Therapists in Emeryville, CA

Photo of Dr. Heather Martarella, Psychologist in Emeryville, CA
Dr. Heather Martarella
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94608
Feeling Overwhelmed by Emotional Distress? Is pain, illness, or lack of sleep taking a toll on your emotional well-being? You’re not alone, and it’s okay to seek help. I specialize in helping individuals navigate the complex emotions that develop from chronic pain, illness, and sleep difficulties. With over 20 years of clinical experience, I understand the impact these conditions can have on your life - and I’m here to offer the information and support you need.
Feeling Overwhelmed by Emotional Distress? Is pain, illness, or lack of sleep taking a toll on your emotional well-being? You’re not alone, and it’s okay to seek help. I specialize in helping individuals navigate the complex emotions that develop from chronic pain, illness, and sleep difficulties. With over 20 years of clinical experience, I understand the impact these conditions can have on your life - and I’m here to offer the information and support you need.
(510) 892-3227 View (510) 892-3227
Photo of Martha Ton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Martha Ton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
As a Latina therapist, I have ample experience assisting the LGBTQIA+ population, immigrant people, and couples having difficulty becoming parents or transitioning to parenthood. I offer a warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative approach for clients to find well-being. I have also worked with the elderly population to help them discover new meaning in life. Helping individuals find empowerment and joy in their new phase of life is a true joy as a provider. I am passionate about helping people increase their support systems, self-esteem, and assertive communication.
As a Latina therapist, I have ample experience assisting the LGBTQIA+ population, immigrant people, and couples having difficulty becoming parents or transitioning to parenthood. I offer a warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative approach for clients to find well-being. I have also worked with the elderly population to help them discover new meaning in life. Helping individuals find empowerment and joy in their new phase of life is a true joy as a provider. I am passionate about helping people increase their support systems, self-esteem, and assertive communication.
(415) 996-1863 View (415) 996-1863
Photo of Rosario Puga Dempsey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Rosario Puga Dempsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I find great joy in creating a unique therapeutic experience that is tailored to you, which is why I integrate different approaches into my practice. I meaningfully aim to provide you with a different perspective on your situation that can help you obtain clarity and peace. I support you by increasing your awareness of the deep fears and strong emotions that may be holding you back and leaving you feeling stuck.​ Through my extensive work in the field for over the past eight years in various settings and with diverse populations I have developed a multi-faceted approach to helping families, couples, and adults heal.
I find great joy in creating a unique therapeutic experience that is tailored to you, which is why I integrate different approaches into my practice. I meaningfully aim to provide you with a different perspective on your situation that can help you obtain clarity and peace. I support you by increasing your awareness of the deep fears and strong emotions that may be holding you back and leaving you feeling stuck.​ Through my extensive work in the field for over the past eight years in various settings and with diverse populations I have developed a multi-faceted approach to helping families, couples, and adults heal.
(415) 801-8353 View (415) 801-8353
Photo of Alisa Vincent Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Alisa Vincent Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94662  (Online Only)
I have a virtual private practice in California where I work with teens, and adults. I consider therapy a relationship we co-create specifically to suit your needs; one to help you feel safe, heard, and respected. I have a relational style, meaning you will receive feedback from me, and never feel like you're talking to a blank wall. We all share an intrinsic longing for hope, wholeness, empowerment, and meaning. It's my privilege to help clients nourish that longing into a drive; to help them gain a sense of mastery and direction in their own lives.
I have a virtual private practice in California where I work with teens, and adults. I consider therapy a relationship we co-create specifically to suit your needs; one to help you feel safe, heard, and respected. I have a relational style, meaning you will receive feedback from me, and never feel like you're talking to a blank wall. We all share an intrinsic longing for hope, wholeness, empowerment, and meaning. It's my privilege to help clients nourish that longing into a drive; to help them gain a sense of mastery and direction in their own lives.
(510) 974-7870 View (510) 974-7870
Photo of Kurt Vaillancourt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Kurt Vaillancourt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
For nearly 20 years, I have worked with adults, families, and couples both individually and in group settings. Some of the areas I have provided treatment for include substance use/abuse, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and adjustment disorders due to life transitions. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California and obtained a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) in 2005.
For nearly 20 years, I have worked with adults, families, and couples both individually and in group settings. Some of the areas I have provided treatment for include substance use/abuse, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and adjustment disorders due to life transitions. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California and obtained a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) in 2005.
