Therapists in El Dorado Hills, CA

Photo of Demetri Coffin, Psychologist in El Dorado Hills, CA
Demetri Coffin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
I have been a licensed Psychologist for over 12 years. I have varied experience in the Mental Health field over the past 20 years including child and adolescent inpatient and school based treatment, adult inpatient treatment and crisis intervention. I have spent the majority of the past 10 plus years working with law enforcement/public safety providing crisis intervention, brief and long term therapy, and managing mental health programs.
I have been a licensed Psychologist for over 12 years. I have varied experience in the Mental Health field over the past 20 years including child and adolescent inpatient and school based treatment, adult inpatient treatment and crisis intervention. I have spent the majority of the past 10 plus years working with law enforcement/public safety providing crisis intervention, brief and long term therapy, and managing mental health programs.
(916) 398-2678 View (916) 398-2678
Photo of Lisa Dickinson, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Dorado Hills, CA
Lisa Dickinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, adults, and families on a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, body image, parenting, and relationship problems. I believe that therapy can be an important and effective step in bringing about positive change and increased satisfaction in your personal life, relationships, and career. I will work with you to uncover your strengths and to use these strengths to work through problems and find solutions to life's challenges.
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, adults, and families on a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, body image, parenting, and relationship problems. I believe that therapy can be an important and effective step in bringing about positive change and increased satisfaction in your personal life, relationships, and career. I will work with you to uncover your strengths and to use these strengths to work through problems and find solutions to life's challenges.
(805) 351-4617 View (805) 351-4617
Photo of The Path Wellness Center: Dr. Kimberly Ciardella, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Dorado Hills, CA
The Path Wellness Center: Dr. Kimberly Ciardella
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Finding you here, means you are looking for answers, for purpose, for reasons, for meaning. You feel sadness, you feel rage, you feel fear, AND sometimes you feel NOTHING, you feel emptiness, numbness, you feel a deep void. You're disconnected from everything that brings you life, the things that bring you joy, the people you love, but most of all you are disconnected from your SELF. Whether you are in the throes of anxiety or depression, moving through a traumatic experience, working to repair your relationships or coping with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), you are brave for reaching out and we are here to help.
Finding you here, means you are looking for answers, for purpose, for reasons, for meaning. You feel sadness, you feel rage, you feel fear, AND sometimes you feel NOTHING, you feel emptiness, numbness, you feel a deep void. You're disconnected from everything that brings you life, the things that bring you joy, the people you love, but most of all you are disconnected from your SELF. Whether you are in the throes of anxiety or depression, moving through a traumatic experience, working to repair your relationships or coping with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), you are brave for reaching out and we are here to help.
(916) 538-1683 View (916) 538-1683
Photo of Shelly S Goscha, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in El Dorado Hills, CA
Shelly S Goscha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Waitlist for new clients
Life entails times of joy, happiness, growth, change, pain, and loss. Life can be hard and sometimes we need help to cope through difficult experiences and learn new ways of navigating the challenges we face. I work with clients in a collaborative relationship to create lasting positive change, reduce emotional suffering, access strengths, change negative patterns, increase self-compassion, formulate goals, strengthen coping skills, enhance relationships, navigate transitions, and further movement toward a life that is meaningful and fulfilling.
Life entails times of joy, happiness, growth, change, pain, and loss. Life can be hard and sometimes we need help to cope through difficult experiences and learn new ways of navigating the challenges we face. I work with clients in a collaborative relationship to create lasting positive change, reduce emotional suffering, access strengths, change negative patterns, increase self-compassion, formulate goals, strengthen coping skills, enhance relationships, navigate transitions, and further movement toward a life that is meaningful and fulfilling.
(916) 226-9443 View (916) 226-9443
Photo of Nazli Seewer, Psychologist in El Dorado Hills, CA
Nazli Seewer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
I believe that everybody is unique and that one approach doesn't fit all. I combine evidence based treatment with intuition to tailor treatment to each person's needs, taking into consideration their strengths and weaknesses. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental environment that fosters trust between therapist and client to help clients explore and resolve life challenges.
I believe that everybody is unique and that one approach doesn't fit all. I combine evidence based treatment with intuition to tailor treatment to each person's needs, taking into consideration their strengths and weaknesses. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental environment that fosters trust between therapist and client to help clients explore and resolve life challenges.
(916) 974-9680 View (916) 974-9680
Photo of Cristina Billingsley, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Dorado Hills, CA
