Therapists in West Side, Long Beach, CA
![Photo of Lorna G Gregory, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/942c1816-b366-49a8-aba8-89cbabd5d943/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lorna G Gregory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
West Side, Long Beach, CA 90810 (Online Only)
Everyone has mental health! Good mental health is the foundation of life. There exists a vast number of individuals with varying degrees of uniqueness, including strengths and areas needing work (issues and challenges). There are those who have goals and an idea of what they need and want. Then there are those who have no idea what they need and want, but know they just want to be and feel better. Everyone wants to be heard, their experiences and feelings validated, and to be supported. This is where I step in...
Everyone has mental health! Good mental health is the foundation of life. There exists a vast number of individuals with varying degrees of uniqueness, including strengths and areas needing work (issues and challenges). There are those who have goals and an idea of what they need and want. Then there are those who have no idea what they need and want, but know they just want to be and feel better. Everyone wants to be heard, their experiences and feelings validated, and to be supported. This is where I step in...
![Photo of Bobette Jamison-Harrison, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52e0b41d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bobette Jamison-Harrison
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Side, Long Beach, CA 90810 (Online Only)
Life happens! No matter who we are, what we've accomplished in our lives, what socioeconomic class we belong to, how educated we are, life happens! Life is filled with many unexpected, life-altering experiences such as: divorce, retirement, grief/bereavement, loss, family and blended family issues, couples issues, relational issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, and more. My heart's desire is to assist my clients through those difficult and challenging times in life so they can "bounce back" and get to living the lives they desire. There is a resolution and I'd be honored to help you find it. Let's do the work - accomplish the GOALS!
Life happens! No matter who we are, what we've accomplished in our lives, what socioeconomic class we belong to, how educated we are, life happens! Life is filled with many unexpected, life-altering experiences such as: divorce, retirement, grief/bereavement, loss, family and blended family issues, couples issues, relational issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, and more. My heart's desire is to assist my clients through those difficult and challenging times in life so they can "bounce back" and get to living the lives they desire. There is a resolution and I'd be honored to help you find it. Let's do the work - accomplish the GOALS!
![Photo of Cheryl Denise Williams, LMFT, MA, CPBC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44cd0257-e28e-4f08-8a94-00981f4b8af2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cheryl Denise Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, CPBC
Verified Verified
West Side, Long Beach, CA 90810 (Online Only)
There comes a time in everyone’s life when they really need someone safe to talk to. They need someone who will not use their pain against them. So often they end up holding that pain inside, masking it with a smile or adherent behavior. I can provide a safe place for you to empty your pain and take off the mask so that your quality of life can improve.
There comes a time in everyone’s life when they really need someone safe to talk to. They need someone who will not use their pain against them. So often they end up holding that pain inside, masking it with a smile or adherent behavior. I can provide a safe place for you to empty your pain and take off the mask so that your quality of life can improve.
![Photo of Max Erman, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c24d58d-519b-4ad5-ae73-9e377645684a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Max Erman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
West Side, Long Beach, CA 90807 (Online Only)
My clinical background includes experience with adolescents and adults in both an inpatient and outpatient mental health facilities. I have experience working with a wide range of anxiety disorders. I am committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. I believe in a collaborative approach to treatment. I utilize a blend of person-centered approaches combined with mindfulness practices. I am also trained in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
My clinical background includes experience with adolescents and adults in both an inpatient and outpatient mental health facilities. I have experience working with a wide range of anxiety disorders. I am committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. I believe in a collaborative approach to treatment. I utilize a blend of person-centered approaches combined with mindfulness practices. I am also trained in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
![Photo of Mary Speight, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02b424a1-51c1-4752-b754-e8b866b04d0e/2/320x400.png)
Hello, my name is Mary Speight, LMFT 51793. I've 20+ years of experience in the field of behavioral and mental health. I am a Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional (CCFP) certified in Integrated Mental Health. I believe I'm eclectic in my work with clients. Therapy isn't one size fits all. We all may have similar experiences, but how we behave and react may not always be the same.
Hello, my name is Mary Speight, LMFT 51793. I've 20+ years of experience in the field of behavioral and mental health. I am a Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional (CCFP) certified in Integrated Mental Health. I believe I'm eclectic in my work with clients. Therapy isn't one size fits all. We all may have similar experiences, but how we behave and react may not always be the same.
