Therapists in San Diego, CA
Christiana Silva
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
Dr. Silva is the Chief Behavior Health Officer for San Diego based mental healthcare provider Fusion Care Group. Fusion Care Group is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
Dr. Silva is the Chief Behavior Health Officer for San Diego based mental healthcare provider Fusion Care Group. Fusion Care Group is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
Carie Bassett
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
My name is Carie Bassett, and I am a Licensed Associate Professional Clinical Counselor. I chose to change careers after years of working in the Finance Industry because of my deep desire to understand an individual’s emotional processes and ability to heal. I have gained valuable life and educational experience and work with individuals who are experiencing family conflicts, anxiety, depression, and having difficulty navigating through life transitions and stressors. I look forward to being a partner on your journey and assisting you in accomplishing your goals.
My name is Carie Bassett, and I am a Licensed Associate Professional Clinical Counselor. I chose to change careers after years of working in the Finance Industry because of my deep desire to understand an individual’s emotional processes and ability to heal. I have gained valuable life and educational experience and work with individuals who are experiencing family conflicts, anxiety, depression, and having difficulty navigating through life transitions and stressors. I look forward to being a partner on your journey and assisting you in accomplishing your goals.
Leslie Salas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92127
Leslie Salas is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2023. Leslie, as a first-generation Mexican American, is passionate about providing mental health support to those who are bilingual or monolingual (Spanish/English). She understands and empathizes with the challenges faced by individuals coming to the United States. Leslie offers Evidence-Based Therapy approaches such as DBT, ACT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy.
Leslie Salas is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California who has been practicing since 2023. Leslie, as a first-generation Mexican American, is passionate about providing mental health support to those who are bilingual or monolingual (Spanish/English). She understands and empathizes with the challenges faced by individuals coming to the United States. Leslie offers Evidence-Based Therapy approaches such as DBT, ACT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy.
Lei Raiza A Zervoulakos
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Hi, I'm Lei Raiza! I’m an Associate Clinical Counselor, but you might also call me a self-healing supporter and wellness enthusiast. I help clients who want to get started on their healing and wellness journey but don’t know or where to begin. So much of what happens to us in our life is kept silent because of shame or embarrassment- and the fear that no one will really understand what we are going through. I provide clients with a safe space where they can express themselves, process through the pain and overcome the barriers blocking their full potential.
Hi, I'm Lei Raiza! I’m an Associate Clinical Counselor, but you might also call me a self-healing supporter and wellness enthusiast. I help clients who want to get started on their healing and wellness journey but don’t know or where to begin. So much of what happens to us in our life is kept silent because of shame or embarrassment- and the fear that no one will really understand what we are going through. I provide clients with a safe space where they can express themselves, process through the pain and overcome the barriers blocking their full potential.
Beverly Sharifian
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
I find that the counseling process requires authenticity from both yourself and the counselor that you choose to work with. My approach is affirming and gentle, but also honest so that we can confront any stressors or obstacles in your life. I believe that mental health and physical well-being go hand in hand. I have experience working with survivors of brain injury, as well as clients managing chronic, acute, or terminal illness. I've worked with underserved populations, and a wide range of adults from diverse backgrounds. I aim to offer culturally sensitive and affirming care, and offer services in Farsi, in addition to English.
I find that the counseling process requires authenticity from both yourself and the counselor that you choose to work with. My approach is affirming and gentle, but also honest so that we can confront any stressors or obstacles in your life. I believe that mental health and physical well-being go hand in hand. I have experience working with survivors of brain injury, as well as clients managing chronic, acute, or terminal illness. I've worked with underserved populations, and a wide range of adults from diverse backgrounds. I aim to offer culturally sensitive and affirming care, and offer services in Farsi, in addition to English.
Aspasia Caplaneris Birmingham
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92107
I aim to provide you with support and relief from your anxiety and/or depressive symptoms and also offer you a perspective and understanding of your struggles and likely differs from what you might hear from family or friends. I share in the hope you will move forward in ways you might previously feared impossible. Good therapy focuses on maximizing your strengths and reducing your difficulties in the healing process.
I aim to provide you with support and relief from your anxiety and/or depressive symptoms and also offer you a perspective and understanding of your struggles and likely differs from what you might hear from family or friends. I share in the hope you will move forward in ways you might previously feared impossible. Good therapy focuses on maximizing your strengths and reducing your difficulties in the healing process.
