Therapists in Soquel, CA

Photo of Richard Litvak, Marriage & Family Therapist in Soquel, CA
Richard Litvak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Soquel, CA 95073
After 25 years of hearing from clients that I help them to grow, change and solve the problems that bring them into therapy, I take pride in being a caring, compassionate and skilled therapist. Research has demonstrated that successful therapy depends upon the relationship between the therapist and the client. You can trust me to respect you, understand you and guide you in a collaborative therapeutic process. You can safely bring your frustrations, sadness, anxiety, shame or other feelings into therapy as we work through them in ways that improve your happiness and sense of well being.
After 25 years of hearing from clients that I help them to grow, change and solve the problems that bring them into therapy, I take pride in being a caring, compassionate and skilled therapist. Research has demonstrated that successful therapy depends upon the relationship between the therapist and the client. You can trust me to respect you, understand you and guide you in a collaborative therapeutic process. You can safely bring your frustrations, sadness, anxiety, shame or other feelings into therapy as we work through them in ways that improve your happiness and sense of well being.
(831) 216-0350 View (831) 216-0350
Photo of Alex Meyer, Psychologist in Soquel, CA
Alex Meyer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Soquel, CA 95073
Are you frustrated with the amount of anxiety you feel on a daily basis? Is anxiety getting in the way of living your life? Or maybe your child's anxiety is causing your family stress. I can help! I view anxiety as treatable and provide effective and time-limited therapy to children, adolescents and adults. I LOVE helping anxious people lead more value-oriented (and less fearful!) lives. I have been seeing therapy patients for over a decade, using scientifically-based, cognitive-behavioral (CBT) approaches. I use my background in clinical neuroscience to deliver cutting-edge treatment for anxiety.
Are you frustrated with the amount of anxiety you feel on a daily basis? Is anxiety getting in the way of living your life? Or maybe your child's anxiety is causing your family stress. I can help! I view anxiety as treatable and provide effective and time-limited therapy to children, adolescents and adults. I LOVE helping anxious people lead more value-oriented (and less fearful!) lives. I have been seeing therapy patients for over a decade, using scientifically-based, cognitive-behavioral (CBT) approaches. I use my background in clinical neuroscience to deliver cutting-edge treatment for anxiety.
(831) 586-6645 View (831) 586-6645
Photo of Sherry Holm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Soquel, CA
Sherry Holm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Soquel, CA 95073
Relationships are hard, especially when we are carrying uncomfortable feelings about ourselves and others. It is useful to untangle what you would like and develop an outcome that meets your needs. Then, life will seem easier, and relationships will go more smoothly. It is helpful to identify the early imprints, the parts that are struggling to protect us and to bring trauma to a place where it is simply a memory. Beliefs that have been around forever about us need to be examined and updated.
Relationships are hard, especially when we are carrying uncomfortable feelings about ourselves and others. It is useful to untangle what you would like and develop an outcome that meets your needs. Then, life will seem easier, and relationships will go more smoothly. It is helpful to identify the early imprints, the parts that are struggling to protect us and to bring trauma to a place where it is simply a memory. Beliefs that have been around forever about us need to be examined and updated.
(831) 228-8641 View (831) 228-8641
Photo of Suzanne Lerner, Psychologist in Soquel, CA
Suzanne Lerner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Soquel, CA 95073
Are you needing a safe and confidential place to sort through all that is going on, so that you can create a life of Greater Ease, Choice and Connection? Are you needing new skills to help address your “emotional dysregulation” so you have these tools available when you most need them? Somatically-Attuned Internal Family Systems (IFS) helps you creatively reduce inner criticism, shame and anxiety & reclaim a life of Greater Presence, Clarity & Joy. We will use Parts Dialogue, Expressive Arts, EFT Tapping & Guided Visualization to transform your old, critical limiting beliefs into Authentic Compassion, Love & Self-Appreciation!
