Counselling in Worthing

Photo of Holly Austin, Psychotherapist in Worthing, England
Holly Austin
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worthing BN13
Sometimes we need a safe and confidential space to begin to make sense of the world, to understand or learn more about ourselves and process our experiences. My approach is grounded in the belief that we all have the capacity to heal given an environment and support that feels attuned to the needs of the individual. Whether you are navigating difficult and persistent negative thoughts and experiences, feeling anxious, sad, overwhelmed, stuck, depressed or want to get to know yourself deeper. I offer a safe and confidential space to understand and learn more about yourself, process experiences and improve your relationships.
Sometimes we need a safe and confidential space to begin to make sense of the world, to understand or learn more about ourselves and process our experiences. My approach is grounded in the belief that we all have the capacity to heal given an environment and support that feels attuned to the needs of the individual. Whether you are navigating difficult and persistent negative thoughts and experiences, feeling anxious, sad, overwhelmed, stuck, depressed or want to get to know yourself deeper. I offer a safe and confidential space to understand and learn more about yourself, process experiences and improve your relationships.
01903 947213 View 01903 947213
Photo of Susanne Barthelmes, Counsellor in Worthing, England
Susanne Barthelmes
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Worthing BN11
I offer in-person, online and phone counselling in a warm, non-judgemental, and accepting atmosphere, where you can explore what’s going on, and find your way forward. At some stage in our lives we may hit a low point or crisis. Depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, separation, bereavement, illness, self-esteem, relationship, identity, and work-related issues, or other profound life challenges can leave us feeling sad, distraught, helpless, or hopeless. Counselling offers you confidential and safe space to talk. Meet me for a free initial 30min chat before deciding. Note: I don't work with couples or children.
I offer in-person, online and phone counselling in a warm, non-judgemental, and accepting atmosphere, where you can explore what’s going on, and find your way forward. At some stage in our lives we may hit a low point or crisis. Depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, separation, bereavement, illness, self-esteem, relationship, identity, and work-related issues, or other profound life challenges can leave us feeling sad, distraught, helpless, or hopeless. Counselling offers you confidential and safe space to talk. Meet me for a free initial 30min chat before deciding. Note: I don't work with couples or children.
01903 924267 View 01903 924267
Photo of Rae Yates, Counsellor in Worthing, England
Rae Yates
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worthing BN12
I am a Queer Non-Binary / LGBTQIA+ Person-Centred Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor. I work with people with all kinds of issues, concerns and distress. I work with individual adults (18+) who are gay, bi, queer, trans, non-binary, cis, agender, intersex & sexuality/gender questioning. I also work with people who are neurodivergent, hear voices or have unusual beliefs /experiences, people in non-monogamous or poly relationships, people labelled with PTSD, schizophrenia or a personality disorder.
I am a Queer Non-Binary / LGBTQIA+ Person-Centred Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor. I work with people with all kinds of issues, concerns and distress. I work with individual adults (18+) who are gay, bi, queer, trans, non-binary, cis, agender, intersex & sexuality/gender questioning. I also work with people who are neurodivergent, hear voices or have unusual beliefs /experiences, people in non-monogamous or poly relationships, people labelled with PTSD, schizophrenia or a personality disorder.
020 3879 4147 View 020 3879 4147
Photo of Richard Neil Papworth, Counsellor in Worthing, England
Richard Neil Papworth
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Worthing BN14  (Online Only)
Psychodynamic psychotherapeutic counselling has a distinct focus on events which have troubled us in the past, although we might not have awareness of them, and continue to trouble us in the present often through repeated patterns. There might not be any defined areas of concern for clients, and issues can be deep-seated; however, the therapeutic relationship aims to bring these aspects into consciousness in a manageable way so that they may be worked through safely. While psychodynamic psychotherapeutic counselling is often open-ended and can span several years, short courses of six months or less have also shown to be effective.
Psychodynamic psychotherapeutic counselling has a distinct focus on events which have troubled us in the past, although we might not have awareness of them, and continue to trouble us in the present often through repeated patterns. There might not be any defined areas of concern for clients, and issues can be deep-seated; however, the therapeutic relationship aims to bring these aspects into consciousness in a manageable way so that they may be worked through safely. While psychodynamic psychotherapeutic counselling is often open-ended and can span several years, short courses of six months or less have also shown to be effective.
023 8144 0269 View 023 8144 0269
Photo of Natalie Salter, Counsellor in Worthing, England
Natalie Salter
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Worthing BN14
Counselling is a space solely for you. Your experience of life is unique to you, no one knows how it feels to be you. It may feel difficult to get through each day carrying around how you really feel, whilst being who you have to be. Worries may build up over time and the heaviness never seems to get any lighter. A counselling relationship is unlike any other relationship you may experience with family and friends because it is all about you and there are no expectations on how you need to be. We would develop a trusting relationship, through this I will help you to explore thoughts and feelings, so you take control of your life.
