Therapists in Thousand Oaks, CA

Photo of Erica Booker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Erica Booker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362  (Online Only)
As a licensed Clinical Social Worker my goal is to help you through the struggles that you feel may be affecting your daily lives. I work primarily with adults who experience symptoms related to depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions and infertility.
As a licensed Clinical Social Worker my goal is to help you through the struggles that you feel may be affecting your daily lives. I work primarily with adults who experience symptoms related to depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions and infertility.
(805) 572-7466 View (805) 572-7466
Photo of Trauma And Addiction Recovery With Alison Hochman, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Thousand Oaks, CA
Trauma And Addiction Recovery With Alison Hochman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91361
I specialize in working with individuals grappling with the chaos of out-of-control behaviors or the weight of unresolved trauma. My clients are in search of a sanctuary where truth serves as the cornerstone, and the journey to self-discovery is honored. My role is to facilitate this exploration, to gently guide them through the unveiling of their true selves. Maybe you've had to hide parts of who you are or felt ashamed of your behaviors. In our shared space, you are encouraged to bring your whole self into the light. Collaboratively, we will work together to achieve your goals.
I specialize in working with individuals grappling with the chaos of out-of-control behaviors or the weight of unresolved trauma. My clients are in search of a sanctuary where truth serves as the cornerstone, and the journey to self-discovery is honored. My role is to facilitate this exploration, to gently guide them through the unveiling of their true selves. Maybe you've had to hide parts of who you are or felt ashamed of your behaviors. In our shared space, you are encouraged to bring your whole self into the light. Collaboratively, we will work together to achieve your goals.
(805) 219-7836 View (805) 219-7836
Photo of Sara Rector, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Sara Rector
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
I am here to help and support you in achieving what you want in life Healthy Relationships, Career/Life Satisfaction or Overcoming Obstacles. My specialties are: Communication/Relationship Issues, Women Professionals, Codependency and Infertility. I look forward to helping you improve the quality of your life. Please call me so I may answer any questions you may have and so you can get started on the rest of your life.
I am here to help and support you in achieving what you want in life Healthy Relationships, Career/Life Satisfaction or Overcoming Obstacles. My specialties are: Communication/Relationship Issues, Women Professionals, Codependency and Infertility. I look forward to helping you improve the quality of your life. Please call me so I may answer any questions you may have and so you can get started on the rest of your life.
(805) 322-8458 View (805) 322-8458
Photo of Margot H Parker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Margot H Parker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
Dr. van der Kolk writes that "Being able to feel safe with other people is probably the single most important aspect of mental health; safe connections are fundamental to meaningful and satisfying lives." My approach to therapy is grounded in this concept. I believe that healing from emotional suffering takes place when the client feels deeply heard and understood. I believe that effective therapy is a collaborative process between client and therapist and that my job is to hold the space for my clients to explore the fears and anxieties that impede their growth and sense of well being.
Dr. van der Kolk writes that "Being able to feel safe with other people is probably the single most important aspect of mental health; safe connections are fundamental to meaningful and satisfying lives." My approach to therapy is grounded in this concept. I believe that healing from emotional suffering takes place when the client feels deeply heard and understood. I believe that effective therapy is a collaborative process between client and therapist and that my job is to hold the space for my clients to explore the fears and anxieties that impede their growth and sense of well being.
(805) 335-8293 View (805) 335-8293
Photo of Jordan Kuch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Jordan Kuch
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have worked in a variety of settings such as outpatient programs for substance use, residential treatment centers, non profit organizations, and a psychiatric hospital. I am passionate about working with individuals, couples and families experiencing various life stressors, relational problems, anxiety, depression, transitions, trauma, personal growth challenges etc. My overarching mission is to help clients reach their goals and work towards healing.
I have worked in a variety of settings such as outpatient programs for substance use, residential treatment centers, non profit organizations, and a psychiatric hospital. I am passionate about working with individuals, couples and families experiencing various life stressors, relational problems, anxiety, depression, transitions, trauma, personal growth challenges etc. My overarching mission is to help clients reach their goals and work towards healing.
(805) 900-3388 View (805) 900-3388
Photo of Jessica Quevedo, Psychologist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Jessica Quevedo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
client's issues would be that they feel overwhelmed and full of doubt, limiting their full potential. They struggle with self-esteem and performance. They would like to believe in their own abilities and potential in order to live a fulfilled life.
