Therapists in Prince George, BC

Photo of Patricia Helen Kristinsson - Nechako Counselling, Counsellor, MEd , RCC, CCTP 2, ADHD, EMDR
Nechako Counselling
Counsellor, MEd , RCC, CCTP 2, ADHD, EMDR
Online Only
I'm an EMDR therapist, trauma professional level 2, and also an ADHD-service provider. I provide adult counselling for trauma, anxiety and depression, grief and loss, relationships and life transitions. My practice is telehealth and services are available by phone or video. I am available to provide services in cooperation with the FNHA. My work is from an integrative, trauma informed stance, based in Person Centered Counselling, and have further training in Narrative, DBT, EMDR, Immanuel Approach, IFS, and Sensory Motor Psychotherapy -
I'm an EMDR therapist, trauma professional level 2, and also an ADHD-service provider. I provide adult counselling for trauma, anxiety and depression, grief and loss, relationships and life transitions. My practice is telehealth and services are available by phone or video. I am available to provide services in cooperation with the FNHA. My work is from an integrative, trauma informed stance, based in Person Centered Counselling, and have further training in Narrative, DBT, EMDR, Immanuel Approach, IFS, and Sensory Motor Psychotherapy -
(672) 202-3244 View (672) 202-3244
Photo of Les Freer - RL Freer Counselling
RL Freer Counselling
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life can feel incredibly heavy when you are caught in cycles of strained relationships, feeling spiritually confused or stuck in old patterns. Perhaps you are feeling disconnected from your true self, or facing deep, spiritual questions about your purpose and meaning, or you might be struggling with addiction or anger. With over 20 years of experience, I provide a grounded, compassionate presence where we can unpack these challenges together. Whether you are facing a major life crossroads or a quiet internal crisis, we will work to restore balance, heal old hurts, and find a clear path forward.
Life can feel incredibly heavy when you are caught in cycles of strained relationships, feeling spiritually confused or stuck in old patterns. Perhaps you are feeling disconnected from your true self, or facing deep, spiritual questions about your purpose and meaning, or you might be struggling with addiction or anger. With over 20 years of experience, I provide a grounded, compassionate presence where we can unpack these challenges together. Whether you are facing a major life crossroads or a quiet internal crisis, we will work to restore balance, heal old hurts, and find a clear path forward.
(581) 499-7186 View (581) 499-7186
Photo of Sue Ellen MacDonald - On the Ground Counselling- Sue MacDonald, Counsellor, MC , RCC, MEd
On the Ground Counselling- Sue MacDonald
Counsellor, MC , RCC, MEd
1 Endorsed
Prince George, BC V2N
Making the decision to seek counselling is not easy! My goal is to help guide my clients through challenging periods in their life to a place of balance and mental well-being in a client centered, non judgmental manner. I believe my well rounded experiences, easy going nature and true care and compassion for people allows my clients the freedom to work with me in a confidential, trauma informed environment. Based on the individual clients goals, needs and preferences, I personalize the counselling experience in a way that is meaningful to them.
Making the decision to seek counselling is not easy! My goal is to help guide my clients through challenging periods in their life to a place of balance and mental well-being in a client centered, non judgmental manner. I believe my well rounded experiences, easy going nature and true care and compassion for people allows my clients the freedom to work with me in a confidential, trauma informed environment. Based on the individual clients goals, needs and preferences, I personalize the counselling experience in a way that is meaningful to them.
(778) 766-4546 View (778) 766-4546
Photo of Jamie Jove-Viniegra, Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Jamie Jove-Viniegra
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
1 Endorsed
Prince George, BC V2L
Life can throw curveballs and sometimes that is too much to work through on your own. You don’t have to; the first step is to reach out and ask for help. It’s my passion and privilege to work with you and your individual strengths, experiences and needs. I understand of how important it is to use individuality to develop a plan that meets a person’s specific and unique needs. Together we can explore or unpack challenges and take steps towards reaching meaningful outcomes of healing, growth, and overall sense of wellbeing. I am happy to work with both short or long-term clients. I am Registered Clinical Counsellor with BCACC.
Life can throw curveballs and sometimes that is too much to work through on your own. You don’t have to; the first step is to reach out and ask for help. It’s my passion and privilege to work with you and your individual strengths, experiences and needs. I understand of how important it is to use individuality to develop a plan that meets a person’s specific and unique needs. Together we can explore or unpack challenges and take steps towards reaching meaningful outcomes of healing, growth, and overall sense of wellbeing. I am happy to work with both short or long-term clients. I am Registered Clinical Counsellor with BCACC.
(289) 216-9608 View (289) 216-9608
Photo of Michelle Mj Prevost, Counsellor, CCC
Michelle Mj Prevost
Counsellor, CCC
Online Only
Individual, couple, family, and group counselling for relevant issues (trauma, addictions, anger, stress, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, self-harm, family violence, conflict, grief and loss). Support stabilization and integration for trauma, strengthen self-esteem, assertive communications, boundaries, respectful and healthy relationships, and interest-based collaborative conflict resolution at work or at home with children, spouse, extended family relationships. Serving adult populations.
