Therapists in San Diego, CA
Sandra M Koellmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
Do you want to live a more pleasure-positive life? Don’t allow stigma, guilt, or judgment to hold you back from the life you crave and the love you deserve. Sexual pleasure is a birthright. If you’re looking to create more intimacy in your life and relationships, I offer affirming care for you as a whole person. As a member of the LGBTQ community and a kink identified therapist with over 15 years of study and work in sexual health, I am familiar with the thriving spectrums of Gender, Sexual, and Relationship Diversity (GSRD) and the many ways in which love can be both offered and received in relationships.
Do you want to live a more pleasure-positive life? Don’t allow stigma, guilt, or judgment to hold you back from the life you crave and the love you deserve. Sexual pleasure is a birthright. If you’re looking to create more intimacy in your life and relationships, I offer affirming care for you as a whole person. As a member of the LGBTQ community and a kink identified therapist with over 15 years of study and work in sexual health, I am familiar with the thriving spectrums of Gender, Sexual, and Relationship Diversity (GSRD) and the many ways in which love can be both offered and received in relationships.
Carson Jaffrey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
Feeling lost, overwhelmed, afraid, or alone? Are the waves of life crashing around you? If you or your loved ones are drowning in the suffering caused by relationship conflict, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, problem gambling, or substance use, look no further. You are not alone and there is hope! Desperation and suffering brought me to the point of reaching out for help many years ago and soon the seas began to calm. As life came into balance and my spirit healed, guiding others out of the storm into peaceful waters became my mission.
Feeling lost, overwhelmed, afraid, or alone? Are the waves of life crashing around you? If you or your loved ones are drowning in the suffering caused by relationship conflict, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, problem gambling, or substance use, look no further. You are not alone and there is hope! Desperation and suffering brought me to the point of reaching out for help many years ago and soon the seas began to calm. As life came into balance and my spirit healed, guiding others out of the storm into peaceful waters became my mission.
Ruth Millican, Testing Psychologist: ADHD + Autism
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92102
Welcome to my page! I provide neurodiversity affirming testing for those wondering if they may be Autistic or ADHD, later in life. Many times, people who fall into these categories have been missed or mis-diagnosed (especially those who are assigned female at birth, or BIPOC). You may have also been missed if you are high masking or have low support needs. The testing I provide takes all of these factors into consideration to give you the most accurate understanding of your identity. Neurotypes (Autism/ADHD) are differences and not disorders, and I provide an evaluations in a way that honors the whole person.
Welcome to my page! I provide neurodiversity affirming testing for those wondering if they may be Autistic or ADHD, later in life. Many times, people who fall into these categories have been missed or mis-diagnosed (especially those who are assigned female at birth, or BIPOC). You may have also been missed if you are high masking or have low support needs. The testing I provide takes all of these factors into consideration to give you the most accurate understanding of your identity. Neurotypes (Autism/ADHD) are differences and not disorders, and I provide an evaluations in a way that honors the whole person.
Yessica Aranda
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Yessica Aranda. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and School Psychologist. I am bilingual in Spanish. I became interested in a career in mental health as I began to work as a tutor during my college years. I enjoyed being a support to students struggling with life stressors. I have extensive experience with various populations and families of all types. I am easy to talk to and can provide support and guidance through difficult times.
Hello, my name is Yessica Aranda. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and School Psychologist. I am bilingual in Spanish. I became interested in a career in mental health as I began to work as a tutor during my college years. I enjoyed being a support to students struggling with life stressors. I have extensive experience with various populations and families of all types. I am easy to talk to and can provide support and guidance through difficult times.
Jessica Ann Millanponce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92119
Hello and welcome! My name is Jessica Millanponce and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I want to start by saying how honored I am that you took the time to learn a little bit about me and my clinical care approach.It is my belief and experience that complex-relationship trauma and attachment injuries show up in our lives and are the catalyst for symptoms that resemble anxiety, depression, dissociation, hyperactivity and various mood disorders. My approach to care is and has to be gentle, self-guided and compassionate as we explore the inner parts of Self that need attention, unburdening and healing.
Hello and welcome! My name is Jessica Millanponce and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I want to start by saying how honored I am that you took the time to learn a little bit about me and my clinical care approach.It is my belief and experience that complex-relationship trauma and attachment injuries show up in our lives and are the catalyst for symptoms that resemble anxiety, depression, dissociation, hyperactivity and various mood disorders. My approach to care is and has to be gentle, self-guided and compassionate as we explore the inner parts of Self that need attention, unburdening and healing.
