Therapists in 04280

Milton S Ayer
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPE
Serves Area
Committed to the Professional Practice of Psychotherapy for those who are committed to Change.My goal is to assist a client to identify their problem(s) and then to focus our undivided attention on acheiving a resolution that satisfies the needs of the client.
Committed to the Professional Practice of Psychotherapy for those who are committed to Change.My goal is to assist a client to identify their problem(s) and then to focus our undivided attention on acheiving a resolution that satisfies the needs of the client.
(207) 518-7606 View (207) 518-7606
Photo of Douglas Weaver, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Douglas Weaver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Let’s work together to identify and overcome life’s obstacles. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, work struggles, or feeling isolated, I’m here to help you find solutions that are tailored to your unique needs. In our work together, we’ll explore where you feel stuck, uncover the root causes of your difficulties, and build a plan for moving forward—one step at a time. In our first few sessions, we’ll focus on building trust, understanding your goals, and creating a clear roadmap for the changes you want to see. I use a strengths-based, solutions-oriented approach to therapy.
Let’s work together to identify and overcome life’s obstacles. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, work struggles, or feeling isolated, I’m here to help you find solutions that are tailored to your unique needs. In our work together, we’ll explore where you feel stuck, uncover the root causes of your difficulties, and build a plan for moving forward—one step at a time. In our first few sessions, we’ll focus on building trust, understanding your goals, and creating a clear roadmap for the changes you want to see. I use a strengths-based, solutions-oriented approach to therapy.
(207) 489-6953 View (207) 489-6953
Photo of Bree Merrill, Counselor, LCPC
Bree Merrill
Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Currently on leave until February 2026 - As a therapist, I work with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling with a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, difficulty in school, and navigating the symptoms of trauma. Whether you’re trying to understand and cope with overwhelming emotions, facing academic or social pressures, or working through past or present trauma, my goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can begin to heal.
Currently on leave until February 2026 - As a therapist, I work with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling with a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, difficulty in school, and navigating the symptoms of trauma. Whether you’re trying to understand and cope with overwhelming emotions, facing academic or social pressures, or working through past or present trauma, my goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can begin to heal.
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Photo of Bryce Libby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, CCS
Bryce Libby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, CCS
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
You have strengths you already use, perhaps without realizing it. Together, we will work to identify and build on those strengths as well as develop new skills so you can reach the goals you set. The greatest insight and learning result from action! We typically start with small actions, which allow mastery of new skills and build confidence while working toward the bigger changes you want to make. My approach is strength-based and relational. Grounded in CBT and especially ACT, I incorporate strategies from other therapy models based on the needs and learning styles of the individual.
You have strengths you already use, perhaps without realizing it. Together, we will work to identify and build on those strengths as well as develop new skills so you can reach the goals you set. The greatest insight and learning result from action! We typically start with small actions, which allow mastery of new skills and build confidence while working toward the bigger changes you want to make. My approach is strength-based and relational. Grounded in CBT and especially ACT, I incorporate strategies from other therapy models based on the needs and learning styles of the individual.
(833) 961-1326 View (833) 961-1326
Photo of Emily Ellis, Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Emily Ellis
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Online Only
Thank you for your interest in learning about my practice. Are you feeling stuck in life's ruts and unsure of a way out? Together, we will build a safe partnership and work toward a greater sense of clarity and balance. I will strive to better understand how your challenges and conflicts interfere with your daily functioning. Using my person-centered approach, I will help you explore, rediscover your strengths, resources and goals and how th can be channeled to help you feel more in control and confident.
Thank you for your interest in learning about my practice. Are you feeling stuck in life's ruts and unsure of a way out? Together, we will build a safe partnership and work toward a greater sense of clarity and balance. I will strive to better understand how your challenges and conflicts interfere with your daily functioning. Using my person-centered approach, I will help you explore, rediscover your strengths, resources and goals and how th can be channeled to help you feel more in control and confident.
(207) 494-4956 View (207) 494-4956

