Photo of Farnaz Namin Ph.d., PhD, MA, MS, Psychologist
Farnaz Namin Ph.d.
Psychologist, PhD, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92617  (Online Only)
In addition to counseling, I am able to assist in a variety of ways: Neuropsychological Evaluations for school, work, disability, social security, medical procedure, therapy dog, immigration, workers comp etc.
In addition to counseling, I am able to assist in a variety of ways: Neuropsychological Evaluations for school, work, disability, social security, medical procedure, therapy dog, immigration, workers comp etc.
(949) 259-4800 View (949) 259-4800
Photo of Kathleen 'Kay' Wenger, MA, LPCC, LMFT, Counselor
Kathleen 'Kay' Wenger
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92617
In our work together we will maintain a comfortable, respectful atmosphere while exploring your concerns and tailoring an approach that fits your specific needs. In a world that can divide us, I work with people to focus on the positive attributes in their relationships and to explore forgiveness for the mistakes that are made along the relational journey. I have over 25 years of clinical experience working with couples, individuals and families. I am an educator of Marriage, Family Therapy at Pepperdine University where I have worked for 30 years as their Manager of MA Clinical Training and Professional Development. Call Today
In our work together we will maintain a comfortable, respectful atmosphere while exploring your concerns and tailoring an approach that fits your specific needs. In a world that can divide us, I work with people to focus on the positive attributes in their relationships and to explore forgiveness for the mistakes that are made along the relational journey. I have over 25 years of clinical experience working with couples, individuals and families. I am an educator of Marriage, Family Therapy at Pepperdine University where I have worked for 30 years as their Manager of MA Clinical Training and Professional Development. Call Today
(949) 446-1772 View (949) 446-1772
Photo of Robert Belanger, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robert Belanger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92617  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling to communicate with your significant other or child? Are your best intentions at reaching out leading to frustrating arguments? Do you struggle to find the right words to express your desires and are surprised by how your loved ones react? Or are you feeling growing tension and hoping to prevent any further distancing in your relationship? Are past traumas making you hesitate in being truly open with your most important relationships? If you feel stuck in your relationships and as a result have growing feelings of depression or anxiety, talk therapy with Robert Belanger, LMFT may be what you need.
Are you struggling to communicate with your significant other or child? Are your best intentions at reaching out leading to frustrating arguments? Do you struggle to find the right words to express your desires and are surprised by how your loved ones react? Or are you feeling growing tension and hoping to prevent any further distancing in your relationship? Are past traumas making you hesitate in being truly open with your most important relationships? If you feel stuck in your relationships and as a result have growing feelings of depression or anxiety, talk therapy with Robert Belanger, LMFT may be what you need.
(661) 332-8015 View (661) 332-8015
Photo of Lillian Strom, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lillian Strom
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92617  (Online Only)
Feeling pain, or feeling lonely and sad? Or maybe you feel emptiness. A huge hole of emptiness and you have no idea how to fill it. Life can be hard. Even when we do our very best, sometimes it just doesn't feel like it's enough. We can have feelings of pain, sadness, anxiety and other hard feelings we try to ignore and push away. Maybe you best is never good enough and you're tired of trying. Feelings of abandonment, emotional neglect, failure, bullying and traumas can stay with us throughout our lives until we seek out healing. We can embark on this journey healing together. I'm here to help.
Feeling pain, or feeling lonely and sad? Or maybe you feel emptiness. A huge hole of emptiness and you have no idea how to fill it. Life can be hard. Even when we do our very best, sometimes it just doesn't feel like it's enough. We can have feelings of pain, sadness, anxiety and other hard feelings we try to ignore and push away. Maybe you best is never good enough and you're tired of trying. Feelings of abandonment, emotional neglect, failure, bullying and traumas can stay with us throughout our lives until we seek out healing. We can embark on this journey healing together. I'm here to help.
(714) 409-3544 View (714) 409-3544
Photo of Jaci Schoen - Relationship Focus, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jaci Schoen - Relationship Focus
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92617
Not accepting new clients
If you’ve experienced difficulties in your current relationship you may be torn between fulfillment of your innermost needs and reactivation of your deepest wounds. These rifts may overshadow your ability to feel joy, wellness and hopefulness. We will work together to rebuild and enliven your connection. My calm, empathic demeanor invites you into a confidential, nonjudgmental space where we can discuss your concerns. My goal is to foster a trusting therapy relationship with you as we address these concerns, nourish your healing process, and encourage your ongoing personal growth.
