Therapists in Brisbane, CA
![Photo of Diana Halfmann, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d546e779-acd6-43d6-8f86-e77939d23cfe/1/320x400.jpeg)
I’m certified in Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for adults from Integrative Psychiatry Institute. I have also throughly enjoyed working with children, teens, & families for 19+ yrs. I listen with the intent of thoroughly understanding your concerns, unhealthy patterns, what is keeping you stuck, as well as your vision for what you want more of in life. I get that as a parent, it’s hard to watch your child struggle with emotional dysregulation & show signs of low self-esteem. We’ll work collaboratively to come up with more interventions & behavioral plans to help your child develop and deepen their skills.
I’m certified in Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for adults from Integrative Psychiatry Institute. I have also throughly enjoyed working with children, teens, & families for 19+ yrs. I listen with the intent of thoroughly understanding your concerns, unhealthy patterns, what is keeping you stuck, as well as your vision for what you want more of in life. I get that as a parent, it’s hard to watch your child struggle with emotional dysregulation & show signs of low self-esteem. We’ll work collaboratively to come up with more interventions & behavioral plans to help your child develop and deepen their skills.
![Photo of Bonnie Cardell - Bonnie Cardell Marriage and Family Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad02a68b-76a2-48ab-8671-702ac652732d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bonnie Cardell Marriage and Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brisbane, CA 94005
Not accepting new clients
Psychotherapist and Advanced LENS Neurofeedback provider specializing in adolescents and adults with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Low Self-Esteem, LGBTQIA+. *Currently not accepting new psychotherapy clients and have a waitlist for new Neurofeedback/combined therapy clients. https://www.soundmindneurofeedback.com/
Psychotherapist and Advanced LENS Neurofeedback provider specializing in adolescents and adults with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Low Self-Esteem, LGBTQIA+. *Currently not accepting new psychotherapy clients and have a waitlist for new Neurofeedback/combined therapy clients. https://www.soundmindneurofeedback.com/
![Photo of Paul Oglesby, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/483ccec6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are a parent who is feeling overwhelmed by the needs of a struggling child, confused and frustrated by family discord or at a loss as to how to communicate with your loved ones, I can help you restore the balance, calm and cooperation that have gone missing in your home. I have more than 20 years’ experience working with children and families who are grappling with problems such as divorce, adoption, major transitions, defiant behavior, ADHD, gender/sex/identity issues, grief/loss, learning challenges, drug and alcohol use/abuse, and more.
If you are a parent who is feeling overwhelmed by the needs of a struggling child, confused and frustrated by family discord or at a loss as to how to communicate with your loved ones, I can help you restore the balance, calm and cooperation that have gone missing in your home. I have more than 20 years’ experience working with children and families who are grappling with problems such as divorce, adoption, major transitions, defiant behavior, ADHD, gender/sex/identity issues, grief/loss, learning challenges, drug and alcohol use/abuse, and more.
![Photo of Araceli Cordova, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5214c1fc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Araceli Cordova
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brisbane, CA 94005 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a bilingual, first generation Mexican American therapist and Bay Area native, I am passionate about promoting exploration and connection to self identity, healthy relationships, and a growth mindset in times of transition. I work with children and families, particularly I specialize in providing a supportive and nonjudgmental space for teens struggling with the chaos of adolescence and becoming a young adult in this generation. I am here to process these anxious feelings and help teens develop the skills to better recognize, understand, and tolerate their feelings, so they can learn to “grow through what they go through”.
As a bilingual, first generation Mexican American therapist and Bay Area native, I am passionate about promoting exploration and connection to self identity, healthy relationships, and a growth mindset in times of transition. I work with children and families, particularly I specialize in providing a supportive and nonjudgmental space for teens struggling with the chaos of adolescence and becoming a young adult in this generation. I am here to process these anxious feelings and help teens develop the skills to better recognize, understand, and tolerate their feelings, so they can learn to “grow through what they go through”.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Anthony Navarro, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc328dd2-893b-4df4-aed3-5564db173eac/1/320x400.png)
My name is Anthony Navarro and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Los Angeles, California, and working with clients throughout southern California via telehealth services. I work with adults and adolescents while specializing in depression, anxiety, stress, and anger management while using Solution Focus and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients reach their mental health goals.