Terra Towne
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of eating disorders. I’m passionate about providing evidenced-based care and am one of the only therapists in San Diego certified in Family-Based Treatment (FBT), the gold standard treatment for child and adolescent eating disorders. My therapeutic style is warm, authentic, and collaborative. I am deeply empathetic to the struggles that eating disorders pose for clients and their families. I strongly believe that no one chooses to have an eating disorder (nor do parents cause eating disorders) and that there is always hope for lasting recovery.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of eating disorders. I’m passionate about providing evidenced-based care and am one of the only therapists in San Diego certified in Family-Based Treatment (FBT), the gold standard treatment for child and adolescent eating disorders. My therapeutic style is warm, authentic, and collaborative. I am deeply empathetic to the struggles that eating disorders pose for clients and their families. I strongly believe that no one chooses to have an eating disorder (nor do parents cause eating disorders) and that there is always hope for lasting recovery.
Murray Kaufman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92105
The first session includes introducing myself to you and learning what prompted you to request therapy. Together with you, I will talk about what you would like to accomplish through therapy. I would then gather historical and present information for the purpose of working with you to create a treatment plan to help your therapy be successful. I see adults in individuals, couples, and families with issues including Anxiety, Depression, Intimacy and Relationships, Panic Attacks/ Panic Disorder, and coping with trauma.
The first session includes introducing myself to you and learning what prompted you to request therapy. Together with you, I will talk about what you would like to accomplish through therapy. I would then gather historical and present information for the purpose of working with you to create a treatment plan to help your therapy be successful. I see adults in individuals, couples, and families with issues including Anxiety, Depression, Intimacy and Relationships, Panic Attacks/ Panic Disorder, and coping with trauma.
Lisa Wyneken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
As your therapist, I hope to assist you in finding insight with the struggles of your life; whether you are struggling with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, or the loss of a loved one. I will challenge your thought process, praise your accomplishments, and assist in educating your loved ones, during this difficult time in your life.
As your therapist, I hope to assist you in finding insight with the struggles of your life; whether you are struggling with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, or the loss of a loved one. I will challenge your thought process, praise your accomplishments, and assist in educating your loved ones, during this difficult time in your life.
Sonia Estrada
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122
Hi my is Sonia Estrada. I am a licensed bilingual (Spanish/English) marriage and family therapist with both professional training and life experiences. I have experience working with a variety of age groups (children, adolescents, adults, elderly). I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion and my goal is to help you achieve a level of functionality in important domains (relational, social, vocational, occupational) to improve your quality of life.
Hi my is Sonia Estrada. I am a licensed bilingual (Spanish/English) marriage and family therapist with both professional training and life experiences. I have experience working with a variety of age groups (children, adolescents, adults, elderly). I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion and my goal is to help you achieve a level of functionality in important domains (relational, social, vocational, occupational) to improve your quality of life.
Morgan Brown, CADC-I | Bloom Family Therapy
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
With a warm and empathetic approach, my hopes are to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore underlying causes of addiction. Together we will create personalized coping strategies for a healthy tomorrow. My passion lies with teens and young adults who struggle with substance use as I relate to this population on a deep level.
With a warm and empathetic approach, my hopes are to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore underlying causes of addiction. Together we will create personalized coping strategies for a healthy tomorrow. My passion lies with teens and young adults who struggle with substance use as I relate to this population on a deep level.
Dr. Melissa E Munoz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
I welcome your strength to this space and am so proud of you for taking care of yourself! The darkest hour sets before sunrise and growth through these times displays true courage. Resilience, reflection, and redesigning your craft towards lasting change is what I offer you as an experienced psychologist. I’m here to walk this journey with you. I work with teens, adults, and older adults who are looking to be supported and experience growth through major life changes. Hillcrest therapist with in person slots, now accepting new clients with immediate availability!
I welcome your strength to this space and am so proud of you for taking care of yourself! The darkest hour sets before sunrise and growth through these times displays true courage. Resilience, reflection, and redesigning your craft towards lasting change is what I offer you as an experienced psychologist. I’m here to walk this journey with you. I work with teens, adults, and older adults who are looking to be supported and experience growth through major life changes. Hillcrest therapist with in person slots, now accepting new clients with immediate availability!
