Therapists in San Diego, CA
Colleen Mullen
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
Do you struggle between doing it all while also feeling like, "Why do I bother?" Life can be overwhelming. When you've been in "go mode" forever it's difficult to find time to even think about what you might actually want from your life. I have a deep understanding of the unique struggles faced by ambitious perfectionists. The constant pursuit of excellence can lead to burnout and strain on personal relationships. If you find it difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance, and wnat to learn to manage the chaos in your life to feel more fulfilled and have more time for what makes you happy, call me.
Do you struggle between doing it all while also feeling like, "Why do I bother?" Life can be overwhelming. When you've been in "go mode" forever it's difficult to find time to even think about what you might actually want from your life. I have a deep understanding of the unique struggles faced by ambitious perfectionists. The constant pursuit of excellence can lead to burnout and strain on personal relationships. If you find it difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance, and wnat to learn to manage the chaos in your life to feel more fulfilled and have more time for what makes you happy, call me.
Terri Edwards
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Hello, my name is Terri Edwards, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over twenty years of experience in the Southern California area providing mental health services to individuals, couples, and families to support optimal interpersonal relationships. My focus areas of practice are anxiety, trauma, grief, relationships, and families. I have worked in Community Mental Health Clinics, School-Based settings, and Residential treatment facilities. I am a Veteran of the U.S. Navy and have had the opportunity to provide therapy to veterans and their families.
Hello, my name is Terri Edwards, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over twenty years of experience in the Southern California area providing mental health services to individuals, couples, and families to support optimal interpersonal relationships. My focus areas of practice are anxiety, trauma, grief, relationships, and families. I have worked in Community Mental Health Clinics, School-Based settings, and Residential treatment facilities. I am a Veteran of the U.S. Navy and have had the opportunity to provide therapy to veterans and their families.
Help Therapy | Mental Health Services
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT, NP, PNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
Help Therapy boasts a network of more than 150 licensed clinical psychologists, LCSWs, LMFTs, and NPs, spanning over 100 specialties and treatment areas. Services we provide including psychotherapy, psychological evaluations and psychiatric services. By completing an intake form on HelpTherapy.com, you'll be paired with a therapist tailored to your specific treatment requirements, insurance coverage, and location preferences. You have the flexibility to choose how you'd like to connect with your provider—whether in-person, online, or via phone.
Help Therapy boasts a network of more than 150 licensed clinical psychologists, LCSWs, LMFTs, and NPs, spanning over 100 specialties and treatment areas. Services we provide including psychotherapy, psychological evaluations and psychiatric services. By completing an intake form on HelpTherapy.com, you'll be paired with a therapist tailored to your specific treatment requirements, insurance coverage, and location preferences. You have the flexibility to choose how you'd like to connect with your provider—whether in-person, online, or via phone.
Maegan K A Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist practicing narrative therapy in California. I am committed to providing anti-racist, gender-affirming, respectful care to each person with whom I meet; and to help each person discover and remember the abilities they have, which can help them move through life despite the obstacles they may encounter. I am passionate about standing alongside the individuals, couples, and families I collaborate with against the problems that show up in their lives.
Welcome! I am a licensed marriage and family therapist practicing narrative therapy in California. I am committed to providing anti-racist, gender-affirming, respectful care to each person with whom I meet; and to help each person discover and remember the abilities they have, which can help them move through life despite the obstacles they may encounter. I am passionate about standing alongside the individuals, couples, and families I collaborate with against the problems that show up in their lives.
Chad K Cox
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92119 (Online Only)
Dr. Cox has a experience providing assistance to high performing professionals such as lawyers, doctors, executives, business owners and even other counselors. Courage is needed when facing a personal problem. My mission is to provide compassionate and professional assistance to those struggling with emotional, behavioral or relational problems. I work to provide a safe and supportive environment, free of judgement, where sensitive issues can be explored. You can get help for mood difficulties, drug/alcohol problems or relational concerns. To start, we can have a free consultation to discuss your goals for self-improvement.
Dr. Cox has a experience providing assistance to high performing professionals such as lawyers, doctors, executives, business owners and even other counselors. Courage is needed when facing a personal problem. My mission is to provide compassionate and professional assistance to those struggling with emotional, behavioral or relational problems. I work to provide a safe and supportive environment, free of judgement, where sensitive issues can be explored. You can get help for mood difficulties, drug/alcohol problems or relational concerns. To start, we can have a free consultation to discuss your goals for self-improvement.