My name is Anthony Navarro and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Los Angeles, California, and working with clients throughout southern California via telehealth services. I work with adults and adolescents while specializing in depression, anxiety, stress, and anger management while using Solution Focus and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients reach their mental health goals.
![Photo of Ronald Perales, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/979f014c-e30e-4b18-8ade-3b8486ddb269/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Ron Perales, and I became a therapist because, as a child, I was profoundly helped by a therapist. I found new ways of seeing my problems and rediscovered hope. My life changed, and I experienced wellness while regaining hope in hopeless situations. I will help you get through these difficult times in a safe, supported, and nonjudgmental way.
Hi, I'm Ron Perales, and I became a therapist because, as a child, I was profoundly helped by a therapist. I found new ways of seeing my problems and rediscovered hope. My life changed, and I experienced wellness while regaining hope in hopeless situations. I will help you get through these difficult times in a safe, supported, and nonjudgmental way.
![Photo of Nicole Leonard, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52d2502d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a CBT therapist who has been licensed since 2017. I have worked in the field of Psychology since 1992 and have extensive experience working with children, adults and families. I am most interested in working with children, parents, and families but I also work with individual adults.
I am a CBT therapist who has been licensed since 2017. I have worked in the field of Psychology since 1992 and have extensive experience working with children, adults and families. I am most interested in working with children, parents, and families but I also work with individual adults.
![Photo of Lea Reyes | Relationships, LMFT, LPC, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe08257c-0bc9-4004-b410-4e44c33dfabc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lea Reyes | Relationships
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080 (Online Only)
Struggles in your relationship can be overwhelming and confusing where you're constantly arguing over small things and feel a growing distance as a couple. "How did things get to this point and how do I fix it?" I want you to know that I understand because I have been in your shoes. I know the pain and frustration that comes with feeling disconnected in a relationship
Struggles in your relationship can be overwhelming and confusing where you're constantly arguing over small things and feel a growing distance as a couple. "How did things get to this point and how do I fix it?" I want you to know that I understand because I have been in your shoes. I know the pain and frustration that comes with feeling disconnected in a relationship
![Photo of Rachel Ongpin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05878f25-c285-43ec-adf7-e096410b20fe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Ongpin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080 (Online Only)
Are you looking for ways to get unstuck? We all experience different stressors in life that may impact our everyday lives and we all could use some support to get through these situations. I provide individual therapy that is focused on empathy and collaboration, and have an approach that will challenge while also support you. Healing looks different for everyone and I would like to help give you the tools and insight to make positive changes in your life. My primary focus is working with adults.
Are you looking for ways to get unstuck? We all experience different stressors in life that may impact our everyday lives and we all could use some support to get through these situations. I provide individual therapy that is focused on empathy and collaboration, and have an approach that will challenge while also support you. Healing looks different for everyone and I would like to help give you the tools and insight to make positive changes in your life. My primary focus is working with adults.
![Photo of Danielle Daviscourt, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db34b2d6-22c3-4a61-9ff9-5d4f2364b678/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Daviscourt
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South San Francisco, CA 94083 (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Danielle, a psychodynamic depth therapist and alum of Pacifica Graduate Institute. As a registered associate MFT, and PCC, Reiki Master, and Coach, I work remotely with clients across California to offer a holistic and integrative approach to therapy, focusing on the physical, spiritual, social, energetic, and psychological aspects of self. My passion for Jungian works, dreams, spirituality, rites of passage, and initiations enriches our work, assisting with transformative healing experiences. Together, we can navigate the ups and downs, finding inspiration in every season of life.
Welcome! I'm Danielle, a psychodynamic depth therapist and alum of Pacifica Graduate Institute. As a registered associate MFT, and PCC, Reiki Master, and Coach, I work remotely with clients across California to offer a holistic and integrative approach to therapy, focusing on the physical, spiritual, social, energetic, and psychological aspects of self. My passion for Jungian works, dreams, spirituality, rites of passage, and initiations enriches our work, assisting with transformative healing experiences. Together, we can navigate the ups and downs, finding inspiration in every season of life.
