Therapists in Emeryville, CA

Photo of Katherine Roberts, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katherine Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
Katherine Roberts is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2010. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Santa Clara University and a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology (with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy) degree from the University of San Francisco. Katherine utilizes an eclectic approach to assist individuals in improving functioning and increasing feelings of well-being. Her goal is to provide a safe space for people to explore their emotions and better understand their behaviors.
Katherine Roberts is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2010. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Santa Clara University and a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology (with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy) degree from the University of San Francisco. Katherine utilizes an eclectic approach to assist individuals in improving functioning and increasing feelings of well-being. Her goal is to provide a safe space for people to explore their emotions and better understand their behaviors.
(510) 714-3295 View (510) 714-3295
Photo of Eleanor Lew, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eleanor Lew
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
I listen deeply, with compassion and without judgment, to give you a place where you feel safe to express thoughts and feelings, My strength is how I work, using minimal interpretations but instead allowing your inner core to experience the genuineness of your own truth when it surfaces. I thus avoid diagnostic labels and preconceptions. Love and work is how we express ourselves. I hope you will let me help you with relationship issues, both in love and at work. My goal is to help you discover your inner creativity and resilience.
I listen deeply, with compassion and without judgment, to give you a place where you feel safe to express thoughts and feelings, My strength is how I work, using minimal interpretations but instead allowing your inner core to experience the genuineness of your own truth when it surfaces. I thus avoid diagnostic labels and preconceptions. Love and work is how we express ourselves. I hope you will let me help you with relationship issues, both in love and at work. My goal is to help you discover your inner creativity and resilience.
(510) 400-7417 View (510) 400-7417
Photo of Dee-Dee Stout, MA, MINT, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Dee-Dee Stout
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, MINT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94608
"I see things differently." I see you fully able to achieve your goals. I see you as one who likely needs a non-judgmental place to talk about things: your future goals, how drug/alcohol use, etc fits w/that future, & how you see yourself getting there: abstinence, sober curious. moderation. I'm a collaborator, one who's committed to listening deeply & providing a space to talk about anything, for individuals/families/all. I am not a therapist; my main focus is on today & tomorrow though we may visit the past. And I follow the science of change & addiction; it shows there's no one way to recover/change & that's great news!
"I see things differently." I see you fully able to achieve your goals. I see you as one who likely needs a non-judgmental place to talk about things: your future goals, how drug/alcohol use, etc fits w/that future, & how you see yourself getting there: abstinence, sober curious. moderation. I'm a collaborator, one who's committed to listening deeply & providing a space to talk about anything, for individuals/families/all. I am not a therapist; my main focus is on today & tomorrow though we may visit the past. And I follow the science of change & addiction; it shows there's no one way to recover/change & that's great news!
(510) 447-1456 View (510) 447-1456
Barbara Jean A Douglass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and PhD with 15 years experience working with adults, children and youth. My goal is to help you in your path towards feeling better, and experiencing an improved sense of confidence, self-esteem and functioning in your life. My approach is one of respect, warmth, and attention to the dignity of every person. I utilize a humanistic and person-centered perspective, and maintain a psychodynamic framework for understanding my clients' emotional and therapeutic needs, to help you learn coping skills, and help you explore your options towards recovering a stronger sense of self, identity, spirituality, and balance.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and PhD with 15 years experience working with adults, children and youth. My goal is to help you in your path towards feeling better, and experiencing an improved sense of confidence, self-esteem and functioning in your life. My approach is one of respect, warmth, and attention to the dignity of every person. I utilize a humanistic and person-centered perspective, and maintain a psychodynamic framework for understanding my clients' emotional and therapeutic needs, to help you learn coping skills, and help you explore your options towards recovering a stronger sense of self, identity, spirituality, and balance.
(510) 949-3983 View (510) 949-3983
Photo of Dr. Shea M. Pilgrim, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Shea M. Pilgrim
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94608
My approach to practicing psychology is transparent and collaborative in nature. Clients report that I am grounding, honest, and easy to talk to. Evaluations follow the philosophy and techniques of collaborative/therapeutic assessment. An important first step in the process is a collaborative conversation to uncover questions that you want to have answered by the assessment. I specialize in working with children, teens, young adults, and families.
My approach to practicing psychology is transparent and collaborative in nature. Clients report that I am grounding, honest, and easy to talk to. Evaluations follow the philosophy and techniques of collaborative/therapeutic assessment. An important first step in the process is a collaborative conversation to uncover questions that you want to have answered by the assessment. I specialize in working with children, teens, young adults, and families.