(408) 340-9952 View (408) 340-9952
Photo of Gabrielle Dillard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Gabrielle Dillard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I utilize an eclectic approach to incorporate a combination of evidence-based practices. I understand we all learn in different way, and our journeys are all unique. My treatment approach includes providing a client centered, trauma-informed, strength based therapeutic style. I will work with you to determine which therapy models are best for you in our work together. I take a whole person approach with an emphasis on the mind and body connection to mental health.
I utilize an eclectic approach to incorporate a combination of evidence-based practices. I understand we all learn in different way, and our journeys are all unique. My treatment approach includes providing a client centered, trauma-informed, strength based therapeutic style. I will work with you to determine which therapy models are best for you in our work together. I take a whole person approach with an emphasis on the mind and body connection to mental health.
(310) 361-9071 View (310) 361-9071
Photo of Eleanor Lew, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Eleanor Lew
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
I listen deeply, with compassion and without judgment, to give you a place where you feel safe to express thoughts and feelings, My strength is how I work, using minimal interpretations but instead allowing your inner core to experience the genuineness of your own truth when it surfaces. I thus avoid diagnostic labels and preconceptions. Love and work is how we express ourselves. I hope you will let me help you with relationship issues, both in love and at work. My goal is to help you discover your inner creativity and resilience.
I listen deeply, with compassion and without judgment, to give you a place where you feel safe to express thoughts and feelings, My strength is how I work, using minimal interpretations but instead allowing your inner core to experience the genuineness of your own truth when it surfaces. I thus avoid diagnostic labels and preconceptions. Love and work is how we express ourselves. I hope you will let me help you with relationship issues, both in love and at work. My goal is to help you discover your inner creativity and resilience.
(510) 400-7417 View (510) 400-7417
Photo of Max Benjamin, Psychologist in Emeryville, CA
Max Benjamin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
Dr. Max Benjamin is a clinical psychologist who has been practicing since 2015. He earned his doctorate in Clinical Psychology at the Wright Institute and his undergraduate degree in Psychology and Spanish from Northwestern University. Dr. Benjamin's unique strength as a therapist is knowing how to help clients work on better managing current daily life challenges, while also addressing the "deeper" psychological issues that make daily life hard to manage. When people successfully make major lifestyle changes but do not address these "deeper" issues, they often end up struggling again.
Dr. Max Benjamin is a clinical psychologist who has been practicing since 2015. He earned his doctorate in Clinical Psychology at the Wright Institute and his undergraduate degree in Psychology and Spanish from Northwestern University. Dr. Benjamin's unique strength as a therapist is knowing how to help clients work on better managing current daily life challenges, while also addressing the "deeper" psychological issues that make daily life hard to manage. When people successfully make major lifestyle changes but do not address these "deeper" issues, they often end up struggling again.
(510) 686-6239 View (510) 686-6239
Photo of Melanie Reyes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Melanie Reyes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
Perhaps you are visiting today to obtain answers to confusion, peace in the torment, clarity from the chaos, healing from the pain. Maybe you just want someone to understand your pain. You might be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or hopeless. Whatever your reasoning may be I am dedicated to helping you achieve hope and healing. Thank you for taking the first step to work toward your personal healing journey. I am passionate about understanding, accepting, and empathizing with my clients. I approach therapy holistically, which encompasses spirit, body, and mind.
Perhaps you are visiting today to obtain answers to confusion, peace in the torment, clarity from the chaos, healing from the pain. Maybe you just want someone to understand your pain. You might be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or hopeless. Whatever your reasoning may be I am dedicated to helping you achieve hope and healing. Thank you for taking the first step to work toward your personal healing journey. I am passionate about understanding, accepting, and empathizing with my clients. I approach therapy holistically, which encompasses spirit, body, and mind.
(310) 744-6232 View (310) 744-6232
Photo of Mercy De Vault, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Mercy De Vault
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
I choose to use an approach that is respectful, non-blaming, and collaborative. We live our lives through stories. Often times, these stories no longer align with our values and beliefs. This is where problems emerge and attach themselves to our stories. By gaining some distance from the problem, we can begin to change our relationship with the problem and discover preferred ways of being that closely align with our beliefs. I aim to empower my clients by positioning them as experts in their lives in a non-pathologizing, inclusive environment, where the problem is the problem and we together find the solution.
I choose to use an approach that is respectful, non-blaming, and collaborative. We live our lives through stories. Often times, these stories no longer align with our values and beliefs. This is where problems emerge and attach themselves to our stories. By gaining some distance from the problem, we can begin to change our relationship with the problem and discover preferred ways of being that closely align with our beliefs. I aim to empower my clients by positioning them as experts in their lives in a non-pathologizing, inclusive environment, where the problem is the problem and we together find the solution.
