Therapists in 19706

Jean Eva Thumm
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, CPC, BSP
Serves Area
Do you feel blocked by stress, low self-esteem, or past trauma? As a solution-focused therapist and coach, I am here to motivate you to achieve your personal and professional goals. Together, we will "move your story" forward, helping you find your voice and take positive action. Using a personalized "Toolkit" tailored to your unique needs, I combine powerful modalities like Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, and Brainspotting with practical behavioral assignments and communication skills. Whether working with individuals or couples, we will clear what holds you back. Reach out today to destress your life!
Do you feel blocked by stress, low self-esteem, or past trauma? As a solution-focused therapist and coach, I am here to motivate you to achieve your personal and professional goals. Together, we will "move your story" forward, helping you find your voice and take positive action. Using a personalized "Toolkit" tailored to your unique needs, I combine powerful modalities like Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, and Brainspotting with practical behavioral assignments and communication skills. Whether working with individuals or couples, we will clear what holds you back. Reach out today to destress your life!
(302) 321-2727 View (302) 321-2727
Dr. Helena Montaque
Psychologist, PhD, LMFT
Serves Area
Dr. H. Danielle Montaque is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Delaware who has been practicing since 2009. She received her Doctoral Degree in Human Development and Family Studies with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy. Dr. Montaque prefers to work collaboratively with clients to achieve their goals. She works with individuals of all ages and welcomes family and couples sessions. Together, you and Dr. Montaque will examine the root causes of distress, prioritize areas where change is possible, and work towards developing skills and strategies for navigating ongoing challenges. Outside of work, Dr.
Dr. H. Danielle Montaque is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Delaware who has been practicing since 2009. She received her Doctoral Degree in Human Development and Family Studies with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy. Dr. Montaque prefers to work collaboratively with clients to achieve their goals. She works with individuals of all ages and welcomes family and couples sessions. Together, you and Dr. Montaque will examine the root causes of distress, prioritize areas where change is possible, and work towards developing skills and strategies for navigating ongoing challenges. Outside of work, Dr.
(302) 599-6274 View (302) 599-6274
Jessica Caruana
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCMH, CADC
Serves Area
Jessica Caruana is a licensed co-occurring therapist with over 11 years of experience working in mental health; experience includes expertise with those affected by Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and Schizophrenia. Jessica worked closely within community-based substance abuse programs utilizing MAT treatment for 9.5 years; serving adults using individual and group-based therapy services.  Jessica treats 18+ patients using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered therapy, Harm Reduction and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Jessica Caruana is a licensed co-occurring therapist with over 11 years of experience working in mental health; experience includes expertise with those affected by Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and Schizophrenia. Jessica worked closely within community-based substance abuse programs utilizing MAT treatment for 9.5 years; serving adults using individual and group-based therapy services.  Jessica treats 18+ patients using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered therapy, Harm Reduction and Solution-Focused Therapy.
(302) 305-7812 View (302) 305-7812
Tyler-Leah Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CEAP
Serves Area
I work with children, teenagers, adults, couples/families, active duty military/veterans, LGBTQIA+SGL, and BIPOC experiencing depression, anxiety, life transition, families who have participated in adoption, perinatal/maternal health, trauma-related symptoms, interpersonal relationship conflict, mood-related concerns, domestic violence, and life transitions. I am Licensed in Georgia and Delaware (for telehealth services only). I am paneled with Blue Cross Blue Shield in New Jersey and Massachusetts for telehealth only (if you are not a NJ or MA resident).
I work with children, teenagers, adults, couples/families, active duty military/veterans, LGBTQIA+SGL, and BIPOC experiencing depression, anxiety, life transition, families who have participated in adoption, perinatal/maternal health, trauma-related symptoms, interpersonal relationship conflict, mood-related concerns, domestic violence, and life transitions. I am Licensed in Georgia and Delaware (for telehealth services only). I am paneled with Blue Cross Blue Shield in New Jersey and Massachusetts for telehealth only (if you are not a NJ or MA resident).
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Sarah O'Hern
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CCTP
32 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in working with couples, as well as clients diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), who have various attachment styles outside of secure, difficulties with regulating emotions, and/or have a history of trauma. No matter who you are or what you hope to accomplish during your time with me, I seek to provide a validating, empathetic, non-judgmental, and supportive presence- as you do the hard work! I am a passionate person who cares deeply about the work I do and the people I do it for- YOU! I welcome you to my practice- in your time- when you’re ready to create a life worth living.
I specialize in working with couples, as well as clients diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), who have various attachment styles outside of secure, difficulties with regulating emotions, and/or have a history of trauma. No matter who you are or what you hope to accomplish during your time with me, I seek to provide a validating, empathetic, non-judgmental, and supportive presence- as you do the hard work! I am a passionate person who cares deeply about the work I do and the people I do it for- YOU! I welcome you to my practice- in your time- when you’re ready to create a life worth living.