Individual, couple, family, and group counselling for relevant issues (trauma, addictions, anger, stress, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, self-harm, family violence, conflict, grief and loss). Support stabilization and integration for trauma, strengthen self-esteem, assertive communications, boundaries, respectful and healthy relationships, and interest-based collaborative conflict resolution at work or at home with children, spouse, extended family relationships. Serving adult populations.
(250) 302-2672 View (250) 302-2672
Photo of Stacey Birkhiem, Counsellor, RTC
Stacey Birkhiem
Counsellor, RTC
Prince George, BC V2L
At Stacey Birkhiem Counselling, my mission is to provide inclusive, client centred counselling services to people dealing with relationship changes, anxiety, depression, caregivers of aging parents, youth, athletes, families, parents of neurodivergent children, and anyone feeling stuck and overwhelmed. I provide a safe, and welcoming space to process life's challenges to all backgrounds and diversities. If you are looking for a relaxing environment where you can put your feet up, reach out to me to book your first session. Online/Virtual and In-Person Counselling offered.
At Stacey Birkhiem Counselling, my mission is to provide inclusive, client centred counselling services to people dealing with relationship changes, anxiety, depression, caregivers of aging parents, youth, athletes, families, parents of neurodivergent children, and anyone feeling stuck and overwhelmed. I provide a safe, and welcoming space to process life's challenges to all backgrounds and diversities. If you are looking for a relaxing environment where you can put your feet up, reach out to me to book your first session. Online/Virtual and In-Person Counselling offered.
(249) 488-4659 View (249) 488-4659
Photo of Bryan Harder, Counsellor, RTC
Bryan Harder
Counsellor, RTC
1 Endorsed
Prince George, BC V2K
An ideal client understands that therapy is a unique, personal journey not defined by speed, but by commitment, honesty, and active participation. It unfolds at its natural pace, respecting each individual's needs. Active engagement, both in and out of sessions, is key, including discussing feelings, applying learned techniques, and self-reflection. Therapy's success lies in honesty, openness, clear goal setting, and understanding professional boundaries. It's a collaborative process of growth and healing, adapting to each person's path. www.hardercounselling.ca
An ideal client understands that therapy is a unique, personal journey not defined by speed, but by commitment, honesty, and active participation. It unfolds at its natural pace, respecting each individual's needs. Active engagement, both in and out of sessions, is key, including discussing feelings, applying learned techniques, and self-reflection. Therapy's success lies in honesty, openness, clear goal setting, and understanding professional boundaries. It's a collaborative process of growth and healing, adapting to each person's path. www.hardercounselling.ca
(431) 430-1120 View (431) 430-1120
Photo of Tammy Skomorowski - Tammy Skomorowski (True S3lf) Spiritual Life Coach, Counsellor, MEd, CCC, CSLC
Tammy Skomorowski (True S3lf) Spiritual Life Coach
Counsellor, MEd, CCC, CSLC
5 Endorsed
Prince George, BC V2L
Are you tired of superficial strategies and short-term results? If you're ready to make life-long changes once-and-for-all, I'll support you to dive deep and do the real work. You can erase and replace subconscious negative beliefs so you can manage anxiety, feelings & triggers, and free up old patterns that don't serve you anymore. When you combine proven CBT strategies, mindfulness meditation & attachment theory practices this is the most effective way to create lasting transformation & tap into your intuition.
Are you tired of superficial strategies and short-term results? If you're ready to make life-long changes once-and-for-all, I'll support you to dive deep and do the real work. You can erase and replace subconscious negative beliefs so you can manage anxiety, feelings & triggers, and free up old patterns that don't serve you anymore. When you combine proven CBT strategies, mindfulness meditation & attachment theory practices this is the most effective way to create lasting transformation & tap into your intuition.
(844) 294-8007 View (844) 294-8007
Photo of Caroline Miege, Registered Social Worker, MEd, RSW, CCC
Caroline Miege
Registered Social Worker, MEd, RSW, CCC
Online Only
I bring my over 30 years of experience with counselling to you, offering culturally safe, trauma informed and evidence based treatments. We will build on your skills and strengths, working together and drawing from community to obtain the results you want from counselling. I am influenced by a number of therapeutic modalities, but my approach is based on being person-centered, meaning that I strive to understand the client’s point of view, and create a relationship that is caring, genuine and non-judgmental. Other modalities that I draw from are: EMDR, compassion-focused and acceptance and commitment therapy, and CBT informed.
I bring my over 30 years of experience with counselling to you, offering culturally safe, trauma informed and evidence based treatments. We will build on your skills and strengths, working together and drawing from community to obtain the results you want from counselling. I am influenced by a number of therapeutic modalities, but my approach is based on being person-centered, meaning that I strive to understand the client’s point of view, and create a relationship that is caring, genuine and non-judgmental. Other modalities that I draw from are: EMDR, compassion-focused and acceptance and commitment therapy, and CBT informed.
(450) 234-7649 View (450) 234-7649
Photo of Michael Dias Gomes - Human Condition Counselling and Consulting, Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Do you feel disconnected from your life? Are you unsatisfied or unfulfilled? Does your life not match your values? Let's clear your head. No judgement, attentive listening, straight talk.