(510) 422-1767 View (510) 422-1767
Photo of Dr. Shea M. Pilgrim, Psychologist in Emeryville, CA
Dr. Shea M. Pilgrim
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94608
My approach to practicing psychology is transparent and collaborative in nature. Clients report that I am grounding, honest, and easy to talk to. Evaluations follow the philosophy and techniques of collaborative/therapeutic assessment. An important first step in the process is a collaborative conversation to uncover questions that you want to have answered by the assessment. I specialize in working with children, teens, young adults, and families.
My approach to practicing psychology is transparent and collaborative in nature. Clients report that I am grounding, honest, and easy to talk to. Evaluations follow the philosophy and techniques of collaborative/therapeutic assessment. An important first step in the process is a collaborative conversation to uncover questions that you want to have answered by the assessment. I specialize in working with children, teens, young adults, and families.
(510) 216-1551 View (510) 216-1551
Photo of Ashley Coyle, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Ashley Coyle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
My name is Ashley Coyle, LMFT 127698. My approach to therapy is client-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed. My focus is on how the systems we are a part of impact our lives and well-being. I work with all kinds of clients from many different backgrounds and identities. I love the diversity of my clients. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families. I have treated clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, phase of life challenges, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, and others.
My name is Ashley Coyle, LMFT 127698. My approach to therapy is client-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed. My focus is on how the systems we are a part of impact our lives and well-being. I work with all kinds of clients from many different backgrounds and identities. I love the diversity of my clients. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families. I have treated clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, phase of life challenges, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, and others.
(510) 588-1498 View (510) 588-1498
Photo of Armand Volkas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Armand Volkas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFA, MFT, RDT, BCT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94608
I believe that a supportive therapeutic relationship can be the springboard from which many life issues can be addressed and healed. I am warm and gentle, yet firm when appropriate. I am encouraging, nurturing and have a deep capacity for empathy. I am committed to your growth and the changes you want to make in your life. Issues I treat include anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, and relationships. I treat children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have special expertise in working with personal and collective trauma, deepening intimacy in couples, cross-cultural relationships, grief and mourning and healing friendships.
I believe that a supportive therapeutic relationship can be the springboard from which many life issues can be addressed and healed. I am warm and gentle, yet firm when appropriate. I am encouraging, nurturing and have a deep capacity for empathy. I am committed to your growth and the changes you want to make in your life. Issues I treat include anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, and relationships. I treat children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I have special expertise in working with personal and collective trauma, deepening intimacy in couples, cross-cultural relationships, grief and mourning and healing friendships.
(510) 595-5500 x11 View (510) 595-5500 x11
Photo of Shannon McHenry-Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Shannon McHenry-Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I work with individuals to help gain insight into what is happening in order to move forward and achieve a more fulfilling and productive life. My goal is to help you understand yourself more and assist you with living a more free and conscious life. I use attachment theory to assist people in understanding how their past impacts their present. I specialize in treating addiction, trauma, codependency, relationship issues, and axis II disorders using a holistic trauma informed approach and dialectical behavioral techniques.
I work with individuals to help gain insight into what is happening in order to move forward and achieve a more fulfilling and productive life. My goal is to help you understand yourself more and assist you with living a more free and conscious life. I use attachment theory to assist people in understanding how their past impacts their present. I specialize in treating addiction, trauma, codependency, relationship issues, and axis II disorders using a holistic trauma informed approach and dialectical behavioral techniques.
(415) 707-7928 View (415) 707-7928
Photo of Cecily Kaballo, Psychologist in Emeryville, CA
Cecily Kaballo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I recognize and honor that everyone is unique and processes at their own pace. I am warm and collaborative, and I emphasize building a strong therapeutic alliance and identifying a client’s short- and long-term goals. I provide an eclectic range of evidence-based approaches that can be tailored for each individual.
I recognize and honor that everyone is unique and processes at their own pace. I am warm and collaborative, and I emphasize building a strong therapeutic alliance and identifying a client’s short- and long-term goals. I provide an eclectic range of evidence-based approaches that can be tailored for each individual.
(510) 369-1246 View (510) 369-1246
