Therapists in 20117

Photo of Katie E. Kernus, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC
Katie E. Kernus
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Currently accepting virtual appointments. Everyone’s journey is different, and therapy should be just as unique. I specialize in meeting you where you are and empowering you to push through challenges for lasting change. While therapy may feel uncomfortable at times, it’s through stepping out of your comfort zone that true growth happens. My approach is designed to challenge you in a way that’s tough yet rewarding, helping you unlock your full potential. My clients understand that real transformation requires effort, but the results—strength, confidence, and lasting success—are worth it. Let’s start your journey today.
Currently accepting virtual appointments. Everyone’s journey is different, and therapy should be just as unique. I specialize in meeting you where you are and empowering you to push through challenges for lasting change. While therapy may feel uncomfortable at times, it’s through stepping out of your comfort zone that true growth happens. My approach is designed to challenge you in a way that’s tough yet rewarding, helping you unlock your full potential. My clients understand that real transformation requires effort, but the results—strength, confidence, and lasting success—are worth it. Let’s start your journey today.
(540) 792-4923 View (540) 792-4923
Photo of Lindsay Benedict Brancato, Psychologist, PsyD
Lindsay Benedict Brancato
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Middleburg, VA 20117
I'm a psychologist and psychoanalyst who practices in Middleburg, Virginia and in Chevy Chase, Maryland (Friendship Heights), right on the border of Washington, DC. I provide psychological evaluation, psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to kids (ages 12 on up) and professionals. With teens and pre-teens, I have expertise in helping the anxious kid feel comfortable in their own skin. With adults, I have expertise in anxiety, work-life balance, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, self-assertion, sexuality and other difficulties.
I'm a psychologist and psychoanalyst who practices in Middleburg, Virginia and in Chevy Chase, Maryland (Friendship Heights), right on the border of Washington, DC. I provide psychological evaluation, psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to kids (ages 12 on up) and professionals. With teens and pre-teens, I have expertise in helping the anxious kid feel comfortable in their own skin. With adults, I have expertise in anxiety, work-life balance, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, self-assertion, sexuality and other difficulties.
(202) 618-9902 View (202) 618-9902
Photo of Liz Cirrito, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Liz Cirrito
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
2 Endorsed
Middleburg, VA 20117
Whether you are dealing with PTSD, addiction, grief, anxiety, or just seeking a space to heal and grow. My ideal clients are often ready to put in the work, but may not know exactly how to begin the process. That’s where therapy comes in. They’re looking for a someone who can help them navigate their pain, build skills for managing their emotions, and ultimately help them grow into a version of themselves that feels more authentic and whole. Their goals are likely to reclaim a sense of control and peace in their lives, heal from emotional wounds, and start living with more intention and fulfillment.
Whether you are dealing with PTSD, addiction, grief, anxiety, or just seeking a space to heal and grow. My ideal clients are often ready to put in the work, but may not know exactly how to begin the process. That’s where therapy comes in. They’re looking for a someone who can help them navigate their pain, build skills for managing their emotions, and ultimately help them grow into a version of themselves that feels more authentic and whole. Their goals are likely to reclaim a sense of control and peace in their lives, heal from emotional wounds, and start living with more intention and fulfillment.
(540) 726-0511 View (540) 726-0511
Photo of Kate Yeutter - Paws2Heal Mental Health Counseling/EMDR Intensives, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CCTP II, NCC
Paws2Heal Mental Health Counseling/EMDR Intensives
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CCTP II, NCC
Middleburg, VA 20117
Choosing to explore therapy is a personal and meaningful step, and we’re committed to making the experience inviting, supportive, and effective. Our first priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where healing can begin. We offer a range of therapeutic approaches—including EMDR, IFS, and somatic practices—tailored to meet each client's unique needs and goals. For those who find comfort in animal-assisted therapy, our therapy animals are available to provide additional support. Every person who enters our practice is seen, heard, and valued as an individual, and we work collaboratively to find the path that fits best.
