Photo of Martina Samuel, Pre-Licensed Professional in 22040, VA
Martina Samuel
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22040  (Online Only)
Are you wondering whether you should stay in your relationship? Do you need help healing from an abusive relationship? Have you been in a relationship with a narcissist that left you wounded and confused? Have you experienced childhood trauma that is hindering your growth and happiness today? I will help you heal from those life-changing experiences as I create a safe space and work with you on your most authentic and healthy self. We will understand how your past experiences are impacting your present life, help you fully live and thrive in the present, and grow to your fullest potential beyond what you have imagined for yourself.
Are you wondering whether you should stay in your relationship? Do you need help healing from an abusive relationship? Have you been in a relationship with a narcissist that left you wounded and confused? Have you experienced childhood trauma that is hindering your growth and happiness today? I will help you heal from those life-changing experiences as I create a safe space and work with you on your most authentic and healthy self. We will understand how your past experiences are impacting your present life, help you fully live and thrive in the present, and grow to your fullest potential beyond what you have imagined for yourself.
(804) 570-2889 View (804) 570-2889
Photo of Ali Navidi, Psychologist in 22040, VA
Ali Navidi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22040
Have you tried hard to change, but nothing seems to work? Are you frustrated, maybe even disillusioned? Are you capable of more, but don't know how to make it happen?
Have you tried hard to change, but nothing seems to work? Are you frustrated, maybe even disillusioned? Are you capable of more, but don't know how to make it happen?
(240) 808-2409 View (240) 808-2409
Photo of Mary A Ellis, Psychologist in 22040, VA
Mary A Ellis
Psychologist, JD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22040
With background in child/adolescent/adult work, I have developed a special interest in treating adults of all ages struggling with balancing competing demands of work, family, social life, and self-care. Having enjoyed a successful, though unusual, career path I have a particular affinity for individuals in the science/tech fields and for those undertaking advanced degrees in highly competitive programs, including the arts. I am well placed to appreciate the unspoken challenges attending living and thriving in and around the Nation’s Capital.
With background in child/adolescent/adult work, I have developed a special interest in treating adults of all ages struggling with balancing competing demands of work, family, social life, and self-care. Having enjoyed a successful, though unusual, career path I have a particular affinity for individuals in the science/tech fields and for those undertaking advanced degrees in highly competitive programs, including the arts. I am well placed to appreciate the unspoken challenges attending living and thriving in and around the Nation’s Capital.
(703) 596-1895 View (703) 596-1895
Photo of Beth D. Pascoe, LCSW, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22040, VA
Beth D. Pascoe, LCSW, CSAT
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22040
I specialize in anxiety disorders, trauma, couples therapy and sex/love addiction (affair recovery, porn addiction, serial affairs). I have extensive training in the field of cognitive behavior therapy, the "gold standard" in treating anxiety disorders. I have post-graduate training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, a researched-based couples therapy with high success rate. EFT can help you understand the negative cycle creating distance and conflict in your relationship. I am also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist.
I specialize in anxiety disorders, trauma, couples therapy and sex/love addiction (affair recovery, porn addiction, serial affairs). I have extensive training in the field of cognitive behavior therapy, the "gold standard" in treating anxiety disorders. I have post-graduate training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, a researched-based couples therapy with high success rate. EFT can help you understand the negative cycle creating distance and conflict in your relationship. I am also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist.
(703) 782-9123 View (703) 782-9123
Photo of Open Heart Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22040, VA
Open Heart Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22040
If building understanding, trust and more loving relationships is your goal, then this attachment based mindful approach is the process for you. Imagine waking each day feeling more connected, more alive, and more secure in being your authentic self. It's easier than you think. One must only be willing to feel their repressed feelings. Are you or or your child operating with anxiety, OCD, adjustment disorders, addictions, recurrent or difficult behavior patterns? Go from striving to thriving and manifest positive outcomes. With cutting edge tools, you are able to let go of old behavior patterns and adopt new ones.
If building understanding, trust and more loving relationships is your goal, then this attachment based mindful approach is the process for you. Imagine waking each day feeling more connected, more alive, and more secure in being your authentic self. It's easier than you think. One must only be willing to feel their repressed feelings. Are you or or your child operating with anxiety, OCD, adjustment disorders, addictions, recurrent or difficult behavior patterns? Go from striving to thriving and manifest positive outcomes. With cutting edge tools, you are able to let go of old behavior patterns and adopt new ones.
(703) 348-9228 View (703) 348-9228
Photo of Jane Whitaker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22040, VA
Jane Whitaker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22040  (Online Only)