Counselling is a space solely for you. Your experience of life is unique to you, no one knows how it feels to be you. It may feel difficult to get through each day carrying around how you really feel, whilst being who you have to be. Worries may build up over time and the heaviness never seems to get any lighter. A counselling relationship is unlike any other relationship you may experience with family and friends because it is all about you and there are no expectations on how you need to be. We would develop a trusting relationship, through this I will help you to explore thoughts and feelings, so you take control of your life.
01903 497508 View 01903 497508
Photo of Providence Counselling, Counsellor in Worthing, England
Providence Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Worthing BN11
We are a team of friends and colleagues, having met at the University of Chichester, and each of us holds a BA (Hons) in Humanistic Counselling. We are dedicated humanistic person-centred practitioners and aim to work sensitively and collaboratively with all clients. As a team, we offer a broad range of experience and interests within the Worthing area. We work with individuals and can help with emotional support, self-exploration, coping strategies and problem-solving which can help improve interpersonal skills. Goal setting to achieve personal objectives to improve self-esteem, wellbeing and relationships.
We are a team of friends and colleagues, having met at the University of Chichester, and each of us holds a BA (Hons) in Humanistic Counselling. We are dedicated humanistic person-centred practitioners and aim to work sensitively and collaboratively with all clients. As a team, we offer a broad range of experience and interests within the Worthing area. We work with individuals and can help with emotional support, self-exploration, coping strategies and problem-solving which can help improve interpersonal skills. Goal setting to achieve personal objectives to improve self-esteem, wellbeing and relationships.
01903 947020 View 01903 947020
Photo of Chrysalis Therapy Services, Psychotherapist in Worthing, England
Chrysalis Therapy Services
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Worthing BN11  (Online Only)
Consider choosing me as your psychotherapist because of my extensive experience and contributions to the field. I played a pivotal role in integrating counselling models into traditional psychiatric settings during the Project 2000 New Nursing Training Syllabus initiative. In 2015, I earned my qualification in humanistic counselling from the University of Chichester. Furthermore, my involvement in commissioning teams to develop community mental health units during my tenure with the NHS showcases my commitment to improving mental health services. Currently, I am actively engaged in establishing nurse-led clinics in the NHS.
Consider choosing me as your psychotherapist because of my extensive experience and contributions to the field. I played a pivotal role in integrating counselling models into traditional psychiatric settings during the Project 2000 New Nursing Training Syllabus initiative. In 2015, I earned my qualification in humanistic counselling from the University of Chichester. Furthermore, my involvement in commissioning teams to develop community mental health units during my tenure with the NHS showcases my commitment to improving mental health services. Currently, I am actively engaged in establishing nurse-led clinics in the NHS.
01903 924210 View 01903 924210
Photo of Mandy Randall-Gavin, Counsellor in Worthing, England
Mandy Randall-Gavin
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Worthing BN12
Do you need support emotionally? Are you feeling low or anxious? Maybe you're bereaved? Maybe you're struggling with relationships, at work or at home? I can help you. I believe everyone can choose to live their lives and relationships in a positive and fulfilled way. I am a qualified Counsellor in TA Practice, with many years of client experience. I'm here, I'm listening. Please contact me to arrange an initial meeting session to find out if we can work together.
Do you need support emotionally? Are you feeling low or anxious? Maybe you're bereaved? Maybe you're struggling with relationships, at work or at home? I can help you. I believe everyone can choose to live their lives and relationships in a positive and fulfilled way. I am a qualified Counsellor in TA Practice, with many years of client experience. I'm here, I'm listening. Please contact me to arrange an initial meeting session to find out if we can work together.
01903 924224 View 01903 924224
Photo of Andrea Hughes, Counsellor in Worthing, England
Andrea Hughes
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Worthing BN12  (Online Only)
Whatever you are struggling with, my approach here is professional, confidential, safe and non-judgemental, offering you an impartial space to freely discuss your presenting issues. Making the first step is often the biggest one! Investing in yourself is a powerful tool. Thank you for visiting my profile.
Whatever you are struggling with, my approach here is professional, confidential, safe and non-judgemental, offering you an impartial space to freely discuss your presenting issues. Making the first step is often the biggest one! Investing in yourself is a powerful tool. Thank you for visiting my profile.
01903 952218 View 01903 952218
Photo of Dr Clara O’Brien, Psychologist in Worthing, England
Dr Clara O’Brien
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Worthing BN14
Do you have cognitive difficulties following a head injury or are you living with a neurological or long term health condition? If you struggle with your memory, thinking or concentration I can provide neuropsychological assessment and rehabilitation to help you cope with this. I also provide psychological therapy to help people adjust to living with neurological conditions as well as cope with anxiety and stress. I also provide treatment for post traumatic stress symptoms, sleep difficulties and fatigue.