Reannan Last
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122
Waitlist for new clients
I am a trauma-informed somatic psychotherapist, passionate about supporting the healing process. I take a holistic approach to mental health and somatic therapy blends traditional talk therapy with an awareness and honoring of the body and the nervous system. Clients of mine can expect a warm and welcoming space to create a new connection to self and move towards health and wellness. This process looks different for everyone and we will work together to get a full picture of the issues you are dealing with, your needs and your goals.
I am a trauma-informed somatic psychotherapist, passionate about supporting the healing process. I take a holistic approach to mental health and somatic therapy blends traditional talk therapy with an awareness and honoring of the body and the nervous system. Clients of mine can expect a warm and welcoming space to create a new connection to self and move towards health and wellness. This process looks different for everyone and we will work together to get a full picture of the issues you are dealing with, your needs and your goals.
Corinne Heinzelmann
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Not accepting new clients
Life is stressful; and women experience this in unique ways. Trauma, loss, early childhood experiences, recurrent behaviors, career stress, and body and life-cycle changes can result in difficulties with a woman's self-esteem, relationships, mood, sexuality, spirituality, and health. Similarly, couples can develop patterns of relating from early experiences which result in conflict, loneliness and despair. Therapy provides deeper insight into our needs, choices, beliefs, behaviors, and emotions. Dr. heinzelmann focuses on offering the tools needed to move toward emotional and spiritual wholeness.
Life is stressful; and women experience this in unique ways. Trauma, loss, early childhood experiences, recurrent behaviors, career stress, and body and life-cycle changes can result in difficulties with a woman's self-esteem, relationships, mood, sexuality, spirituality, and health. Similarly, couples can develop patterns of relating from early experiences which result in conflict, loneliness and despair. Therapy provides deeper insight into our needs, choices, beliefs, behaviors, and emotions. Dr. heinzelmann focuses on offering the tools needed to move toward emotional and spiritual wholeness.
#1 Psychological Evaluations and Testing
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
Aloha and welcome to Kealoha Psychology, Inc. We specialize in Psychological Evaluations and Testing of all ages. Do you have concerns about your or your child’s school/work performance, social-emotional functioning, behaviors, learning, or attention? Our evaluations may help you to better understand areas of need to guide you/your child to success. As the former Lead Psychologist of state Developmental and Intellectual Disability Divisions (Regional Centers) and a Clinical Psychologist II at Rady Children's Hospital, Dr. Kealoha provides patients with specialized evaluation services and support.
Aloha and welcome to Kealoha Psychology, Inc. We specialize in Psychological Evaluations and Testing of all ages. Do you have concerns about your or your child’s school/work performance, social-emotional functioning, behaviors, learning, or attention? Our evaluations may help you to better understand areas of need to guide you/your child to success. As the former Lead Psychologist of state Developmental and Intellectual Disability Divisions (Regional Centers) and a Clinical Psychologist II at Rady Children's Hospital, Dr. Kealoha provides patients with specialized evaluation services and support.
Julia Kamp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129 (Online Only)
Ready to begin your journey of self-discovery and healing? Are you tired of emotionally suffering or staying stuck in old patterns? I am here to help you by providing support and building skills through tele-mental health services. I have over 10 years of experience with both military and civilians working with individuals, couples, families, and children struggling with trauma, stress, depression, anxiety, relationship stress, parenting issues, anger management, and much more.
Ready to begin your journey of self-discovery and healing? Are you tired of emotionally suffering or staying stuck in old patterns? I am here to help you by providing support and building skills through tele-mental health services. I have over 10 years of experience with both military and civilians working with individuals, couples, families, and children struggling with trauma, stress, depression, anxiety, relationship stress, parenting issues, anger management, and much more.
Emily Treichler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed and trapped by trauma, difficult feelings, and thoughts you can't shake? Are you looking for support for yourself or a family member experiencing symptoms of psychosis? Do you feel disempowered? It is my honor as a therapist to meet each client exactly where they are and use therapy as an opportunity for growth, validation, and empowerment. I enjoy collaborating with clients to understand their values, preferences, and goals, and identify an approach that research has found to be helpful for similar people. Ultimately, therapy should help light a path forward towards a life you enjoy and find meaningful.
Do you feel overwhelmed and trapped by trauma, difficult feelings, and thoughts you can't shake? Are you looking for support for yourself or a family member experiencing symptoms of psychosis? Do you feel disempowered? It is my honor as a therapist to meet each client exactly where they are and use therapy as an opportunity for growth, validation, and empowerment. I enjoy collaborating with clients to understand their values, preferences, and goals, and identify an approach that research has found to be helpful for similar people. Ultimately, therapy should help light a path forward towards a life you enjoy and find meaningful.
