not you?
(949) 312-5716 View (949) 312-5716

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 92604

100+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in 92604 who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
93% Anxiety
87% Relationship Issues
79% Trauma and PTSD
74% Self Esteem
73% Grief
66% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

67% Cigna and Evernorth
62% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
60% Optum

How Therapists in 92604 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
14% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 92604?

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.