(321) 351-3347 View (321) 351-3347
LifeStance Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH
Serves Area
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(302) 251-6722 View (302) 251-6722
Kameron Huff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Serves Area
Patients in Delaware can turn to Kami Huff, LCSW, at LifeStance Health for compassionate, evidence-based support tailored to their unique goals and challenges. She works with teens, young adults, adults, and seniors, providing individual therapy, group therapy, and case management in a supportive, collaborative environment. Kami is committed to helping clients build practical skills to manage life’s stressors while strengthening resilience and emotional well-being. Kami is especially passionate about helping individuals navigate ADHD, anxiety, and depression.Patients in Delaware can turn to Kami Huff, LCSW, at LifeStance Health for
Patients in Delaware can turn to Kami Huff, LCSW, at LifeStance Health for compassionate, evidence-based support tailored to their unique goals and challenges. She works with teens, young adults, adults, and seniors, providing individual therapy, group therapy, and case management in a supportive, collaborative environment. Kami is committed to helping clients build practical skills to manage life’s stressors while strengthening resilience and emotional well-being. Kami is especially passionate about helping individuals navigate ADHD, anxiety, and depression.Patients in Delaware can turn to Kami Huff, LCSW, at LifeStance Health for
(302) 643-9925 View (302) 643-9925
Shadena Natty Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA, MS, CAADC, NCC
11 Endorsed
Serves Area
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, and you don't have to navigate it alone. I provide a warm, supportive space for individuals and couples to heal from past experiences, manage difficult emotions, and build healthier relationships. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, or intimacy concerns, therapy can help you gain clarity, confidence, and hope. Licensed in PA, MD, and DE. Certified Advanced Drug & Alcohol Counselor, EMDR Certified, Gottman Method Levels 1 & 2 trained, and an (aasect) Certified Sex Therapist. I'd love the opportunity to support you. Schedule your free 15 minute consultation.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, and you don't have to navigate it alone. I provide a warm, supportive space for individuals and couples to heal from past experiences, manage difficult emotions, and build healthier relationships. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, or intimacy concerns, therapy can help you gain clarity, confidence, and hope. Licensed in PA, MD, and DE. Certified Advanced Drug & Alcohol Counselor, EMDR Certified, Gottman Method Levels 1 & 2 trained, and an (aasect) Certified Sex Therapist. I'd love the opportunity to support you. Schedule your free 15 minute consultation.
(717) 696-1294 View (717) 696-1294
Kristin Maloney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCMH
Serves Area
Kristin Maloney is a Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health in Delaware who has been practicing since 2007. She completed Undergraduate School at the University of Delaware and Graduate School at Wilmington University. Kristin helps clients by using the many trauma-informed practices she has studied and treatment modalities she has used to develop partnerships with them and work together on their therapy goals. Outside of work, Kristin enjoys spending time with her three nephews and her newborn niece as well as finding interesting books to read while relaxing on the beach.
Kristin Maloney is a Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health in Delaware who has been practicing since 2007. She completed Undergraduate School at the University of Delaware and Graduate School at Wilmington University. Kristin helps clients by using the many trauma-informed practices she has studied and treatment modalities she has used to develop partnerships with them and work together on their therapy goals. Outside of work, Kristin enjoys spending time with her three nephews and her newborn niece as well as finding interesting books to read while relaxing on the beach.
(844) 770-0851 View (844) 770-0851
Janice Dixon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCMH, NCC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Janice Dixon is a licensed clinician in the state of Delaware and Maryland. She obtained her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Wilmington University and holds a bachelor’s degree in Human Services from the University of Delaware. During her time as an undergraduate, Janice had the opportunity to serve as a student intern in the mental health field which sparked her interest in counseling and encouraged the pursuance of a graduate degree. Janice has experience working in residential and outpatient settings with individuals who struggle to cope with different mental, cognitive, substance and behavioral issues.
Janice Dixon is a licensed clinician in the state of Delaware and Maryland. She obtained her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Wilmington University and holds a bachelor’s degree in Human Services from the University of Delaware. During her time as an undergraduate, Janice had the opportunity to serve as a student intern in the mental health field which sparked her interest in counseling and encouraged the pursuance of a graduate degree. Janice has experience working in residential and outpatient settings with individuals who struggle to cope with different mental, cognitive, substance and behavioral issues.
(302) 445-9607 View (302) 445-9607
Living Water Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Serves Area
