Therapists in 20175

Photo of Laura Moon, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CTP
Laura Moon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CTP
6 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
As a Certified Trauma Professional and EMDR-trained therapist, I specialize in helping late adolescents and adults heal from the effects of trauma. Whether it’s recent or past trauma that has led to patterns of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or low self-esteem, I bring effective, research-based tools and compassionate care to support you in your healing. I advocate and strive for healing beyond symptom management. We’ll explore the root causes of your struggles, transform any limiting beliefs, and help you build lasting confidence and peace.
As a Certified Trauma Professional and EMDR-trained therapist, I specialize in helping late adolescents and adults heal from the effects of trauma. Whether it’s recent or past trauma that has led to patterns of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or low self-esteem, I bring effective, research-based tools and compassionate care to support you in your healing. I advocate and strive for healing beyond symptom management. We’ll explore the root causes of your struggles, transform any limiting beliefs, and help you build lasting confidence and peace.
(703) 844-3059 View (703) 844-3059
Photo of Michelle Bogdan - MLB Therapy, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
MLB Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
6 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
Are your relationships stressful? Do you feel stuck and unsure how to make a change? We help adults and teenagers navigate challenges of all kinds. Maybe you're having difficulties within your family and you or your teenager need an outside perspective or professional guidance. Or maybe you and your partner are cycling through the same conflicts without resolution. We also support teens who may feel lost in their parents' expectations or their future. Whether your concerns involve a loved one, work or emotions that take over, we will join you in your journey, so you are not alone.
Are your relationships stressful? Do you feel stuck and unsure how to make a change? We help adults and teenagers navigate challenges of all kinds. Maybe you're having difficulties within your family and you or your teenager need an outside perspective or professional guidance. Or maybe you and your partner are cycling through the same conflicts without resolution. We also support teens who may feel lost in their parents' expectations or their future. Whether your concerns involve a loved one, work or emotions that take over, we will join you in your journey, so you are not alone.
(571) 517-2466 View (571) 517-2466
Photo of Mary Klein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mary Klein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
I believe that anyone who has the desire to change has the power to change. I am passionate about helping my clients become the best version of themselves. I am results-oriented, and get my greatest fulfillment from my clients experiencing positive outcomes. I strive to provide a safe, nurturing environment where my clients feel heard, understood, and accepted. I have experience with a variety of mental and emotional challenges, and enjoy working with adults and older teens. I am dedicated to providing a holistic approach and focus on whole-person wellness.
I believe that anyone who has the desire to change has the power to change. I am passionate about helping my clients become the best version of themselves. I am results-oriented, and get my greatest fulfillment from my clients experiencing positive outcomes. I strive to provide a safe, nurturing environment where my clients feel heard, understood, and accepted. I have experience with a variety of mental and emotional challenges, and enjoy working with adults and older teens. I am dedicated to providing a holistic approach and focus on whole-person wellness.
(571) 901-1108 View (571) 901-1108
Photo of Alex Ribbentrop, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Alex Ribbentrop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
Are you feeling stuck and ready for meaningful change? Do you want a deeper understanding of yourself and to feel more present and connected in your relationships? I work with people who are interested in going beyond surface-level issues so we can address what's really keeping them stuck. Together, we'll create an approach designed specifically to your goals and what you need to move forward.
Are you feeling stuck and ready for meaningful change? Do you want a deeper understanding of yourself and to feel more present and connected in your relationships? I work with people who are interested in going beyond surface-level issues so we can address what's really keeping them stuck. Together, we'll create an approach designed specifically to your goals and what you need to move forward.
(571) 556-6361 View (571) 556-6361
Photo of Melissa Hunter, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Melissa Hunter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
3 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
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 Elaine Kim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Elaine Kim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
7 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
I work with adolescent and adult clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, familial issues, trauma, ADHD, eating disorders, and suicidality. The clients I work with primarily want a therapeutic approach that consists of evidence-based modalities mixed with empathy, compassion, nonjudgmental stance, authenticity, and being person-centered. Whether their goal is to have a space to process and work through trauma, vent and find ways to cope with and navigate life stressors, or have someone to talk to, I do my best to meet my clients where they're at.