Cristina Billingsley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Waitlist for new clients
The search for a therapist can often feel daunting and I'm so glad you're here. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, guiding and supporting them in navigating through issues including anxiety, depression, panic, trauma/PTSD and mood disorders. I have extensive experience working with neurodivergent clients and their family members, which ignited a passion for working with this population. In sessions, we will address challenges such as communication issues, self-esteem, grief, loss, life change, stress, and more. If you're seeking new ways to change behaviors, thoughts, and actions by implementing new tools, I'd love to help.
The search for a therapist can often feel daunting and I'm so glad you're here. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, guiding and supporting them in navigating through issues including anxiety, depression, panic, trauma/PTSD and mood disorders. I have extensive experience working with neurodivergent clients and their family members, which ignited a passion for working with this population. In sessions, we will address challenges such as communication issues, self-esteem, grief, loss, life change, stress, and more. If you're seeking new ways to change behaviors, thoughts, and actions by implementing new tools, I'd love to help.
(805) 303-5089 View (805) 303-5089
Photo of Developing Minds Psychology, LLC in El Dorado Hills, CA
Developing Minds Psychology, LLC
LEP, NCC, NCSP
Verified Verified
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Mental health is an important part of an individual's overall health and well-being. It impacts how an individual thinks, feels, and acts; as well as how one handles stress, performs in school, relates or interacts with others, and makes healthy choices. Jen offers consultation, psychoeducational testing, and psychological counseling. She works with children, adolescents, and young adults with learning disabilities, ADHD, ASD, Anxiety, Depression, trauma and loss, suicidal ideation, behavioral challenges, and school adjustment issues of all kinds.
Mental health is an important part of an individual's overall health and well-being. It impacts how an individual thinks, feels, and acts; as well as how one handles stress, performs in school, relates or interacts with others, and makes healthy choices. Jen offers consultation, psychoeducational testing, and psychological counseling. She works with children, adolescents, and young adults with learning disabilities, ADHD, ASD, Anxiety, Depression, trauma and loss, suicidal ideation, behavioral challenges, and school adjustment issues of all kinds.
(916) 587-8044 View (916) 587-8044
Photo of Xiaoting Joyce, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Dorado Hills, CA
Xiaoting Joyce
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Deep within, I believe everyone holds the keys to a life of profound meaning and joy. By discerning their dreams and charting their personal journeys, my clients unlock doors to lives they cherish all the more. In the wise words of Carl Jung, 'Man's task is to become conscious of the contents that press upward from the unconscious.'
Deep within, I believe everyone holds the keys to a life of profound meaning and joy. By discerning their dreams and charting their personal journeys, my clients unlock doors to lives they cherish all the more. In the wise words of Carl Jung, 'Man's task is to become conscious of the contents that press upward from the unconscious.'
(916) 914-8011 View (916) 914-8011
Photo of Jayme Parvaresh, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Dorado Hills, CA
Jayme Parvaresh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Hi, my name is Jayme Parvaresh, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe growth and healing can begin in a safe, nurturing, and trusting space. I use a client-centered/humanistic approach to therapy and prioritize connecting with my clients. Other approaches I find helpful and use throughout the course of treatment include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), strength-based, solution-focused, and teleplay therapy.
Hi, my name is Jayme Parvaresh, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe growth and healing can begin in a safe, nurturing, and trusting space. I use a client-centered/humanistic approach to therapy and prioritize connecting with my clients. Other approaches I find helpful and use throughout the course of treatment include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), strength-based, solution-focused, and teleplay therapy.
(916) 237-8356 View (916) 237-8356
Photo of Lisa Androvich, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Dorado Hills, CA
Lisa Androvich
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Waitlist for new clients
Are there areas in life that you find challenging to manage? Parenting? Relationships? Stress? Do you need to strengthen the relationship lines with your partner, your children, your parents? Are past wounds preventing you to live the life you once imagined for yourself? I feel strongly about developing a collaborative relationship with you, and about helping you see choices you have to move toward an experience that is rewarding and gratifying. If you are unsure of where to begin, I am happy to assist you in that process.
Are there areas in life that you find challenging to manage? Parenting? Relationships? Stress? Do you need to strengthen the relationship lines with your partner, your children, your parents? Are past wounds preventing you to live the life you once imagined for yourself? I feel strongly about developing a collaborative relationship with you, and about helping you see choices you have to move toward an experience that is rewarding and gratifying. If you are unsure of where to begin, I am happy to assist you in that process.
(916) 341-9230 View (916) 341-9230
Photo of William Gordon, Psychologist in El Dorado Hills, CA
William Gordon