Erica Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
Do you struggle with trusting others or with feelings of not being "enough"? Have you experienced trauma or difficult relationships? Have you ever used substances to numb stress or to distract? Sometimes your brain is your worst enemy. You question your worthiness and your lovability. There is pain from your past that has led you to build up walls to protect yourself from being hurt again. But here you are, done feeling stuck. You want to have deep connections. You want to feel confident and successful.
Do you struggle with trusting others or with feelings of not being "enough"? Have you experienced trauma or difficult relationships? Have you ever used substances to numb stress or to distract? Sometimes your brain is your worst enemy. You question your worthiness and your lovability. There is pain from your past that has led you to build up walls to protect yourself from being hurt again. But here you are, done feeling stuck. You want to have deep connections. You want to feel confident and successful.
Hilario (Rio) M.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy is a space that is both engaging and supportive. I aim to create a welcoming environment where you can access therapy as a means to enrich your life. I come from a unique cultural background, being half Salvadorian and half Filipino, a first-generation child of immigrant parents, and part of the LGBTQ+ community. These diverse cultural influences have significantly shaped my personal identity and professional development. This journey of straddling multiple cultures has taught me the richness of our intersectional identities and how we all engage with the world through a complex web of lived experiences.
Therapy is a space that is both engaging and supportive. I aim to create a welcoming environment where you can access therapy as a means to enrich your life. I come from a unique cultural background, being half Salvadorian and half Filipino, a first-generation child of immigrant parents, and part of the LGBTQ+ community. These diverse cultural influences have significantly shaped my personal identity and professional development. This journey of straddling multiple cultures has taught me the richness of our intersectional identities and how we all engage with the world through a complex web of lived experiences.
Nicole Kathleen Sellin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92116 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has been practicing within this field for nearly 20 years. I am a firm believer that we all possess the ability to discover our strengths, overcome our troubles, and create healthy, fulfilling lives, especially when given the right support. We deserve to be heard, respected, and supported in a nonjudgmental, down-to-earth environment; where we are appreciated for who we are, where we came from, and the direction we wish to go. I am here to offer you space to explore those areas of your life that cause you difficulty and together discover solutions that lead to a happier, peaceful life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has been practicing within this field for nearly 20 years. I am a firm believer that we all possess the ability to discover our strengths, overcome our troubles, and create healthy, fulfilling lives, especially when given the right support. We deserve to be heard, respected, and supported in a nonjudgmental, down-to-earth environment; where we are appreciated for who we are, where we came from, and the direction we wish to go. I am here to offer you space to explore those areas of your life that cause you difficulty and together discover solutions that lead to a happier, peaceful life.
Jessica Rose Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104 (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice! I'm Jessica Cole, a licensed clinical therapist with a passion for supporting individuals on their journey toward emotional well-being and personal growth. With years of experience and a deep commitment to your mental health, I am here to provide you with a safe and empathetic space to explore and address the challenges life may present.
Welcome to my practice! I'm Jessica Cole, a licensed clinical therapist with a passion for supporting individuals on their journey toward emotional well-being and personal growth. With years of experience and a deep commitment to your mental health, I am here to provide you with a safe and empathetic space to explore and address the challenges life may present.
Tatevik Khachatryan
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
Mental strength is not the ability to stay out of the darkness, it's the ability to sit present in the darkness knowing the light will shine again. If you are seeking help, often times it can be an overwhelming and humbling experience. Finding a therapist that you feel comfortable with and at ease can be challenging, but once it is a good match, you will be able to overcome your obstacles. Remember, you are the expert in your own life, and being in therapy we will improve some aspect of it. With empathy, trust, accountability and respect, we will work together to see the light.
Mental strength is not the ability to stay out of the darkness, it's the ability to sit present in the darkness knowing the light will shine again. If you are seeking help, often times it can be an overwhelming and humbling experience. Finding a therapist that you feel comfortable with and at ease can be challenging, but once it is a good match, you will be able to overcome your obstacles. Remember, you are the expert in your own life, and being in therapy we will improve some aspect of it. With empathy, trust, accountability and respect, we will work together to see the light.