I work with adolescent and adult clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, familial issues, trauma, ADHD, eating disorders, and suicidality. The clients I work with primarily want a therapeutic approach that consists of evidence-based modalities mixed with empathy, compassion, nonjudgmental stance, authenticity, and being person-centered. Whether their goal is to have a space to process and work through trauma, vent and find ways to cope with and navigate life stressors, or have someone to talk to, I do my best to meet my clients where they're at.
(571) 202-7145 View (571) 202-7145
Photo of Kelly Elizabeth Neverson - Connections Health Center, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, EMDR, C-DBT, CSOTP
Connections Health Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, EMDR, C-DBT, CSOTP
Leesburg, VA 20175
I am passionate about meeting clients where they are and helping them navigate life’s most challenging experiences—especially those rooted in trauma. With a deep appreciation for each individual’s unique strengths and resilience, I work to empower clients to process their past, understand their present, and shape their future. My goal is to support healing by increasing communication, embracing differences, fostering self-acceptance, and helping individuals reclaim their voice and identity. I’m honored to walk alongside clients and their families as they build resilience, foster growth, and move toward recovery.
I am passionate about meeting clients where they are and helping them navigate life’s most challenging experiences—especially those rooted in trauma. With a deep appreciation for each individual’s unique strengths and resilience, I work to empower clients to process their past, understand their present, and shape their future. My goal is to support healing by increasing communication, embracing differences, fostering self-acceptance, and helping individuals reclaim their voice and identity. I’m honored to walk alongside clients and their families as they build resilience, foster growth, and move toward recovery.
(571) 378-3979 View (571) 378-3979
Photo of Liz Witmer, Psychologist, PhD
Liz Witmer
Psychologist, PhD
8 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
Do you struggle to be yourself because of fear and insecurity? Do you want to deepen your relationships and feeling more connected to your community? I help people to create new narratives for their lives that reveal their inner strengths, abilities, and resilience. I help anxious and depressed students reach their potential, survivors of traumatic experiences seek posttraumatic growth, mothers adjust to their new roles, and emerging adults struggling with issues of identity development to explore their history of experiences in a nonjudgmental way. Clients who work with me rediscover meaning and purpose in their lives.
Do you struggle to be yourself because of fear and insecurity? Do you want to deepen your relationships and feeling more connected to your community? I help people to create new narratives for their lives that reveal their inner strengths, abilities, and resilience. I help anxious and depressed students reach their potential, survivors of traumatic experiences seek posttraumatic growth, mothers adjust to their new roles, and emerging adults struggling with issues of identity development to explore their history of experiences in a nonjudgmental way. Clients who work with me rediscover meaning and purpose in their lives.
(571) 386-2797 View (571) 386-2797
Photo of Janice L Fristad, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Janice L Fristad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
Are you entering a new life transitions, and need some direction? Do you feel that you are in pain as a couple or in a family situation? Please reach out to me today. I would welcome the opportunity of working with you. I have always felt that my passion in life was to offer support to others and to suggest alternative choices in life. I have a Master's degree in Social Work with a focus on gerontology, but I have had experience in working with youth, adults and seniors.
Are you entering a new life transitions, and need some direction? Do you feel that you are in pain as a couple or in a family situation? Please reach out to me today. I would welcome the opportunity of working with you. I have always felt that my passion in life was to offer support to others and to suggest alternative choices in life. I have a Master's degree in Social Work with a focus on gerontology, but I have had experience in working with youth, adults and seniors.
(703) 215-2389 View (703) 215-2389
Photo of Jill Austin, MEd, BCBA
Jill Austin
Verified Verified
Leesburg, VA 20175
My ideal client is a parent who wants to do what's best for their child, and not what insurance dictates. They want to feel like more than a number in a large ABA company. We specialize in multiple facets of ABA (executive functioning, ACT, social and emotional learning), and we believe there is no such thing as a one size fits all approach.
My ideal client is a parent who wants to do what's best for their child, and not what insurance dictates. They want to feel like more than a number in a large ABA company. We specialize in multiple facets of ABA (executive functioning, ACT, social and emotional learning), and we believe there is no such thing as a one size fits all approach.
(540) 210-1417 View (540) 210-1417
Photo of Ashley DeCamp, Psychologist, PsyD, RPT
Ashley DeCamp
Psychologist, PsyD, RPT
2 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
The transition to motherhood can feel utterly indescribable. Let me help you acknowledge the layers, stop comparing yourself to others, and give yourself some grace. Being a child or teen can be tough with the demands of today's fast paced world. I empower children to explore their experiences, thoughts, and feelings in their own way. I offer teens the autonomy and confidentiality to confront their personal challenges. For young adults, I give them the space to feel heard and supported while working to address personal, social, relational, or emotional difficulties as they navigate the new responsibilities of adulthood.
The transition to motherhood can feel utterly indescribable. Let me help you acknowledge the layers, stop comparing yourself to others, and give yourself some grace. Being a child or teen can be tough with the demands of today's fast paced world. I empower children to explore their experiences, thoughts, and feelings in their own way. I offer teens the autonomy and confidentiality to confront their personal challenges. For young adults, I give them the space to feel heard and supported while working to address personal, social, relational, or emotional difficulties as they navigate the new responsibilities of adulthood.