Are you needing a safe and confidential place to sort through all that is going on, so that you can create a life of Greater Ease, Choice and Connection? Are you needing new skills to help address your “emotional dysregulation” so you have these tools available when you most need them? Somatically-Attuned Internal Family Systems (IFS) helps you creatively reduce inner criticism, shame and anxiety & reclaim a life of Greater Presence, Clarity & Joy. We will use Parts Dialogue, Expressive Arts, EFT Tapping & Guided Visualization to transform your old, critical limiting beliefs into Authentic Compassion, Love & Self-Appreciation!
(831) 244-9589 View (831) 244-9589
Photo of Diana Karpavage LPCC, Counselor in Soquel, CA
Diana Karpavage LPCC
Counselor, MA, LPCC, EMDR Cr
Verified Verified
Soquel, CA 95073
I'm an experienced therapist of over 25 years having spent thousands of counseling hours with individuals, couples and groups. Women's issues such as sexual abuse, miscarriage, abortion, traumatic events, marital/relationship issues, depression, anxiety, grief and PTSD - are my specialty. I have counseled hundreds of couples to improve communication, intimacy/connection issues, trust; and to heal from infidelity, addictions and wounds that threaten the relationship. Issues of teens and young adults are important to address early in life: school, career, sexuality, relationships, traumas. Better to get help sooner than later!
I'm an experienced therapist of over 25 years having spent thousands of counseling hours with individuals, couples and groups. Women's issues such as sexual abuse, miscarriage, abortion, traumatic events, marital/relationship issues, depression, anxiety, grief and PTSD - are my specialty. I have counseled hundreds of couples to improve communication, intimacy/connection issues, trust; and to heal from infidelity, addictions and wounds that threaten the relationship. Issues of teens and young adults are important to address early in life: school, career, sexuality, relationships, traumas. Better to get help sooner than later!
(410) 670-4607 View (410) 670-4607
Photo of Cynthia Nollenberger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Soquel, CA
Cynthia Nollenberger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RAS
Verified Verified
Soquel, CA 95073
All of us struggle at times in our lives and need extra suppport. I offer a warm and nurturing enviornment to support healing and growth. I work with a variety of modalities including Cognative Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, along with depth work modalities such as Object Relations Therapy. I help people deal with issues in relationships, addictions, self esteem, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, anger and adjustment, along with a variety of other issues. I work with families, couples and individuals, including adolesents and children. Please feel free to call me to discuss your specific needs.
All of us struggle at times in our lives and need extra suppport. I offer a warm and nurturing enviornment to support healing and growth. I work with a variety of modalities including Cognative Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, along with depth work modalities such as Object Relations Therapy. I help people deal with issues in relationships, addictions, self esteem, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, anger and adjustment, along with a variety of other issues. I work with families, couples and individuals, including adolesents and children. Please feel free to call me to discuss your specific needs.
(831) 298-5835 View (831) 298-5835
Photo of Kathy Pavlik, Marriage & Family Therapist in Soquel, CA
Kathy Pavlik
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Soquel, CA 95073
We all deserve to feel seen, accepted, and cared for, and to feel empowered to live our best lives. It can be profoundly helpful to have an ally in the journey of being human. My work as a holistic therapist is to support clients in their growth as individuals and in relationships. Together we uncover what is most present and in need of care and attention. Anxiety and depression may be seen as invitations for deep change and healing. Struggles in relationships can be doorways to greater intimacy.
We all deserve to feel seen, accepted, and cared for, and to feel empowered to live our best lives. It can be profoundly helpful to have an ally in the journey of being human. My work as a holistic therapist is to support clients in their growth as individuals and in relationships. Together we uncover what is most present and in need of care and attention. Anxiety and depression may be seen as invitations for deep change and healing. Struggles in relationships can be doorways to greater intimacy.
(831) 900-4415 View (831) 900-4415
Photo of Melissa A Edwards, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Soquel, CA
Melissa A Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Soquel, CA 95073
I offer a welcoming, empathetic, person-centered approach to working with people. I believe we all have inherent strengths that have helped us survive in this life. I aim to create a collaborative and safe place to heal and process. I believe that with unconditional support you will learn more about yourself, develop awareness of your different parts, and learn how to use your strengths to grow deeper with compassion and love for yourself.