(510) 216-1551 View (510) 216-1551
Photo of Najuma Z. Shurn - A Sober Choice, PsyD, Psychologist
A Sober Choice
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
A Sober Choice is the best choice, for developing tools for change. Founded in 2009, our mission is to provide compassionate, supportive, and professional mental and behavioral health services for adults. At A Sober Choice, we provide Anger Management, individual and group psychotherapy, substance use disorder counseling, mental health consultations, and behavioral coaching.
A Sober Choice is the best choice, for developing tools for change. Founded in 2009, our mission is to provide compassionate, supportive, and professional mental and behavioral health services for adults. At A Sober Choice, we provide Anger Management, individual and group psychotherapy, substance use disorder counseling, mental health consultations, and behavioral coaching.
(510) 420-1800 View (510) 420-1800
Photo of Heather Helmke, Psychologist
Heather Helmke
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
It can be hard to meaningfully connect with others in today's fast paced, technologically reliant world. Traumatic experiences may cause one to withdraw and isolate from relationships and the environment, or can possibly lead one to engage in self-destructive behaviors. Therapy is a tool that helps when feeling stuck or overwhelmed, whether those feelings are created from underlying anxiety, depression, trauma, loss/grief, relationship issues, stress, or issues with self-esteem.
It can be hard to meaningfully connect with others in today's fast paced, technologically reliant world. Traumatic experiences may cause one to withdraw and isolate from relationships and the environment, or can possibly lead one to engage in self-destructive behaviors. Therapy is a tool that helps when feeling stuck or overwhelmed, whether those feelings are created from underlying anxiety, depression, trauma, loss/grief, relationship issues, stress, or issues with self-esteem.
(510) 462-3812 View (510) 462-3812
Photo of Carrie Gajowski, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carrie Gajowski
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
Narcissistic and emotional abuse can leave us feeling confused, hurt, and desperate for answers. You may have thought you found your soulmate, but instead you find yourself in a very complicated relationship. You may feel alone and isolated, blaming yourself for how badly the relationship is going. Instead of being in this amazing relationship you thought you had signed up for, you are now studying everything you can about narcissism and narcissistic abuse. But you’re ready to make a change. You’re ready to leave this person but you don’t know how. You know deep down that it is time to do something different.
Narcissistic and emotional abuse can leave us feeling confused, hurt, and desperate for answers. You may have thought you found your soulmate, but instead you find yourself in a very complicated relationship. You may feel alone and isolated, blaming yourself for how badly the relationship is going. Instead of being in this amazing relationship you thought you had signed up for, you are now studying everything you can about narcissism and narcissistic abuse. But you’re ready to make a change. You’re ready to leave this person but you don’t know how. You know deep down that it is time to do something different.
(959) 210-6800 View (959) 210-6800
Photo of Andy Le, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andy Le
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
Greetings! My name is Andy Le, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Southern California. I take a person-centered and humanistic approach to therapy in a holistic manner to allow the client the opportunity to discover self-determination: voice and choice. While following a person-centered foundation, I will incorporate structured interventions such as cognitive-behavior, strength-based, and mindfulness to decrease daily stressors. The therapeutic modalities that I commonly use are solution-focused, strength-based, humanistic, cognitive behavioral, narrative, and trauma-focused.
Greetings! My name is Andy Le, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Southern California. I take a person-centered and humanistic approach to therapy in a holistic manner to allow the client the opportunity to discover self-determination: voice and choice. While following a person-centered foundation, I will incorporate structured interventions such as cognitive-behavior, strength-based, and mindfulness to decrease daily stressors. The therapeutic modalities that I commonly use are solution-focused, strength-based, humanistic, cognitive behavioral, narrative, and trauma-focused.
(510) 751-0237 View (510) 751-0237
Photo of Armand Volkas, MA, MFA, MFT, RDT, BCT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Armand Volkas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFA, MFT, RDT, BCT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94608
I believe that a supportive therapeutic relationship can be the springboard from which many life issues can be addressed and healed. I am warm and gentle, yet firm when appropriate. I am encouraging, nurturing and have a deep capacity for empathy. I am committed to your growth and the changes you want to make in your life. Issues I treat include anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, and relationships. I treat children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have special expertise in working with personal and collective trauma, deepening intimacy in couples, cross-cultural relationships, grief and mourning and healing friendships.
I believe that a supportive therapeutic relationship can be the springboard from which many life issues can be addressed and healed. I am warm and gentle, yet firm when appropriate. I am encouraging, nurturing and have a deep capacity for empathy. I am committed to your growth and the changes you want to make in your life. Issues I treat include anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, and relationships. I treat children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have special expertise in working with personal and collective trauma, deepening intimacy in couples, cross-cultural relationships, grief and mourning and healing friendships.