15 Second Videos
Melissa E Munoz
Katherine Pica
Lina Hong
Tonia Ferguson
Kristin Calabria
Donna S Scott
Koalani Lahr
Tahney Johnston
Sarah Chernick
Mindful Matters Counseling, Marni Goldberg
Shannon Jones Therapy
Laura Wilhoit
Erika Kao
Rachyl Nyoka
Serenity Therapy and Counseling, LPCC, PC
Stacy Bonds
Inner Knowing Counseling
Mona Klausing
Marelys Padilla
Marisa Padilla
Todd Rubie
Alexis Sword
Marshall Huggins
Mary Kay Hunyady
Kevin Burchby
Brittany Curtis
Michelle Barahman
Jennifer Reimer
Becca Lantry
Lisa Graff-Marsh LCSW
Aubrie Dodge
Jacob Ambrose: Christian Counseling Specialized In Anxiety And Self Esteem
Kim Kuskovsky
Abi Weissman-Waves A Psych Co. Centering Lgbtq+ Care
VI O'Connor
Rina Schul
Wendy Kessler
Carly Stewart
Carrie Lynne Yerdon
Megan Wilcox
David Jaffe, Ph.D.
Victoria Johnk
Jessica Lamb
Julia Kamp
Lauren Woolley
Paul James Kramer
Brandon Tran
Maria Martinez: Hope Therapy Group
John P Rettger
Brooke Bartlett
Natalie Hennig
Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
Life is tough and we all need a place to rest. I give youth, adults and families rest by creating a warm and inviting place to share their struggles. I listen to what has or has not worked in order to identify your strengths. We collaborate on goals and create a plan to overcome any struggles so you can be successful and confident now and in the future. Each child and family brings their own story to therapy and requires me to be flexible and creative. With young children, I work to enhance the parent-child relationship through positive, warm interactions and help the parent establish appropriate and firm boundaries.
Life is tough and we all need a place to rest. I give youth, adults and families rest by creating a warm and inviting place to share their struggles. I listen to what has or has not worked in order to identify your strengths. We collaborate on goals and create a plan to overcome any struggles so you can be successful and confident now and in the future. Each child and family brings their own story to therapy and requires me to be flexible and creative. With young children, I work to enhance the parent-child relationship through positive, warm interactions and help the parent establish appropriate and firm boundaries.
Luann Skolnik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122
Hi there, I'm LuAnn, a licensed clinical social worker. I have been in practice for over 20 years. I help individuals with issues like depression, anxiety, relationship issues, aging, life coaching, and more. I utilize CBT, IFS, Therapeutic Tapping for anxiety, EMDR, and supportive and empowering treatment modalities. One of my goals is not to create blame but to open up to self-compassion as a way to move forward. I help people explore their past as a way of providing information that will help you create new possibilities. The past does not have to define you; your actions, dreams, and hopes will move you forward on your journey.
Hi there, I'm LuAnn, a licensed clinical social worker. I have been in practice for over 20 years. I help individuals with issues like depression, anxiety, relationship issues, aging, life coaching, and more. I utilize CBT, IFS, Therapeutic Tapping for anxiety, EMDR, and supportive and empowering treatment modalities. One of my goals is not to create blame but to open up to self-compassion as a way to move forward. I help people explore their past as a way of providing information that will help you create new possibilities. The past does not have to define you; your actions, dreams, and hopes will move you forward on your journey.
Timothy Lynch
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92106 (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Specifically, I have expertise in Alpha-Stim treatment for chronic pain, and assessment of military/deployment related PTSD. I am a trauma trained psychotherapist in EMDR, CPT and Prolonged Exposure. I am also a combat experienced Veteran.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Specifically, I have expertise in Alpha-Stim treatment for chronic pain, and assessment of military/deployment related PTSD. I am a trauma trained psychotherapist in EMDR, CPT and Prolonged Exposure. I am also a combat experienced Veteran.
Dr. Emily N. Kierce
Psychologist, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
Sentiero is an outpatient practice comprised of school psychologists, clinical psychologists, and registered psychological associates who conduct psychotherapy and psychological assessments. The approach at Sentiero is not a “one size fits all” model. While many of our clinicians utilize various theoretic modalities, we are grounded in psychoanalytic theory and tailor treatment to the needs of the patient.
Sentiero is an outpatient practice comprised of school psychologists, clinical psychologists, and registered psychological associates who conduct psychotherapy and psychological assessments. The approach at Sentiero is not a “one size fits all” model. While many of our clinicians utilize various theoretic modalities, we are grounded in psychoanalytic theory and tailor treatment to the needs of the patient.