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Margarete Schnauck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Margarete Schnauck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Yarmouth, ME 04096
I have been in practice for 30 years, working with adolescents, athletes, adults, and couples. Therapy is a collaborative process that requires a trusting relationship and courage. I welcome the opportunity to meet you. My practice perspectives are Relational and Strengths-based. Practice focus areas include managing anxiety, addressing depression, supporting life transitions, improving relationships, parenting, divorce, sports, social work, and adolescent to adulthood transitions.
I have been in practice for 30 years, working with adolescents, athletes, adults, and couples. Therapy is a collaborative process that requires a trusting relationship and courage. I welcome the opportunity to meet you. My practice perspectives are Relational and Strengths-based. Practice focus areas include managing anxiety, addressing depression, supporting life transitions, improving relationships, parenting, divorce, sports, social work, and adolescent to adulthood transitions.
(207) 705-9758 View (207) 705-9758
Photo of Gina Fiori, Counselor, LCPC-C
Gina Fiori
Counselor, LCPC-C
2 Endorsed
Brunswick, ME 04011
I believe every person is inherently wired for meaningful connection, yet life’s earlier experiences often create protective patterns that leave us feeling stuck or distant. With curiosity and compassion, I help clients gently explore and uncover these patterns—supporting deeper self-awareness, relational insight, and healing rooted in connection  .
I believe every person is inherently wired for meaningful connection, yet life’s earlier experiences often create protective patterns that leave us feeling stuck or distant. With curiosity and compassion, I help clients gently explore and uncover these patterns—supporting deeper self-awareness, relational insight, and healing rooted in connection  .
(207) 371-6991 View (207) 371-6991
Photo of Kelly Gayle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Kelly Gayle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
It is a huge step in reaching out for support! I'm so glad you did! Some of us struggle to live day to day and have stopped dreaming. Why is dreaming left to childhood? If you are searching for more peace or to heal an invisible scar, you do not need to suffer or problem solve alone. I am a licensed clinical social worker whose passion for the past 30 years has been creating a safe space for the human experience that we all share. It has been my understanding that you may already have what you need and I have the privilege to be alongside you on that journey. Risks are scary but this may be a good one to take.
It is a huge step in reaching out for support! I'm so glad you did! Some of us struggle to live day to day and have stopped dreaming. Why is dreaming left to childhood? If you are searching for more peace or to heal an invisible scar, you do not need to suffer or problem solve alone. I am a licensed clinical social worker whose passion for the past 30 years has been creating a safe space for the human experience that we all share. It has been my understanding that you may already have what you need and I have the privilege to be alongside you on that journey. Risks are scary but this may be a good one to take.
(207) 218-0430 View (207) 218-0430
Photo of Ken Walden, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Ken Walden
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
4 Endorsed
Brunswick, ME 04011
I work with people experiencing the struggles that come from living and growing. Many of my clients are dealing with life transitions, relationship problems, grief, stress, anxiety or trauma. They may have noticed patterns in their life they want to change. All of them want to feel better, to function better, and to understand themselves better. I work with individuals looking for change, as well as couples hoping to transform their relationship. Couples are often feeling stuck, having the same conversations over and over but not feeling heard by each other. Living and loving together is difficult and we need a helping hand.
I work with people experiencing the struggles that come from living and growing. Many of my clients are dealing with life transitions, relationship problems, grief, stress, anxiety or trauma. They may have noticed patterns in their life they want to change. All of them want to feel better, to function better, and to understand themselves better. I work with individuals looking for change, as well as couples hoping to transform their relationship. Couples are often feeling stuck, having the same conversations over and over but not feeling heard by each other. Living and loving together is difficult and we need a helping hand.
(207) 503-2432 View (207) 503-2432
Photo of Michelle Rancourt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCPC, MS
Michelle Rancourt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCPC, MS
Brunswick, ME 04011