(510) 595-5500 x11 View (510) 595-5500 x11
Photo of Brian Kornobis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian Kornobis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can reconnect with your inner strengths to overcome obstacles standing between you and your goals. Whether you are dealing with a relationship difficulty, career dilemma, recent loss, depression, or anxiety, choosing to begin therapy is a courageous step toward growth and healing.
I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can reconnect with your inner strengths to overcome obstacles standing between you and your goals. Whether you are dealing with a relationship difficulty, career dilemma, recent loss, depression, or anxiety, choosing to begin therapy is a courageous step toward growth and healing.
(510) 422-1569 View (510) 422-1569
Photo of Lori Silver-Favors, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lori Silver-Favors
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
I have successfully helped people recovering from addiction issues, depression, childhood issues that are unresolved and conflict in primary relationships whether it is with a family member or a co-worker. I work from a strength-based model in that I help people identity coping skills that are working and apply these skills to areas of life that are more difficult. I view people from a humanistic perspective and am non-authoritarian in my style. I have a relaxed and friendly style and put people at ease.
I have successfully helped people recovering from addiction issues, depression, childhood issues that are unresolved and conflict in primary relationships whether it is with a family member or a co-worker. I work from a strength-based model in that I help people identity coping skills that are working and apply these skills to areas of life that are more difficult. I view people from a humanistic perspective and am non-authoritarian in my style. I have a relaxed and friendly style and put people at ease.
(510) 947-8414 View (510) 947-8414
Photo of Kimberly Medina, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberly Medina
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94662  (Online Only)
Welcome! As a licensed therapist I am continually inspired by witnessing clients make sense of difficult life experiences, past or present. I currently have openings for those seeking to address trauma symptoms. These might include panic attacks, intrusive thoughts, nightmares, feeling numb and disconnected from others, or changes in how you view yourself and the world around you.
Welcome! As a licensed therapist I am continually inspired by witnessing clients make sense of difficult life experiences, past or present. I currently have openings for those seeking to address trauma symptoms. These might include panic attacks, intrusive thoughts, nightmares, feeling numb and disconnected from others, or changes in how you view yourself and the world around you.
(510) 327-3339 View (510) 327-3339
Photo of Tralee Johnson, MA, PPS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tralee Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PPS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
Transitions are stressful because there is a space between the old circumstance and a new circumstance. This "unknown territory" can make us feel anxious, depressed, or confused. Have you noticed that when you talk to someone about what is important in your life you feel relieved? Counseling can help you feel more confident and focused in this unknown territory. Your decisions or situations can be about relationships, college, opportunities, work, values, or life purpose. You want help to get going and keep going! People who want to make helpful changes in their lives week-to-week with counseling & coaching are my specialty.
Transitions are stressful because there is a space between the old circumstance and a new circumstance. This "unknown territory" can make us feel anxious, depressed, or confused. Have you noticed that when you talk to someone about what is important in your life you feel relieved? Counseling can help you feel more confident and focused in this unknown territory. Your decisions or situations can be about relationships, college, opportunities, work, values, or life purpose. You want help to get going and keep going! People who want to make helpful changes in their lives week-to-week with counseling & coaching are my specialty.
(415) 289-5955 View (415) 289-5955
Photo of Roni Alperin, MA, LMFT, RDT, BCT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Roni Alperin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RDT, BCT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
I believe that no matter how difficult of a time you're having, I can help you find your balance and power. I know that rage; shame, confusion and helplessness can make you feel stuck, lost and hopeless. I also know that there is a way out. In my therapy office you will feel safe and supported to unravel your feelings and thoughts, identify patterns, themes, get clear on what brought you to the place you are currently in and make intelligent new choices.
I believe that no matter how difficult of a time you're having, I can help you find your balance and power. I know that rage; shame, confusion and helplessness can make you feel stuck, lost and hopeless. I also know that there is a way out. In my therapy office you will feel safe and supported to unravel your feelings and thoughts, identify patterns, themes, get clear on what brought you to the place you are currently in and make intelligent new choices.
(408) 628-1776 View (408) 628-1776
Photo of Aleiya Cherry, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aleiya Cherry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