15 Second Videos
Christiana Silva
Lauryn Estrada
Maria Martinez: Hope Therapy Group
Kayla Knopp
Eric van der Voort
Dr. Kimthu Trinh-Energy Psychology & Wellness
Melissa E Munoz
Bernard And Priscilla Chen
Amy Anderson, LCSW
Tahney Johnston
Jennifer V Kulka
Martha S Webb
Riza Loreine P Callejas
Leah Aguirre
Cierra E Guerra: Blueprint Counseling Solutions
Louiza Livschitz
Scott D Altamirano
Elizabeth 'betsy' Muirhead
Janice Naranjo
Allyson Ford
Esmeralda S Christensen
Sarah Chernick
Dana M Cole
Greg Buttner
Stacy Bonds
Coping With Anxiety Or Depression -Lindsay MacMaster
Katie Hagen
Brett Rash
Cappy's House Counseling Services, LCSW
Julia Mendoza
R. Clarke Heyes
Hudson Jones
Michelle Smith
Salina Bambic
Jen Smith
Thuy Linh Pham
Nora Davis
Gissell Rodriguez
Jamila Mahfudh
Lauren Nicole Mason
Emily Andersen
Laura Wilhoit
Olga Goodman
Abi Weissman-Waves A Psych Co. Centering Lgbtq+ Care
Jessica Hughes
Julia Kamp
Sasha Schultz
Janina Scarlet
Kristin Calabria
Jessica A. Lopez
Dr. Amanda L Gutierrez
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
Would you like to regain control over your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors? Are you tired of feeling like your emotions dictate your life? If this resonates, you've come to the right place! Often, individuals are aware of the obstacles holding them back but struggle to overcome them. Many find that merely discussing their issues provides temporary relief but fails to yield lasting change. With my expertise we can do more than just talk about what's troubling you. Together, we can work towards eliminating the factors contributing to your suffering, allowing you to regain control and steering your life in the direction you desire.
Would you like to regain control over your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors? Are you tired of feeling like your emotions dictate your life? If this resonates, you've come to the right place! Often, individuals are aware of the obstacles holding them back but struggle to overcome them. Many find that merely discussing their issues provides temporary relief but fails to yield lasting change. With my expertise we can do more than just talk about what's troubling you. Together, we can work towards eliminating the factors contributing to your suffering, allowing you to regain control and steering your life in the direction you desire.
Cody Spaeth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92105
I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of CA. I provide therapy to patients of all ages. I am fluent in ASL American Sign Language and have worked with Deaf clients leaving in domestic violence in both a shelter and outpatient therapy services. I have spent 2 years in correctional settings working with severely mentally ill patients and supporting their family members in navigating having loved ones suffer from mental illness. I have also spent 2 years working with foster youth and foster parents to help with their placements, promoting healing and preserving relationships.
I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of CA. I provide therapy to patients of all ages. I am fluent in ASL American Sign Language and have worked with Deaf clients leaving in domestic violence in both a shelter and outpatient therapy services. I have spent 2 years in correctional settings working with severely mentally ill patients and supporting their family members in navigating having loved ones suffer from mental illness. I have also spent 2 years working with foster youth and foster parents to help with their placements, promoting healing and preserving relationships.
Pamela Berkinsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92127
Are you struggling with anxiety, grief, depression, or just feel disconnected in your life? Do you feel sometimes like you are "too much" or feel misunderstood in your relationships? If you have experienced trauma, traditional talk therapy is often not enough for creating lasting change. A holistic, integrated approach allows you to tap into the body's innate wisdom. I assist individuals and couples in the areas of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and loss, self-esteem, relationship challenges, sexuality, boundaries, self-esteem, spiritual and existential questions.
Are you struggling with anxiety, grief, depression, or just feel disconnected in your life? Do you feel sometimes like you are "too much" or feel misunderstood in your relationships? If you have experienced trauma, traditional talk therapy is often not enough for creating lasting change. A holistic, integrated approach allows you to tap into the body's innate wisdom. I assist individuals and couples in the areas of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and loss, self-esteem, relationship challenges, sexuality, boundaries, self-esteem, spiritual and existential questions.
Dr. Jen Bachtold
Psychologist, PhD, CADC-II
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92154 (Online Only)
Hi there! Thank you for taking the time to stop by! I work with those suffering from chronic pain, addiction, depression, anxiety, grief, mental and emotional disturbances, change of life transitions, relationship concerns, work stress/burnout, personality disorders, intra and interpersonal issues, trauma, anger, and just every day stresses! I have experience delivering evidenced-based therapies in individual and group therapy, including providing individual short-term and long-term psychotherapy. Providers in my office are allies of Racial-Justiced and LGBTQIA+.
