Counselling in London
Dipti Shah
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
London W1W
I am a systemic family therapist, and an integrative counsellor, which includes CBT. I am based at the London Child, Adult and Family Therapy Centre. I have over 25 years’ experience of working with people and supporting them to overcome a range of emotional and behavioural dilemmas. These dilemmas can become problematic when normalised and left unmanaged or unresolved. They are often the roots of problems affecting personal and professional relationships. Through therapy, I support children; adolescents; adults; couples; family's, which including adult children and groups of people who have shared interests and responsibilities.
I am a systemic family therapist, and an integrative counsellor, which includes CBT. I am based at the London Child, Adult and Family Therapy Centre. I have over 25 years’ experience of working with people and supporting them to overcome a range of emotional and behavioural dilemmas. These dilemmas can become problematic when normalised and left unmanaged or unresolved. They are often the roots of problems affecting personal and professional relationships. Through therapy, I support children; adolescents; adults; couples; family's, which including adult children and groups of people who have shared interests and responsibilities.
Naoum Liotas
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
London WC1B
Are you trying to stay afloat and somehow not succeeding at that? Depression, loneliness, anxiety and relationship tension within families are on the rise. With therapy people can make their desired changes in their lives and live more fully in the present by appreciating their gifts and uniqueness. You can resolve personal, relational or professional issues once you understand the role that you play in them and how you can utilise your inner gifts and reveal your authentic self to the world.
Are you trying to stay afloat and somehow not succeeding at that? Depression, loneliness, anxiety and relationship tension within families are on the rise. With therapy people can make their desired changes in their lives and live more fully in the present by appreciating their gifts and uniqueness. You can resolve personal, relational or professional issues once you understand the role that you play in them and how you can utilise your inner gifts and reveal your authentic self to the world.
Therapy with Louiza
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
London N14
My philosophy and practice focuses on developing a stronger understanding of self in order to maximise true potential. I provide a safe and supportive space, where you are able to explore and understand your own feelings and emotions, empowering you to discover greater life satisfaction. I use a combined approach to psychotherapy, making it bespoke to your individual needs. I believe it is essential that the therapeutic relationship between client and therapist is built on empathy and trust, enabling the client to express and share their thoughts, within a confidential and non-judgmental environment.
My philosophy and practice focuses on developing a stronger understanding of self in order to maximise true potential. I provide a safe and supportive space, where you are able to explore and understand your own feelings and emotions, empowering you to discover greater life satisfaction. I use a combined approach to psychotherapy, making it bespoke to your individual needs. I believe it is essential that the therapeutic relationship between client and therapist is built on empathy and trust, enabling the client to express and share their thoughts, within a confidential and non-judgmental environment.
Liann Heavey
Psychotherapist, BACP
Verified Verified
London SE23
Waitlist for new clients
Hello I'm Liann, I fully understand how life gets tough at times and we all need someone to speak to. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addictions or low-self-esteem I am here to help. Together we will embark on a transformative journey towards healing and growth. I believe in fostering a warm empathetic therapeutic relationship. I will actively listen to your concerns, validate your experiences, and provide guidance without judgement. Together we will work towards your goals and empower you to overcome obstacles.
Hello I'm Liann, I fully understand how life gets tough at times and we all need someone to speak to. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addictions or low-self-esteem I am here to help. Together we will embark on a transformative journey towards healing and growth. I believe in fostering a warm empathetic therapeutic relationship. I will actively listen to your concerns, validate your experiences, and provide guidance without judgement. Together we will work towards your goals and empower you to overcome obstacles.
Emma Hulse
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London EC3V
Many people come to therapy with a sense that something in their life needs to change. For some, the journey from ‘understanding’ to ‘changing’ can be challenging, but possible. For others, the changes that we want are unattainable or overwhelming and so the focus may be on finding ways to live creatively within these limitations that still allows a full life. Accepting ourselves for who we are - perhaps letting go of a requirement to change for others – can be just as powerful. Therapy offers a space where we can take a break from the demands of our regular lives, to slow things down and begin to make some sense of our feelings.