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Hello, I am Dr. William Gordon. I hold a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and a Master's degree in Forensic Psychology, with over 35 years of clinical experience working with a wide range of mental health concerns, including but not limited to, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Trauma, and other Stress-Related Disorders, Attention Deficit Disorders, Personality Disorders, and a wide range of addictive disorders.
Hello, I am Dr. William Gordon. I hold a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and a Master's degree in Forensic Psychology, with over 35 years of clinical experience working with a wide range of mental health concerns, including but not limited to, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Trauma, and other Stress-Related Disorders, Attention Deficit Disorders, Personality Disorders, and a wide range of addictive disorders.
(916) 432-2695 View (916) 432-2695
Photo of Alice Rodriguez, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in El Dorado Hills, CA
Alice Rodriguez
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPPC, CADCII, MBA, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Life experiences challenging? Anxiety, stress, and trauma can complicate our lives. My goal is to help you identify and heal from issues past and present that prevents you from living your best life (including trauma, addiction, and depression). In addition to CBT, I have specialized training in trauma treatment known as Brainspotting, a powerful, cutting-edge treatment modality, it goes deep and quick. I am a certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADCII). I am Certified in Brainspotting. I work with first responders, veterans, and fire survivors. I also provide immigration evaluations..
Life experiences challenging? Anxiety, stress, and trauma can complicate our lives. My goal is to help you identify and heal from issues past and present that prevents you from living your best life (including trauma, addiction, and depression). In addition to CBT, I have specialized training in trauma treatment known as Brainspotting, a powerful, cutting-edge treatment modality, it goes deep and quick. I am a certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADCII). I am Certified in Brainspotting. I work with first responders, veterans, and fire survivors. I also provide immigration evaluations..
(916) 739-2310 View (916) 739-2310
Photo of Hannah Phair Zackney, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Dorado Hills, CA
Hannah Phair Zackney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Hannah Zackney is a holistic psychotherapist, MFTi supervisor, teacher, writer and speaker that infuses meditation, mindfulness into her work of supporting clients to experience their highest potential. As a yoga teacher of 25 years she is passionate about weaving the mind, body spirit connection to empower and embolden her clients to connect with their true happiness and creative capacity.
Hannah Zackney is a holistic psychotherapist, MFTi supervisor, teacher, writer and speaker that infuses meditation, mindfulness into her work of supporting clients to experience their highest potential. As a yoga teacher of 25 years she is passionate about weaving the mind, body spirit connection to empower and embolden her clients to connect with their true happiness and creative capacity.
(916) 520-6467 View (916) 520-6467
Photo of Code 4 Family Counseling, Inc , Marriage & Family Therapist in El Dorado Hills, CA
Code 4 Family Counseling, Inc
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Joshua Todt is a licensed marriage and family therapist who specializes in treating stress, anxiety, and PTSI. Josh is trained in both Brainspotting and EMDR. Josh uses a combination of these techniques along with CBT, mindfulness and grounding techniques to try to lower his client's negative symptoms. Josh worked as a deputy sheriff for 27 years prior to becoming a therapist and is familiar with the first responder lifestyle and the difficulties it imposes on the responder and their families. Josh works with individuals and couples, but not children.
Joshua Todt is a licensed marriage and family therapist who specializes in treating stress, anxiety, and PTSI. Josh is trained in both Brainspotting and EMDR. Josh uses a combination of these techniques along with CBT, mindfulness and grounding techniques to try to lower his client's negative symptoms. Josh worked as a deputy sheriff for 27 years prior to becoming a therapist and is familiar with the first responder lifestyle and the difficulties it imposes on the responder and their families. Josh works with individuals and couples, but not children.
(916) 621-5332 View (916) 621-5332
Photo of Sarah Lesko, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Dorado Hills, CA
Sarah Lesko
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Are you a parent who finds yourself staying up late at night, thinking about your child and googling ways to better understand or help them? Maybe you wake up in the morning, vowing that this day will be different. This day you won’t find yourself in endless power struggles with your children. This day you won't resort to yelling or threatening to take away electronics only to find yourself caving by 10 am. Do you wonder why life seems so overwhelming and tiring when you have so much to be grateful for? As an Attachment-focused therapist, you are the type of client I see often.
Are you a parent who finds yourself staying up late at night, thinking about your child and googling ways to better understand or help them? Maybe you wake up in the morning, vowing that this day will be different. This day you won’t find yourself in endless power struggles with your children. This day you won't resort to yelling or threatening to take away electronics only to find yourself caving by 10 am. Do you wonder why life seems so overwhelming and tiring when you have so much to be grateful for? As an Attachment-focused therapist, you are the type of client I see often.
(916) 866-8682 View (916) 866-8682