Welcome! I’m Ophelia, and I’m so glad you found my page. Life’s challenges can leave you feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, disconnected, or unsure of what to do next. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, family-of-origin concerns, or a major life transition. Whatever brought you here, please know that struggling does not make you a failure. Your challenges can become opportunities for healing, learning, and growth. If you are ready to find clarity, build confidence, and create meaningful change, I would be honored to walk alongside you.
Welcome! I’m Ophelia, and I’m so glad you found my page. Life’s challenges can leave you feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, disconnected, or unsure of what to do next. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, family-of-origin concerns, or a major life transition. Whatever brought you here, please know that struggling does not make you a failure. Your challenges can become opportunities for healing, learning, and growth. If you are ready to find clarity, build confidence, and create meaningful change, I would be honored to walk alongside you.
(304) 337-5625 View (304) 337-5625
TeenaTalk, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you find yourself looking for therapy, I already know you have tried everything. Stop here and let me support you with the solutions and answers to your internal and external conflicts. You really are that powerful...use me to unlock the powers within!
If you find yourself looking for therapy, I already know you have tried everything. Stop here and let me support you with the solutions and answers to your internal and external conflicts. You really are that powerful...use me to unlock the powers within!
(484) 673-6035 View (484) 673-6035
Dr. Ylenia Martinez
Mental Health Counselor, PsyD
Serves Area
Are you exhausted from constantly trying to hold everything together both in your daily life and in your intimate relationships? For too long, women have been pressured by societal expectations to be perfectly organized, emotionally composed, and effortlessly capable. To survive, many neurodivergent women quietly mask their struggles, overcompensating until they hit a wall of total emotional and physical burnout. This exhaustion doesn't just affect your work; it deeply impacts your romantic partnerships, your sexual well-being, and your connection to your own body. .
Are you exhausted from constantly trying to hold everything together both in your daily life and in your intimate relationships? For too long, women have been pressured by societal expectations to be perfectly organized, emotionally composed, and effortlessly capable. To survive, many neurodivergent women quietly mask their struggles, overcompensating until they hit a wall of total emotional and physical burnout. This exhaustion doesn't just affect your work; it deeply impacts your romantic partnerships, your sexual well-being, and your connection to your own body. .
(463) 400-2758 View (463) 400-2758
Tyler Kackley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCMH
Serves Area
Tyler Kackley is a Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health in Delaware who has been practicing since 2019. He has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the University of Delaware and a Master's Degree in Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Since graduation, Tyler has worked within the penal system, working with the disenfranchised and marginalized within the corrections setting. As such, his therapeutic experience includes managing grief with clients, personality disorders, anxiety, stress management, depression, and more.
Tyler Kackley is a Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health in Delaware who has been practicing since 2019. He has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the University of Delaware and a Master's Degree in Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Since graduation, Tyler has worked within the penal system, working with the disenfranchised and marginalized within the corrections setting. As such, his therapeutic experience includes managing grief with clients, personality disorders, anxiety, stress management, depression, and more.
(302) 253-7347 View (302) 253-7347
Chantell Ellis Poole
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Our ideal clients come from all walks of life, united by a quest for deeper meaning, connection, and understanding. Many of our clients face emotional and spiritual struggles, such as grief, loss, or a sense of emptiness. They seek a safe space to express their feelings and find solace. Others grapple with existential questions about life's purpose and their place in the universe, desiring thoughtful engagement. Significant life transitions—like career shifts or relationship changes—often bring clients to us for spiritual support. Join us on a path of exploration, healing, and growth. Our services are designed to support your goals.
Our ideal clients come from all walks of life, united by a quest for deeper meaning, connection, and understanding. Many of our clients face emotional and spiritual struggles, such as grief, loss, or a sense of emptiness. They seek a safe space to express their feelings and find solace. Others grapple with existential questions about life's purpose and their place in the universe, desiring thoughtful engagement. Significant life transitions—like career shifts or relationship changes—often bring clients to us for spiritual support. Join us on a path of exploration, healing, and growth. Our services are designed to support your goals.
(267) 452-2354 View (267) 452-2354
Virginia Turssline
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCMH
Serves Area
Virginia Turssline is a Licensed Mental Health provider, who has been practicing since 2011She graduated from the University of West Georgia with master's degree in Educational Psychology and Professional Counseling I am truly passionate about the power of therapy to make life changing experiences in our lives. My understanding and training have shown time and time again that your challenges do not define you. By identifying your starting point and helping you build a toolbox specific to your needs, you can set your path forward, one step at a time. Your life challenges can be overwhelming and so is leaving your comfort zone.Virgini