![Photo of Maria Del Rio, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5122523b-0808-46f3-aa16-6ff1ec41a904/1/320x400.png)
I am a first-generation Mexican-American bilingual clinician with a love for culture and food. I enjoy working with families, youth, and adults navigating through life challenges that include grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, generational relational trauma, and life stress.
I am a first-generation Mexican-American bilingual clinician with a love for culture and food. I enjoy working with families, youth, and adults navigating through life challenges that include grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, generational relational trauma, and life stress.
![Photo of Alexander Gilburd, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa03e201-33a2-4f54-ac10-93704e527b7b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alexander Gilburd
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080 (Online Only)
I believe in people’s innate ability to persevere and evolve through their struggles. Everyone has an innate potential to achieve their goals if given the proper nourishment and environment. As a therapist, I strive to provide that environment. I help patients find their path towards their own peace of mind. I foster a trusting and caring relationship with my patients, focusing on the unique and fascinating experiences that every individual brings to the table.
I believe in people’s innate ability to persevere and evolve through their struggles. Everyone has an innate potential to achieve their goals if given the proper nourishment and environment. As a therapist, I strive to provide that environment. I help patients find their path towards their own peace of mind. I foster a trusting and caring relationship with my patients, focusing on the unique and fascinating experiences that every individual brings to the table.
![Photo of Rana Moradhasel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10882340-c4c6-413d-b0c1-5f999aa1d369/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is Rana Moradhasel. I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist in CA. I have a collaborative non-judgmental approach to therapy. My main focus is to help clients identify thought patterns that are impacting their quality of life and work towards a solution. I am a client-centered therapist with training in CBT and DBT. I utilize existential, spiritual, and solution-focused tools. I treat anxiety, depression, cognitive distortions (negative thought patterns), mood disorders, grief, and adjustment disorders.
Hello! My name is Rana Moradhasel. I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist in CA. I have a collaborative non-judgmental approach to therapy. My main focus is to help clients identify thought patterns that are impacting their quality of life and work towards a solution. I am a client-centered therapist with training in CBT and DBT. I utilize existential, spiritual, and solution-focused tools. I treat anxiety, depression, cognitive distortions (negative thought patterns), mood disorders, grief, and adjustment disorders.
![Photo of Josie Koger, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/968be294-24d1-4ff2-8d1a-588c1b2b50e8/1/320x400.png)
Hi there, my name is Josephine Koger and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Ventura, California, and working statewide via telehealth. I work with adults, adolescents, and couples from diverse socio-economic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds with a variety of presenting problems, ranging from anxiety, depression, grief and loss, psychological trauma, relationship difficulties, and phase of life issues. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Mindfulness.
Hi there, my name is Josephine Koger and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Ventura, California, and working statewide via telehealth. I work with adults, adolescents, and couples from diverse socio-economic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds with a variety of presenting problems, ranging from anxiety, depression, grief and loss, psychological trauma, relationship difficulties, and phase of life issues. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Mindfulness.
![Photo of Maria Garcia-Alcazar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/081ec6cb-0738-4bb9-9141-3e2043b0fe65/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Garcia-Alcazar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080 (Online Only)
As a therapist, I bring compassion, empathy, and a safe space to explore stress and difficult life events. My approach to therapy is that everyone has a meaningful story that deserves to be heard. I believe everyone deserves a space of non-judgment in their most vulnerable times to make meaning of life’s struggles. Everyone goes through pain but perseverance and finding purpose brings healing. My job is to help facilitate this growth in a way that is client-driven and motivated.
As a therapist, I bring compassion, empathy, and a safe space to explore stress and difficult life events. My approach to therapy is that everyone has a meaningful story that deserves to be heard. I believe everyone deserves a space of non-judgment in their most vulnerable times to make meaning of life’s struggles. Everyone goes through pain but perseverance and finding purpose brings healing. My job is to help facilitate this growth in a way that is client-driven and motivated.
![Photo of Niroshika De Silva - Center for Rising Minds, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/271a2142-3a48-4db4-b5a9-8c5010a6c31a/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Center for Rising Minds was founded by Niroshika De Silva, PsyD, with the philosophy that the treatment for children, adults, and families should include a holistic approach, as no individual is exactly the same. We believe that treatment is most effective when providers from other disciplines collaborate in order to meet the needs of the whole individual. At Center for Rising Minds, we provide services across the lifespan, recognizing that children and adults can experience similar challenges that would benefit from psychotherapy, occupational therapy, or both.