Many people come to therapy with a sense that something in their life needs to change. For some, the journey from ‘understanding’ to ‘changing’ can be challenging, but possible. For others, the changes that we want are unattainable or overwhelming and so the focus may be on finding ways to live creatively within these limitations that still allows a full life. Accepting ourselves for who we are - perhaps letting go of a requirement to change for others – can be just as powerful. Therapy offers a space where we can take a break from the demands of our regular lives, to slow things down and begin to make some sense of our feelings.
Mikes Smith
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
London EC1V
I am a qualified integrative therapist with an MA in philosophy and an MSc in psychology. I have worked as a bereavement officer in hospital during major incidents and the pandemic. I now work with clients from all walks of life, supporting them in their own times of challenge and adversity. If you’re facing hardships, struggling with change or feel like there’s something missing, you may be interested in trying something new. Therapy can feel like a big step, but I’ve seen first-hand how transformative it can be. If you’re curious and don’t know where to begin, I encourage you to reach out. It may be transformative for you too.
I am a qualified integrative therapist with an MA in philosophy and an MSc in psychology. I have worked as a bereavement officer in hospital during major incidents and the pandemic. I now work with clients from all walks of life, supporting them in their own times of challenge and adversity. If you’re facing hardships, struggling with change or feel like there’s something missing, you may be interested in trying something new. Therapy can feel like a big step, but I’ve seen first-hand how transformative it can be. If you’re curious and don’t know where to begin, I encourage you to reach out. It may be transformative for you too.
Phil Mollon
Psychotherapist, PhD, BPC
Verified Verified
London W1G
Having been in clinical practice for over 45 years, much of it within the NHS, I have experience in working with most kinds of emotional and psychological difficulties. These include trauma, relationship problems, all kinds of anxiety states, depression and low self-esteem, disorders in the sense of self, ADHD - along with the more subtle states of "feeling different" and the challenges of being a "highly sensitive person" or "indigo" being. Spirituality and working with our higher dimensional aspects are a core part of my work, along with help in identifying a person's 'soul mission' and resolving blocks to pursuing this.
Having been in clinical practice for over 45 years, much of it within the NHS, I have experience in working with most kinds of emotional and psychological difficulties. These include trauma, relationship problems, all kinds of anxiety states, depression and low self-esteem, disorders in the sense of self, ADHD - along with the more subtle states of "feeling different" and the challenges of being a "highly sensitive person" or "indigo" being. Spirituality and working with our higher dimensional aspects are a core part of my work, along with help in identifying a person's 'soul mission' and resolving blocks to pursuing this.
Kate Alice Taylor
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London SW1W
Having trained as Group Analyst and psychotherapist after working in the corporate sector, I bring a range of life and professional experience to my practice. I am a qualified Group Analyst and Psychotherapist, working with groups, and individuals. My experience extends from training and working in the NHS, to the voluntary sector, private practice and to post graduate education as the Convenor of the Qualifying Course at the Institute of Group Analysis.
Having trained as Group Analyst and psychotherapist after working in the corporate sector, I bring a range of life and professional experience to my practice. I am a qualified Group Analyst and Psychotherapist, working with groups, and individuals. My experience extends from training and working in the NHS, to the voluntary sector, private practice and to post graduate education as the Convenor of the Qualifying Course at the Institute of Group Analysis.
Veronica Rumens
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SE23
I am a qualified integrative counsellor, offering individuals and couples a safe and confidential place for support, exploration and transformation. I believe that a respectful and non-judgmental environment is crucial in therapy, and this is an essential element of my work. I always welcome whole authentic feelings from my clients, without putting a negative label on them. To be able to explore overwhelming feelings such as: guilt, embarrassment, shame, anger, fear, and many others, without feeling judged, requires trust to be present. Even the decision to come to counselling is a courageous step - facing our difficulties is never easy.