(703) 297-8600 View (703) 297-8600
Photo of Diana Francesca Hott - Diana F. Hott, LCSW CEAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP
Diana F. Hott, LCSW CEAP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP
Leesburg, VA 20175
Finding a therapist can be a daunting task! You may have never tried therapy before, or you have tried therapy before and been disappointed. With over 35 years of experience, I offer a safe, knowledgeable, outcome-oriented treatment approach, tailored to your needs. My proficiency includes the areas of grief/loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, self- esteem, parenting, interpersonal and couples' issues. I also work in the employee assistance arena, covering areas of work/life balance and stress management. Please check for more information on my website.
Finding a therapist can be a daunting task! You may have never tried therapy before, or you have tried therapy before and been disappointed. With over 35 years of experience, I offer a safe, knowledgeable, outcome-oriented treatment approach, tailored to your needs. My proficiency includes the areas of grief/loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, self- esteem, parenting, interpersonal and couples' issues. I also work in the employee assistance arena, covering areas of work/life balance and stress management. Please check for more information on my website.
(703) 594-8016 View (703) 594-8016
Photo of Shelby Brownlee, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Shelby Brownlee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Leesburg, VA 20175
Shelby Brownlee is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia who has been practicing since 2002. Shelby wants clients to feel that counseling is a mutual exploration to seek solutions to their concerns. Shelby wants to offer increased hope and motivation to help clients reach greater satisfaction in life. Shelby offers willingness to include faith-based strategies to clients who express desire for that. Shelby is curious and offers cross cultural awareness and wants to learn from clients as well. Shelby loves hiking and being outdoors with nature and enjoys music and singing, as well as viewing art and cultural exhibits.
Shelby Brownlee is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia who has been practicing since 2002. Shelby wants clients to feel that counseling is a mutual exploration to seek solutions to their concerns. Shelby wants to offer increased hope and motivation to help clients reach greater satisfaction in life. Shelby offers willingness to include faith-based strategies to clients who express desire for that. Shelby is curious and offers cross cultural awareness and wants to learn from clients as well. Shelby loves hiking and being outdoors with nature and enjoys music and singing, as well as viewing art and cultural exhibits.
(540) 573-2282 View (540) 573-2282
Photo of Matthew Rich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSSA
Matthew Rich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSSA
3 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
In life, we are constantly faced with trials and obstacles that can cause us to worry about our futures and what they hold for us. This often leads to spending much of our time and energy fixated on things that are out of our control, which causes more suffering than is needed. I have found that helping my patients to accept what they cannot control and focus their efforts on what they can control to be an effective way of creating a life worth living, regardless of whether they are facing problems like anxiety, depression, trauma, or eating disorders.
In life, we are constantly faced with trials and obstacles that can cause us to worry about our futures and what they hold for us. This often leads to spending much of our time and energy fixated on things that are out of our control, which causes more suffering than is needed. I have found that helping my patients to accept what they cannot control and focus their efforts on what they can control to be an effective way of creating a life worth living, regardless of whether they are facing problems like anxiety, depression, trauma, or eating disorders.
(571) 601-2966 View (571) 601-2966
Photo of Mary O Leidy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mary O Leidy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Leesburg, VA 20175
I have learned throughout my career, that it takes courage to invest time towards self improvement, guidance and healing. Whatever "season " of life you find yourself in need of assistance; I am a therapist that strives to help my clients "find" their voice, confidence and renewed purpose in life. I will create a "safe" space in an authentic, direct relationship, for you to explore circumstances and help you determine what you need to live a peace filled and purposeful life. I use an integrative approach which is grounded in the belief that all people have strengths/talents that may need to be rediscovered.
I have learned throughout my career, that it takes courage to invest time towards self improvement, guidance and healing. Whatever "season " of life you find yourself in need of assistance; I am a therapist that strives to help my clients "find" their voice, confidence and renewed purpose in life. I will create a "safe" space in an authentic, direct relationship, for you to explore circumstances and help you determine what you need to live a peace filled and purposeful life. I use an integrative approach which is grounded in the belief that all people have strengths/talents that may need to be rediscovered.
(703) 244-6999 View (703) 244-6999
Photo of Cathy Wanamaker, Psychologist, PhD
Cathy Wanamaker
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
I am a down-to-earth person who understands the issues that people face. In treatment, I am comfortable giving the feedback and direction you need to help you make the changes you want in your life. While therapy can be difficult, I believe it also can be enjoyable. To that end, I use humor, playfulness, and creativity, along with psychoeducation and traditional psychotherapy practices. You will find that I will do all I can to support guide you as you go through this process.
