Photo of Jodi Gilbert, LCSW, LICSW, CHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jodi Gilbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, CHC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
I believe everyone has unique goals, is capable of change and developing themselves. Developed over years of experience in both private practice and non-profit institutions, I employ an eclectic mix of approaches including humanistic, cognitive behavioral and coaching. I encourage clients to consider their strengths, take an active role in psychotherapy and practice positive change in their lives. Further, I maintain a holistic model which takes into consideration how physical health, including food and exercise, play a factor in our mental health. All combined with my commitment, compassion and sense of humor, provide for an effective therapeutic process.
I believe everyone has unique goals, is capable of change and developing themselves. Developed over years of experience in both private practice and non-profit institutions, I employ an eclectic mix of approaches including humanistic, cognitive behavioral and coaching. I encourage clients to consider their strengths, take an active role in psychotherapy and practice positive change in their lives. Further, I maintain a holistic model which takes into consideration how physical health, including food and exercise, play a factor in our mental health. All combined with my commitment, compassion and sense of humor, provide for an effective therapeutic process.
(202) 759-4267 View (202) 759-4267
Photo of Priya K Tahim, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Priya K Tahim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
Therapy can be an intimidating process, and my goal is to provide an open, safe environment to help instill support, understanding and empowerment throughout your therapeutic journey. Whether you’re looking to build confidence as an individual or within your relationship, together we can build the tools you need to succeed. I believe in fostering hope and creating a safe space for individuals/couples/families to process, as well as find healthy solutions.My passion is helping others find confidence within themselves, and/or within relationships.
Therapy can be an intimidating process, and my goal is to provide an open, safe environment to help instill support, understanding and empowerment throughout your therapeutic journey. Whether you’re looking to build confidence as an individual or within your relationship, together we can build the tools you need to succeed. I believe in fostering hope and creating a safe space for individuals/couples/families to process, as well as find healthy solutions.My passion is helping others find confidence within themselves, and/or within relationships.
(202) 899-8253 View (202) 899-8253
Photo of Gloria Myers Beller, MA, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gloria Myers Beller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
It is my privilege to guide individuals, couples and groups to find their own way. You may experience vitality and despair, triumph and struggle, fulfillment and longing. However, when the "self" becomes impoverished it is vulnerable, emotionally scarred and injured. Are you self aware and in search of a deeper sense of self and the ultimate meaning of life?
It is my privilege to guide individuals, couples and groups to find their own way. You may experience vitality and despair, triumph and struggle, fulfillment and longing. However, when the "self" becomes impoverished it is vulnerable, emotionally scarred and injured. Are you self aware and in search of a deeper sense of self and the ultimate meaning of life?
(202) 559-0311 View (202) 559-0311
Photo of Sonja Linn, PhD, APIT, Psychologist
Sonja Linn
Psychologist, PhD, APIT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
I view therapy as a process that can facilitate healing and change, as well as understanding and fulfillment. Whether stuck in a conflicted relationship, feeling lost, struggling with depression or anxiety, adjusting to a transition or life change, feeling unable to break unhealthy patterns or resolve past issues and pain, it can be difficult to know where to start. Together, we can explore the issues you face and identify the direction you want your life to take and the steps needed to get you there. Once established, our relationship can provide the foundation and safety for this process.
I view therapy as a process that can facilitate healing and change, as well as understanding and fulfillment. Whether stuck in a conflicted relationship, feeling lost, struggling with depression or anxiety, adjusting to a transition or life change, feeling unable to break unhealthy patterns or resolve past issues and pain, it can be difficult to know where to start. Together, we can explore the issues you face and identify the direction you want your life to take and the steps needed to get you there. Once established, our relationship can provide the foundation and safety for this process.
(202) 670-9935 View (202) 670-9935
Photo of Dr. Ja'lessa Hardwick, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Ja'lessa Hardwick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
Life is challenging and even though we try, it's often difficult to do it all on own. My goal is to support you in navigating life's challenges by better understanding yourself. Together, we will seek to understand your past experiences and their connection to your current-day behaviors/emotions in an effort to re-envision your future. This is done in a careful way that intentionally considers your individual context (i.e., culture, identity).
Life is challenging and even though we try, it's often difficult to do it all on own. My goal is to support you in navigating life's challenges by better understanding yourself. Together, we will seek to understand your past experiences and their connection to your current-day behaviors/emotions in an effort to re-envision your future. This is done in a careful way that intentionally considers your individual context (i.e., culture, identity).