I offer a welcoming, empathetic, person-centered approach to working with people. I believe we all have inherent strengths that have helped us survive in this life. I aim to create a collaborative and safe place to heal and process. I believe that with unconditional support you will learn more about yourself, develop awareness of your different parts, and learn how to use your strengths to grow deeper with compassion and love for yourself.
(831) 480-4276 View (831) 480-4276
Photo of Amelia Jane Coulter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Soquel, CA
Amelia Jane Coulter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Soquel, CA 95073  (Online Only)
I believe one of the key components to therapy is providing a safe trusting environment where my clients feel comfortable expressing themselves openly and honestly. I incorporate and integrative approach to therapy utilizing various psychotherapeutic techniques to best match the unique needs of my clients. I'm currently working with Individuals, Children, Families and Teens. I also provide school consultation, parenting groups, and specialized treatment for trauma.
I believe one of the key components to therapy is providing a safe trusting environment where my clients feel comfortable expressing themselves openly and honestly. I incorporate and integrative approach to therapy utilizing various psychotherapeutic techniques to best match the unique needs of my clients. I'm currently working with Individuals, Children, Families and Teens. I also provide school consultation, parenting groups, and specialized treatment for trauma.
(831) 425-9955 View (831) 425-9955
Photo of Donna Certo Ilstrup, Marriage & Family Therapist in Soquel, CA
Donna Certo Ilstrup
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Soquel, CA 95073
Not accepting new clients
Native American cultures believe a decision today will impact the next seven generations. I work to keep past traumas and unwanted patterns from impacting your life now and in the future. I specialize in trauma resolution (using EMDR and Flash Technique), managing anxiety/stress, personalizing interventions to improve school experiences, and improving family dynamics. Working with children ages 10 and older.
Native American cultures believe a decision today will impact the next seven generations. I work to keep past traumas and unwanted patterns from impacting your life now and in the future. I specialize in trauma resolution (using EMDR and Flash Technique), managing anxiety/stress, personalizing interventions to improve school experiences, and improving family dynamics. Working with children ages 10 and older.
(831) 661-8634 View (831) 661-8634
Photo of Mercedes Cerna, Marriage & Family Therapist in Soquel, CA
Mercedes Cerna
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Soquel, CA 95073
I am a bilingual bicultural LMF with 40 years experience working with families. I work virtually. I work with anxiety depression conduct disorder mental disorders aging illness including terminal illness transgender PTSD and dream work plus Jungian Analysis and Shamanic Healing.
I am a bilingual bicultural LMF with 40 years experience working with families. I work virtually. I work with anxiety depression conduct disorder mental disorders aging illness including terminal illness transgender PTSD and dream work plus Jungian Analysis and Shamanic Healing.
(831) 215-5171 View (831) 215-5171
Photo of Dana Bail, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Soquel, CA
Dana Bail
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Soquel, CA 95073
I provide counseling for people of all ages who are struggling to find peace within themselves. We often find ourselves stuck within the grip of anxiety and depression due to the impact of unresolved trauma. These traumatic events can be either "big" or "small," yet they can interfere with the ability to live and love fully. It is possible to learn to love the unlovable and accept the unacceptable through a growth in awareness and compassion towards all that we are. I specialize in the treatment of trauma using EMDR therapy, the Hakomi Method and a compassionate presence.
I provide counseling for people of all ages who are struggling to find peace within themselves. We often find ourselves stuck within the grip of anxiety and depression due to the impact of unresolved trauma. These traumatic events can be either "big" or "small," yet they can interfere with the ability to live and love fully. It is possible to learn to love the unlovable and accept the unacceptable through a growth in awareness and compassion towards all that we are. I specialize in the treatment of trauma using EMDR therapy, the Hakomi Method and a compassionate presence.
(831) 216-1294 View (831) 216-1294
Photo of Thomas M. Burke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Soquel, CA
Thomas M. Burke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Soquel, CA 95073
I work with couples with challenging relationship issues (including infidelity). I work with teenagers and their families (including various "addictions" drug/alc, computer/video games, social media, pornography). I work with people who have been sexually and physically abused. I work with people experiencing grief and loss. I work with couples and individuals who are conflict avoidant and provide skills to work through conflict. I also work with family of origin unresolved hurt and trauma. I help identify the origin of auto-pilot buttons and defenses. Lastly, self-esteem and personal growth challenges. Change is hard not impossible.