Do you have cognitive difficulties following a head injury or are you living with a neurological or long term health condition? If you struggle with your memory, thinking or concentration I can provide neuropsychological assessment and rehabilitation to help you cope with this. I also provide psychological therapy to help people adjust to living with neurological conditions as well as cope with anxiety and stress. I also provide treatment for post traumatic stress symptoms, sleep difficulties and fatigue.
07579 829261 View 07579 829261
Photo of Leslie Laine in Worthing, England
Leslie Laine
Verified Verified
Worthing BN11
I work to enable a person to be their natural self, to discover more and more how life wants them to be, even though life may have been full of difficult circumstances which have left their mark, and sometimes even destroying a person’s ability to live effectively and in harmony with themselves.
I work to enable a person to be their natural self, to discover more and more how life wants them to be, even though life may have been full of difficult circumstances which have left their mark, and sometimes even destroying a person’s ability to live effectively and in harmony with themselves.
01903 959591 View 01903 959591
Photo of Selina Wigmore, Counsellor in Worthing, England
Selina Wigmore
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Worthing BN13
We can sometimes struggle with anxiety, relationships, and feel a sense of disconnection from life, not knowing our purpose, how others view us, and how to find meaning in our lives. Some of us struggle with boundaries, finding ourselves pleasing others: family, friends, or work. This can result in frustration, feeling powerless, and depressed. Talking to family and friends becomes a discussion, a sharing of information, a risk of being judged or told what to do. This is where therapy can help, by providing a safe, non-judgmental space to explore our feelings and give them validation, enabling us to grow strong.
We can sometimes struggle with anxiety, relationships, and feel a sense of disconnection from life, not knowing our purpose, how others view us, and how to find meaning in our lives. Some of us struggle with boundaries, finding ourselves pleasing others: family, friends, or work. This can result in frustration, feeling powerless, and depressed. Talking to family and friends becomes a discussion, a sharing of information, a risk of being judged or told what to do. This is where therapy can help, by providing a safe, non-judgmental space to explore our feelings and give them validation, enabling us to grow strong.
01903 924231 View 01903 924231
Photo of Charlene at Coastal Counselling, Counsellor in Worthing, England
Charlene at Coastal Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Worthing BN14
If you are feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope with your circumstances or feelings, for any reason or none, counselling can help you gain insight, clarity and understanding to find a sense of stability and calm. With this new perspective, you can start to build resilience for facing further struggles and difficulties that life inevitably brings. If you are an ex-pat, have experienced divorce, lone parenthood or a life-changing event or experience, I have a unique understanding of these issues.
If you are feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope with your circumstances or feelings, for any reason or none, counselling can help you gain insight, clarity and understanding to find a sense of stability and calm. With this new perspective, you can start to build resilience for facing further struggles and difficulties that life inevitably brings. If you are an ex-pat, have experienced divorce, lone parenthood or a life-changing event or experience, I have a unique understanding of these issues.
01903 952251 View 01903 952251
Photo of Annette Quinn, Psychotherapist in Worthing, England
Annette Quinn
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Worthing BN13
I am an Integrative Psychotherapist, Counsellor, Tutor and Supervisor. I work with a wide range of issues and client groups i.e. Individuals, couples, young people and families. I am dedicated to advancing equality and welcome client’s across the gender sexuality and relationship diversity spectrum. As a white therapist I acknowledge my unearned white privilege and I do not shy away from addressing my responsibility to educate myself about racism and its ongoing impact. I work with clients on the patterns that restrict them, with the aim of helping clients evolve beyond, where they have been before, to a healthier place.
I am an Integrative Psychotherapist, Counsellor, Tutor and Supervisor. I work with a wide range of issues and client groups i.e. Individuals, couples, young people and families. I am dedicated to advancing equality and welcome client’s across the gender sexuality and relationship diversity spectrum. As a white therapist I acknowledge my unearned white privilege and I do not shy away from addressing my responsibility to educate myself about racism and its ongoing impact. I work with clients on the patterns that restrict them, with the aim of helping clients evolve beyond, where they have been before, to a healthier place.
01903 959561 View 01903 959561
Photo of Lyn Lainchbury, Counsellor in Worthing, England
Lyn Lainchbury
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Worthing BN11
At times, we all need help to reach our full potential. Working together in a supportive and confidential space, without fear of judgement, empowers you to cope with life’s challenges, and achieve acceptance and meaningful and lasting changes.
At times, we all need help to reach our full potential. Working together in a supportive and confidential space, without fear of judgement, empowers you to cope with life’s challenges, and achieve acceptance and meaningful and lasting changes.
01903 497438 View 01903 497438
Photo of Stepping Stones Counselling and Psychotherapy Ltd, Psychotherapist in Worthing, England
Stepping Stones Counselling and Psychotherapy Ltd
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Worthing BN11