Taylor Cole
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92116
Modern life is grueling, especially when trying to grieve a loss or process overwhelming trauma. It might feel like an almost insurmountable feat just to find a safe environment within which all of your emotions are honored and accepted. There is a sense that we must trudge on and deny intense feelings and thoughts in order to present a more palatable image to the world, which can compound sadness, anxiety, and loneliness. I understand how exhausting this can feel.
Modern life is grueling, especially when trying to grieve a loss or process overwhelming trauma. It might feel like an almost insurmountable feat just to find a safe environment within which all of your emotions are honored and accepted. There is a sense that we must trudge on and deny intense feelings and thoughts in order to present a more palatable image to the world, which can compound sadness, anxiety, and loneliness. I understand how exhausting this can feel.
15 Second Videos
Chad K Cox
Reannan Last
Julia Kamp
Bonnie Deroo
Kimberly Bailey
Katherine Pica
Em Mitchell
Penelope 'nel' Mercer
Nora Davis
Carrie Hill
Rebecca Ching
John Brandeis Boesky
The Center for Men's Excellence
Sarah Cook Ruggera, LMFT
Richard George Kastanias
Silver Lake Psychology
Coping With Anxiety Or Depression -Lindsay MacMaster
Sean Stiller
Marelys Padilla
Julie H Morrell, MFT Online, Phone, & Telehealth
Karen Lese-Fowler
Ashley Cox
Pacific Marriage & Family Therapy Network
Dr. Jason N Linder
Amanda Torre
Lisa Bendimez
Tiffany Lin Lasky
Bernard And Priscilla Chen
Laura Wilhoit
Jessica Hughes
Gabrielle Loomis-Annett
Janina Scarlet
Diana Lozoya
Oasis Counseling Group
Katelyn Kivett
Steve Sprinkle
Stacey Sciacchitano
Yvette Currie
Lauren Spinelli - Good Talk Therapy
Relationship Anxiety And Trauma Repair Katie Miles
Rachel Max
Lauren Nicole Mason
Janice Naranjo
Nancy M Gordon
Christina M. Charlotin
Ginny Gutman
Ricky J. Pope
Cheryll Putt - Trauma Therapy and Divorce Coaching
Sage Schuitevoerder
Rita Romero
Mary White
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT , 95171
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121 (Online Only)
I use research proven methods to help those with anxiety, depression, work-life balance challenges and perinatal/postpartum healing. I also focus on helping parents/families/couples to better their relationships annd their communication. Specifically I help couples to reduce toxic communication and productive problem solving to enhance their intimacy and relationship happiness. All my sessions are telehealth (online or phone) so you can get the help you need from the comfort of your own setting. I have 20+ years experience as a therapist and a coach, working with clients who are interested in untangling the knots in their lives.
I use research proven methods to help those with anxiety, depression, work-life balance challenges and perinatal/postpartum healing. I also focus on helping parents/families/couples to better their relationships annd their communication. Specifically I help couples to reduce toxic communication and productive problem solving to enhance their intimacy and relationship happiness. All my sessions are telehealth (online or phone) so you can get the help you need from the comfort of your own setting. I have 20+ years experience as a therapist and a coach, working with clients who are interested in untangling the knots in their lives.
Judy Kaplan Baron, Ph.D., Master Career Counselor
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, NCCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121 (Online Only)
Life can be challenging, frustrating, and difficult. Rather than being depressed anxious, angry, or frustrated, consider positive ways to move ahead. If career, relationship problems, or other personal issues are getting you down, learn how to overcome the difficulties. I offer practical strategies and insight that can make huge differences in the quality of your life.
Sometimes, a different perspective or problem-solving idea provides enough clarity to help you be happier. For over 25 years, I have been assisting people just like you in making healthier, life changing decisions leading to happier, more fulfilling personal and professional lives.
Life can be challenging, frustrating, and difficult. Rather than being depressed anxious, angry, or frustrated, consider positive ways to move ahead. If career, relationship problems, or other personal issues are getting you down, learn how to overcome the difficulties. I offer practical strategies and insight that can make huge differences in the quality of your life.
Sometimes, a different perspective or problem-solving idea provides enough clarity to help you be happier. For over 25 years, I have been assisting people just like you in making healthier, life changing decisions leading to happier, more fulfilling personal and professional lives.
Bonnie Deroo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
Do you struggle with anxiety? Do you use substances to help manage anxiety? Are you worried that you're drinking or eating or using too much to cope with stress and anxiety? Are you a family member of someone with anxiety and/or substance use and aren't sure what to do?
Do you struggle with anxiety? Do you use substances to help manage anxiety? Are you worried that you're drinking or eating or using too much to cope with stress and anxiety? Are you a family member of someone with anxiety and/or substance use and aren't sure what to do?