I have over 30 years of clinical experience with individuals, couples, and group psychotherapy. I now see primarily individuals in my practice. I encourage clients to become more aware and accepting of their feelings and thoughts. This honesty and self-acceptance creates more clarity and more options for making desired changes, improving relationships, and feeling more expansive. I have an interactive style, I sometimes use humor, and clients tell me they feel safe and supported. Therapy is work, but can be very rewarding for both client and clinician. I also offer billing services to your insurer for your convenience.
I have over 30 years of clinical experience with individuals, couples, and group psychotherapy. I now see primarily individuals in my practice. I encourage clients to become more aware and accepting of their feelings and thoughts. This honesty and self-acceptance creates more clarity and more options for making desired changes, improving relationships, and feeling more expansive. I have an interactive style, I sometimes use humor, and clients tell me they feel safe and supported. Therapy is work, but can be very rewarding for both client and clinician. I also offer billing services to your insurer for your convenience.
(540) 724-1934 View (540) 724-1934
Photo of Christine Willing in 22040, VA
Christine Willing
LSP, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22040
At Think Happy Live Healthy, I provide a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to mental health services. I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults and acknowledge the connection between mental health and physical health. I work to create an individualized treatment plan that involves therapy, movement, and creating a healthy food lifestyle. I realize the strong connection between our body and minds and use that to provide a more effective kind of treatment for my patients. ​
At Think Happy Live Healthy, I provide a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to mental health services. I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults and acknowledge the connection between mental health and physical health. I work to create an individualized treatment plan that involves therapy, movement, and creating a healthy food lifestyle. I realize the strong connection between our body and minds and use that to provide a more effective kind of treatment for my patients. ​
(571) 200-0420 View (571) 200-0420
Photo of Walter Hillabrant, Psychologist in 22040, VA
Walter Hillabrant
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22040
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in holistic, integrated behavioral health promotion. The tools I most often use include cognitive-behavioral treatment, biofeedback training, and hypnosis. I seek to be a change agent working with individuals, couples, families, and organizations. I'm big on developing, revising, and using collaborative (me and you) treatment plans with specific goals and objectives.
I specialize in holistic, integrated behavioral health promotion. The tools I most often use include cognitive-behavioral treatment, biofeedback training, and hypnosis. I seek to be a change agent working with individuals, couples, families, and organizations. I'm big on developing, revising, and using collaborative (me and you) treatment plans with specific goals and objectives.
(202) 470-5208 View (202) 470-5208
Photo of Sara Groark, Marriage & Family Therapist in 22040, VA
Sara Groark
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT, CSAC
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22040
As a therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience, I create a safe, empathic environment for you, helping you to weather difficult life circumstances and to understand and cope with overwhelming feelings. My specialities are marital and family therapy, play therapy, addiction and substance abuse assessment and treatment and Interventions. The greatest solace for interpersonal turmoil often lies in having someone to listen carefully, thoughtfully and empathically and to collaborate in working toward positive change. This is my goal with all clients.
As a therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience, I create a safe, empathic environment for you, helping you to weather difficult life circumstances and to understand and cope with overwhelming feelings. My specialities are marital and family therapy, play therapy, addiction and substance abuse assessment and treatment and Interventions. The greatest solace for interpersonal turmoil often lies in having someone to listen carefully, thoughtfully and empathically and to collaborate in working toward positive change. This is my goal with all clients.
(703) 596-3891 View (703) 596-3891
Photo of Nancy E. Moss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22040, VA
Nancy E. Moss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, LCSWC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22040
Waitlist for new clients
My role is to help you examine and work through your feelings in order to remove emotional weight and expand your comfort zone in a supportive and safe environment. Through our work you will develop a higher tolerance for stress, anxiety, shifts in mood, and unexpected challenges in life. I work with adults specializing in women's issues (pregnancy and postpartum), adjustment issues (parenthood; marriage; relocation); relationship issues; depression; and trauma. I provide a safe space for those from all backgrounds and identities. For more information about my practice, please visit my website: nancymosstherapy.com
My role is to help you examine and work through your feelings in order to remove emotional weight and expand your comfort zone in a supportive and safe environment. Through our work you will develop a higher tolerance for stress, anxiety, shifts in mood, and unexpected challenges in life. I work with adults specializing in women's issues (pregnancy and postpartum), adjustment issues (parenthood; marriage; relocation); relationship issues; depression; and trauma. I provide a safe space for those from all backgrounds and identities. For more information about my practice, please visit my website: nancymosstherapy.com
(202) 902-9417 View (202) 902-9417
Photo of Johnny S Duplesssis-Powell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 22040, VA
Johnny S Duplesssis-Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22040