Relationship building is the foundation of a great counseling partnership and I greatly value the courage and authenticity it requires to participate in that work. Over the last 14 years I have had the opportunity to work in an array of mental health positions, primarily in the school setting, so the majority of my experience is with children 6-18. My specialties include support and interventions for anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD and emotional regulation. My perspective will often include a home-school collaborative approach to work on social and behavioral needs in both settings. I love to work with the whole family system.
Relationship building is the foundation of a great counseling partnership and I greatly value the courage and authenticity it requires to participate in that work. Over the last 14 years I have had the opportunity to work in an array of mental health positions, primarily in the school setting, so the majority of my experience is with children 6-18. My specialties include support and interventions for anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD and emotional regulation. My perspective will often include a home-school collaborative approach to work on social and behavioral needs in both settings. I love to work with the whole family system.
(207) 370-7042 View (207) 370-7042
Photo of Mary Lou McManus-Richter, Counselor, RN, MS, LCPC, NCC
Mary Lou McManus-Richter
Counselor, RN, MS, LCPC, NCC
Gray, ME 04039
I am a psychiatric nurse, counselor, and a psychotherapist here in Maine. NOTE: I do not write med prescriptions. I work with a broad variety of individuals and additionally have focuses on depression, anxiety, medical/healthcare providers and chronic illness. I provide dynamic counseling, psychotherapy, and support in a safe setting. As a therapist, I am active in the room providing feedback and challenges as appropriate. I use existential psychodynamic techniques, CBT, Reality Therapy, motivational interviewing and bibliotherapy and apply the principles and procedures of counseling to assess and treat client issues.
I am a psychiatric nurse, counselor, and a psychotherapist here in Maine. NOTE: I do not write med prescriptions. I work with a broad variety of individuals and additionally have focuses on depression, anxiety, medical/healthcare providers and chronic illness. I provide dynamic counseling, psychotherapy, and support in a safe setting. As a therapist, I am active in the room providing feedback and challenges as appropriate. I use existential psychodynamic techniques, CBT, Reality Therapy, motivational interviewing and bibliotherapy and apply the principles and procedures of counseling to assess and treat client issues.
(207) 747-3136 View (207) 747-3136
Photo of Anna Verger, Counselor, LCPC-c
Anna Verger
Counselor, LCPC-c
1 Endorsed
Falmouth, ME 04105
My approach is humanistic and person-centered—rooted in empathy, authenticity, and deep respect for your unique experience. I believe that healing grows through genuine connection and understanding. I also believe in the power of creativity and often incorporate art therapy techniques into my work. With specialized training in Creative Arts Therapy, I weave in visual art therapy and mindfulness through art to help you express and explore your inner world in meaningful ways. You don’t have to have everything figured out before starting—if you’re simply feeling drawn to reach out, we can gently explore your goals and needs together.
My approach is humanistic and person-centered—rooted in empathy, authenticity, and deep respect for your unique experience. I believe that healing grows through genuine connection and understanding. I also believe in the power of creativity and often incorporate art therapy techniques into my work. With specialized training in Creative Arts Therapy, I weave in visual art therapy and mindfulness through art to help you express and explore your inner world in meaningful ways. You don’t have to have everything figured out before starting—if you’re simply feeling drawn to reach out, we can gently explore your goals and needs together.
(207) 819-9678 View (207) 819-9678
Photo of Tammy Trask - Creating Change Counseling , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
Creating Change Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
Hallowell, ME 04347
Are past traumas impacting your life? Do you say or do things that you later regret? Do you struggle with identifying and communicating your feelings? Do you have intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, or recurring distressing dreams? Do you drink alcohol or use other substances or gamble or do other self-destructive behaviors that cause self-harm or disrupt your life? Are you a people pleaser? Do you struggle with setting boundaries? Anything that keeps you from living a full life is either built on a lie or a self-defeating memory; what is limiting you? What is keeping you from having the life you want?
Are past traumas impacting your life? Do you say or do things that you later regret? Do you struggle with identifying and communicating your feelings? Do you have intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, or recurring distressing dreams? Do you drink alcohol or use other substances or gamble or do other self-destructive behaviors that cause self-harm or disrupt your life? Are you a people pleaser? Do you struggle with setting boundaries? Anything that keeps you from living a full life is either built on a lie or a self-defeating memory; what is limiting you? What is keeping you from having the life you want?