(202) 952-1110 View (202) 952-1110
Photo of Graham Hall, LCPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Graham Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
Prior to opening my private practice in Georgetown, I worked at the Kolmac Clinic on K Street in Washington, DC, an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for the treatment of drug and alcohol addiction. I work with clients to improve self-esteem, identify what it is that they really want in their lives and help them to improve the overall quality of their lives and thrive more fully.
Prior to opening my private practice in Georgetown, I worked at the Kolmac Clinic on K Street in Washington, DC, an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for the treatment of drug and alcohol addiction. I work with clients to improve self-esteem, identify what it is that they really want in their lives and help them to improve the overall quality of their lives and thrive more fully.
(202) 499-4548 View (202) 499-4548
Photo of Jean S Gearon, PhD, Psychologist
Jean S Gearon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
I am a licensed clinical psychologist offering individual and couples psychotherapy. I have been working in the field as a clinician, teacher and researcher for 30+ years. My areas of expertise include trauma/PTSD, relationship issues, depression and anxiety. I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process and tailor my approach to meet individual needs. I strive to be active, flexible, genuine and attentive. To inform my work, I draw from cognitive-behavioral theory (skills based), attachment theory (insight based) and neuroscience research (psychoeducation re: the mind/body connection).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist offering individual and couples psychotherapy. I have been working in the field as a clinician, teacher and researcher for 30+ years. My areas of expertise include trauma/PTSD, relationship issues, depression and anxiety. I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process and tailor my approach to meet individual needs. I strive to be active, flexible, genuine and attentive. To inform my work, I draw from cognitive-behavioral theory (skills based), attachment theory (insight based) and neuroscience research (psychoeducation re: the mind/body connection).
(202) 800-1240 View (202) 800-1240
Photo of Linda R. Levine, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda R. Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
“Life is slippery. Here, take my hand." Jackson Brown - In times of extraordinary stress, when old issues may be exacerbated, people need a place to feel heard and understood. They may be coping with the loss of a loved one, difficulty with their relationships, the loss of a job, or the isolation and fear of living through a pandemic. As a therapist, I lend an empathic ear and help clients explore and re-wire old issues, so they can become more resilient.
“Life is slippery. Here, take my hand." Jackson Brown - In times of extraordinary stress, when old issues may be exacerbated, people need a place to feel heard and understood. They may be coping with the loss of a loved one, difficulty with their relationships, the loss of a job, or the isolation and fear of living through a pandemic. As a therapist, I lend an empathic ear and help clients explore and re-wire old issues, so they can become more resilient.
(202) 558-4040 View (202) 558-4040
Photo of Jessica Kwerel, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Kwerel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
Not accepting new clients
Being a human in 2024 is incredibly difficult. I provide a comfortable and nonjudgmental space in which to safely explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I can help you strengthen your relationship with yourself and the people who are important to you, develop more effective coping strategies and emotional flexibility, and learn how to better tolerate and manage big feelings. My goal as a therapist is to help you feel truly understood, help you to understand and accept yourself, and give you tools to move through the world in a more adaptive way.
Being a human in 2024 is incredibly difficult. I provide a comfortable and nonjudgmental space in which to safely explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I can help you strengthen your relationship with yourself and the people who are important to you, develop more effective coping strategies and emotional flexibility, and learn how to better tolerate and manage big feelings. My goal as a therapist is to help you feel truly understood, help you to understand and accept yourself, and give you tools to move through the world in a more adaptive way.
(202) 642-2682 View (202) 642-2682
Photo of Elizabeth Adams, PhD, Psychologist
Elizabeth Adams
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
Not accepting new clients
I am a clinical psychologist practicing in the Washington, DC area who specializes in working with children and families. Common themes addressed in therapy include anxiety, behavior challenges, parenting and co-parenting concerns, ADHD, learning disorders and peer relationships. I work collaboratively with the family and allied services to best understand the unique needs of the child. Cognitive-behavioral, behavioral, and family systems approaches are most commonly utilized. Therapy is delivered through play therapy for young children, individual therapy for older children, parent coaching (Parent-Child Interaction Therapy).
I am a clinical psychologist practicing in the Washington, DC area who specializes in working with children and families. Common themes addressed in therapy include anxiety, behavior challenges, parenting and co-parenting concerns, ADHD, learning disorders and peer relationships. I work collaboratively with the family and allied services to best understand the unique needs of the child. Cognitive-behavioral, behavioral, and family systems approaches are most commonly utilized. Therapy is delivered through play therapy for young children, individual therapy for older children, parent coaching (Parent-Child Interaction Therapy).