Do you feel disconnected from your life? Are you unsatisfied or unfulfilled? Does your life not match your values? Let's clear your head. No judgement, attentive listening, straight talk.
(782) 222-4601 View (782) 222-4601
Photo of Tanya Kirkland - Sacred Space Holistic Counselling, Counsellor, MA, CCC, RCC, SEP
Sacred Space Holistic Counselling
Counsellor, MA, CCC, RCC, SEP
Online Only
Greetings, I am a grateful to make my home on Lheidli T'enneh territory (Prince George) after recently moving back from Victoria after 21 years. My designations include RCC and CCC. I work with a diverse range of adults. If you have decided that now is the right time in your life to engage in a healing journey, I am so happy for you. I would feel honoured to accompany you on your journey as you begin to explore new possibilities, understand your past, and engage more fully with the present. I believe you have immense wisdom, knowledge and courage within you and our work together will reflect this.
Greetings, I am a grateful to make my home on Lheidli T'enneh territory (Prince George) after recently moving back from Victoria after 21 years. My designations include RCC and CCC. I work with a diverse range of adults. If you have decided that now is the right time in your life to engage in a healing journey, I am so happy for you. I would feel honoured to accompany you on your journey as you begin to explore new possibilities, understand your past, and engage more fully with the present. I believe you have immense wisdom, knowledge and courage within you and our work together will reflect this.
View
Photo of Kareen Meier, Counsellor, RPC
Kareen Meier
Counsellor, RPC
Prince George, BC V2N
Life’s challenges often trace back to threads of the past, shaping the present. If you’re ready to explore these connections, now is your time. Counselling and healing are about uncovering your inner wisdom, finding tools that resonate, and walking a path uniquely yours. Each step forward in awareness brings you closer to profound, holistic healing. Transformation is a journey—gently unraveling, understanding, and reweaving your life into something whole and vibrant.
Life’s challenges often trace back to threads of the past, shaping the present. If you’re ready to explore these connections, now is your time. Counselling and healing are about uncovering your inner wisdom, finding tools that resonate, and walking a path uniquely yours. Each step forward in awareness brings you closer to profound, holistic healing. Transformation is a journey—gently unraveling, understanding, and reweaving your life into something whole and vibrant.
(604) 330-3475 View (604) 330-3475
Photo of Anthony Vigar - Designed Counselling, Counsellor, MA, BCACC, RCC
Designed Counselling
Counsellor, MA, BCACC, RCC
Prince George, BC V2L
Let's Connect! Help with destructive anger or crippling anxiety? Having relationship difficulties, conflict? Need support navigating strained relationships, help asserting and maintaining boundaries? Maybe need support working through a loss, or feeling stuck or depressed, support for changing a pattern of behaviour that keeps self-sabotaging you? My goal is to work myself out of a job by helping and supporting you. Check out the photo gallery for a few of the various concerns we could work through together. 16+yrs experience providing solution focused therapy.
Let's Connect! Help with destructive anger or crippling anxiety? Having relationship difficulties, conflict? Need support navigating strained relationships, help asserting and maintaining boundaries? Maybe need support working through a loss, or feeling stuck or depressed, support for changing a pattern of behaviour that keeps self-sabotaging you? My goal is to work myself out of a job by helping and supporting you. Check out the photo gallery for a few of the various concerns we could work through together. 16+yrs experience providing solution focused therapy.
(506) 436-7298 View (506) 436-7298
Photo of Brent Goerz - Thrive with Brent, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW, MSW, CTTS
Thrive with Brent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW, MSW, CTTS
1 Endorsed
Prince George, BC V2L
I believe in connecting with people where they are and giving them choices and tools to move through their challenges. I love the use of metaphor and the use of narrative therapy (how you learn to tell your story can impact the outcome) Sometimes people don't know what they want and my job is to work with you to help clarify your goals for therapy. Other times people know what they want but feel stuck in figuring out a way to reach their goals. For most people therapy is short term and we can develop a plan that fits your needs and budget.
I believe in connecting with people where they are and giving them choices and tools to move through their challenges. I love the use of metaphor and the use of narrative therapy (how you learn to tell your story can impact the outcome) Sometimes people don't know what they want and my job is to work with you to help clarify your goals for therapy. Other times people know what they want but feel stuck in figuring out a way to reach their goals. For most people therapy is short term and we can develop a plan that fits your needs and budget.
(587) 605-4197 View (587) 605-4197
Photo of Nicole Plante - Nicole Plante (Align Counselling), Counsellor, BSc, MEd, RCC, CCC
Nicole Plante (Align Counselling)
Counsellor, BSc, MEd, RCC, CCC
4 Endorsed
Prince George, BC V2L
Nicole is a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Canadian Certified Counsellor providing Counselling and EMDR Therapy to individual adults. Nicole has worked extensively with adults in distress, couples in conflict, families in crisis, and youth at risk, in both Counselling and Outreach formats. Nicole's 25+ years of combined experience is enhanced by a Master's Degree in Counselling, a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, and a commitment to regular upgrading to keep current in her field.