![Photo of Andres Garcia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4510d34d-9f35-422f-bea5-d8f0691061a2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Andres Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Side, Long Beach, CA 90810
Hello. My name is Andres Garcia. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults of all ages and specialize in addiction, depression, trauma, and anxiety. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
Hello. My name is Andres Garcia. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults of all ages and specialize in addiction, depression, trauma, and anxiety. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
![Photo of Alex Merlo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4ab8404-aa0d-4965-b473-ab7786fe01fc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alex Merlo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Side, Long Beach, CA 90813 (Online Only)
If this is your first time in therapy, I know that it can be uncomfortable putting yourself out there and I just wanted to say, you came to the right place. It is a huge step to be able to advocate for yourself and acknowledge the fact that you may need some support in areas of your life. If it is not your first time, welcome back! I am looking forward to working with you.
If this is your first time in therapy, I know that it can be uncomfortable putting yourself out there and I just wanted to say, you came to the right place. It is a huge step to be able to advocate for yourself and acknowledge the fact that you may need some support in areas of your life. If it is not your first time, welcome back! I am looking forward to working with you.
![Photo of Paula Lin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f68acf3-b4ee-4fa4-b5f2-583cc73beada/1/320x400.jpeg)
Effective therapy starts with finding the right therapist for you. I am an experienced Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with clients of all ages. I place great importance on each person’s voice and perspective, whether you are coming to see me individually, as a couple, or as a family.
Effective therapy starts with finding the right therapist for you. I am an experienced Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with clients of all ages. I place great importance on each person’s voice and perspective, whether you are coming to see me individually, as a couple, or as a family.
![Photo of Kathleen Villagomez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fabd3a6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Villagomez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Side, Long Beach, CA 90807
Congratulations for taking action! Sometimes we need to re-write our stories, change directions, or get back on track, before our lives are the way we desire, and more importantly the way we deserve. I offer a compassionate space for individuals to heal from past wounds, stop self-defeating and self-destructive patterns, increase self-awareness so that they may express themselves and make progress in their lives.
Congratulations for taking action! Sometimes we need to re-write our stories, change directions, or get back on track, before our lives are the way we desire, and more importantly the way we deserve. I offer a compassionate space for individuals to heal from past wounds, stop self-defeating and self-destructive patterns, increase self-awareness so that they may express themselves and make progress in their lives.
![Photo of Melody Bloom, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27db65b2-ab4a-4455-ad55-f608f2563732/1/320x400.jpeg)
With decades of experience and training, I know how to listen to your thoughts and feelings with empathy and care. I give psychological & social support for depression, anxiety, substance issues, Women's issues, relationship and job issues, or whatever is on your mind, using CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), depth psychotherapy, progressive muscle relaxation, breathwork, motivational interviewing and/or accurate, empathic understanding. Freud called psychotherapy, "the talking cure" because when you talk self-knowledge begins.
With decades of experience and training, I know how to listen to your thoughts and feelings with empathy and care. I give psychological & social support for depression, anxiety, substance issues, Women's issues, relationship and job issues, or whatever is on your mind, using CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), depth psychotherapy, progressive muscle relaxation, breathwork, motivational interviewing and/or accurate, empathic understanding. Freud called psychotherapy, "the talking cure" because when you talk self-knowledge begins.
![Photo of Austin Jones, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3821389c-280b-4981-858a-7090d4090bbf/1/320x400.png)
Hello, my name is Austin Jones and I'm a licensed therapist (139713) in California. I believe in providing accessible, evidence-based mental health resources that align with people’s goals — from finding motivation, direction, peace, and purpose in life, to building healthy relationships and a successful career. There is no "typical" client for me, and I see therapy as caring about a person and their core concerns rather than treating a condition. Something happens every day that reminds me how fortunate I am to be doing this work.
Hello, my name is Austin Jones and I'm a licensed therapist (139713) in California. I believe in providing accessible, evidence-based mental health resources that align with people’s goals — from finding motivation, direction, peace, and purpose in life, to building healthy relationships and a successful career. There is no "typical" client for me, and I see therapy as caring about a person and their core concerns rather than treating a condition. Something happens every day that reminds me how fortunate I am to be doing this work.