I am a qualified integrative counsellor, offering individuals and couples a safe and confidential place for support, exploration and transformation. I believe that a respectful and non-judgmental environment is crucial in therapy, and this is an essential element of my work. I always welcome whole authentic feelings from my clients, without putting a negative label on them. To be able to explore overwhelming feelings such as: guilt, embarrassment, shame, anger, fear, and many others, without feeling judged, requires trust to be present. Even the decision to come to counselling is a courageous step - facing our difficulties is never easy.
Dr Marilyn Allen
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Verified Verified
London W1G
Therapeutic Counselling using the Arts, encompasses therapy and developmental psychology which enables me to work with and support clients to develop skills, to understand their personal circumstances better. Such skills are then internalised over time which helps their situation to be more manageable. l offer a safe, non-judgemental and confidential environment to support our work, which brings skills of heightened empathy, observational skills and counter-transference into the clinical work, & broadens the experience for the client. I strongly believe in the importance of the therapeutic relationship and its impact on our work.
Therapeutic Counselling using the Arts, encompasses therapy and developmental psychology which enables me to work with and support clients to develop skills, to understand their personal circumstances better. Such skills are then internalised over time which helps their situation to be more manageable. l offer a safe, non-judgemental and confidential environment to support our work, which brings skills of heightened empathy, observational skills and counter-transference into the clinical work, & broadens the experience for the client. I strongly believe in the importance of the therapeutic relationship and its impact on our work.
Ben Scanlan
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SE1
Life is difficult. Do more, be more. Be what others want. I offer a space where we examine where you are in life, what's brought you here, what it's like being you and you in relation to others, and how you're contributing to where you're at. How will we do this? Through our relationship, where I'll offer support, care, empathy and challenge to help you examine life.
Life is difficult. Do more, be more. Be what others want. I offer a space where we examine where you are in life, what's brought you here, what it's like being you and you in relation to others, and how you're contributing to where you're at. How will we do this? Through our relationship, where I'll offer support, care, empathy and challenge to help you examine life.
15 Second Videos
Naoum Liotas
Phil Mollon
Rivka Mennesson
Gretchen C Robertson
Mary Mulherin
Alice Fiorica
Ijeoma Nweze
Husna Rahman
Emma Brooke Gilding
Jonathan Humphreys
Pamela Adeyeba | Find Your Own Unique Voice
Artful Retreats
Simone Bienne
Dr Harriet Mellotte
Stephanie Jory
Siobhan Louise Jayne Tierney
Mind Hubs
Mary Mcilroy
Diane Roberts
Kai Grygier
Dinah Butler
David Mayes
Lauren Sayers
Donna Mitchell
Lynn Hyde
Mahdi Ahmed
Francesca Marie Gore
Michelle Qureshi
Hannah Puddephatt
SoundMind Counselling
Hamied Ghadimi
Natalia Maciel
Charlie Maguire-King
Matt Hussey
Anna Sinski
Alizen Wall
Alex Boyle
Pink Lantern Therapy Services
Monika Wieliczko
East London & City Psychotherapist
Shannon Ownhouse
Tiffany Fuller (DipCBH) Therapist & Coach
Kate Miriam Loewenthal
Paul Carslake
Beatriz Cadavid
Alan Wardle
Sorcha Cable Jones
Rasha Jorany
Gemma Berongoy
Phil Clarkstone
Dr Mariam Andrawiss
Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Verified Verified
London W2
I am a UKCP accredited psychotherapist and a BACP registered individual member, based in London. Sometimes life's challenges can make us feel overwhelmed and unhappy, with a lack of meaning, or a sense of not living our lives to the full. My clients contact me for various concerns, including Anxiety, depression, fear - Trauma - Alcohol or drug abuse recovery - Lack of meaning - Feeling stuck in life - Life transition - Identity crisis - Relationships - Family difficulties - Otherness related to race, culture, religion and/or socio-economical differences - Sexual orientation - Gender identity - Disabilities - Loss, ambiguous loss