Maggie Locke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, CBT, SE, Practio
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92107
I view therapy as a search to discover more meaning and satisfaction in life, free from crippling symptoms. Although crisis often drives people into therapy, they often leave with precious opportunites for new life. Energy that had been spent managing problems like anxiety, addiction and depression can be used to create a life of healthy purpose and pleasure. I view my role as providing therapeutic presence to create a safe environment and caring relationship, elements necessary to support one's search for authentic self and healthy self-expression.
I view therapy as a search to discover more meaning and satisfaction in life, free from crippling symptoms. Although crisis often drives people into therapy, they often leave with precious opportunites for new life. Energy that had been spent managing problems like anxiety, addiction and depression can be used to create a life of healthy purpose and pleasure. I view my role as providing therapeutic presence to create a safe environment and caring relationship, elements necessary to support one's search for authentic self and healthy self-expression.
Vanessa Tan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Vanessa, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I'm a first generation immigrant based in San Diego, CA. Originally from South East Asia, I've worked and lived in Singapore, Taiwan, and Buffalo, NY. I love cooking, board game nights, heated blankets, and playing fetch with my dog! I love the story-telling of my clients - there's so much to be learned from the life experiences that we have, the minute details that stick with us after all these years, and the takeaways from each life circumstance.
Hi! I'm Vanessa, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I'm a first generation immigrant based in San Diego, CA. Originally from South East Asia, I've worked and lived in Singapore, Taiwan, and Buffalo, NY. I love cooking, board game nights, heated blankets, and playing fetch with my dog! I love the story-telling of my clients - there's so much to be learned from the life experiences that we have, the minute details that stick with us after all these years, and the takeaways from each life circumstance.
Myel Joy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92120
Myel has a Master of Social Work degree from San Diego State University, with an emphasis in Psychotherapy and Mental Health. And over twenty-five years of clinical experience, working with adults, children, and families. In addition to private practice, Myel has worked in a variety of settings, including; inpatient and out-patient facilities (both psychiatric and chemical dependency) and in a variety of mental health related capacities; therapist, clinical coordinator and program director. Myel primarily uses CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), though calls from many theoretical approaches.
Myel has a Master of Social Work degree from San Diego State University, with an emphasis in Psychotherapy and Mental Health. And over twenty-five years of clinical experience, working with adults, children, and families. In addition to private practice, Myel has worked in a variety of settings, including; inpatient and out-patient facilities (both psychiatric and chemical dependency) and in a variety of mental health related capacities; therapist, clinical coordinator and program director. Myel primarily uses CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), though calls from many theoretical approaches.
Joanna Savarese
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
Dr. Joanna Savarese is a Neuropsychologist and Clinical Psychologist and the Founder of San Diego BrainWorks. Dr. Savarese and her team have specific and extensive training in neuropsychological, psychoeducational, and psychological assessment. San Diego BrainWorks specializes in comprehensive evaluations, IEE (Independent Educational Evaluations) and differential diagnosis of specific learning disorders, ADHD, Autism, neurodevelopmental disorders, mental health disorders, and genetic and medical disorders. Dr. Savarese conducts evaluations to aid in diagnostic specificity, treatment recommendations, and academic accommodations.
Dr. Joanna Savarese is a Neuropsychologist and Clinical Psychologist and the Founder of San Diego BrainWorks. Dr. Savarese and her team have specific and extensive training in neuropsychological, psychoeducational, and psychological assessment. San Diego BrainWorks specializes in comprehensive evaluations, IEE (Independent Educational Evaluations) and differential diagnosis of specific learning disorders, ADHD, Autism, neurodevelopmental disorders, mental health disorders, and genetic and medical disorders. Dr. Savarese conducts evaluations to aid in diagnostic specificity, treatment recommendations, and academic accommodations.
Kristin Flowers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128
Hi! My name is Kristin Flowers and I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist here in beautiful California. I specialize in helping anxious people to heal and recover from perfectionism, gas lighting, and toxic relationships, as well as past events or memories that may still be impacting life in a negative way. I help people who are trying to be perfect and feel exhausted and wondering who they are anymore. The people I help are feeling anxious, lonely, and stressed out to the breaking point. Sleep is difficult if not impossible. Asking for help is so hard because you're so used to fixing everything yourself.
Hi! My name is Kristin Flowers and I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist here in beautiful California. I specialize in helping anxious people to heal and recover from perfectionism, gas lighting, and toxic relationships, as well as past events or memories that may still be impacting life in a negative way. I help people who are trying to be perfect and feel exhausted and wondering who they are anymore. The people I help are feeling anxious, lonely, and stressed out to the breaking point. Sleep is difficult if not impossible. Asking for help is so hard because you're so used to fixing everything yourself.
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.