I work with couples with challenging relationship issues (including infidelity). I work with teenagers and their families (including various "addictions" drug/alc, computer/video games, social media, pornography). I work with people who have been sexually and physically abused. I work with people experiencing grief and loss. I work with couples and individuals who are conflict avoidant and provide skills to work through conflict. I also work with family of origin unresolved hurt and trauma. I help identify the origin of auto-pilot buttons and defenses. Lastly, self-esteem and personal growth challenges. Change is hard not impossible.
(831) 709-4268 View (831) 709-4268
Photo of Catherine Cervantes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Soquel, CA
Catherine Cervantes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Soquel, CA 95073
Waitlist for new clients
I trust your capacity for moving toward healing, change and growth. My holistic training in applying mindfulness to trauma and anxiety can allow you to experience a new relationship with all the parts of yourself and with others, which helps you feel more at ease. As a somatic psychotherapist, I use a mind-body approach to help you compassionately discover unconscious patterns in your nervous system, body, and mind that keep you from living your life as you wish. Somatic-based therapy has you deeply listen to all parts of yourself, which allows access and support to places in you that talk therapy does not reach.
I trust your capacity for moving toward healing, change and growth. My holistic training in applying mindfulness to trauma and anxiety can allow you to experience a new relationship with all the parts of yourself and with others, which helps you feel more at ease. As a somatic psychotherapist, I use a mind-body approach to help you compassionately discover unconscious patterns in your nervous system, body, and mind that keep you from living your life as you wish. Somatic-based therapy has you deeply listen to all parts of yourself, which allows access and support to places in you that talk therapy does not reach.
(831) 920-0791 View (831) 920-0791
Photo of Marc Darrow, Marriage & Family Therapist in Soquel, CA
Marc Darrow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Soquel, CA 95073  (Online Only)
I give my full, non-judgmental attention when my clients and I are mutually exploring their concerns, and I'm active and responsive to clients' agendas as we work on the practical changes they're seeking. Establishing a safe, loving space is vital to this process. I've learned that behind a variety of issues, there are common roots. For example, many of us suffer from unhelpful thoughts that block our ability to see ourselves and our lives clearly. When we examine these, we take an important first step in the sequence of creating greater awareness, making new choices, and then establishing real change.
I give my full, non-judgmental attention when my clients and I are mutually exploring their concerns, and I'm active and responsive to clients' agendas as we work on the practical changes they're seeking. Establishing a safe, loving space is vital to this process. I've learned that behind a variety of issues, there are common roots. For example, many of us suffer from unhelpful thoughts that block our ability to see ourselves and our lives clearly. When we examine these, we take an important first step in the sequence of creating greater awareness, making new choices, and then establishing real change.
(831) 531-5195 View (831) 531-5195
Photo of Jenny Silber Butah, Marriage & Family Therapist in Soquel, CA
Jenny Silber Butah
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Soquel, CA 95073
From a spiritual reality, I believe that we humans are "gems of inestimable value". Coming to therapy to learn about your own gem-like nature is an act of courage. I ask curious questions and wonder about non-verbal signals, so that you may safely explore the depth and breadth of your own nature. My background is in Process Oriented Psychology (with Jungian roots) and Developmental Psychology. I'm excited to include Internal Family Systems and Intimacy from the Inside Out. I'm passionate about helping you discover your inside parts and access your own Self energy to aid you in your healing journey
From a spiritual reality, I believe that we humans are "gems of inestimable value". Coming to therapy to learn about your own gem-like nature is an act of courage. I ask curious questions and wonder about non-verbal signals, so that you may safely explore the depth and breadth of your own nature. My background is in Process Oriented Psychology (with Jungian roots) and Developmental Psychology. I'm excited to include Internal Family Systems and Intimacy from the Inside Out. I'm passionate about helping you discover your inside parts and access your own Self energy to aid you in your healing journey
(831) 216-5027 View (831) 216-5027
Photo of Jessica Lillian Zovar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Soquel, CA
Jessica Lillian Zovar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Soquel, CA 95073
I am honored to work with individuals; including teens, young adults, children and families, providing a space to understand their inner world. It is in therapy that we invite all parts of the self into the light, and a new perspective emerges. I believe we are all continually moving toward healing. Clients often share that I have a warm, accepting and supportive approach that welcomes and validates all aspects of the inner landscape.