I am a UKCP accredited psychotherapist and a BACP registered individual member, based in London. Sometimes life's challenges can make us feel overwhelmed and unhappy, with a lack of meaning, or a sense of not living our lives to the full. My clients contact me for various concerns, including Anxiety, depression, fear - Trauma - Alcohol or drug abuse recovery - Lack of meaning - Feeling stuck in life - Life transition - Identity crisis - Relationships - Family difficulties - Otherness related to race, culture, religion and/or socio-economical differences - Sexual orientation - Gender identity - Disabilities - Loss, ambiguous loss
Stephanie Mattioni
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
London SW3
I am an intergrative arts psychotherapist working in private practice with adults and young people in London. Languages available: English, French and Italian. I provide both long and short term therapy, depending on the needs of each individual client. I work with individuals who are struggling with a variety of emotional, relational and identity difficulties. If you are finding life a struggle for any number of reasons, from a major life change to a loss or separation, or an issue you cannot seem to resolve, I hope you will find psychotherapy a very useful tool in removing the blocks preventing you to have a more satisfiying life.
I am an intergrative arts psychotherapist working in private practice with adults and young people in London. Languages available: English, French and Italian. I provide both long and short term therapy, depending on the needs of each individual client. I work with individuals who are struggling with a variety of emotional, relational and identity difficulties. If you are finding life a struggle for any number of reasons, from a major life change to a loss or separation, or an issue you cannot seem to resolve, I hope you will find psychotherapy a very useful tool in removing the blocks preventing you to have a more satisfiying life.
Dr Erin Reid
Psychologist
Verified Verified
London NW11 (Online Only)
Hello there, my name is Dr Erin Reid and I am a Counselling Psychologist and Systemic Practitioner and Lecturer, working with the NHS, voluntary sector, and in private practice. I work with people experiencing a full range of emotional difficulties and life challenges.
Hello there, my name is Dr Erin Reid and I am a Counselling Psychologist and Systemic Practitioner and Lecturer, working with the NHS, voluntary sector, and in private practice. I work with people experiencing a full range of emotional difficulties and life challenges.
Alex Thomas
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
London W14
I specialise in working with adults and am dedicated to serving diverse populations. With a wealth of experience supporting LGBTQIA+ communities and individuals from various backgrounds, I bring a deep understanding of different walks of life. Having experienced both sides of the therapeutic process, I deeply empathise with the challenges of reaching out for support and the transformative journey that therapy entails. I submitted my doctoral thesis in January 2024 and am currently going through the award process to become a Doctor of Counselling Psychology (RUL) and practice as a BACP accredited Psychotherapist (MBACP)
I specialise in working with adults and am dedicated to serving diverse populations. With a wealth of experience supporting LGBTQIA+ communities and individuals from various backgrounds, I bring a deep understanding of different walks of life. Having experienced both sides of the therapeutic process, I deeply empathise with the challenges of reaching out for support and the transformative journey that therapy entails. I submitted my doctoral thesis in January 2024 and am currently going through the award process to become a Doctor of Counselling Psychology (RUL) and practice as a BACP accredited Psychotherapist (MBACP)
Gina Aku Silva
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
London N1 (Online Only)
Counselling offers a unique opportunity to pay focused attention to anything that you might want to talk about. This happens in an environment that feels safe, trusting and free of judgement. By exploring your past experiences, we can make connections in relation to your present circumstances.
Counselling offers a unique opportunity to pay focused attention to anything that you might want to talk about. This happens in an environment that feels safe, trusting and free of judgement. By exploring your past experiences, we can make connections in relation to your present circumstances.