Virginia Turssline is a Licensed Mental Health provider, who has been practicing since 2011She graduated from the University of West Georgia with master's degree in Educational Psychology and Professional Counseling I am truly passionate about the power of therapy to make life changing experiences in our lives. My understanding and training have shown time and time again that your challenges do not define you. By identifying your starting point and helping you build a toolbox specific to your needs, you can set your path forward, one step at a time. Your life challenges can be overwhelming and so is leaving your comfort zone.Virgini
(302) 581-7013 View (302) 581-7013
Hailey Kline
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH
Serves Area
Hailey Kline, LPCMH, helps teens, young adults, and adults build practical skills to navigate life’s challenges, strengthen emotional well-being, and create meaningful change. At LifeStance Health, she provides therapy for patients throughout Delaware, offering a supportive and collaborative environment where individuals can feel heard, understood, and empowered. Hailey works with adolescents, teens, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma-related concerns, while also helping clients address life transitions, emotional regulation, and everyday stressors.
Hailey Kline, LPCMH, helps teens, young adults, and adults build practical skills to navigate life’s challenges, strengthen emotional well-being, and create meaningful change. At LifeStance Health, she provides therapy for patients throughout Delaware, offering a supportive and collaborative environment where individuals can feel heard, understood, and empowered. Hailey works with adolescents, teens, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma-related concerns, while also helping clients address life transitions, emotional regulation, and everyday stressors.
(302) 485-9519 View (302) 485-9519
Catherine Mucci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Serves Area
Catherine Mucci is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Delaware who has been practicing since 2015. Catherine builds genuine therapeutic relationships with clients so that they feel they are in a safe, open environment free of judgment or shame. She encourages clients to identify their goals through reflection to attain what they are willing to work toward in their time, and with their own agenda. Catherine uses integrative therapy to combine person centered therapy and humanistic approach to problem solving and narrative tools to address concerns and changes the client wishes to see.
Catherine Mucci is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Delaware who has been practicing since 2015. Catherine builds genuine therapeutic relationships with clients so that they feel they are in a safe, open environment free of judgment or shame. She encourages clients to identify their goals through reflection to attain what they are willing to work toward in their time, and with their own agenda. Catherine uses integrative therapy to combine person centered therapy and humanistic approach to problem solving and narrative tools to address concerns and changes the client wishes to see.
(302) 550-8985 View (302) 550-8985
Lisa Ecret - Introspection Counseling Center, LLC
Counselor
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I provide in person and online clinical mental health counseling services. I am trained in trauma-informed care and prioritize building safety, trust, and relational connection in every session. While I welcome clients from all walks of life, I feel particularly drawn to those who are navigating life transitions, such as career changes, grief and loss, family restructuring, or shifting personal identities. Many of the clients I work with describe feeling: Stuck or uncertain about their direction in life, and are overwhelmed by the demands of others and disconnected from their own voice.
I provide in person and online clinical mental health counseling services. I am trained in trauma-informed care and prioritize building safety, trust, and relational connection in every session. While I welcome clients from all walks of life, I feel particularly drawn to those who are navigating life transitions, such as career changes, grief and loss, family restructuring, or shifting personal identities. Many of the clients I work with describe feeling: Stuck or uncertain about their direction in life, and are overwhelmed by the demands of others and disconnected from their own voice.
(302) 592-2589 View (302) 592-2589
Ericka E Hofmeyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Online Only
Licensed in CA, FL, MI, DE, NV, SC and UT. Psychotherapy is a journey of discovery. It is a walk toward the self. The purpose of psychotherapy is to assist the patient with knowing the Self: their intrinsic goodness, wisdom and strength found within. For patients, this requires a setting aside of assumptions about the self and others in order for curiosity to emerge. In psychotherapy, we explore what brings meaning to life and what creates value. We ask, “Do my actions bring me closer to the person I want to be?” As I assist the patient with shoring up coping skills we also explore the wondrous road back to the Self.
Licensed in CA, FL, MI, DE, NV, SC and UT. Psychotherapy is a journey of discovery. It is a walk toward the self. The purpose of psychotherapy is to assist the patient with knowing the Self: their intrinsic goodness, wisdom and strength found within. For patients, this requires a setting aside of assumptions about the self and others in order for curiosity to emerge. In psychotherapy, we explore what brings meaning to life and what creates value. We ask, “Do my actions bring me closer to the person I want to be?” As I assist the patient with shoring up coping skills we also explore the wondrous road back to the Self.
(310) 692-9360 View (310) 692-9360

See more therapy options for 19706

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 19706

20+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in 19706 who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
92% Social Anxiety
92% Health Anxiety
92% Driving Anxiety
85% Depression
73% Trauma and PTSD
73% Complex PTSD

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
86% Optum
76% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 19706 see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

96% Female
4% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 19706?

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.