client's issues would be that they feel overwhelmed and full of doubt, limiting their full potential. They struggle with self-esteem and performance. They would like to believe in their own abilities and potential in order to live a fulfilled life.
(805) 424-8194 View (805) 424-8194
Photo of Hina Javaid-Camua, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Thousand Oaks, CA
Hina Javaid-Camua
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91361  (Online Only)
I'm glad you are here. Your story matters. It's unique and it deserves to be embraced. Therapy can be a place to heal from mental health issues but it's also where you can have meaningful life conversations to heal, grow, and understand how to care for you. Anxiety and depression are the most common mental health issues but I also focus on trauma, breakups/divorce, lack of motivation, and setting boundaries in essential life relationships. With a deep focus on empowering individuals from all cultures, I am committed to giving you solace while providing a safe space for you to share your experiences and be heard without judgment.
I'm glad you are here. Your story matters. It's unique and it deserves to be embraced. Therapy can be a place to heal from mental health issues but it's also where you can have meaningful life conversations to heal, grow, and understand how to care for you. Anxiety and depression are the most common mental health issues but I also focus on trauma, breakups/divorce, lack of motivation, and setting boundaries in essential life relationships. With a deep focus on empowering individuals from all cultures, I am committed to giving you solace while providing a safe space for you to share your experiences and be heard without judgment.
(310) 907-7747 View (310) 907-7747
Photo of Nicole Logan, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Thousand Oaks, CA
Nicole Logan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
(805) 243-1408 View (805) 243-1408
Photo of Lifespan: Center for Family Psychological Services, Psychologist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Lifespan: Center for Family Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91361
Lifespan is a center specializing in mental health diagnosis and treatment across all ages. We specialize in providing psychological testing, neuropsychological evaluations, and neurodevelopmental assessments and provide diagnostic clarity, referrals, resources, and treatment plans. We help in identifying learning disabilities, developmental disabilities, issues with attention, and memory and learning complaints, to name a few. Psychological testing can help to clarify between different diagnoses (e.g., ADHD vs Anxiety), provide answers about general difficulties you or your child may be having, and be used for schools to help accommodate you or your child’s needs. We help you better understand your strengths and identify areas of support. Furthermore, we specialize in pre-surgical evaluations (e.g., bariatric, reconstructive, etc.) and work directly with surgeons to optimize outcomes.
Lifespan is a center specializing in mental health diagnosis and treatment across all ages. We specialize in providing psychological testing, neuropsychological evaluations, and neurodevelopmental assessments and provide diagnostic clarity, referrals, resources, and treatment plans. We help in identifying learning disabilities, developmental disabilities, issues with attention, and memory and learning complaints, to name a few. Psychological testing can help to clarify between different diagnoses (e.g., ADHD vs Anxiety), provide answers about general difficulties you or your child may be having, and be used for schools to help accommodate you or your child’s needs. We help you better understand your strengths and identify areas of support. Furthermore, we specialize in pre-surgical evaluations (e.g., bariatric, reconstructive, etc.) and work directly with surgeons to optimize outcomes.
(805) 852-5039 View (805) 852-5039
Photo of Roshon Vercher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Roshon Vercher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360  (Online Only)
I am a clinical social worker licensed in California with over 10 years of experience working in multiple settings providing therapy and support for young people in an educational setting, working with families in child protection and in a clinical setting in a correctional facility . I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, co-dependency, identity issues and people who have experienced trauma or emotional abuse
I am a clinical social worker licensed in California with over 10 years of experience working in multiple settings providing therapy and support for young people in an educational setting, working with families in child protection and in a clinical setting in a correctional facility . I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, co-dependency, identity issues and people who have experienced trauma or emotional abuse
(805) 819-2927 View (805) 819-2927
Photo of Nicole Seale, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Thousand Oaks, CA
Nicole Seale
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360  (Online Only)
Are you trying to heal from a hurtful relationship? Relationships end for a variety of reasons. I work with individuals that are looking for healing and closure from emotionally abusive relationships. We hear a lot about narcissism and the term “gaslighting” is thrown around as a buzzword on social media. It can be confusing trying to understand what happened and why. My passion is helping you accept your past experiences and not only heal, but also grow from them.
Are you trying to heal from a hurtful relationship? Relationships end for a variety of reasons. I work with individuals that are looking for healing and closure from emotionally abusive relationships. We hear a lot about narcissism and the term “gaslighting” is thrown around as a buzzword on social media. It can be confusing trying to understand what happened and why. My passion is helping you accept your past experiences and not only heal, but also grow from them.