(202) 337-3554 View (202) 337-3554
Photo of Nuha Abudabbeh, PhD, Psychologist
Nuha Abudabbeh
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
I have a lengthy experience treating patients with serious mental illnesses and also with patients who have been involved with the criminal justice system and immigration issues. I speak several dialects of the Arabic language and have extensive experience with Americans of a variety of backgrounds. I use multicultural approaches to compliment different therapeutic interventions.My additional lengthy experience working with different Arab Americans as well as Muslim Americans puts me in a unique position to offer specialized services to these two populations.
I have a lengthy experience treating patients with serious mental illnesses and also with patients who have been involved with the criminal justice system and immigration issues. I speak several dialects of the Arabic language and have extensive experience with Americans of a variety of backgrounds. I use multicultural approaches to compliment different therapeutic interventions.My additional lengthy experience working with different Arab Americans as well as Muslim Americans puts me in a unique position to offer specialized services to these two populations.
(202) 509-0592 View (202) 509-0592
Photo of Ruth Wittersgreen, PhD, Psychologist
Ruth Wittersgreen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
I've been providing psychotherapy for over twenty-five years. I am passionate about this work and have helped many people change their lives for the better. I believe in a person's ability to make their life as full and rich as they want it to be. Therapy can help you get what you need and want in your relationships, work, and other areas of life. I am easy to talk to and bring a lot of warmth and caring to therapy. I sometimes use innovative approaches including walking in nature with clients, hypnotherapy, pet therapy, and writing/art therapy.
I've been providing psychotherapy for over twenty-five years. I am passionate about this work and have helped many people change their lives for the better. I believe in a person's ability to make their life as full and rich as they want it to be. Therapy can help you get what you need and want in your relationships, work, and other areas of life. I am easy to talk to and bring a lot of warmth and caring to therapy. I sometimes use innovative approaches including walking in nature with clients, hypnotherapy, pet therapy, and writing/art therapy.
(202) 670-2900 View (202) 670-2900
Photo of Robert J. Adamski, PhD, Psychologist
Robert J. Adamski
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
After more than 35 years of practice, I believe that intellectual and emotional insight must lead to behavioral change for psychotherapy to have true value for the client. The process of self-discovery allows the client to make clear and informed choices and to take responsibility for the results. I prefer clients who are courageous enough to seek the truth and change how they behave in order to create a better life.
After more than 35 years of practice, I believe that intellectual and emotional insight must lead to behavioral change for psychotherapy to have true value for the client. The process of self-discovery allows the client to make clear and informed choices and to take responsibility for the results. I prefer clients who are courageous enough to seek the truth and change how they behave in order to create a better life.
(202) 643-0962 View (202) 643-0962
Photo of Miriam Jaffa, LICSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miriam Jaffa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
Every person brings unique life experiences, strengths & challenges to the therapeutic process. I work to collaborate with clients towards a customized treatment approach that best meets their needs. I treat adolescents and adults, grappling with a wide range of issues and I find that anxiety and depression often show up through a variety of manifestations. As such, my role is to help people better understand their root causes. Therapy is centered around enhanced emotional well-being through increased insight and decision-making capabilities as well as improved coping strategies.
Every person brings unique life experiences, strengths & challenges to the therapeutic process. I work to collaborate with clients towards a customized treatment approach that best meets their needs. I treat adolescents and adults, grappling with a wide range of issues and I find that anxiety and depression often show up through a variety of manifestations. As such, my role is to help people better understand their root causes. Therapy is centered around enhanced emotional well-being through increased insight and decision-making capabilities as well as improved coping strategies.
(202) 519-1992 View (202) 519-1992
Photo of Dr. Alan J. Lipman, PhD, JD, Psychologist
Dr. Alan J. Lipman
Psychologist, PhD, JD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
With 25 years experience, Dr. Lipman is a national leader specializing in marriage, individual, & couples therapy. As professor at Georgetown, in positions at Yale Psychiatric Institute andHospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Lipman led National Panels initiated at the White House, was named Expert Task Force member to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and serves as Expert On-Air consultant for CNN, BBC, MSNBC, & many more. Specialties: Marriage and Couples Therapy, Communication Issues, Stress, Depression, Anxiety. Also treats attorneys with work relationship issues, and was awarded the J.D. from Georgetown Law
With 25 years experience, Dr. Lipman is a national leader specializing in marriage, individual, & couples therapy. As professor at Georgetown, in positions at Yale Psychiatric Institute andHospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Lipman led National Panels initiated at the White House, was named Expert Task Force member to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and serves as Expert On-Air consultant for CNN, BBC, MSNBC, & many more. Specialties: Marriage and Couples Therapy, Communication Issues, Stress, Depression, Anxiety. Also treats attorneys with work relationship issues, and was awarded the J.D. from Georgetown Law
(202) 609-8614 View (202) 609-8614
Photo of Zamantha Gobourne, PhD, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zamantha Gobourne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
I am an integrative psychotherapist who is known for having a sincere, relaxed, and comfortable approach towards counseling. Serving a wide range of clients in a variety of treatment settings, I provide individual, family, and group counseling to both adolescent and adult populations. My practice focus includes a broad range of emotional, behavioral, and adjustment disorders such as: depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and family conflict, and general phase of life changes.