Susan Reilly
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London SW4
It's entirely reasonable for us all, at some point, to be anxious and confused by life, challenged by relationships, family life and or the direction of our career. Life can be difficult, there's no denying that, you just don't have to suffer in silence. Really, the only qualification in seeking therapy is to be a normal human being. I could go on 'selling' the benefits, but ultimately I assure you, if you try, things will change, and quite possibly for the better.
It's entirely reasonable for us all, at some point, to be anxious and confused by life, challenged by relationships, family life and or the direction of our career. Life can be difficult, there's no denying that, you just don't have to suffer in silence. Really, the only qualification in seeking therapy is to be a normal human being. I could go on 'selling' the benefits, but ultimately I assure you, if you try, things will change, and quite possibly for the better.
Nooshin Navazani
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
London N20
As a clinical psychologist,I work with adolescents , couples and families and adults of all ages to overcome challenges, build resilience, and create more fulfilling lives. I see therapy as an important opportunity for growth and approach our work together with warmth and enthusiasm. I specialize in working with adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, drug and alcohol addiction and difficult life transitions in addition to other issues. I have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) from medical science university of Tehran and schema Matrix treatment Certificate for drug abuse from university of Tehran.
As a clinical psychologist,I work with adolescents , couples and families and adults of all ages to overcome challenges, build resilience, and create more fulfilling lives. I see therapy as an important opportunity for growth and approach our work together with warmth and enthusiasm. I specialize in working with adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, drug and alcohol addiction and difficult life transitions in addition to other issues. I have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) from medical science university of Tehran and schema Matrix treatment Certificate for drug abuse from university of Tehran.
Jo Nicholl
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SW6
I believe all couples and individuals will face challenges in their relationships and seeking help from a professional can be transformational. I have over 20 years experience of being a psychotherapist, and therefore working with me you have the chance of gaining insight into patterns of communication that are not working and poisoning your relationship. Move from resentment to understanding; Identify and articulate your needs and wants; find out how to bring back intimacy and loving feelings; A consultation with me with help you think more clearly about the issues you are struggling with and whether you want to work with me.
I believe all couples and individuals will face challenges in their relationships and seeking help from a professional can be transformational. I have over 20 years experience of being a psychotherapist, and therefore working with me you have the chance of gaining insight into patterns of communication that are not working and poisoning your relationship. Move from resentment to understanding; Identify and articulate your needs and wants; find out how to bring back intimacy and loving feelings; A consultation with me with help you think more clearly about the issues you are struggling with and whether you want to work with me.
Rachel Jane Cooke
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London E9
You may well be in your late 20s or 30s, feeling overwhelmed & disconnected in your relationships, career or current lifestyle. Maybe you’re experiencing anxiety & despair about the state of the world - the climate crisis, the political landscape, the “never enough” of grind culture capitalism, the multitude of oppressive systems that plague us. I’ve been practicing for 15 years and find it especially rewarding working with those who are queer, artists, activists, non monogamous, highly sensitive & those struggling with a dysregulated nervous system, anxious attachment, poor boundaries & people pleasing. I’d love to support you.
You may well be in your late 20s or 30s, feeling overwhelmed & disconnected in your relationships, career or current lifestyle. Maybe you’re experiencing anxiety & despair about the state of the world - the climate crisis, the political landscape, the “never enough” of grind culture capitalism, the multitude of oppressive systems that plague us. I’ve been practicing for 15 years and find it especially rewarding working with those who are queer, artists, activists, non monogamous, highly sensitive & those struggling with a dysregulated nervous system, anxious attachment, poor boundaries & people pleasing. I’d love to support you.
See more therapy options for London
How does your Counsellor compare?
Number of Counsellors in London
3,000+
Average cost per session
£75
Counsellors in London who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
84% | Self Esteem |
81% | Relationship Issues |
79% | Stress |
66% | Trauma and PTSD |
63% | Bereavement |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
71% | Aviva |
65% | AXA PPP |
58% | Vitality |
How Counsellors in London see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
24% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling
How can I find a therapist in London?
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
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.
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.
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.