Nicole is a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Canadian Certified Counsellor providing Counselling and EMDR Therapy to individual adults. Nicole has worked extensively with adults in distress, couples in conflict, families in crisis, and youth at risk, in both Counselling and Outreach formats. Nicole's 25+ years of combined experience is enhanced by a Master's Degree in Counselling, a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, and a commitment to regular upgrading to keep current in her field.
(778) 400-4798 View (778) 400-4798
Photo of Christina Bianchini, Counsellor, RPC, MPCC
Christina Bianchini
Counsellor, RPC, MPCC
5 Endorsed
Prince George, BC V2L
It's time to invest in your personal growth in a real way. You want to build more authentic relationships, face fears, and create real lasting change in your life. You are tired of repeating patterns that just don't fulfill you. You want more self-compassion and to live with greater integrity. You want to live with bravery, passion, joy and love. It's time to heal, strengthen, and grow through couples therapy or personal counseling. Let me help you move forward as your coach or therapist.
It's time to invest in your personal growth in a real way. You want to build more authentic relationships, face fears, and create real lasting change in your life. You are tired of repeating patterns that just don't fulfill you. You want more self-compassion and to live with greater integrity. You want to live with bravery, passion, joy and love. It's time to heal, strengthen, and grow through couples therapy or personal counseling. Let me help you move forward as your coach or therapist.
(866) 451-1818 View (866) 451-1818
Photo of Jay Kryklywyj, Counsellor, MEd, RTC
Jay Kryklywyj
Counsellor, MEd, RTC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
When was the last time you were happy? Can you remember a time when you weren't angry? Worried? Or just feeling nothing? Isn't it time you invested in yourself? Life shouldn't be a struggle and if you are feeling that it is, I can help you.I work differently in the fact that I work with men from a problem-solving standpoint. A lot of men feel very attracted to looking at the issues they're struggling with as problems to be solved. As we start working together we start to understand where the problem comes from and how it's affecting that individual's life. And then we make changes.
When was the last time you were happy? Can you remember a time when you weren't angry? Worried? Or just feeling nothing? Isn't it time you invested in yourself? Life shouldn't be a struggle and if you are feeling that it is, I can help you.I work differently in the fact that I work with men from a problem-solving standpoint. A lot of men feel very attracted to looking at the issues they're struggling with as problems to be solved. As we start working together we start to understand where the problem comes from and how it's affecting that individual's life. And then we make changes.
(800) 711-7124 View (800) 711-7124
Photo of Shya Harvey, Counsellor, RSW, RCC
Shya Harvey
Counsellor, RSW, RCC
1 Endorsed
Prince George, BC V2L
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, perfectionism, feelings of worthlessness and trying to find where you fit in the world? The world is a challenging place, and I am reminded daily of the importance of meaningful connection. My main role is to create a space of safety and trust for you to explore and understand your story in ways that allow you to see your own strength and resilience while also offering opportunities for alternative perspectives.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, perfectionism, feelings of worthlessness and trying to find where you fit in the world? The world is a challenging place, and I am reminded daily of the importance of meaningful connection. My main role is to create a space of safety and trust for you to explore and understand your story in ways that allow you to see your own strength and resilience while also offering opportunities for alternative perspectives.
(587) 806-3928 View (587) 806-3928
Photo of Byron Finkelstein, Counsellor, BSc, MEd, RCC
Byron Finkelstein
Counsellor, BSc, MEd, RCC
Prince George, BC V2L
I work with both adults and teens as well as couples and families who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to move forward. Many of my clients are navigating stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, or grief. Often, they’ve been carrying these experiences on their own for a long time and are ready for support, clarity, and change.
I work with both adults and teens as well as couples and families who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to move forward. Many of my clients are navigating stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, or grief. Often, they’ve been carrying these experiences on their own for a long time and are ready for support, clarity, and change.
(825) 462-1611 View (825) 462-1611
Photo of Melissa Rispin, Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Melissa Rispin
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
1 Endorsed
Prince George, BC V2L
When life starts to feel like a lot, it can help to have a space where you don’t have to have everything figured out. My goal is to create a space to slow down, talk things through, and feel supported while you make sense of what’s going on — whether that’s stress, emotions that feel too big, relationships, identity, or questions about who you are and where you fit in the world. I believe therapy should be collaborative and flexible, shaped around what you are hoping to get out of it, and grounded in respect for your lived experience.
When life starts to feel like a lot, it can help to have a space where you don’t have to have everything figured out. My goal is to create a space to slow down, talk things through, and feel supported while you make sense of what’s going on — whether that’s stress, emotions that feel too big, relationships, identity, or questions about who you are and where you fit in the world. I believe therapy should be collaborative and flexible, shaped around what you are hoping to get out of it, and grounded in respect for your lived experience.
(587) 742-5912 View (587) 742-5912