Hi there! Thank you for taking the time to stop by! I work with those suffering from chronic pain, addiction, depression, anxiety, grief, mental and emotional disturbances, change of life transitions, relationship concerns, work stress/burnout, personality disorders, intra and interpersonal issues, trauma, anger, and just every day stresses! I have experience delivering evidenced-based therapies in individual and group therapy, including providing individual short-term and long-term psychotherapy. Providers in my office are allies of Racial-Justiced and LGBTQIA+.
Michael Mulligan LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101 (Online Only)
One of my favorite parts about therapy is the openness to explore what you've been through, where you are, and where you'd like to go. It’s important that my clients feel safe and understood as we collaborate to find what is needed whether that be peace, healing, joy, energy, or whatever else you are seeking. I am experienced in helping folks with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and life transitions.
One of my favorite parts about therapy is the openness to explore what you've been through, where you are, and where you'd like to go. It’s important that my clients feel safe and understood as we collaborate to find what is needed whether that be peace, healing, joy, energy, or whatever else you are seeking. I am experienced in helping folks with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and life transitions.
Lauryn Estrada
LPC Intern, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92127 (Online Only)
I believe that the greatest gift I can offer as a therapist is to hold a safe space for clients to explore any and all of their feelings, beliefs, and ideas without judgement. I am passionate about connecting with clients through an integrative and holistic approach that equally values their thoughts, emotions, spirituality, bodies, cultures, identities, and diverse experiences. In addressing these various parts of individuals I aspire to help them validate and explore their experiences as opportunities for growth and healing.
I believe that the greatest gift I can offer as a therapist is to hold a safe space for clients to explore any and all of their feelings, beliefs, and ideas without judgement. I am passionate about connecting with clients through an integrative and holistic approach that equally values their thoughts, emotions, spirituality, bodies, cultures, identities, and diverse experiences. In addressing these various parts of individuals I aspire to help them validate and explore their experiences as opportunities for growth and healing.
Andrea Peca
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
Andrea is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who earned her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from National University in 2012 and her Master's Degree from National University in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2014. Andrea treats clients who are 18 and older and specializes in helping clients with life adjustments, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, parenting concerns, self-esteem issues, peer relationships, LGBTQIA issues, and ADHD.
Andrea is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who earned her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from National University in 2012 and her Master's Degree from National University in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2014. Andrea treats clients who are 18 and older and specializes in helping clients with life adjustments, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, parenting concerns, self-esteem issues, peer relationships, LGBTQIA issues, and ADHD.
Dr. Jeannette Goldsberry
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You've spent your life striving for success in your career, but suddenly life feels overwhelming. You can be a thriving businessperson, successful entrepreneur, or high-achieving early career professional and still experience anxiety, depression, and mood instability. It didn't used to be this hard and you want to get back to feeling like yourself again.
You've spent your life striving for success in your career, but suddenly life feels overwhelming. You can be a thriving businessperson, successful entrepreneur, or high-achieving early career professional and still experience anxiety, depression, and mood instability. It didn't used to be this hard and you want to get back to feeling like yourself again.
Linda Huey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92109 (Online Only)
My hope is to help you remove whatever is keeping you from being the best version of yourself you can be. This often means looking at the things that make us feel vulnerable.. This isn't always easy considering that vulnerability is often considered a weakness. Supporting my clients to transform vulnerabilities into strengths is what I do best. And sometimes asking for help can be the hardest thing to do. It is through connection that we grow and become our authentic selves. I have been licensed since 2001. My experience includes working with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, LGBTQ, and bicultural issues.
My hope is to help you remove whatever is keeping you from being the best version of yourself you can be. This often means looking at the things that make us feel vulnerable.. This isn't always easy considering that vulnerability is often considered a weakness. Supporting my clients to transform vulnerabilities into strengths is what I do best. And sometimes asking for help can be the hardest thing to do. It is through connection that we grow and become our authentic selves. I have been licensed since 2001. My experience includes working with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, LGBTQ, and bicultural issues.
See more therapy options for San Diego
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in San Diego, CA
3,000+
Average cost per session
$160
Therapists in San Diego, CA who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
71% | Self Esteem |
66% | Relationship Issues |
66% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | Coping Skills |
62% | Stress |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
77% | Aetna |
74% | Cigna and Evernorth |
69% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in San Diego, CA see their clients
55% | In Person and Online | |
45% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
18% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in San Diego?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.