Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA

Photo of Mackenzie McFarland, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mackenzie McFarland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
My name is Mackenzie McFarland and I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in San Luis Obispo, California. I got my education from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo for BA in Psychology and MS in Clinical Psychology. I have multiple years experience working with those struggling with substance use / recovery, mood disorders (Bipolar), anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, change of life phases, and trauma.
My name is Mackenzie McFarland and I am Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in San Luis Obispo, California. I got my education from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo for BA in Psychology and MS in Clinical Psychology. I have multiple years experience working with those struggling with substance use / recovery, mood disorders (Bipolar), anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, change of life phases, and trauma.
(805) 516-0579 View (805) 516-0579
Rebecca Kohle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Rebecca is a therapist for San Diego based mental healthcare provider Fusion Care Group. Fusion Care Group is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
Rebecca is a therapist for San Diego based mental healthcare provider Fusion Care Group. Fusion Care Group is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
(805) 457-4509 View (805) 457-4509
Photo of Nicole Juliano, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Juliano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Let’s be real, life can be hard. The decision to look for a therapist and seek support is a brave and vulnerable step toward taking much deserved time for yourself. You may have sensed that something needs to shift in your life, and you aren't alone in that. In our work together, we will collaborate to learn to compassionately observe and change dysfunctional physical, mental, and emotional patterns that are keeping us stuck. We will work to help you to feel empowered to consciously create a life on your own terms, shift from self judgement to self compassion, and (most importantly) stop taking shit to yourself.
Let’s be real, life can be hard. The decision to look for a therapist and seek support is a brave and vulnerable step toward taking much deserved time for yourself. You may have sensed that something needs to shift in your life, and you aren't alone in that. In our work together, we will collaborate to learn to compassionately observe and change dysfunctional physical, mental, and emotional patterns that are keeping us stuck. We will work to help you to feel empowered to consciously create a life on your own terms, shift from self judgement to self compassion, and (most importantly) stop taking shit to yourself.
(805) 549-4113 View (805) 549-4113
Photo of Christine Tran, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Tran
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Hello and welcome. I want to acknowledge how brave you are for being here and seeking help. It takes plenty of courage to seek out therapy and it's okay to feel vulnerable at this moment. Whether you are a parent looking to find support for your child or someone whose wanting to start therapy, I offer empathetic support and tools to cope with life's many stressors. I work with children, teens, young adults, and families to help address challenges with chronic stress, anxiety, depression, school/behavioral issues, divorce, and family trauma. My practice honors diversity and offers non-judgmental space for you to feel safe and heard.
Hello and welcome. I want to acknowledge how brave you are for being here and seeking help. It takes plenty of courage to seek out therapy and it's okay to feel vulnerable at this moment. Whether you are a parent looking to find support for your child or someone whose wanting to start therapy, I offer empathetic support and tools to cope with life's many stressors. I work with children, teens, young adults, and families to help address challenges with chronic stress, anxiety, depression, school/behavioral issues, divorce, and family trauma. My practice honors diversity and offers non-judgmental space for you to feel safe and heard.
(805) 429-6440 View (805) 429-6440
Photo of Kim Richards, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kim Richards
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Not accepting new clients
My practice focuses on supporting adolescents, young adults, and adults dealing with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, life transitions, relationship issues, stress management, and other mental health concerns. I enjoy working with teens and supporting them in navigating the unique complexities associated with this life phase. I also work with families to help create bridges of communication and understanding between teens and their parents. I am a strong believer in the importance of joyful movement, mindfulness, social connection, and nutrition to help us reach our optimal state of well-being.
My practice focuses on supporting adolescents, young adults, and adults dealing with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, life transitions, relationship issues, stress management, and other mental health concerns. I enjoy working with teens and supporting them in navigating the unique complexities associated with this life phase. I also work with families to help create bridges of communication and understanding between teens and their parents. I am a strong believer in the importance of joyful movement, mindfulness, social connection, and nutrition to help us reach our optimal state of well-being.
(805) 291-4492 View (805) 291-4492
Photo of Benny R Martin, PhD, Psychologist
Benny R Martin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Do you experience depression, anxiety, or have trouble with powerful emotions, that seem to interfere with your life goals? You will benefit from my approach to therapy. Perhaps, you feel overwhelmed and uncertain of what to do. Together, we could explore your problems and issues and find effective solutions. I believe change begins with acceptance. You are truly unique. Lets bring harmony to your thoughts, feelings and behaviors to help "You" be your very best "You"! Please feel free to call or email me, so we can talk.