Stepping Stones was founded in 2017 by Rebekah, who has over 25 years of experience in working with people experiencing mental health difficulties within the NHS, initially as a Registered Nurse and later as a Psychotherapist, seeing people from a wide variety of contexts and with a mix of different issues and challenges. The team has grown significantly over the years and is now a well renowned service which is a recognised training placement for Counsellors. As a low-cost service, clients are mainly seen by carefully selected Placement Counsellors who are working under the supervision of In-House Supervisors.
Stepping Stones was founded in 2017 by Rebekah, who has over 25 years of experience in working with people experiencing mental health difficulties within the NHS, initially as a Registered Nurse and later as a Psychotherapist, seeing people from a wide variety of contexts and with a mix of different issues and challenges. The team has grown significantly over the years and is now a well renowned service which is a recognised training placement for Counsellors. As a low-cost service, clients are mainly seen by carefully selected Placement Counsellors who are working under the supervision of In-House Supervisors.
01903 257364 View 01903 257364
Photo of Lucy Hoskins, Counsellor in Worthing, England
Lucy Hoskins
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Worthing BN14
Do you need someone to listen without judgment? Maybe you are looking to manage negative thoughts, to understand your patterns of behaviour and how to change these. Talking about things with me may help you process difficult feelings and give you the space to work out the why's, the wants, the needs and the how's. You may be experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, relationship/ family issues, low self-esteem, stress, abuse, life changes such as bereavement, loss of a job, illness. Counselling can help. We can explore these things together, no matter how big or little your problem seems. You are not alone.
Do you need someone to listen without judgment? Maybe you are looking to manage negative thoughts, to understand your patterns of behaviour and how to change these. Talking about things with me may help you process difficult feelings and give you the space to work out the why's, the wants, the needs and the how's. You may be experiencing depression, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, relationship/ family issues, low self-esteem, stress, abuse, life changes such as bereavement, loss of a job, illness. Counselling can help. We can explore these things together, no matter how big or little your problem seems. You are not alone.
01903 947032 View 01903 947032
Photo of templemancounselling, Counsellor in Worthing, England
templemancounselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Worthing BN11
Is Anxiety getting in the way of your life? Does any of the following sound familiar? You are very self-critical, You usually imagine the worst case scenario, You overthink decisions, You find negative feedback very hard to handle, You replay your interactions repeatedly. If your answer is yes, you are probably are experiencing anxiety to some degree.
Is Anxiety getting in the way of your life? Does any of the following sound familiar? You are very self-critical, You usually imagine the worst case scenario, You overthink decisions, You find negative feedback very hard to handle, You replay your interactions repeatedly. If your answer is yes, you are probably are experiencing anxiety to some degree.
01903 952226 View 01903 952226
Photo of Safe space Therapy, Counsellor in Worthing, England
Safe space Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Worthing BN11  (Online Only)
I offer a safe online therapeutic service. I specialise working with young and older adults and LGBTQ+. Do you feel lost, desperate, alone and have tried other avenues but still find your right back at the same place. Are you grieving a lost one. At Safe Space Therapy we can explore why you are not able to move forward and be the authentic person you can be. We can explore the blocks and barriers and old patterns that have suppressed you in life. I have a strong ethos with supporting clients to explore and set their own inner boundary, therefore allowing and empowering you to find your own inner therapist.
I offer a safe online therapeutic service. I specialise working with young and older adults and LGBTQ+. Do you feel lost, desperate, alone and have tried other avenues but still find your right back at the same place. Are you grieving a lost one. At Safe Space Therapy we can explore why you are not able to move forward and be the authentic person you can be. We can explore the blocks and barriers and old patterns that have suppressed you in life. I have a strong ethos with supporting clients to explore and set their own inner boundary, therefore allowing and empowering you to find your own inner therapist.
01903 256263 View 01903 256263
Photo of Dr Emma Peskett, Psychologist in Worthing, England
Dr Emma Peskett
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Worthing BN11
Hi I’m Emma, a HCPC registered clinical psychologist with experience of working with children, young people and adults. I have training and experience in a variety of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and compassion-focused therapy (CFT). I work in an integrative way and tailor my approach to your unique needs and preferences, working collaboratively with you to help you move towards the life that you want. I am passionate about helping my clients develop healthy coping mechanisms, build self-compassion and overcome their mental health challenges.
Hi I’m Emma, a HCPC registered clinical psychologist with experience of working with children, young people and adults. I have training and experience in a variety of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and compassion-focused therapy (CFT). I work in an integrative way and tailor my approach to your unique needs and preferences, working collaboratively with you to help you move towards the life that you want. I am passionate about helping my clients develop healthy coping mechanisms, build self-compassion and overcome their mental health challenges.
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See more therapy options for Worthing