(207) 306-2865 View (207) 306-2865
Photo of Mary Elizabeth Small - Mary Small / Emerge & Transform, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , CCS
Mary Small / Emerge & Transform
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , CCS
Serves Area
Limited openings during the day Tuesday through Thursday. If you’re feeling tired, unhappy, unfulfilled, worried or stuck Emerge & Transform can help you find your best self to reach for your goals with renewed confidence. Assist you in coping with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma and much more with a holistic client centered approach. Please call and let me know what you need 207-860-0828.
Limited openings during the day Tuesday through Thursday. If you’re feeling tired, unhappy, unfulfilled, worried or stuck Emerge & Transform can help you find your best self to reach for your goals with renewed confidence. Assist you in coping with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma and much more with a holistic client centered approach. Please call and let me know what you need 207-860-0828.
(207) 203-4115 View (207) 203-4115
Photo of Madelyn Sauget, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Madelyn Sauget
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Gray, ME 04039
When we experience trauma, we often feel flooded with overwhelming emotions, physical sensations, and memories. I work with clients to help them identify the patterns their bodies and minds engage in due to past experiences. Once we recognize these patterns, we can encourage positive change. Through a trauma-informed approach and with the support of my equine co-therapist, we guide you in reconnecting with your body and understanding how trauma affects your nervous system. Together, we can explore how trauma manifests for you, reprocess those experiences, and work through challenging emotions. I work with folks ages 9 and up!
When we experience trauma, we often feel flooded with overwhelming emotions, physical sensations, and memories. I work with clients to help them identify the patterns their bodies and minds engage in due to past experiences. Once we recognize these patterns, we can encourage positive change. Through a trauma-informed approach and with the support of my equine co-therapist, we guide you in reconnecting with your body and understanding how trauma affects your nervous system. Together, we can explore how trauma manifests for you, reprocess those experiences, and work through challenging emotions. I work with folks ages 9 and up!
(207) 501-3841 View (207) 501-3841
Photo of Abbie Leary, Counselor, LCPC
Abbie Leary
Counselor, LCPC
2 Endorsed
Brunswick, ME 04011
Abbie Leary is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maine who has been practicing since 2006. Abbie has worked in the mental health field for more than 15 years in a range of settings from crisis response to addiction to acute psychiatric care. She provides individual and group therapy for adults seeking help with depression and anxiety, stress management, relationship issues, anger management, codependency and attachment issues, addiction, as well as life stage transitions. Abbie utilizes therapeutic modalities including DBT, CBT, and ACT.
Abbie Leary is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maine who has been practicing since 2006. Abbie has worked in the mental health field for more than 15 years in a range of settings from crisis response to addiction to acute psychiatric care. She provides individual and group therapy for adults seeking help with depression and anxiety, stress management, relationship issues, anger management, codependency and attachment issues, addiction, as well as life stage transitions. Abbie utilizes therapeutic modalities including DBT, CBT, and ACT.
(207) 292-7562 View (207) 292-7562
Photo of Lynn Mallory, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lynn Mallory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bath, ME 04530
** I am now available for in person and telehealth sessions** Sometimes life can be challenging. Kids don't always know how to manage difficult transitions or feelings by using their words. Instead, an unhappy or anxious child may present with behaviors that are upsetting. I can help discover underlying issues and guide young people in finding ways to better express what is on their minds.
** I am now available for in person and telehealth sessions** Sometimes life can be challenging. Kids don't always know how to manage difficult transitions or feelings by using their words. Instead, an unhappy or anxious child may present with behaviors that are upsetting. I can help discover underlying issues and guide young people in finding ways to better express what is on their minds.
(207) 389-7688 View (207) 389-7688
Photo of Jo Werther, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jo Werther
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Topsham, ME 04086
Who is Jo Werther? A licensed clinical social worker and mindfulness-based life coach with twenty-five years of practice in the fields of mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment, high school and college counseling, hospice care, and private practice. Jo received her Master of Social Work degree in 1995. A popular podcast host, compassionate counselor and life coach, intuitive thinker, and inspiring teacher. Creator of The New Plan A and The Five Ps of Inner Peace, two unique methods for healing from heartbreak, loss, and grief, mastering stress, and restoring emotional well-being with simple daily practices.