Choosing to explore therapy is a personal and meaningful step, and we’re committed to making the experience inviting, supportive, and effective. Our first priority is to create a safe and supportive environment where healing can begin. We offer a range of therapeutic approaches—including EMDR, IFS, and somatic practices—tailored to meet each client's unique needs and goals. For those who find comfort in animal-assisted therapy, our therapy animals are available to provide additional support. Every person who enters our practice is seen, heard, and valued as an individual, and we work collaboratively to find the path that fits best.
(540) 426-3337 View (540) 426-3337
Photo of Judith Maria Hawley - Judith Hawley, Resident in Counseling, MA
Judith Hawley
Resident in Counseling, MA
Middleburg, VA 20117
Hello and thank you for looking over my profile. I am excited to take on new clients virtually or in-person. I believe one of the bravest things a person can do is to take that first step and reach out and ask for help. I offer hope and a safe, collaborative place to explore change and moving forward.
Hello and thank you for looking over my profile. I am excited to take on new clients virtually or in-person. I believe one of the bravest things a person can do is to take that first step and reach out and ask for help. I offer hope and a safe, collaborative place to explore change and moving forward.
(540) 701-2268 View (540) 701-2268
Photo of Dr. Jennifer E Kaufman Walker, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CFRC, CCTS, CAGCS
Dr. Jennifer E Kaufman Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CFRC, CCTS, CAGCS
4 Endorsed
Middleburg, VA 20117
As a mental health professional, it is my responsibility to provide my clients with the same care I would want for my own family- a consistent, compassionate, & fully invested clinician. A doctor who calls you back, takes the time to answer your questions, has the flexibility to meet your busy schedule, and offers a safe, judgement-free space just for YOU!
As a mental health professional, it is my responsibility to provide my clients with the same care I would want for my own family- a consistent, compassionate, & fully invested clinician. A doctor who calls you back, takes the time to answer your questions, has the flexibility to meet your busy schedule, and offers a safe, judgement-free space just for YOU!
(571) 200-8785 View (571) 200-8785
Photo of Kate Ashley Lankford, Resident in Counseling, MA, NCC
Kate Ashley Lankford
Resident in Counseling, MA, NCC
Middleburg, VA 20117
There are many reasons people seek mental health care, perhaps they're going through a tough season in life or there has been complex trauma. Regardless of a client's reason for seeking therapy, my primary goal is to create a relationship supported by comfort and safety. I believe in collaborating with my clients to create a therapeutic plan that is specifically tailored to their individual needs and goals. For those interested I do offer a therapy animal to sit in on sessions and provide additional support.
There are many reasons people seek mental health care, perhaps they're going through a tough season in life or there has been complex trauma. Regardless of a client's reason for seeking therapy, my primary goal is to create a relationship supported by comfort and safety. I believe in collaborating with my clients to create a therapeutic plan that is specifically tailored to their individual needs and goals. For those interested I do offer a therapy animal to sit in on sessions and provide additional support.
(540) 699-0073 View (540) 699-0073
Photo of Mark P. de Villier, Licensed Professional Counselor, MSW, LPC
Mark P. de Villier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSW, LPC
Middleburg, VA 20117
I work with individuals, families and couples struggling with anxiety, affective disorders, anger issues, father - son relationships, oppositional behaviors, gender and sexual identity issues and developmental issues. I focus on the communication within relationships with emphasis on one's feelings, thoughts and behaviors.
I work with individuals, families and couples struggling with anxiety, affective disorders, anger issues, father - son relationships, oppositional behaviors, gender and sexual identity issues and developmental issues. I focus on the communication within relationships with emphasis on one's feelings, thoughts and behaviors.
(540) 642-1976 View (540) 642-1976
Photo of Nastaran Myers, Resident in Counseling, MS
Nastaran Myers
Resident in Counseling, MS
Middleburg, VA 20117
Waitlist for new clients
As a Resident in Counseling, I provide a safe and supportive environment to help you navigate life’s challenges, including anxiety, trauma, and relationship struggles. It’s important to work with a therapist who listens without judgment, respects your unique cultural background, and collaborates with you to achieve meaningful change. Together, we will focus on reducing distress, building resilience, and developing healthier coping strategies. My goal is to empower you to regain control of your emotions and daily life. For added comfort, my therapy dog, Bear, is available for support during our sessions.