(805) 723-2770 View (805) 723-2770
Photo of Kaitlyn Hensley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Kaitlyn Hensley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
That pit in your stomach, thoughts racing, panicky feeling, or feelings of hopelessness and sadness that you just can’t seem to shake. Feelings of anxiety and depression can be tough to tackle alone. Taking time to explore what you’re feeling and understanding why you are feeling or thinking that way can lift the heavy weight that you have been carrying with you.
That pit in your stomach, thoughts racing, panicky feeling, or feelings of hopelessness and sadness that you just can’t seem to shake. Feelings of anxiety and depression can be tough to tackle alone. Taking time to explore what you’re feeling and understanding why you are feeling or thinking that way can lift the heavy weight that you have been carrying with you.
(805) 919-8179 View (805) 919-8179
Photo of Samantha Palti, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Samantha Palti
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
Hello! I am Samantha, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I received my master's degree from the University of La Verne in 2016. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. My passion is helping you navigate through grief and loss, trauma, depression, and anxiety. I use an eclectic approach to integrating evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, and Strengths-Based Therapy. You are the expert of your life, and I will be here to walk alongside and support you.
Hello! I am Samantha, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I received my master's degree from the University of La Verne in 2016. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. My passion is helping you navigate through grief and loss, trauma, depression, and anxiety. I use an eclectic approach to integrating evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, and Strengths-Based Therapy. You are the expert of your life, and I will be here to walk alongside and support you.
(805) 429-6144 View (805) 429-6144
Photo of Dr. Dzovak Kazandjian, Psychologist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Dr. Dzovak Kazandjian
Psychologist, Psy D
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91361
I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Lifespan who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and families, providing both therapy and psychological testing. Testing includes assessing for attention, learning, and autism in children and teens. I received my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Loma Linda University, and completed an APA accredited postdoctoral residency at Kaiser Permanente in Northern California. In my graduate training, I have worked within outpatient, hospital, and community mental health settings. I am located in Westlake Village with Lifespan: A Center for Family Psychological Services.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist at Lifespan who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and families, providing both therapy and psychological testing. Testing includes assessing for attention, learning, and autism in children and teens. I received my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Loma Linda University, and completed an APA accredited postdoctoral residency at Kaiser Permanente in Northern California. In my graduate training, I have worked within outpatient, hospital, and community mental health settings. I am located in Westlake Village with Lifespan: A Center for Family Psychological Services.
(805) 852-5039 View (805) 852-5039
Photo of Michelle Czegledi Gutierrez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Michelle Czegledi Gutierrez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360  (Online Only)
I believe therapy has the potential to help align yourself more confidently to your own body, feelings, and spirit. I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation so we can chat and see if we are a good fit. Feeling unsupported along with lacking in confidence in your abilities can be heartbreaking. I believe it is essential to listen to the healthy part of you that knows there has to be something better than constant worry. There is! I deeply understand the hurt that comes with not being heard or seen.
I believe therapy has the potential to help align yourself more confidently to your own body, feelings, and spirit. I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation so we can chat and see if we are a good fit. Feeling unsupported along with lacking in confidence in your abilities can be heartbreaking. I believe it is essential to listen to the healthy part of you that knows there has to be something better than constant worry. There is! I deeply understand the hurt that comes with not being heard or seen.
(805) 628-4722 View (805) 628-4722
Photo of Daishea Poole, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Daishea Poole
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Are anxiety and stress keeping you from living your life to your fullest potential? Are you feeling stress weighing on you internally or causing you to feel exhausted and hopeless? Together we will explore ways to grow, further develop self-acceptance and unearth traumatic experiences and daily stressors that are hindering you from achieving this potential. I will be available to provide an unbiased listening ear and warm spirit as you reimagine the life you want for yourself. In this safe and accepting environment, we will develop an action plan to better manage your unique symptoms and your life.
Are anxiety and stress keeping you from living your life to your fullest potential? Are you feeling stress weighing on you internally or causing you to feel exhausted and hopeless? Together we will explore ways to grow, further develop self-acceptance and unearth traumatic experiences and daily stressors that are hindering you from achieving this potential. I will be available to provide an unbiased listening ear and warm spirit as you reimagine the life you want for yourself. In this safe and accepting environment, we will develop an action plan to better manage your unique symptoms and your life.