If you’ve experienced difficulties in your current relationship you may be torn between fulfillment of your innermost needs and reactivation of your deepest wounds. These rifts may overshadow your ability to feel joy, wellness and hopefulness. We will work together to rebuild and enliven your connection. My calm, empathic demeanor invites you into a confidential, nonjudgmental space where we can discuss your concerns. My goal is to foster a trusting therapy relationship with you as we address these concerns, nourish your healing process, and encourage your ongoing personal growth.
(714) 202-4742 View (714) 202-4742
Photo of Kirk Michael Andrews, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kirk Michael Andrews
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92617
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who specializes in anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction and bereavement. I work with individuals, couples, families and children. I have been licensed as an LMFT for 29 years. I appreciate how difficult it is to seek help and will treat you with respect, dignity and the highest ethical standards. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, The Pragmatic Experiential Method of couples counseling, and the tracking of non-verbal cues and communication.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who specializes in anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction and bereavement. I work with individuals, couples, families and children. I have been licensed as an LMFT for 29 years. I appreciate how difficult it is to seek help and will treat you with respect, dignity and the highest ethical standards. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, The Pragmatic Experiential Method of couples counseling, and the tracking of non-verbal cues and communication.
(949) 347-5468 View (949) 347-5468
Photo of Robin Ciafone, PhD, Psychologist
Robin Ciafone
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92617  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in Irvine, California. I have over twenty years of experience in the assessment and treatment of adults, adolescents, and children. I provide individual, couple, and family therapy to individuals, couples, and families, struggling with a variety of difficult mental health and life issues. I have expertise treating people who are dealing with mood disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, grief/loss, physical and emotional trauma, life transitions, career issues, excessive stress; and issues related to children, teens, and parenting.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in Irvine, California. I have over twenty years of experience in the assessment and treatment of adults, adolescents, and children. I provide individual, couple, and family therapy to individuals, couples, and families, struggling with a variety of difficult mental health and life issues. I have expertise treating people who are dealing with mood disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, grief/loss, physical and emotional trauma, life transitions, career issues, excessive stress; and issues related to children, teens, and parenting.
(949) 315-7503 View (949) 315-7503
Photo of Noelle Lee, PsyD, QME, Psychologist
Noelle Lee
Psychologist, PsyD, QME
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92617
Dr. Lee is a Licensed Psychologist & has been working in the mental health field for the past 20+ years. She has extensive experience working w/ adolescents, adults, w/ specialization in trauma, depression, (social/) anxiety, autism, life transitions, codependency, self-worth, perfectionism, interpersonal/social skills, leadership skills (EQ), multicultural & family issues. As a highly compassionate & empathic therapist, she is able to provide the space you need to process on a deeper level to cultivate self-awareness so that you can fully understand yourself, experiences, & their implications, w/ development of clarity & insight.
Dr. Lee is a Licensed Psychologist & has been working in the mental health field for the past 20+ years. She has extensive experience working w/ adolescents, adults, w/ specialization in trauma, depression, (social/) anxiety, autism, life transitions, codependency, self-worth, perfectionism, interpersonal/social skills, leadership skills (EQ), multicultural & family issues. As a highly compassionate & empathic therapist, she is able to provide the space you need to process on a deeper level to cultivate self-awareness so that you can fully understand yourself, experiences, & their implications, w/ development of clarity & insight.
(323) 358-2377 View (323) 358-2377
Photo of Oscar Oo - Logical Behavioral Health, PsyD, PhD, ABPP, LMFT, Psychologist
Logical Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD, ABPP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92617
Logical Behavioral Health providers are professionals who understand and prioritize your care above all else. We believe that in certain cases, good care even means providing a referral to someone outside of our office if our providers are not the best fit for your behavioral health care needs. The overall course of treatment will ultimately utilize a collaborative approach in helping you achieve mutually formulated treatment goals to reduce symptoms and improve functioning. If you believe that you need a referral to a psychiatrist or other health care professional, we have the resources to provide you with an appropriate referral.
Logical Behavioral Health providers are professionals who understand and prioritize your care above all else. We believe that in certain cases, good care even means providing a referral to someone outside of our office if our providers are not the best fit for your behavioral health care needs. The overall course of treatment will ultimately utilize a collaborative approach in helping you achieve mutually formulated treatment goals to reduce symptoms and improve functioning. If you believe that you need a referral to a psychiatrist or other health care professional, we have the resources to provide you with an appropriate referral.
(949) 536-8892 View (949) 536-8892
Photo of Lisa Enneis - Lisa Enneis, MA, MFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Enneis, MA, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92617
I have over thirty years of experience working with couples, families, children and teens. If you need help with your special needs child or troubled teen, I'd be happy to talk to you to determine if an evaluation or assessment would benefit you or your family member. I'd love to tell you about the tools I have in my tool chest (neurofeedback, EFT, EMDR.) that could help all your relationships improve, as well as the quality of your relationship with your child. I have the expertise you need; let me collaborate with you to solve your problems.