As a Resident in Counseling, I provide a safe and supportive environment to help you navigate life’s challenges, including anxiety, trauma, and relationship struggles. It’s important to work with a therapist who listens without judgment, respects your unique cultural background, and collaborates with you to achieve meaningful change. Together, we will focus on reducing distress, building resilience, and developing healthier coping strategies. My goal is to empower you to regain control of your emotions and daily life. For added comfort, my therapy dog, Bear, is available for support during our sessions.
(540) 573-2337 View (540) 573-2337
Photo of Brandon S Hassan - Mowgli, MT-BC, MT-BC, NMT
Mowgli
MT-BC, MT-BC, NMT
1 Endorsed
Middleburg, VA 20117
I have been working as a music therapist with folks of all ages since 2014. I love building connections with people and co-creating healthy therapeutic relationships. No musical experience is required to participate in music therapy, only a love for music.
I have been working as a music therapist with folks of all ages since 2014. I love building connections with people and co-creating healthy therapeutic relationships. No musical experience is required to participate in music therapy, only a love for music.
(540) 235-5916 View (540) 235-5916
Photo of Jazzmyn Proctor, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LGPC, NCC
Jazzmyn Proctor
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LGPC, NCC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Since 2019, the world has shifted—and so have we. You might be feeling burned out, disconnected, or unsure of who you are in the midst of it all. Therapy with me isn’t about slapping on a band-aid or pushing toxic positivity. It’s about slowing down, asking deeper questions, and creating space for the version of you that’s trying to emerge. Whether you're navigating relationships, identity shifts, or just trying to feel like yourself again—I’m here to walk with you. My approach is rooted in attachment theory, DBT,self-discovery, and the belief that healing doesn’t mean going “back to normal.”
Since 2019, the world has shifted—and so have we. You might be feeling burned out, disconnected, or unsure of who you are in the midst of it all. Therapy with me isn’t about slapping on a band-aid or pushing toxic positivity. It’s about slowing down, asking deeper questions, and creating space for the version of you that’s trying to emerge. Whether you're navigating relationships, identity shifts, or just trying to feel like yourself again—I’m here to walk with you. My approach is rooted in attachment theory, DBT,self-discovery, and the belief that healing doesn’t mean going “back to normal.”
(301) 969-9879 View (301) 969-9879
Photo of Dr. Jenna Budreau, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Jenna Budreau
Psychologist, PsyD
Middleburg, VA 20117
Let’s be honest here, there’s a lot of variability in the quality of therapists out there. I know that finding the right one, someone who will REALLY help, is daunting. You’re overwhelmed by making one more choice, when all you want to do is get better. I’ll do the work hard; & talking with me will be as comfortable as confiding in a dear friend. I work best with determined WOMEN who love making their own way, but sometimes get derailed by their own thoughts, bad relationships or family history. I also love working with MEN who want to understand life, but balk at traditional therapy - and like straight talk as much as support.
Let’s be honest here, there’s a lot of variability in the quality of therapists out there. I know that finding the right one, someone who will REALLY help, is daunting. You’re overwhelmed by making one more choice, when all you want to do is get better. I’ll do the work hard; & talking with me will be as comfortable as confiding in a dear friend. I work best with determined WOMEN who love making their own way, but sometimes get derailed by their own thoughts, bad relationships or family history. I also love working with MEN who want to understand life, but balk at traditional therapy - and like straight talk as much as support.
(571) 554-6582 View (571) 554-6582
Photo of Meghan Kolcum - Meghan Kolcum: EMDR & Intensives, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, EMDR
Meghan Kolcum: EMDR & Intensives
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, EMDR
Middleburg, VA 20117
Do you feel like you’re floundering, overwhelmed, or burned out, but don’t know why, or where to start? You may be encountering an array of difficulties—some complex in nature and others unidentifiable. First and foremost, know that you are not alone. By providing external awareness through talk therapy, you will be equipped to internally recognize your thoughts, emotions, and behavioral patterns. I strive to help you reduce inhibiting patterns while increasing your awareness. By incorporating a safe space and using a non-judgmental stance, I will walk with you as you commence on your therapeutic journey.