Do you experience depression, anxiety, or have trouble with powerful emotions, that seem to interfere with your life goals? You will benefit from my approach to therapy. Perhaps, you feel overwhelmed and uncertain of what to do. Together, we could explore your problems and issues and find effective solutions. I believe change begins with acceptance. You are truly unique. Lets bring harmony to your thoughts, feelings and behaviors to help "You" be your very best "You"! Please feel free to call or email me, so we can talk.
(805) 467-7168 View (805) 467-7168
Photo of Breezy Simpson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Breezy Simpson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I offer a compassionate approach to help individuals overcome the challenges of depression, heal from trauma, and navigate life transitions. I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities including EMDR, a highly effective method of therapy proven to help individuals process and heal from trauma and distressing life events.
I offer a compassionate approach to help individuals overcome the challenges of depression, heal from trauma, and navigate life transitions. I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities including EMDR, a highly effective method of therapy proven to help individuals process and heal from trauma and distressing life events.
(805) 210-8754 View (805) 210-8754
Photo of Kristina Hibshman Berger, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristina Hibshman Berger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
With a specialization in assisting individuals facing religious challenges, particularly from high-control religious groups, coercive control, and cults. My education and training center on addressing the client's initial trauma(s) and its associated issues, such as anxiety, depression, loneliness, and existential crises. I offer a gentle client-centered approach focusing on learning skills around self-acceptance, kindness to self, and leaning toward the client’s dreams and goals.
With a specialization in assisting individuals facing religious challenges, particularly from high-control religious groups, coercive control, and cults. My education and training center on addressing the client's initial trauma(s) and its associated issues, such as anxiety, depression, loneliness, and existential crises. I offer a gentle client-centered approach focusing on learning skills around self-acceptance, kindness to self, and leaning toward the client’s dreams and goals.
(805) 590-5719 View (805) 590-5719
Photo of Shanti Holistic Healing, MA
Shanti Holistic Healing
MA
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
My intention is to create a compassionate, curious, and collaborative space for you to receive emotional, mental and spiritual support. Together, we can holistically acknowledge core roots of pain and consciously move towards shifting old cycles that no longer serve your highest self. My passion is to remind you of your innate wisdom and with humility, empower you to be the narrator of your life. I commit to encourage and challenge you to liberate your authentic voice and remember your birthright to joy. I understand each person is a unique being and pride myself on individualizing care to meet your present needs.
My intention is to create a compassionate, curious, and collaborative space for you to receive emotional, mental and spiritual support. Together, we can holistically acknowledge core roots of pain and consciously move towards shifting old cycles that no longer serve your highest self. My passion is to remind you of your innate wisdom and with humility, empower you to be the narrator of your life. I commit to encourage and challenge you to liberate your authentic voice and remember your birthright to joy. I understand each person is a unique being and pride myself on individualizing care to meet your present needs.
(805) 429-6071 View (805) 429-6071
Photo of Sara Robinow, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sara Robinow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Many women express feeling lost in the world and struggle to cope with the constant changes we're all experiencing. I specialize in helping women build stability to achieve their goals while navigating life's ups and downs. My passion lies in working with clients who are seeking to find their path in the world, providing support and guidance along the way.
Many women express feeling lost in the world and struggle to cope with the constant changes we're all experiencing. I specialize in helping women build stability to achieve their goals while navigating life's ups and downs. My passion lies in working with clients who are seeking to find their path in the world, providing support and guidance along the way.
(805) 464-3723 View (805) 464-3723
Photo of Vanessa Swier, MSW, LCSW, GC-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa Swier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, GC-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Do you feel emotionally stuck? Are you a stuffer? You know, someone who hides your true feelings so you appear "okay" on the outside. Then, let me join you on your journey of feeling & healing. Healing is a process, an ongoing discovery & I'm here to help you uncover hope, find harmony & move towards healing. I'll support you in processing your feelings in order to live your most authentic life. Since earning my BA in Psychology and my Master of Social Work degree, I have worked passionately with individuals, couples, families, adults, college students & teens to learn positive ways to cope with life's many stressors.