I have over thirty years of experience working with couples, families, children and teens. If you need help with your special needs child or troubled teen, I'd be happy to talk to you to determine if an evaluation or assessment would benefit you or your family member. I'd love to tell you about the tools I have in my tool chest (neurofeedback, EFT, EMDR.) that could help all your relationships improve, as well as the quality of your relationship with your child. I have the expertise you need; let me collaborate with you to solve your problems.
(714) 489-5935 View (714) 489-5935
Photo of Maria Darcy, PhD, Psychologist
Maria Darcy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92617
Hello, I'm Dr. Maria Darcy, Licensed Psychologist and Certified Sex Therapist. I have recently relocated my practice to Newport Beach and Irvine California. I have worked with individuals and couples in the United States and Europe for the past 15+ years. My therapeutic approach is integrative with a strong emphasis on relational factors. Ultimately I tailor my approach to each individual client and their situation. I incorporate a multicultural understanding into my approach by paying attention to social and cultural factors (e.g., gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation etc.) that impact individuals' experiences and their choices.
Hello, I'm Dr. Maria Darcy, Licensed Psychologist and Certified Sex Therapist. I have recently relocated my practice to Newport Beach and Irvine California. I have worked with individuals and couples in the United States and Europe for the past 15+ years. My therapeutic approach is integrative with a strong emphasis on relational factors. Ultimately I tailor my approach to each individual client and their situation. I incorporate a multicultural understanding into my approach by paying attention to social and cultural factors (e.g., gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation etc.) that impact individuals' experiences and their choices.
(949) 424-8972 View (949) 424-8972
Photo of Ari Shahabaldiny Sex Therapist Emdr, PsyD, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ari Shahabaldiny Sex Therapist Emdr
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92617
I help my clients by empowering them to become in charge of their lives. My role is to illuminate the path to your ideal future. I believe YOU are the expert of your life and YOU are the only one who can create your ideal change. We all go through times when life's challenges seem to get the best of us. Problems in life are inevitable, and strong coping skills are tools we need in overcoming such difficult times. WE will find your path and get you back on track.
I help my clients by empowering them to become in charge of their lives. My role is to illuminate the path to your ideal future. I believe YOU are the expert of your life and YOU are the only one who can create your ideal change. We all go through times when life's challenges seem to get the best of us. Problems in life are inevitable, and strong coping skills are tools we need in overcoming such difficult times. WE will find your path and get you back on track.
(949) 829-4841 View (949) 829-4841
Photo of Renee Garett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee Garett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92617
Have you hit a wall in your life and feel unable to manage your emotions or a current life challenge? Are you looking for TOOLS to help yourself or a loved one cope? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, obsessive thoughts, or family conflict? Are you a parent concerned about your child/teens emotions or behaviors OR are you personally struggling with the weight of parenthood? Are you having difficulty managing a current life transition? Are you a high achieving person struggling to find balance? If any of these questions ring true for you, I can help you.
Have you hit a wall in your life and feel unable to manage your emotions or a current life challenge? Are you looking for TOOLS to help yourself or a loved one cope? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, obsessive thoughts, or family conflict? Are you a parent concerned about your child/teens emotions or behaviors OR are you personally struggling with the weight of parenthood? Are you having difficulty managing a current life transition? Are you a high achieving person struggling to find balance? If any of these questions ring true for you, I can help you.
(424) 447-5800 View (424) 447-5800
Photo of Simon Casey, PhD, LADC, MAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Simon Casey
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, LADC, MAC
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92617
Are you at your Wit's end? If you or someone you love suffering from addictions, self harm, eating disorders, chronic anxiety /depression and looking for clear, concise answers, let's talk. Stop the struggle and suffering and get the help you need. Discover the benefits of solution oriented counseling and receive the much needed tools to finally get out of chaos and self destruction. I have helped thousands of clients to turn their lives around, lets talk about your options to put your life back in balance.
Are you at your Wit's end? If you or someone you love suffering from addictions, self harm, eating disorders, chronic anxiety /depression and looking for clear, concise answers, let's talk. Stop the struggle and suffering and get the help you need. Discover the benefits of solution oriented counseling and receive the much needed tools to finally get out of chaos and self destruction. I have helped thousands of clients to turn their lives around, lets talk about your options to put your life back in balance.
(714) 831-5638 View (714) 831-5638
Photo of Shant Gurjian, LPCC
Shant Gurjian
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92617  (Online Only)
I am licensed in California with ten years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self-esteem, confidence, career difficulties, and coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage.