Do you feel like you’re floundering, overwhelmed, or burned out, but don’t know why, or where to start? You may be encountering an array of difficulties—some complex in nature and others unidentifiable. First and foremost, know that you are not alone. By providing external awareness through talk therapy, you will be equipped to internally recognize your thoughts, emotions, and behavioral patterns. I strive to help you reduce inhibiting patterns while increasing your awareness. By incorporating a safe space and using a non-judgmental stance, I will walk with you as you commence on your therapeutic journey.
(540) 625-1890 View (540) 625-1890
Photo of Jenna Budreau, Psychologist
Jenna Budreau
Psychologist
Middleburg, VA 20117
Feeling stuck or fed up with your current therapist? Let's get real – life can be tough. It’s especially hard on ambitious people, parents & perfectionists who are expected to have it all together. The more successful you are (or are expected to be), the more difficult it is to keep it all together. Add anxiety, depression, & relationship issues – forget it. And the more that you achieve, the harder it becomes to find a therapist of your caliber or solutions that work for your complex issues. But I'm not here to hand out generic advice or quick fixes. I'm here to help you uncover the root of your challenges & build lasting changes.
Feeling stuck or fed up with your current therapist? Let's get real – life can be tough. It’s especially hard on ambitious people, parents & perfectionists who are expected to have it all together. The more successful you are (or are expected to be), the more difficult it is to keep it all together. Add anxiety, depression, & relationship issues – forget it. And the more that you achieve, the harder it becomes to find a therapist of your caliber or solutions that work for your complex issues. But I'm not here to hand out generic advice or quick fixes. I'm here to help you uncover the root of your challenges & build lasting changes.
(855) 694-1093 View (855) 694-1093
Photo of Melissa Hunter, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Melissa Hunter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
3 Endorsed
Middleburg, VA 20117
Accepting New Clients. Is your teen struggling? It’s hard to be a teen in todays world. They are managing stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and relationships. Sometimes having an outside perspective can help. Helping teens with strategies to help with these important issues is a passion of mine. I also know how important the relationship is between teens and their families. As a parent of two grown children, I know how important this connection is and how challenging it can be as our children become teens.
Accepting New Clients. Is your teen struggling? It’s hard to be a teen in todays world. They are managing stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and relationships. Sometimes having an outside perspective can help. Helping teens with strategies to help with these important issues is a passion of mine. I also know how important the relationship is between teens and their families. As a parent of two grown children, I know how important this connection is and how challenging it can be as our children become teens.
(571) 290-2296 View (571) 290-2296
Photo of Kate Vitolo, Resident in Counseling, LGPC, CSAC
Kate Vitolo
Resident in Counseling, LGPC, CSAC
1 Endorsed
Middleburg, VA 20117
Are you thriving professionally but struggling internally? Have you always been an exceptional student while also being overwhelmed by what that takes out of you? If you have it all together but still struggle with your mental health, I can help. Whether it's anxiety, depression, issues with relationships, or maybe leaning on that glass of wine a bit too much, therapy can help you overcome the issues you may be experiencing.
Are you thriving professionally but struggling internally? Have you always been an exceptional student while also being overwhelmed by what that takes out of you? If you have it all together but still struggle with your mental health, I can help. Whether it's anxiety, depression, issues with relationships, or maybe leaning on that glass of wine a bit too much, therapy can help you overcome the issues you may be experiencing.
(773) 492-6813 View (773) 492-6813
Dr. Kathryn Piscitelle
Psychologist
Serves Area
I am a Harvard trained neuropsychologist with extensive experience providing individualized evaluation and follow-up services. There are many options for testing. In order to get the most out of testing, you need an experienced neuropsychologist who can integrate historical information, quantitative test results, qualitative observations and clinical data with a strong appreciation for each individual. I will offer you extremely individualized, in depth, patient focused testing. I will provide you with understandable feedback that answers your specific questions and allows for an in depth understanding of you or your child.