How does your Counsellor compare?

Number of Counsellors in Worthing

100+

Average cost per session

£55

Counsellors in Worthing who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
90% Depression
88% Self Esteem
83% Relationship Issues
78% Stress
68% Trauma and PTSD
66% Bereavement

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

59% Aviva
59% AXA PPP
41% Bupa

How Counsellors in Worthing see their clients

89% In Person and Online
11% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Worthing?

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

Learn more about how to find a therapist

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

Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are members of the main professional associations, mainly the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP). Most Psychologists in the directory are accredited members of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and/or are registered in the Health and Care Professions Council (HPCP).

Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement for psychotherapists and counsellors in the UK, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

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

Counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and experience that enable them to do so in the UK. Psychologists have earned a degree in psychology and many are members of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and have completed a postgraduate qualification in a specialism. Counsellors and Psychotherapists are not required to have a psychology degree, but to belong to a professional organisation such as the BACP or UKCP, they are required to have completed a training course as well as clinical and supervision hours.

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 UK could be between £30 - £60 when seeing a counsellor and £60 - £150 and up when seeing a clinical psychologist. If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.

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. The NHS Talking therapies programme offers free of charge counselling for common mental health problems like anxiety and depression. The service is available to anyone registered with a GP, though you do not necessarily need to be referred by your GP and can refer yourself directly to a Talking therapies service. The service will provide different solutions, including group and individual therapy, for a limited number of sessions which are generally up to six.

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 postcode.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Therapists who are part of a professional organisation such as the BACP, the UKCP, or BPS are bound by an ethical framework that requires them to uphold a confidentiality agreement. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there has been participation in a criminal act or act of terror, or if there is potential or known harm to the client or others, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.