Photo of Aleiya Cherry, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Aleiya Cherry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608
I work from a relational, holistic approach because I believe making sure my clients have a safe space to fully show up as themselves, while taking into account all aspects of their lives that could be contributing to their presenting challenges, is of high importance. All of you Matters. My approach to therapy is Client-Centered and Integrative. I incorporate other evidence-based techniques including Narrative, Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California.
I work from a relational, holistic approach because I believe making sure my clients have a safe space to fully show up as themselves, while taking into account all aspects of their lives that could be contributing to their presenting challenges, is of high importance. All of you Matters. My approach to therapy is Client-Centered and Integrative. I incorporate other evidence-based techniques including Narrative, Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California.
(510) 826-2323 View (510) 826-2323
Photo of Heather Tegeler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Heather Tegeler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I have been honored to work with adult clients from all walks of life. My professional background includes working for hospitals, addiction treatment facilities, and inpatient and outpatient settings within the criminal justice system. I believe in developing a collaborative, warm, and strengths-based approach to treatment. My goal in therapy is to build upon your existing strengths while facilitating a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.
With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I have been honored to work with adult clients from all walks of life. My professional background includes working for hospitals, addiction treatment facilities, and inpatient and outpatient settings within the criminal justice system. I believe in developing a collaborative, warm, and strengths-based approach to treatment. My goal in therapy is to build upon your existing strengths while facilitating a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.
(510) 369-1276 View (510) 369-1276
Photo of Valerie V Veza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Valerie V Veza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
My intention is to create a comfortable, safe space for clients to explore, heal and grow. I have years of experience helping individuals in crisis due to a wide variety of life's challenges and traumas. I help those of you who suffer from physical pain, anxiety, depression, emotional crisis, stress, trauma, PTSD and many other common symptoms . My approach is tailoring my experience and skills in a compassionate, honest and direct manner, to facilitate your experience to balance, self-acceptance and wholeness.
My intention is to create a comfortable, safe space for clients to explore, heal and grow. I have years of experience helping individuals in crisis due to a wide variety of life's challenges and traumas. I help those of you who suffer from physical pain, anxiety, depression, emotional crisis, stress, trauma, PTSD and many other common symptoms . My approach is tailoring my experience and skills in a compassionate, honest and direct manner, to facilitate your experience to balance, self-acceptance and wholeness.
(510) 878-4260 View (510) 878-4260
Photo of Brian Kornobis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Emeryville, CA
Brian Kornobis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can reconnect with your inner strengths to overcome obstacles standing between you and your goals. Whether you are dealing with a relationship difficulty, career dilemma, recent loss, depression, or anxiety, choosing to begin therapy is a courageous step toward growth and healing.
I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can reconnect with your inner strengths to overcome obstacles standing between you and your goals. Whether you are dealing with a relationship difficulty, career dilemma, recent loss, depression, or anxiety, choosing to begin therapy is a courageous step toward growth and healing.
(510) 422-1569 View (510) 422-1569
Barbara Jean A Douglass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and PhD with 15 years experience working with adults, children and youth. My goal is to help you in your path towards feeling better, and experiencing an improved sense of confidence, self-esteem and functioning in your life. My approach is one of respect, warmth, and attention to the dignity of every person. I utilize a humanistic and person-centered perspective, and maintain a psychodynamic framework for understanding my clients' emotional and therapeutic needs, to help you learn coping skills, and help you explore your options towards recovering a stronger sense of self, identity, spirituality, and balance.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and PhD with 15 years experience working with adults, children and youth. My goal is to help you in your path towards feeling better, and experiencing an improved sense of confidence, self-esteem and functioning in your life. My approach is one of respect, warmth, and attention to the dignity of every person. I utilize a humanistic and person-centered perspective, and maintain a psychodynamic framework for understanding my clients' emotional and therapeutic needs, to help you learn coping skills, and help you explore your options towards recovering a stronger sense of self, identity, spirituality, and balance.
(510) 949-3983 View (510) 949-3983

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Emeryville, CA

100+

Average cost per session

$190

Therapists in Emeryville, CA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
72% Relationship Issues
72% Trauma and PTSD
70% Grief
60% Self Esteem
58% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% Aetna
54% Anthem | Elevance
51% MHN | Health Net

How Therapists in Emeryville, CA see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Emeryville?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.

Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.