(805) 219-7292 View (805) 219-7292
Photo of Sarah Fultz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Sarah Fultz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I’m Sarah Nelson and I’m an Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor. I’m happy for the chance to take part in your healing journey and my hope is to be a warm and uplifting presence throughout this process. I have a holistic, client-centered approach to therapy, where I work collaboratively with clients to address the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual scars that may be present. I am a certified Brainspotting practitioner, and I actively use CBT, DBT, ACT, Seeking Safety, Family Systems, & Mindfulness in session and throughout treatment.
Hi! I’m Sarah Nelson and I’m an Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor. I’m happy for the chance to take part in your healing journey and my hope is to be a warm and uplifting presence throughout this process. I have a holistic, client-centered approach to therapy, where I work collaboratively with clients to address the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual scars that may be present. I am a certified Brainspotting practitioner, and I actively use CBT, DBT, ACT, Seeking Safety, Family Systems, & Mindfulness in session and throughout treatment.
(805) 790-7561 View (805) 790-7561
Photo of Jeff Appell, Psychologist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Jeff Appell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
I specialize with children, adolescents, and families struggling with educational issues and personal struggles. I also specialize with middle/high school and college students and athletes dealing with anxiety, homesickness, and other life transitions. My expertise focuses in the area of ADHD, Learning Disabilities, and oppositional behaviors as well. I have worked in the school system for over 25 years. Finally, for those of you in your adult years, I offer individual and couples therapy with a direct straightforward approach. I believe in improving communication and helping you thrive in your couple and family relationships.
I specialize with children, adolescents, and families struggling with educational issues and personal struggles. I also specialize with middle/high school and college students and athletes dealing with anxiety, homesickness, and other life transitions. My expertise focuses in the area of ADHD, Learning Disabilities, and oppositional behaviors as well. I have worked in the school system for over 25 years. Finally, for those of you in your adult years, I offer individual and couples therapy with a direct straightforward approach. I believe in improving communication and helping you thrive in your couple and family relationships.
(747) 271-5436 View (747) 271-5436
Photo of Dr. Amon Benavides, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Dr. Amon Benavides
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362  (Online Only)
The benefit of therapy is that one can gain self-understanding, as well as a better understanding of other people. When a person tends to view the world from a negative perspective, without being aware of the source of these negative views, a belief begins to grow that the world and the components of daily-life experiences are negative. The same can be said for events that provoke anxiety, as well as for individual experiences of trauma. Holding these types of thoughts without processing them tends to skew our views on reality and lead to errors in thinking, such as generalizations about how the world should be.
The benefit of therapy is that one can gain self-understanding, as well as a better understanding of other people. When a person tends to view the world from a negative perspective, without being aware of the source of these negative views, a belief begins to grow that the world and the components of daily-life experiences are negative. The same can be said for events that provoke anxiety, as well as for individual experiences of trauma. Holding these types of thoughts without processing them tends to skew our views on reality and lead to errors in thinking, such as generalizations about how the world should be.
(747) 232-2049 View (747) 232-2049
Photo of Bridges Therapy Group Of California, Marriage & Family Therapist in Thousand Oaks, CA
Bridges Therapy Group Of California
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362  (Online Only)
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we’re dedicated to matching you with the perfect therapist for you and ensuring that your insurance will truly pay for your sessions. We are contracted, in-network providers with all the insurers listed below. We verify your benefits before you start so there are no surprises to you.
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we’re dedicated to matching you with the perfect therapist for you and ensuring that your insurance will truly pay for your sessions. We are contracted, in-network providers with all the insurers listed below. We verify your benefits before you start so there are no surprises to you.
(805) 250-8097 View (805) 250-8097

See more therapy options for Thousand Oaks

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Thousand Oaks, CA

600+

Average cost per session

$165

Therapists in Thousand Oaks, CA who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
91% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
71% Self Esteem
69% Coping Skills
68% Trauma and PTSD
63% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

69% Cigna and Evernorth
64% Optum
63% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Thousand Oaks, CA see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Thousand Oaks?

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.