Have you had a car accident or other life event that interupts life? Are you feeling stuck, abandoned, a failure or just confused about life? Are you struggling to get over a break-up? Use shopping, gambling, eating or smoking for fun or coping? Have you have been diagnosed with PTSD or experienced a challenging childhood? Do you need to improve preformance at work or in a sport?
Have you had a car accident or other life event that interupts life? Are you feeling stuck, abandoned, a failure or just confused about life? Are you struggling to get over a break-up? Use shopping, gambling, eating or smoking for fun or coping? Have you have been diagnosed with PTSD or experienced a challenging childhood? Do you need to improve preformance at work or in a sport?
(703) 574-2883 View (703) 574-2883
Photo of Lyzaida I. Rivera-Bauer, Psychologist in 22040, VA
Lyzaida I. Rivera-Bauer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22040
Do you feel tense, anxious, on edge? Do you worry about work, relationships, family- seemingly everything? Are you kept awake at night by racing thoughts, rehashing things you said yesterday, reviewing tomorrow's to-do list? I can help! I have experience working with a range of issues, and specialize in treating anxiety, OCD, and relationship difficulties. I work collaboratively to identify problematic patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and guide you in learning and implementing strategies to change these cycles. We can explore why these issues developed, to help you better understand yourself and live a more fulfilling life.
Do you feel tense, anxious, on edge? Do you worry about work, relationships, family- seemingly everything? Are you kept awake at night by racing thoughts, rehashing things you said yesterday, reviewing tomorrow's to-do list? I can help! I have experience working with a range of issues, and specialize in treating anxiety, OCD, and relationship difficulties. I work collaboratively to identify problematic patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and guide you in learning and implementing strategies to change these cycles. We can explore why these issues developed, to help you better understand yourself and live a more fulfilling life.
(571) 202-7125 View (571) 202-7125
Photo of Jessica Rizk, Licensed Professional Counselor in 22040, VA
Jessica Rizk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22040  (Online Only)
Website: www.healingheartsva.com. I am a licensed therapist (LPC), Clinical Supervisor and Founder of Healing Hearts VA. I am passionate about helping you find healing by providing a platform to be heard, insight into who you are, and ultimately how to make sense of yourself in a world filled with conflicting pressures and opinions of who you should be, and what you should be doing. Your thoughts and feelings are valid, and you absolutely deserve to be heard. I will help you identify, process and work with you on your needs and goals of counseling.
Website: www.healingheartsva.com. I am a licensed therapist (LPC), Clinical Supervisor and Founder of Healing Hearts VA. I am passionate about helping you find healing by providing a platform to be heard, insight into who you are, and ultimately how to make sense of yourself in a world filled with conflicting pressures and opinions of who you should be, and what you should be doing. Your thoughts and feelings are valid, and you absolutely deserve to be heard. I will help you identify, process and work with you on your needs and goals of counseling.
(703) 988-7991 View (703) 988-7991
Photo of Dr. Jessica Reno Burkholder, Licensed Professional Counselor in 22040, VA
Dr. Jessica Reno Burkholder
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, ACS, CTRT
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22040  (Online Only)
Traumatic life experiences can cause us to feel stuck and unsure how to live the life we long for. We may have tried so many ways to change and grow, but feel unable to move forward. I consider it a privilege to be a counselor and walk through those times with you. I recognize the intricate relationship between the mind/body and the value of emotional experiences in our well-being. I consider the client/counselor relationship to be incredibly important, but I also want to support the important relationships in your life. I look forward to meeting you.
Traumatic life experiences can cause us to feel stuck and unsure how to live the life we long for. We may have tried so many ways to change and grow, but feel unable to move forward. I consider it a privilege to be a counselor and walk through those times with you. I recognize the intricate relationship between the mind/body and the value of emotional experiences in our well-being. I consider the client/counselor relationship to be incredibly important, but I also want to support the important relationships in your life. I look forward to meeting you.
(276) 730-1634 View (276) 730-1634
Photo of Emily Newton, Licensed Professional Counselor in 22040, VA
Emily Newton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22040
I work with clients who want to uncover and utilize their strengths to develop resiliency and become the agent of change in their life. When done within the context of a warm and empathetic therapeutic relationship, I believe that therapy can be a challenging yet restorative journey which leads to a more fulfilling and meaningful life experience on the other end.
I work with clients who want to uncover and utilize their strengths to develop resiliency and become the agent of change in their life. When done within the context of a warm and empathetic therapeutic relationship, I believe that therapy can be a challenging yet restorative journey which leads to a more fulfilling and meaningful life experience on the other end.
(571) 556-1728 View (571) 556-1728
Photo of Dr. Katherine Kelly, Psychologist in 22040, VA
Dr. Katherine Kelly
Psychologist, PsyD, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22040
Waitlist for new clients
Perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, feeling down, or are experiencing chronic stress. Maybe you are adjusting to a new life change, seeking to achieve balance, or have experienced trauma. It may feel like the past or future is running the present. Collaboratively, we can achieve your goals so that you can feel better and connect to your authentic self.
Perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, feeling down, or are experiencing chronic stress. Maybe you are adjusting to a new life change, seeking to achieve balance, or have experienced trauma. It may feel like the past or future is running the present. Collaboratively, we can achieve your goals so that you can feel better and connect to your authentic self.
(571) 556-9460 View (571) 556-9460
Photo of Paige Goodloe, Pre-Licensed Professional in 22040, VA
Paige Goodloe
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22040  (Online Only)
Telehealth only - now accepting Aetna! Struggling is a normal part of life, but it's definitely harder when we do it alone. Counseling with me will focus on looking at the bigger picture - meaning, purpose, and authenticity - while helping you build more sustainable habits. With every client, I work to create a unique relationship where you can feel safe to laugh, cry, or have any emotion on the wide, beautiful spectrum of human experience. By working with the whole You instead of just symptoms, you can find a greater sense of purpose and peace.
Telehealth only - now accepting Aetna! Struggling is a normal part of life, but it's definitely harder when we do it alone. Counseling with me will focus on looking at the bigger picture - meaning, purpose, and authenticity - while helping you build more sustainable habits. With every client, I work to create a unique relationship where you can feel safe to laugh, cry, or have any emotion on the wide, beautiful spectrum of human experience. By working with the whole You instead of just symptoms, you can find a greater sense of purpose and peace.
(434) 201-7439 View (434) 201-7439
Photo of Madison Thomas, Pre-Licensed Professional in 22040, VA
Madison Thomas
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22040
I work with clients from diverse backgrounds with topics such as anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, relationship issues and trauma. I believe the most important part of therapy is the relationship between myself and the client, and I work to foster a comfortable space for talking about possibly uncomfortable subjects.
I work with clients from diverse backgrounds with topics such as anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, relationship issues and trauma. I believe the most important part of therapy is the relationship between myself and the client, and I work to foster a comfortable space for talking about possibly uncomfortable subjects.
(571) 520-7766 View (571) 520-7766
Photo of Skye Bennett, Pre-Licensed Professional in 22040, VA
Skye Bennett
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMT, MT-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22040
Are you overwhelmed and find it difficult to express yourself in healthy ways? I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults whose quality of life are being impacted by the effects of trauma, addiction, eating disorders, and a range of psychiatric symptoms. We all deserve to to live our best lives! Together, we can explore healthier ways of coping with stress, anxiety, and depression. Let’s uncover the roots of your pain and work towards eliminating the barriers that keep you from thriving. We will explore various therapy approaches including EMDR, DBT, and music therapy, to meet your individual needs.
Are you overwhelmed and find it difficult to express yourself in healthy ways? I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults whose quality of life are being impacted by the effects of trauma, addiction, eating disorders, and a range of psychiatric symptoms. We all deserve to to live our best lives! Together, we can explore healthier ways of coping with stress, anxiety, and depression. Let’s uncover the roots of your pain and work towards eliminating the barriers that keep you from thriving. We will explore various therapy approaches including EMDR, DBT, and music therapy, to meet your individual needs.
(571) 946-2529 View (571) 946-2529
Photo of Lici A. Mercado, Licensed Professional Counselor in 22040, VA
Lici A. Mercado
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22040  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Nobody exists in a vacuum. Although life can be isolating, you don’t have to do it alone. In a time of DIY and instant gratification, I propose connection, collaboration, creativity, and courage in the therapeutic process. Like you, I’m human! I’m a woman, a wife, a mother, an immigrant, a person of faith, a therapist. While I believe everyone is doing their best, I honor and foster a desire for healthy change. For that, I utilize evidence-based approaches to draw on purpose and encourage self-efficacy. I invite and treasure honest feedback, and use the present moment to nourish insight-provoking reflection, and a path for thriving.
Nobody exists in a vacuum. Although life can be isolating, you don’t have to do it alone. In a time of DIY and instant gratification, I propose connection, collaboration, creativity, and courage in the therapeutic process. Like you, I’m human! I’m a woman, a wife, a mother, an immigrant, a person of faith, a therapist. While I believe everyone is doing their best, I honor and foster a desire for healthy change. For that, I utilize evidence-based approaches to draw on purpose and encourage self-efficacy. I invite and treasure honest feedback, and use the present moment to nourish insight-provoking reflection, and a path for thriving.
(703) 621-7179 View (703) 621-7179

See more therapy options for 22040

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 22040

40+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in 22040 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
90% Depression
86% Trauma and PTSD
84% Relationship Issues
82% Self Esteem
76% Stress
71% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% CareFirst
61% Anthem | Elevance

How Therapists in 22040 see their clients

76% In Person and Online
24% Online Only

Gender breakdown

91% Female
9% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 22040?

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.