I am a down-to-earth person who understands the issues that people face. In treatment, I am comfortable giving the feedback and direction you need to help you make the changes you want in your life. While therapy can be difficult, I believe it also can be enjoyable. To that end, I use humor, playfulness, and creativity, along with psychoeducation and traditional psychotherapy practices. You will find that I will do all I can to support guide you as you go through this process.
(703) 291-3700 View (703) 291-3700
Photo of Ann Ford, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Ann Ford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Leesburg, VA 20175
Psychotherapy profoundly changes lives, and I believe the relationship or "fit" between the therapist and client is one of the most important factors in a successful psychotherapy. My hope is to create a trusting, compassionate relationship, and a private experience in which you feel understood. I can help you better understand the underlying issues which may be contributing to your struggles. You will begin to feel relieved, feel better about yourself, create better relationships, make clearer decisions, resolve painful past experiences, and feel more in control of your life.
Psychotherapy profoundly changes lives, and I believe the relationship or "fit" between the therapist and client is one of the most important factors in a successful psychotherapy. My hope is to create a trusting, compassionate relationship, and a private experience in which you feel understood. I can help you better understand the underlying issues which may be contributing to your struggles. You will begin to feel relieved, feel better about yourself, create better relationships, make clearer decisions, resolve painful past experiences, and feel more in control of your life.
(540) 202-2121 View (540) 202-2121
Photo of Mary Rainer-Skala, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mary Rainer-Skala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
I am a couples specialist and work exclusively with marriage and marriage-type relationships. I'm a "marriage-friendly" counselor meaning your relationship is my client and I want it to succeed. I work hard for your relationship until one (or both) of you call me off. I utilize a variety of approaches but I do work most closely with attachment-based models...helping you explore your attachment, heal attachment injuries, and find ways to reach out for each other again. Affairs, "not-in-love-anymore," communication problems - I do it all.
I am a couples specialist and work exclusively with marriage and marriage-type relationships. I'm a "marriage-friendly" counselor meaning your relationship is my client and I want it to succeed. I work hard for your relationship until one (or both) of you call me off. I utilize a variety of approaches but I do work most closely with attachment-based models...helping you explore your attachment, heal attachment injuries, and find ways to reach out for each other again. Affairs, "not-in-love-anymore," communication problems - I do it all.
(703) 935-5247 View (703) 935-5247
Photo of Stacy Larson Baron, Psychologist, PsyD
Stacy Larson Baron
Psychologist, PsyD
3 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
Sometimes it is easy to get a bit off kilter and be in need of added support due to depression, anxiety or related problems. Having a baby isn't what you thought it would be? Trying to juggle work and a family? Your child or teenager is having difficulty in school and you've tried everything? My philosophy is to gain understanding of the client's perspective and then develop a plan for progressing toward the client's goals using mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral techniques, understanding of the client's relationships and family therapy.
Sometimes it is easy to get a bit off kilter and be in need of added support due to depression, anxiety or related problems. Having a baby isn't what you thought it would be? Trying to juggle work and a family? Your child or teenager is having difficulty in school and you've tried everything? My philosophy is to gain understanding of the client's perspective and then develop a plan for progressing toward the client's goals using mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral techniques, understanding of the client's relationships and family therapy.
(703) 994-4454 View (703) 994-4454
Photo of Bethany Cook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bethany Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Leesburg, VA 20175
If you're seeking guidance, support, and a compassionate ally on your journey toward healing and self-discovery, I am here to accompany you every step of the way. I believe in a holistic and client-centered approach to therapy. Every individual and family is unique, and I tailor my therapeutic strategies to meet your specific needs. Together, we can navigate life's challenges and uncover the strength and resilience within you.
If you're seeking guidance, support, and a compassionate ally on your journey toward healing and self-discovery, I am here to accompany you every step of the way. I believe in a holistic and client-centered approach to therapy. Every individual and family is unique, and I tailor my therapeutic strategies to meet your specific needs. Together, we can navigate life's challenges and uncover the strength and resilience within you.
(571) 487-8538 View (571) 487-8538

See more therapy options for 20175

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 20175

200+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in 20175 who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
86% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
68% Trauma and PTSD
66% Coping Skills
65% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

69% BlueCross and BlueShield
65% Aetna
61% Anthem

How Therapists in 20175 see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

87% Female
13% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 20175?

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.