Who is Jo Werther? A licensed clinical social worker and mindfulness-based life coach with twenty-five years of practice in the fields of mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment, high school and college counseling, hospice care, and private practice. Jo received her Master of Social Work degree in 1995. A popular podcast host, compassionate counselor and life coach, intuitive thinker, and inspiring teacher. Creator of The New Plan A and The Five Ps of Inner Peace, two unique methods for healing from heartbreak, loss, and grief, mastering stress, and restoring emotional well-being with simple daily practices.
(207) 305-3406 View (207) 305-3406
Photo of Abby Szotkowski, Counselor, MS, LCPC-C
Abby Szotkowski
Counselor, MS, LCPC-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting new in-person and telehealth clients! There are few investments greater than the one you make in yourself. I help motivated individuals and couples (including non-romantic relationships) navigate anxiety, burnout, life transitions, self-esteem, grief, shame, communication, and relationship conflict. I am passionate about supporting people in understanding all parts of their lived experience, and translating that knowledge into new ways of being in the world. Together, we will unpack your unique story, identify your patterns, define your needs, foster your strengths, and work toward the fullest expression of yourself.
Accepting new in-person and telehealth clients! There are few investments greater than the one you make in yourself. I help motivated individuals and couples (including non-romantic relationships) navigate anxiety, burnout, life transitions, self-esteem, grief, shame, communication, and relationship conflict. I am passionate about supporting people in understanding all parts of their lived experience, and translating that knowledge into new ways of being in the world. Together, we will unpack your unique story, identify your patterns, define your needs, foster your strengths, and work toward the fullest expression of yourself.
(207) 370-0020 View (207) 370-0020
Photo of Andrea Medaris, Psychologist, PsyD
Andrea Medaris
Psychologist, PsyD
4 Endorsed
Brunswick, ME 04011
When marriages fail, it is not increasing conflict that is the cause. It is decreasing affection and emotional responsiveness."- Sue Johnson, author of "Hold Me Tight." I help couples create emotional safety, heal past hurts, and learn to take emotional risks. Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFT) is a revolutionary approach to relationship therapy because it's not just about teaching couples to communicate differently, but instead about guiding them towards a new experience of themselves and each other. Relationships change and grow when we experience our partner in a new way and we learn to be responsive. I can help.
When marriages fail, it is not increasing conflict that is the cause. It is decreasing affection and emotional responsiveness."- Sue Johnson, author of "Hold Me Tight." I help couples create emotional safety, heal past hurts, and learn to take emotional risks. Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFT) is a revolutionary approach to relationship therapy because it's not just about teaching couples to communicate differently, but instead about guiding them towards a new experience of themselves and each other. Relationships change and grow when we experience our partner in a new way and we learn to be responsive. I can help.
(207) 614-7719 View (207) 614-7719

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 04280

< 10

Therapists in 04280 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
80% Grief
80% Trauma and PTSD
80% Family Conflict
80% Peer Relationships
80% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

21 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
80% Aetna
80% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 04280 see their clients

60% Online Only
40% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

75% Male
25% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 04280?

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

Learn more about how to find a therapist

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

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

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

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

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

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

What type of therapy is right for me?

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

How much does therapy cost?

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

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

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

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

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

Is online therapy a good option?

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

Are therapy sessions confidential?

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