![Photo of Kyra Dotter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0dade809-bbfe-44d2-b525-6b869f62af9d/2/320x400.png)
My name is Kyra Dotter. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California with over 15 years of experience working with individuals, children, and families. My expertise comes from a background in child welfare and forensic investigations. Currently, my area of practice is with individual adults aged 18 and older. What I love most about being an LCSW is helping folks feel unconditionally accepted as human beings whose lives and experiences matter. I use a supportive, humanistic, trauma-sensitive approach while applying elements of Cognitive Behavioral, Solution-Focused, and Dialectical Behavioral models.
My name is Kyra Dotter. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California with over 15 years of experience working with individuals, children, and families. My expertise comes from a background in child welfare and forensic investigations. Currently, my area of practice is with individual adults aged 18 and older. What I love most about being an LCSW is helping folks feel unconditionally accepted as human beings whose lives and experiences matter. I use a supportive, humanistic, trauma-sensitive approach while applying elements of Cognitive Behavioral, Solution-Focused, and Dialectical Behavioral models.
![Photo of Esther Wang, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/487f3446-a439-4f29-8ce6-304ab978ded0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there, I'm Esther! Everyone can use extra support from time to time, and that's what I'm here for. I'm here to help. My approach is straightforward and client-driven. I work with a limited number of clients because I want to be authentically present for your process. Other things you might want to know: I received my MSW from CSU Long Beach. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 5 years, and have provided supervision to ASWs working on hours for their license. I'm a long-time ally of the LGBTQIA community. I am kink and sex-positive.
Hi there, I'm Esther! Everyone can use extra support from time to time, and that's what I'm here for. I'm here to help. My approach is straightforward and client-driven. I work with a limited number of clients because I want to be authentically present for your process. Other things you might want to know: I received my MSW from CSU Long Beach. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 5 years, and have provided supervision to ASWs working on hours for their license. I'm a long-time ally of the LGBTQIA community. I am kink and sex-positive.
![Photo of Robert Connerley, LCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08d80280-7b3e-482f-85c9-d38520def667/2/320x400.png)
Hello, I'm Dr. Robert Connerley, a Licensed Psychologist specializing in anxiety, stress, and trauma therapy. No matter where you are in California, I offer telehealth sessions to make therapy accessible and convenient for you. We are all unique. I tailor my approach to meet each person’s specific needs and goals. If you're struggling with the effects of past experiences or repetitive life patterns, I often integrate Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) to help you move forward and put the past behind you.
Hello, I'm Dr. Robert Connerley, a Licensed Psychologist specializing in anxiety, stress, and trauma therapy. No matter where you are in California, I offer telehealth sessions to make therapy accessible and convenient for you. We are all unique. I tailor my approach to meet each person’s specific needs and goals. If you're struggling with the effects of past experiences or repetitive life patterns, I often integrate Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) to help you move forward and put the past behind you.
![Photo of Jeralyn Gabler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9710545-b41d-4525-822e-29170b5cfc44/1/320x400.png)
My name is Jeralyn Gabler and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 20 years of experience working with children, youth, families, and young adults. I specialize in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to treat depression and anxiety. I have experience helping people with educational needs and providing parenting support to help caregivers manage the special needs of their children. I specialize in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which includes a collaborative approach to understanding a person, developing a trusting relationship, and determining which problem areas to address in therapy.
My name is Jeralyn Gabler and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California with over 20 years of experience working with children, youth, families, and young adults. I specialize in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to treat depression and anxiety. I have experience helping people with educational needs and providing parenting support to help caregivers manage the special needs of their children. I specialize in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which includes a collaborative approach to understanding a person, developing a trusting relationship, and determining which problem areas to address in therapy.
![Photo of Ariel Black, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4ff7cab-90c9-4ba7-8737-31144c844258/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychodynamic therapist, I strive to provide my clients with long-term, meaningful changes. I don’t believe in quick fixes or providing my clients with band-aid style solutions to their problems. Most of the clients on my caseload are highly motivated individuals that yearn for deep rooted holistic healing. I have over 10 years of experience in the field of psychotherapy and I am passionate about providing long lasting, meaningful changes. I specialize in treating adults and mature teens that struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD and trauma.