Photo of Debbie Walsh, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Dorado Hills, CA
Debbie Walsh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Waitlist for new clients
Over the course of my practice I have worked with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, and a multitude of life stressors. At different times in our lives, support may be needed navigating through these emotional difficulties. I have a warm and genuine approach and will provide support and guidance. I provide a non-judgmental environment while also gently challenging you to make needed changes when appropriate. We will work together to identify goals to improve your life and help you feel better.
Over the course of my practice I have worked with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, and a multitude of life stressors. At different times in our lives, support may be needed navigating through these emotional difficulties. I have a warm and genuine approach and will provide support and guidance. I provide a non-judgmental environment while also gently challenging you to make needed changes when appropriate. We will work together to identify goals to improve your life and help you feel better.
(530) 763-1156 x530417 View (530) 763-1156 x530417
Photo of Maria Koehn, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Dorado Hills, CA
Maria Koehn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Our growing and healing is a life long journey. Taking this step to find the support and guidance in a therapist can seem overwhelming and risky yet may be most rewarding. I hope you embrace this adventure. Let's journey to understand you better while identifying patterns of protection that can block deep connection and feeling heard, understood. Compassion, understanding and acceptance are central to my approach.
Our growing and healing is a life long journey. Taking this step to find the support and guidance in a therapist can seem overwhelming and risky yet may be most rewarding. I hope you embrace this adventure. Let's journey to understand you better while identifying patterns of protection that can block deep connection and feeling heard, understood. Compassion, understanding and acceptance are central to my approach.
(916) 541-2681 View (916) 541-2681
Photo of Brian S Andres, Psychologist in El Dorado Hills, CA
Brian S Andres
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
California License PSY 19522 & Hawaii License PSY 866 ALOHA, I am a former headquarters Chief Psychologist for the State of California (DSH: Department of State Hospitals Forensics a California Health & Human Services Agency) – formerly known as the Dept of Mental Health (DMH). DSH is the nation’s largest inpatient mental health hospital system. I have also been engaged in nearly 30 years in private practice since the early 1990’s providing counseling-therapy, VA C&P Disability Exams, & 2nd opinion psych exams for adults & children in: the San Francisco Bay Area, El Dorado Hills, & Hawaii by appointment only.
California License PSY 19522 & Hawaii License PSY 866 ALOHA, I am a former headquarters Chief Psychologist for the State of California (DSH: Department of State Hospitals Forensics a California Health & Human Services Agency) – formerly known as the Dept of Mental Health (DMH). DSH is the nation’s largest inpatient mental health hospital system. I have also been engaged in nearly 30 years in private practice since the early 1990’s providing counseling-therapy, VA C&P Disability Exams, & 2nd opinion psych exams for adults & children in: the San Francisco Bay Area, El Dorado Hills, & Hawaii by appointment only.
(628) 400-0143 View (628) 400-0143
Photo of Erin Patterson, Counselor in El Dorado Hills, CA
Erin Patterson
Counselor, MC, LPCC, CEDS-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Whatever has brought you here, welcome. If you or a loved one are struggling with eating disorder behaviors or other self-destructive behaviors, I am effective at treating these and addressing the underlying issues that fuel them.
Whatever has brought you here, welcome. If you or a loved one are struggling with eating disorder behaviors or other self-destructive behaviors, I am effective at treating these and addressing the underlying issues that fuel them.
(916) 426-6009 x700 View (916) 426-6009 x700
Photo of Christie Coffin, Marriage & Family Therapist in El Dorado Hills, CA
Christie Coffin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Are you struggling with anxiety, OCD, relationship issues or trauma? I help adolescents and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, family issues, boundary issues, substance use as well as many other issues. Initially I want to provide support and develop skills to manage the stressors bringing you in to treatment, but I also help you move beyond stressors and help you connect to your authentic self and goals so you can manifest the life you want.
Are you struggling with anxiety, OCD, relationship issues or trauma? I help adolescents and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, family issues, boundary issues, substance use as well as many other issues. Initially I want to provide support and develop skills to manage the stressors bringing you in to treatment, but I also help you move beyond stressors and help you connect to your authentic self and goals so you can manifest the life you want.
(530) 303-7703 View (530) 303-7703

See more therapy options for El Dorado Hills

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in El Dorado Hills, CA

200+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in El Dorado Hills, CA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
87% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
73% Trauma and PTSD
72% Self Esteem
67% Coping Skills
64% Stress

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

57% Optum
53% Aetna
49% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in El Dorado Hills, CA see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
15% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in El Dorado Hills?

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.