I am a Harvard trained neuropsychologist with extensive experience providing individualized evaluation and follow-up services. There are many options for testing. In order to get the most out of testing, you need an experienced neuropsychologist who can integrate historical information, quantitative test results, qualitative observations and clinical data with a strong appreciation for each individual. I will offer you extremely individualized, in depth, patient focused testing. I will provide you with understandable feedback that answers your specific questions and allows for an in depth understanding of you or your child.
(540) 418-1474 View (540) 418-1474
Photo of Juan Barrios Rottmann, Resident in Counseling, MEd, LRC
Juan Barrios Rottmann
Resident in Counseling, MEd, LRC
Serves Area
Juan P. Barrios, LRCResident in Counseling, is dedicated to helping individuals of all ages navigate personal challenges, develop strengths, and create a meaningful vision for their lives. Serving patients in Virginia, Juan brings over a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, providing support in managing mental health concerns, family crises, and relationship issues. His approach is grounded in empowering clients to build on their existing skills, positively manage their reality, and achieve their personal goals.
Juan P. Barrios, LRCResident in Counseling, is dedicated to helping individuals of all ages navigate personal challenges, develop strengths, and create a meaningful vision for their lives. Serving patients in Virginia, Juan brings over a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, providing support in managing mental health concerns, family crises, and relationship issues. His approach is grounded in empowering clients to build on their existing skills, positively manage their reality, and achieve their personal goals.
(540) 679-7880 View (540) 679-7880
Photo of Mary Ann Rapp, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Mary Ann Rapp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
Mary Ann graduated from The George Washington University with her Master's in Counseling and currently does individual therapy with Lifestance Health, both in person and by televisit. She also holds a Master's in Interdisciplinary Studies from George Mason University. Her areas of expertise include PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management and Substance Abuse. Prior to coming to Lifestance, Mary Ann worked for Inova Loudoun Hospital as well as spent 9 years at the Washington DC VA Medical Center. She enjoys gardening, travel and snorkeling as hobbies.
Mary Ann graduated from The George Washington University with her Master's in Counseling and currently does individual therapy with Lifestance Health, both in person and by televisit. She also holds a Master's in Interdisciplinary Studies from George Mason University. Her areas of expertise include PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management and Substance Abuse. Prior to coming to Lifestance, Mary Ann worked for Inova Loudoun Hospital as well as spent 9 years at the Washington DC VA Medical Center. She enjoys gardening, travel and snorkeling as hobbies.
(540) 401-8476 View (540) 401-8476
Photo of Eileen Mulcahy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Eileen Mulcahy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Serves Area
Eileen Mulcahy is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Commonwealth of Virginia. She has been licensed since 1998 and worked in a variety of settings, primarily with children and families. She completed her Master’s in Social Work from University of Maryland at Baltimore specializing in families and children, a Bachelor’s in Psychology and Women’s Studies from Goddard College. She has a particular interest in working with women and adults with ADD/ADHD throughout the lifespan. Eileen’s approach to counseling is strength based, focusing on collaborating with her client to build a supportive and empowering relationship together
Eileen Mulcahy is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Commonwealth of Virginia. She has been licensed since 1998 and worked in a variety of settings, primarily with children and families. She completed her Master’s in Social Work from University of Maryland at Baltimore specializing in families and children, a Bachelor’s in Psychology and Women’s Studies from Goddard College. She has a particular interest in working with women and adults with ADD/ADHD throughout the lifespan. Eileen’s approach to counseling is strength based, focusing on collaborating with her client to build a supportive and empowering relationship together
(540) 501-7183 View (540) 501-7183

See more therapy options for 20117

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 20117

30+

Average cost per session

$190

Therapists in 20117 who prioritize treating:

88% Depression
82% Anxiety
70% Trauma and PTSD
67% Relationship Issues
64% Grief
58% Self Esteem
55% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

74% Cigna and Evernorth
68% BlueCross and BlueShield
63% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 20117 see their clients

91% In Person and Online
9% Online Only

Gender breakdown

86% Female
11% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 20117?

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.