As a psychodynamic therapist, I strive to provide my clients with long-term, meaningful changes. I don’t believe in quick fixes or providing my clients with band-aid style solutions to their problems. Most of the clients on my caseload are highly motivated individuals that yearn for deep rooted holistic healing. I have over 10 years of experience in the field of psychotherapy and I am passionate about providing long lasting, meaningful changes. I specialize in treating adults and mature teens that struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD and trauma.
![Photo of Maribel Garcia, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66f01f95-3320-4378-ac2a-58664ff7b026/3/320x400.jpeg)
I've been working with parents to find solutions to common behavioral problems. I work from an evidenced based, positive parenting approach. I also work with children with difficulties related to ADHD, anxiety, depression, tantrums, defiance, coping skills, & other problematic behavior.
I've been working with parents to find solutions to common behavioral problems. I work from an evidenced based, positive parenting approach. I also work with children with difficulties related to ADHD, anxiety, depression, tantrums, defiance, coping skills, & other problematic behavior.
![Photo of Kendall Perez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d2ab8f3-187a-4d9e-baf0-21804e2f2107/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kendall Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Side, Long Beach, CA 90810
Do you desire a stronger relationship with yourself, family, friends and/or a romantic partner? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, unresolved grief, trauma or self-esteem? Together, we can examine what is making you feel stuck. I want to support you in strengthening and building upon the innate skills you have to face the current difficulties in your life. By gaining insight about your thoughts, feelings and behavior it can allow you the ability to make lasting change.
Do you desire a stronger relationship with yourself, family, friends and/or a romantic partner? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, unresolved grief, trauma or self-esteem? Together, we can examine what is making you feel stuck. I want to support you in strengthening and building upon the innate skills you have to face the current difficulties in your life. By gaining insight about your thoughts, feelings and behavior it can allow you the ability to make lasting change.
![Photo of Samantha Montijo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3167155f-1be9-4de9-b198-1f34b726c6e6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Montijo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Side, Long Beach, CA 90810
Life is full of many challenging transitions which can seem daunting on our own. I am here to support you, guide you, and walk alongside with you in your journey of exploration, creativity, and healthy long-lasting changes. I encourage you to give yourself this space of serenity and challenge yourself to understand yourself at a deeper level. If you feel you have no other way out, know you are not alone. I am here to help you through this difficult time. Often our most difficult thoughts, our darkest moments are just those, thoughts and moments. Often it's our brain's immense ability to try and problem solve but in unproductive ways
Life is full of many challenging transitions which can seem daunting on our own. I am here to support you, guide you, and walk alongside with you in your journey of exploration, creativity, and healthy long-lasting changes. I encourage you to give yourself this space of serenity and challenge yourself to understand yourself at a deeper level. If you feel you have no other way out, know you are not alone. I am here to help you through this difficult time. Often our most difficult thoughts, our darkest moments are just those, thoughts and moments. Often it's our brain's immense ability to try and problem solve but in unproductive ways
Online Therapists
![Photo of Shelly Ware, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae8c2f6d-6c18-480e-b207-d9d13ac47b5e/2/320x400.jpeg)
My therapy style is collaborative and down to earth. I believe in helping empower my clients to make healthy choices. I enjoy teaching and encouraging my clients to become curious about their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I have experience working with BIPOC Women who are experiencing anxiety, grief and loss, perinatal mood, and anxiety disorders, as well as navigating and healing from relationship trauma and unhealthy relationships. I also have experience helping women discern if they should stay or leave a relationship that feels confusing or unsupportive.
My therapy style is collaborative and down to earth. I believe in helping empower my clients to make healthy choices. I enjoy teaching and encouraging my clients to become curious about their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I have experience working with BIPOC Women who are experiencing anxiety, grief and loss, perinatal mood, and anxiety disorders, as well as navigating and healing from relationship trauma and unhealthy relationships. I also have experience helping women discern if they should stay or leave a relationship that feels confusing or unsupportive.
See more therapy options for West Side, Long Beach
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in West Side, Long Beach, CA
20+
Average cost per session
$140
Therapists in West Side, Long Beach, CA who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
90% | Self Esteem |
80% | Stress |
75% | Relationship Issues |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
93% | Cigna and Evernorth |
93% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
93% | Optum |
How Therapists in West Side, Long Beach, CA see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
22% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in West Side, Long Beach?
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.