The Center for Rising Minds was founded by Niroshika De Silva, PsyD, with the philosophy that the treatment for children, adults, and families should include a holistic approach, as no individual is exactly the same. We believe that treatment is most effective when providers from other disciplines collaborate in order to meet the needs of the whole individual. At Center for Rising Minds, we provide services across the lifespan, recognizing that children and adults can experience similar challenges that would benefit from psychotherapy, occupational therapy, or both.
![Photo of Kaylan Bryant, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d06c6b70-f3eb-4b56-aee9-9870613f2e3d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kaylan Bryant
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080 (Online Only)
My name is Kaylan Bryant, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked with various populations and have a diverse background including those who struggle with parenting, depression, anxiety, and relationship problems. I like to use a strength-based, collaborative, and culturally sensitive approach to therapy.
My name is Kaylan Bryant, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked with various populations and have a diverse background including those who struggle with parenting, depression, anxiety, and relationship problems. I like to use a strength-based, collaborative, and culturally sensitive approach to therapy.
![Photo of Alex Silberstein, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b95f814-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alex Silberstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South San Francisco, CA 94080 (Online Only)
I specialize in helping adults overcome anxiety and depression. As a Certified EMDR Therapist, I focus on helping clients recover from the effects of trauma. I also enjoy working with couples to develop effective communication skills and reduce destructive conflict. I strive to provide clients with a warm, secure environment in which they feel safe to explore painful experiences from the past that need healing. My approach combines the perspective of long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy with more practical cognitive-behavioral methods, as well as using the latest research from neuroscience about how our minds develop and change.
I specialize in helping adults overcome anxiety and depression. As a Certified EMDR Therapist, I focus on helping clients recover from the effects of trauma. I also enjoy working with couples to develop effective communication skills and reduce destructive conflict. I strive to provide clients with a warm, secure environment in which they feel safe to explore painful experiences from the past that need healing. My approach combines the perspective of long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy with more practical cognitive-behavioral methods, as well as using the latest research from neuroscience about how our minds develop and change.
![Photo of Jim Christrup, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51942dee-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jim Christrup
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South San Francisco, CA 94080
Are you struggling with anxiety, panic, phobias, OCD, stress, self-criticism, shyness, or excessive worry? My goal is to help you break out of old, unproductive ways of dealing with these problems and find more flexible and effective ways of responding and healing. I am an experienced and caring therapist who is supportive, engaged, and interactive. Together we focus on what matters most to you and help you move towards what you care about most deeply in your life.
Are you struggling with anxiety, panic, phobias, OCD, stress, self-criticism, shyness, or excessive worry? My goal is to help you break out of old, unproductive ways of dealing with these problems and find more flexible and effective ways of responding and healing. I am an experienced and caring therapist who is supportive, engaged, and interactive. Together we focus on what matters most to you and help you move towards what you care about most deeply in your life.
![Photo of Katrina Child, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50937038-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Katrina Child
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
South San Francisco, CA 94080
I have over 20 years of experience providing therapy and counseling to help people create more fulfilling lives. I believe we all have the potential to feel alive, satisfied and successful in our selves, work and relationships. I am a warm, interactive and collaborative ally who will help you create more resilience and satisfaction in your life. Whether it's relationships, work, anxiety, stress or other challenges, we will work together to clear the obstacles between you and the life you are seeking. I love the work that I do with clients, and feel so lucky to have this career.
I have over 20 years of experience providing therapy and counseling to help people create more fulfilling lives. I believe we all have the potential to feel alive, satisfied and successful in our selves, work and relationships. I am a warm, interactive and collaborative ally who will help you create more resilience and satisfaction in your life. Whether it's relationships, work, anxiety, stress or other challenges, we will work together to clear the obstacles between you and the life you are seeking. I love the work that I do with clients, and feel so lucky to have this career.
See more therapy options for Brisbane
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Brisbane, CA
< 10
Therapists in Brisbane, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Child |
100% | Parenting |
100% | Family Conflict |
75% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
16 Years
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
How Therapists in Brisbane, CA see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Brisbane?
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
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.
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.
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.