Mili Parikh
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP-CN
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer telehealth-based cognitive rehabilitation treatment for individuals with a variety of neurocognitive conditions including long-haul COVID, concussion/traumatic brain injury, mild cognitive impairment, ADHD, chemotherapy brain fog, movement disorders, neurodegenerative disorders, cerebrovascular disease, and other medical and psychiatric conditions.
I offer telehealth-based cognitive rehabilitation treatment for individuals with a variety of neurocognitive conditions including long-haul COVID, concussion/traumatic brain injury, mild cognitive impairment, ADHD, chemotherapy brain fog, movement disorders, neurodegenerative disorders, cerebrovascular disease, and other medical and psychiatric conditions.
Alexa Douros
LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
You might be in survival-mode, and that makes sense. Together, we can explore ways to cultivate safety and recovery in your life. My approach emphasizes genuine curiosity, self-compassion, and non-judgment to empower your journey towards healing. Whether you're seeking support for trauma, self-esteem challenges, negative self-talk, anxiety, depression, shame, or difficulties in your relationships, I can help.
You might be in survival-mode, and that makes sense. Together, we can explore ways to cultivate safety and recovery in your life. My approach emphasizes genuine curiosity, self-compassion, and non-judgment to empower your journey towards healing. Whether you're seeking support for trauma, self-esteem challenges, negative self-talk, anxiety, depression, shame, or difficulties in your relationships, I can help.
Justin LaPilusa
Psychologist, PsyD, QME
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92128
Not accepting new clients
Life is hard and, at times, it can be scary, lonely, and stressful. People are searching for happiness, fulfilling relationships, meaning and personal growth. For the past 15 years, I have specialized in trauma, depression, and anxiety. I believe in the importance of empowerment through self-confidence and self-compassion. Together, we will work to create the life you deserve, a life with joy, purpose and connection.
Life is hard and, at times, it can be scary, lonely, and stressful. People are searching for happiness, fulfilling relationships, meaning and personal growth. For the past 15 years, I have specialized in trauma, depression, and anxiety. I believe in the importance of empowerment through self-confidence and self-compassion. Together, we will work to create the life you deserve, a life with joy, purpose and connection.
Evette Ybarra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92127
Thank you for viewing my profile, by the way, I am Evette Ybarra, LCSW. My goal is to be present while you are navigating your path/ journey in this challenging world! Helen Keller said, "Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experiences of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired, and success achieved.
Thank you for viewing my profile, by the way, I am Evette Ybarra, LCSW. My goal is to be present while you are navigating your path/ journey in this challenging world! Helen Keller said, "Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experiences of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired, and success achieved.
Kelly R. Loftis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
There are a multitude of reasons why folks engage in therapy and typically the search starts because something doesn’t feel quite right, what you've been trying doesn't seem to be working, or overwhelm is so big it's taking everything you've got to keep your head above water. If you or a loved one are feeling stuck, hurting, or maybe you aren’t sure, I’d love to speak with you to see if we can create something that you’ll find helpful. I have collaborated with adolescents, teens, families, and young adults to create and work toward goals and hopes that allow them to operate outside of what the problem tries to dictate.
There are a multitude of reasons why folks engage in therapy and typically the search starts because something doesn’t feel quite right, what you've been trying doesn't seem to be working, or overwhelm is so big it's taking everything you've got to keep your head above water. If you or a loved one are feeling stuck, hurting, or maybe you aren’t sure, I’d love to speak with you to see if we can create something that you’ll find helpful. I have collaborated with adolescents, teens, families, and young adults to create and work toward goals and hopes that allow them to operate outside of what the problem tries to dictate.
Dr. Nusha Nouhi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101 (Online Only)
Welcome to Marina Health of California, led by Dr. Nouhi, providing a secure space for adults navigating life transitions—career, family, or health stress. Grounded in the bio-psycho-social model, we tailor support for chronic conditions. Our therapists specialize in major life changes—transition to adulthood (18-25), relationship endings, and managing chronic illnesses like diabetes, cancer, and auto-immune disorders. In addition to 1:1 therapy, we offer pre-surgical bariatric evaluations. At Marina Health of California, under Dr. Nouhi's guidance, we empower and promote resilience in every journey.
Welcome to Marina Health of California, led by Dr. Nouhi, providing a secure space for adults navigating life transitions—career, family, or health stress. Grounded in the bio-psycho-social model, we tailor support for chronic conditions. Our therapists specialize in major life changes—transition to adulthood (18-25), relationship endings, and managing chronic illnesses like diabetes, cancer, and auto-immune disorders. In addition to 1:1 therapy, we offer pre-surgical bariatric evaluations. At Marina Health of California, under Dr. Nouhi's guidance, we empower and promote resilience in every journey.
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.