See more therapy options for Prince George

How does your Counsellor compare?

Number of Counsellors in Prince George, BC

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Counsellors in Prince George, BC who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
90% Social Anxiety
90% Health Anxiety
90% Driving Anxiety
82% Depression
77% Trauma and PTSD
77% Complex PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

65% Green Shield Canada
62% SunLife
58% Pacific Blue Cross

How Counsellors in Prince George, BC see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
20% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling

How can I find a therapist in Prince George?

Search for nearby therapists or counsellors by inputting your city, postal 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 postal code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

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

Most Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are certified by one of the main professional associations, mainly the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA), and will have a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC) designation with their name. Social Workers listed in the directory must be registered members of the college specific to their province. To be listed in the directory, Psychologists must be registered with the psychological college specific to their province or territory.

Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given the considerable variation in professional regulation and prerequisites across Canadian provinces, some providers may possess significant professional qualifications without necessarily holding professional memberships or being obliged to acquire them. As a result, they may be selectively included without the "Verified" seal.

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

Psychologists, counsellors, psychotherapists and social workers can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and supervised, practical experience that enable them to do so in Canada.

Psychologists have a master's and/or doctoral degree and have passed both written and oral exams. Psychologists are able to complete mental health assessments and provide diagnostic information to clients as well as provide counselling therapy or psychotherapy. Counsellors and psychotherapists are expected to have a master's or doctoral degree in counselling psychology, social work, or a related mental health discipline and certification by a professional association, such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. Registered Social Workers possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work and where possible must be licensed or certified by the provincial government and/or regulatory college.

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, the cost of a therapy session in Canada could be between $100 and $200. 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.

If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. Some types of outpatient mental health services are covered by Medicare, provided these are performed by a licensed mental health professional in the provinces or territory you reside in and who accepts the assignment.

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 postal code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Professionals licensed by regulatory colleges and those certified by associations such as the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association are obligated to uphold client confidentiality unless there is a legal reason that requires them to disclose information. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there is the potential or known harm to the client or others, or a court order, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.