I am licensed in California with ten years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self-esteem, confidence, career difficulties, and coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage.
(424) 625-0355 View (424) 625-0355
Photo of Madeline Godwin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Madeline Godwin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92617  (Online Only)
I am here to help you embody a way of being that you are nurtured by. Pain and loss are a part of life and my work gives you a space to share and process your story, make meaning in the face of suffering, and move towards healing and growth. We all get stuck, in overwhelming emotions, unwanted behaviors, and destructive patterns in relationships.
I am here to help you embody a way of being that you are nurtured by. Pain and loss are a part of life and my work gives you a space to share and process your story, make meaning in the face of suffering, and move towards healing and growth. We all get stuck, in overwhelming emotions, unwanted behaviors, and destructive patterns in relationships.
(949) 998-3534 View (949) 998-3534
Photo of Mary Stanley, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary Stanley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92617  (Online Only)
Sometimes, I ask questions to help you reach your answers, and, other times, I challenge you and frequently give assignments to help you further work through what’s bothering you. Things I have heard repeatedly from clients is that they appreciate my down-to-earth, empathetic yet sometimes humorous approach. Clients consistently say that they appreciate the way I listen and genuinely care. I’m kinda like a wise teacher, nurturer, wisecracking, and sarcastic all rolled into one. I have also been described as a motivational coach and encouraging cheerleader. Most importantly, I like to think of myself as a fellow traveler.
Sometimes, I ask questions to help you reach your answers, and, other times, I challenge you and frequently give assignments to help you further work through what’s bothering you. Things I have heard repeatedly from clients is that they appreciate my down-to-earth, empathetic yet sometimes humorous approach. Clients consistently say that they appreciate the way I listen and genuinely care. I’m kinda like a wise teacher, nurturer, wisecracking, and sarcastic all rolled into one. I have also been described as a motivational coach and encouraging cheerleader. Most importantly, I like to think of myself as a fellow traveler.
(949) 779-5350 View (949) 779-5350
Photo of Rethel Gill, PsyD, Psychologist
Rethel Gill
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92617  (Online Only)
I am a psychodynamically trained psychologist. I also believe in using an integrated approach when helping someone to understand the how and why of what got them to this point in their life. I have found that an integrative approach to therapy works best. If a client has a non-Western approach to coping with life issues, that can be integrated into the treatment. I adapt my approach to what is best suited for you the client. It is my goal to build a therapeutic relationship with you by creating a safe and healing environment where you feel safe to explore your thoughts, feelings, and emotions.
I am a psychodynamically trained psychologist. I also believe in using an integrated approach when helping someone to understand the how and why of what got them to this point in their life. I have found that an integrative approach to therapy works best. If a client has a non-Western approach to coping with life issues, that can be integrated into the treatment. I adapt my approach to what is best suited for you the client. It is my goal to build a therapeutic relationship with you by creating a safe and healing environment where you feel safe to explore your thoughts, feelings, and emotions.
(415) 358-3023 View (415) 358-3023
Photo of Kate Kowalczik, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Kowalczik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92617
Feeling stuck? There is hope! Even in a life filled with achievements, the impact of past trauma can be a heavy burden. Worry, exhaustion, sadness, or difficulty with relationships might still be getting in the way. Whether you are struggling with childhood trauma or more recent events, I offer a compassionate and supportive environment to help you navigate these challenges.
Feeling stuck? There is hope! Even in a life filled with achievements, the impact of past trauma can be a heavy burden. Worry, exhaustion, sadness, or difficulty with relationships might still be getting in the way. Whether you are struggling with childhood trauma or more recent events, I offer a compassionate and supportive environment to help you navigate these challenges.
(657) 571-6081 View (657) 571-6081
Photo of Michelle Funez Arteaga, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Funez Arteaga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92617  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the field of psychology. I enjoy working with people who are unsure about therapy as well as those experienced and enthusiastic. I specialize in helping you feel comfortable talking about the core issues that might be underlying the reasons for seeking therapy at a no-pressure pace.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the field of psychology. I enjoy working with people who are unsure about therapy as well as those experienced and enthusiastic. I specialize in helping you feel comfortable talking about the core issues that might be underlying the reasons for seeking therapy at a no-pressure pace.
(510) 990-9759 View (510) 990-9759
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See more therapy options for 92617

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 92617

50+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in 92617 who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
76% Stress
71% Life Transitions
67% Other
64% Grief
64% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Aetna
81% Elevance
77% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 92617 see their clients

65% Online Only
35% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

83% Female
17% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 92617?

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.