Do you feel emotionally stuck? Are you a stuffer? You know, someone who hides your true feelings so you appear "okay" on the outside. Then, let me join you on your journey of feeling & healing. Healing is a process, an ongoing discovery & I'm here to help you uncover hope, find harmony & move towards healing. I'll support you in processing your feelings in order to live your most authentic life. Since earning my BA in Psychology and my Master of Social Work degree, I have worked passionately with individuals, couples, families, adults, college students & teens to learn positive ways to cope with life's many stressors.
(805) 870-9569 View (805) 870-9569
Photo of Tom Buckley, CADCIII, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Tom Buckley
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADCIII
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Tom Buckley is the Executive Director of Aspire Counseling San Luis Obispo. Aspire SLO provides Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Services for Teens and Adults in an intensive outpatient setting. Do you or a loved one struggle with depression, anxiety, self harm, substances abuse, addiction issues, etc.? If so, call Aspire SLO at 805-329-5595 to speak with a counselor. To schedule an appointment 24/7 call 888-585-7373. Ask about or free weekly family support group!
Tom Buckley is the Executive Director of Aspire Counseling San Luis Obispo. Aspire SLO provides Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Services for Teens and Adults in an intensive outpatient setting. Do you or a loved one struggle with depression, anxiety, self harm, substances abuse, addiction issues, etc.? If so, call Aspire SLO at 805-329-5595 to speak with a counselor. To schedule an appointment 24/7 call 888-585-7373. Ask about or free weekly family support group!
(805) 549-5989 View (805) 549-5989
Photo of Renee Chaffin, ASW
Renee Chaffin
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Life can be challenging and full of obstacles that can seem overwhelming or impossible to overcome. Compassionately, I will support and guide you through your unique mental health journey, bringing restoration and peace to your life. Together, we can explore your strengths and develop personalized strategies to enhance coping skills for promoting overall wellness and growth. I aim to empower you along your mental health journey and support you in achieving your goals. Working collaboratively, you will discover new ways of living to bring about healing, self-discovery and personal growth.
Life can be challenging and full of obstacles that can seem overwhelming or impossible to overcome. Compassionately, I will support and guide you through your unique mental health journey, bringing restoration and peace to your life. Together, we can explore your strengths and develop personalized strategies to enhance coping skills for promoting overall wellness and growth. I aim to empower you along your mental health journey and support you in achieving your goals. Working collaboratively, you will discover new ways of living to bring about healing, self-discovery and personal growth.
(805) 262-9460 View (805) 262-9460
Photo of Eliza Kimmel, APCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Eliza Kimmel
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Are you feeling overwhelmed, isolated, hopeless or down? Now more than ever, people are questioning and exploring how they view themselves, others and the world. Therapy can help explore these difficult issues helping you find new solutions and perspective. Eliza provides a calm, nurturing and safe environment while challenging you to reach your greatest potential. She genuinely listens and gives each person individualized therapy tailored to their specific needs and experiences. Eliza uses collaborative therapeutic techniques to develop a more fulfilling thriving life experience.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, isolated, hopeless or down? Now more than ever, people are questioning and exploring how they view themselves, others and the world. Therapy can help explore these difficult issues helping you find new solutions and perspective. Eliza provides a calm, nurturing and safe environment while challenging you to reach your greatest potential. She genuinely listens and gives each person individualized therapy tailored to their specific needs and experiences. Eliza uses collaborative therapeutic techniques to develop a more fulfilling thriving life experience.
(805) 977-5798 View (805) 977-5798
Photo of Erin Lindvall, PhD, LMFT, FAPA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erin Lindvall
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, FAPA
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I love my work as a psychotherapist, and consider it an honor and privilege to work with my clients and share in their quest for personal growth. I know that the decision to start therapy is often a difficult one. I applaud your willingness and initiative. My approach aims to engage, to inspire, and to help you imagine new possibilities. My goal is to assist you in developing tools and skills that enable you to more effectively deal with life and its challenges.
I love my work as a psychotherapist, and consider it an honor and privilege to work with my clients and share in their quest for personal growth. I know that the decision to start therapy is often a difficult one. I applaud your willingness and initiative. My approach aims to engage, to inspire, and to help you imagine new possibilities. My goal is to assist you in developing tools and skills that enable you to more effectively deal with life and its challenges.
(805) 876-9601 View (805) 876-9601
Photo of Rebecca Panarra, APCC, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Rebecca Panarra
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, APCC, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
When working together, my aim is to create an environment rich in compassion, curiosity, and collaboration with my clients. I offer a diverse range of skills and experiences within a warm and welcoming environment. I enjoy working with individuals of diverse ages, couples and families from various cultural backgrounds. I tailor a range of approaches to meet your unique needs and through these techniques, I empower clients to challenge unhelpful thought patterns, fostering personal growth and resilience.