I am honored to work with individuals; including teens, young adults, children and families, providing a space to understand their inner world. It is in therapy that we invite all parts of the self into the light, and a new perspective emerges. I believe we are all continually moving toward healing. Clients often share that I have a warm, accepting and supportive approach that welcomes and validates all aspects of the inner landscape.
(831) 708-0556 View (831) 708-0556
Photo of David B. Ruso, Marriage & Family Therapist in Soquel, CA
David B. Ruso
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Soquel, CA 95073
Entering into the right therapeutic relationship is the first step toward healing and change. Working collaboratively we will explore the origins of any problems or pain you have be struggling with, at a pace that is safe and comfortable for you. As mental and emotional material is explored, the ability to experience greater freedom and enjoyment in your relationships, work, and family life will become more readily accessible and tangible in daily life.
Entering into the right therapeutic relationship is the first step toward healing and change. Working collaboratively we will explore the origins of any problems or pain you have be struggling with, at a pace that is safe and comfortable for you. As mental and emotional material is explored, the ability to experience greater freedom and enjoyment in your relationships, work, and family life will become more readily accessible and tangible in daily life.
(831) 920-3683 View (831) 920-3683
Photo of Connor Moss, Marriage & Family Therapist in Soquel, CA
Connor Moss
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Soquel, CA 95073
Do you want to understand more about how and why you are the way you are? Are you contending with difficult and painful symptoms in your emotional and mental life? Do you need a safe, neutral, and compassionate third party to hear you, reflect your story, offer feedback, and try to make sense of your life together with you? Everyone contends with painful experiences and emotions in their lives. Often times we are confused by our pain because despite our best efforts, we can’t seem to make sense of why we are hurting so much or what to do about it. So often the pain in life is a result of unconscious energies within us.
Do you want to understand more about how and why you are the way you are? Are you contending with difficult and painful symptoms in your emotional and mental life? Do you need a safe, neutral, and compassionate third party to hear you, reflect your story, offer feedback, and try to make sense of your life together with you? Everyone contends with painful experiences and emotions in their lives. Often times we are confused by our pain because despite our best efforts, we can’t seem to make sense of why we are hurting so much or what to do about it. So often the pain in life is a result of unconscious energies within us.
(831) 204-0131 View (831) 204-0131
Photo of Cheryce Gutzmer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Soquel, CA
Cheryce Gutzmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Soquel, CA 95073
I've been in practice in Santa Cruz County for the last 25 years. My style is engaging, warm and free of judgement. I believe that we all have the ability to thrive, if given the tools and support needed. I coach my clients to take charge and find harmony in their lives. I provide individual and couple's counseling on issues of anxiety, depression, aging, childhood trauma, grief and loss as well as life's challenges that can contribute to isolation, disconnection, and emotional pain.
I've been in practice in Santa Cruz County for the last 25 years. My style is engaging, warm and free of judgement. I believe that we all have the ability to thrive, if given the tools and support needed. I coach my clients to take charge and find harmony in their lives. I provide individual and couple's counseling on issues of anxiety, depression, aging, childhood trauma, grief and loss as well as life's challenges that can contribute to isolation, disconnection, and emotional pain.
(831) 256-3933 View (831) 256-3933

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Soquel, CA

100+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Soquel, CA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Relationship Issues
86% Depression
84% Self Esteem
78% Grief
75% Trauma and PTSD
73% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

41% MHN | Health Net
37% Anthem | Elevance
37% Beacon Health Options | Carelon

How Therapists in Soquel, CA see their clients

85% In Person and Online
15% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
14% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Soquel?

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.