I am an integrative psychotherapist who is known for having a sincere, relaxed, and comfortable approach towards counseling. Serving a wide range of clients in a variety of treatment settings, I provide individual, family, and group counseling to both adolescent and adult populations. My practice focus includes a broad range of emotional, behavioral, and adjustment disorders such as: depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and family conflict, and general phase of life changes.
(202) 858-0565 View (202) 858-0565
Photo of Brit Egan, MSW, LICSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brit Egan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
[Offering Secure Video Options to individuals in VA & DC] Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It's a relationship between equals. Only when we know our own darkness well can we be present with the darkness of others. Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity.” These words, written by Pema Chödrön, capture the nature of the therapeutic relationship. Our work will look like joining together as we honor your story and compassionately notice the places in your heart that feel broken and are hurting.
[Offering Secure Video Options to individuals in VA & DC] Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It's a relationship between equals. Only when we know our own darkness well can we be present with the darkness of others. Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity.” These words, written by Pema Chödrön, capture the nature of the therapeutic relationship. Our work will look like joining together as we honor your story and compassionately notice the places in your heart that feel broken and are hurting.
(202) 831-1905 View (202) 831-1905
Photo of Victoria Yeboah, LMSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Yeboah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
I work with clients who are dealing with self-doubt, betrayal, transitions, persistent worry, identity/cultural exploration and expression, relationship challenges, procrastination, frequent mood changes, negative thoughts and the impact of experiences and family dynamics on your outlook and self-image. My clients are those living with anxiety, PTSD, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, depression, substance use and more. I affirm BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent clients. Together we identify ways to manage or eliminate distress caused by cognitive, emotional, behavioural, relationship patterns.
I work with clients who are dealing with self-doubt, betrayal, transitions, persistent worry, identity/cultural exploration and expression, relationship challenges, procrastination, frequent mood changes, negative thoughts and the impact of experiences and family dynamics on your outlook and self-image. My clients are those living with anxiety, PTSD, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, depression, substance use and more. I affirm BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent clients. Together we identify ways to manage or eliminate distress caused by cognitive, emotional, behavioural, relationship patterns.
(202) 335-4503 View (202) 335-4503
Photo of Kelly G. Ezickson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly G. Ezickson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
There are few things more painful than feeling isolated and alone. Many people enter therapy because they are feeling alone, disconnected and their relationships are suffering. I see therapy as a place where you can feel truly heard, seen, and understood and it is in this safe place that you can begin to make more satisfying and effective life decisions. I work with people to help them understand the unconscious role they may be playing in life decisions and to develop a life of confidence and joy. I work with adults, couples, and families around issues of depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and addictions.
There are few things more painful than feeling isolated and alone. Many people enter therapy because they are feeling alone, disconnected and their relationships are suffering. I see therapy as a place where you can feel truly heard, seen, and understood and it is in this safe place that you can begin to make more satisfying and effective life decisions. I work with people to help them understand the unconscious role they may be playing in life decisions and to develop a life of confidence and joy. I work with adults, couples, and families around issues of depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and addictions.
(774) 221-6105 View (774) 221-6105
Photo of Che'vaniece Marshall, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Che'vaniece Marshall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
Peace and Love! I am honored that you are considering me to help you along your healing journey. I am a National Certified Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor in the District of Columbia. I am also a certified School Counselor.
Peace and Love! I am honored that you are considering me to help you along your healing journey. I am a National Certified Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor in the District of Columbia. I am also a certified School Counselor.
(844) 889-5841 View (844) 889-5841
1
...

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 20007

200+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in 20007 who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
88% Depression
83% Relationship Issues
79% Self Esteem
71% Trauma and PTSD
66% Life Transitions
65% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

61% BlueCross and BlueShield
49% Aetna
49% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 20007 see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 20007?

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.