When working together, my aim is to create an environment rich in compassion, curiosity, and collaboration with my clients. I offer a diverse range of skills and experiences within a warm and welcoming environment. I enjoy working with individuals of diverse ages, couples and families from various cultural backgrounds. I tailor a range of approaches to meet your unique needs and through these techniques, I empower clients to challenge unhelpful thought patterns, fostering personal growth and resilience.
(805) 394-1628 View (805) 394-1628
Photo of Kelly Wakeland, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Wakeland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Hello! I specialize in serving clients experiencing disordered eating/eating disorders, anxiety, depression, life transitions struggles, and stress looking to make peace with food, their bodies, and themselves. I provide a warm and relatable environment so clients feel safe to explore and process the intricacies of their experiences. While therapy can touch on difficult topics, I make sure we are also acknowledging and celebrating the joy in your life! I utilize a client-centered approach that honors your inherent wisdom as the expert in your life as the mechanism that will lead to lasting change. I'm licensed in CT, VA, and CA.
Hello! I specialize in serving clients experiencing disordered eating/eating disorders, anxiety, depression, life transitions struggles, and stress looking to make peace with food, their bodies, and themselves. I provide a warm and relatable environment so clients feel safe to explore and process the intricacies of their experiences. While therapy can touch on difficult topics, I make sure we are also acknowledging and celebrating the joy in your life! I utilize a client-centered approach that honors your inherent wisdom as the expert in your life as the mechanism that will lead to lasting change. I'm licensed in CT, VA, and CA.
(571) 601-4283 View (571) 601-4283
Photo of Cortney Wagner, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cortney Wagner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Waitlist for new clients
We all have challenges and experiences throughout our life span that can cause pain, frustration, feeling stuck and other difficult emotions. These experiences can result in us becoming disconnected with our true selves and unable to live life to the fullest. I am here to help you connect with your true self so that you can not only heal from difficult experiences but grow from them and create a sense of empowerment. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment offering a highly personalized approach tailored to each individual's needs.
We all have challenges and experiences throughout our life span that can cause pain, frustration, feeling stuck and other difficult emotions. These experiences can result in us becoming disconnected with our true selves and unable to live life to the fullest. I am here to help you connect with your true self so that you can not only heal from difficult experiences but grow from them and create a sense of empowerment. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment offering a highly personalized approach tailored to each individual's needs.
(805) 567-4255 View (805) 567-4255
Photo of Matthew R Chirman, MS, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Matthew R Chirman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
For the 22 last years I have worked successfully with adult clients dealing with a wide range of issues including marital and relationship problems, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, abuse issues, personality issues and mental health concerns. I believe a trusting relationship between the therapist and client is the foundation for all growth and change. However, the relationship itself is typically not sufficient. I will help you set goals for your therapy based upon what you would like to have different in your life, and together we will explore and change the blocks which have prevented you from achieving your goals.
For the 22 last years I have worked successfully with adult clients dealing with a wide range of issues including marital and relationship problems, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, abuse issues, personality issues and mental health concerns. I believe a trusting relationship between the therapist and client is the foundation for all growth and change. However, the relationship itself is typically not sufficient. I will help you set goals for your therapy based upon what you would like to have different in your life, and together we will explore and change the blocks which have prevented you from achieving your goals.
(805) 791-2566 View (805) 791-2566
Photo of Robert E Clayton, Psychologist
Robert E Clayton
Psychologist
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I believe that our most profound feelings contain the seeds of our transformation and growth. Working together in a warm, supportive, and connected relationship, we can gain access to these deep, transformative emotions to find healing, strength, and unimagined new vitality. I enjoy working with students and young adults, those in mid-life, and elders.
I believe that our most profound feelings contain the seeds of our transformation and growth. Working together in a warm, supportive, and connected relationship, we can gain access to these deep, transformative emotions to find healing, strength, and unimagined new vitality. I enjoy working with students and young adults, those in mid-life, and elders.
(805) 250-4535 View (805) 250-4535
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA

400+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
75% Trauma and PTSD
68% Coping Skills
66% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

49% Aetna
39% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
37% Other

How Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
16% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in San Luis Obispo?

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.