I work from a relational, holistic approach because I believe making sure my clients have a safe space to fully show up as themselves, while taking into account all aspects of their lives that could be contributing to their presenting challenges, is of high importance. All of you Matters. My approach to therapy is Client-Centered and Integrative. I incorporate other evidence-based techniques including Narrative, Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California.
I work from a relational, holistic approach because I believe making sure my clients have a safe space to fully show up as themselves, while taking into account all aspects of their lives that could be contributing to their presenting challenges, is of high importance. All of you Matters. My approach to therapy is Client-Centered and Integrative. I incorporate other evidence-based techniques including Narrative, Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California.
(510) 826-2323 View (510) 826-2323
Photo of Valerie V Veza, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valerie V Veza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
My intention is to create a comfortable, safe space for clients to explore, heal and grow. I have years of experience helping individuals in crisis due to a wide variety of life's challenges and traumas. I help those of you who suffer from physical pain, anxiety, depression, emotional crisis, stress, trauma, PTSD and many other common symptoms . My approach is tailoring my experience and skills in a compassionate, honest and direct manner, to facilitate your experience to balance, self-acceptance and wholeness.
My intention is to create a comfortable, safe space for clients to explore, heal and grow. I have years of experience helping individuals in crisis due to a wide variety of life's challenges and traumas. I help those of you who suffer from physical pain, anxiety, depression, emotional crisis, stress, trauma, PTSD and many other common symptoms . My approach is tailoring my experience and skills in a compassionate, honest and direct manner, to facilitate your experience to balance, self-acceptance and wholeness.
(510) 878-4260 View (510) 878-4260
Photo of Maude Davis, MA, PhD(c), RDT, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Maude Davis
Licensed Psychoanalyst, MA, PhD(c), RDT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
Sometimes, when we hear the call of fate, we listen with an inner ear for quiet whispers of the soul. This call arrives in many forms. My consultation practice brings together Jungian analysis with expressive arts therapy. I offer a safe place for you to recognize your unique identity. In our work together, we will follow the varied threads of your story so you can weave and shape your own destiny. My approach uses verbal and non-verbal methods, encouraging spontaneity and the healing influence of the imagination. These sensorial processes lead to an aesthetic and spiritual understanding of soul.
Sometimes, when we hear the call of fate, we listen with an inner ear for quiet whispers of the soul. This call arrives in many forms. My consultation practice brings together Jungian analysis with expressive arts therapy. I offer a safe place for you to recognize your unique identity. In our work together, we will follow the varied threads of your story so you can weave and shape your own destiny. My approach uses verbal and non-verbal methods, encouraging spontaneity and the healing influence of the imagination. These sensorial processes lead to an aesthetic and spiritual understanding of soul.
(510) 306-7074 View (510) 306-7074
Photo of Jody Ann Sollazzo, LPCC, MA, Counselor
Jody Ann Sollazzo
Counselor, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with motivated people who feel stuck. Often they are in a transition or a loss. The loss can be great or small. (ex. death, break-up, job, disability/health, identity change, end-of-friendship) People who desire connection who often feel alone (even if they are close with others.) People who want to either strengthen or change their relationships whether it's in work, family, romantic, or platonic. Flawed perfectionists and people with imposter syndrome are always welcome!
I enjoy working with motivated people who feel stuck. Often they are in a transition or a loss. The loss can be great or small. (ex. death, break-up, job, disability/health, identity change, end-of-friendship) People who desire connection who often feel alone (even if they are close with others.) People who want to either strengthen or change their relationships whether it's in work, family, romantic, or platonic. Flawed perfectionists and people with imposter syndrome are always welcome!
(341) 766-0917 View (341) 766-0917
Photo of Nancy Schulz, MA,  LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancy Schulz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
Nancy Schulz is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2008. She has a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the School of Holistic Studies, John F. Kennedy University. Nancy believes that people want to improve their lives, but they may have stressors (including health), or messages they received from their families, school, or society, which have gotten in their way; and those feelings or patterns may have become entrenched.
Nancy Schulz is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California who has been practicing since 2008. She has a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the School of Holistic Studies, John F. Kennedy University. Nancy believes that people want to improve their lives, but they may have stressors (including health), or messages they received from their families, school, or society, which have gotten in their way; and those feelings or patterns may have become entrenched.
(510) 254-3912 View (510) 254-3912

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Emeryville, CA

100+

Average cost per session

$190

Therapists in Emeryville, CA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
83% Relationship Issues
72% Grief
72% Trauma and PTSD
68% Self Esteem
58% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

70% Aetna
60% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
54% Optum

How Therapists in Emeryville, CA see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
23% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Emeryville?

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.