Therapists in 22079

Photo of Edwin Lucas, Licensed Professional Counselor
Edwin Lucas
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Only
Ed has been a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia since 1991 and has over 40 years experience in the mental health field. He believes in the intrinsic worth and value of every individual and that treatment should be approached from the perspective of addressing the whole person (i.e. mind, body, and spirit) in an effective and non-judgmental manner. Ed earned his Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Southwestern University and his Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Texas A&M at
Ed has been a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia since 1991 and has over 40 years experience in the mental health field. He believes in the intrinsic worth and value of every individual and that treatment should be approached from the perspective of addressing the whole person (i.e. mind, body, and spirit) in an effective and non-judgmental manner. Ed earned his Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Southwestern University and his Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Texas A&M at
(804) 392-1064 View (804) 392-1064
Photo of Lisa M Cho - My Way Wellness and Lifestyle Management, PhD, MP, NLP
My Way Wellness and Lifestyle Management
Verified Verified
Online Only
I offer a 15 minute complimentary consultation. And we can chat about your specific needs. Together, we can develop a plan that's best for you.
I offer a 15 minute complimentary consultation. And we can chat about your specific needs. Together, we can develop a plan that's best for you.
(540) 210-1612 View (540) 210-1612
Photo of Kate O'Connell, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kate O'Connell
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Only
Originally from Toronto, Ontario, Canada; she attended Ryerson University, graduating in 1985 with a B.A. in Photographic Arts before moving to the United States in 1990. While raising her son in Richmond, Virginia; she worked in the photographic industry until 1998 when she moved with him to the Adirondacks and co-founded a spiritual retreat center with a Cherokee Medicine Woman and Shaman. In 2003 at the age of forty-three, she returned to school and received a Master's degree in Psychology from Marist
Originally from Toronto, Ontario, Canada; she attended Ryerson University, graduating in 1985 with a B.A. in Photographic Arts before moving to the United States in 1990. While raising her son in Richmond, Virginia; she worked in the photographic industry until 1998 when she moved with him to the Adirondacks and co-founded a spiritual retreat center with a Cherokee Medicine Woman and Shaman. In 2003 at the age of forty-three, she returned to school and received a Master's degree in Psychology from Marist
(804) 455-9439 View (804) 455-9439
Photo of Denise Niner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Denise Niner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Sometimes the assistance of a trained professional can help you get past the roadblocks in life that could be holding you back from reaching your goals. I use a variety of clinical tools dependent upon each individual's goals and unique needs. I have been a social worker for over 20 years, and have a wealth of knowledge and experience working with individuals, adolescents and families.
Sometimes the assistance of a trained professional can help you get past the roadblocks in life that could be holding you back from reaching your goals. I use a variety of clinical tools dependent upon each individual's goals and unique needs. I have been a social worker for over 20 years, and have a wealth of knowledge and experience working with individuals, adolescents and families.
(703) 454-8125 View (703) 454-8125
Photo of Melissa Futreal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Futreal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
Melissa began helping others in 1990 as a Peer Counselor while active duty in the Marine Corps. After earning degrees in Psychology and Social Work at UNCW/ECU, she obtained Licensure to practice independently with Virginia Board of Health Professionals in 2004. She is originally from the Hampton Roads, Virginia, but has worked internationally with people from many different backgrounds. She has continued to support the military, as well as the community at large spanning 3 decades with evidenced based treatments for trauma (PTSD). She has training and experience treating PTSD with effective modalities, such as CPT , PET, and EMDR.
Melissa began helping others in 1990 as a Peer Counselor while active duty in the Marine Corps. After earning degrees in Psychology and Social Work at UNCW/ECU, she obtained Licensure to practice independently with Virginia Board of Health Professionals in 2004. She is originally from the Hampton Roads, Virginia, but has worked internationally with people from many different backgrounds. She has continued to support the military, as well as the community at large spanning 3 decades with evidenced based treatments for trauma (PTSD). She has training and experience treating PTSD with effective modalities, such as CPT , PET, and EMDR.
(757) 665-2677 View (757) 665-2677
Photo of Anne Zeigler, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Anne Zeigler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to Becoming You Counseling! Clients comment that they appreciate my authenticity and active engagement in our work together. You will have a safe and confidential space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and possible fears. Once comfortable, you could be challenged to see your life differently, redefine relationships, or simply understand your needs differently. My clients have successfully decreased anxious and depressive feelings, reduced the impact of relationship and family stress, and healed from childhood wounds and other emotionally traumatic experiences.
Welcome to Becoming You Counseling! Clients comment that they appreciate my authenticity and active engagement in our work together. You will have a safe and confidential space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and possible fears. Once comfortable, you could be challenged to see your life differently, redefine relationships, or simply understand your needs differently. My clients have successfully decreased anxious and depressive feelings, reduced the impact of relationship and family stress, and healed from childhood wounds and other emotionally traumatic experiences.
(703) 721-4383 View (703) 721-4383
Photo of Clara A Marshall, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC, CCDC, QMHP
Clara A Marshall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC, CCDC, QMHP
Lorton, VA 22079
As a psychotherapist with over 30 years in the field of counseling, social work, substance abuse and mental health my focus is to help clients work on “Letting Go" of past hurt, trauma, release negative feelings and open up to personal growth. Clients will find the office to be welcoming, safe, respectful, and non-judgmental. This structure is designed to allow the client to experience freedom as they explore the journey to find meaning, understanding, and purpose. I provide guidance using psychological CBT modalities and techniques to help the client change thoughts, change emotions, change behaviors and change their lives.
As a psychotherapist with over 30 years in the field of counseling, social work, substance abuse and mental health my focus is to help clients work on “Letting Go" of past hurt, trauma, release negative feelings and open up to personal growth. Clients will find the office to be welcoming, safe, respectful, and non-judgmental. This structure is designed to allow the client to experience freedom as they explore the journey to find meaning, understanding, and purpose. I provide guidance using psychological CBT modalities and techniques to help the client change thoughts, change emotions, change behaviors and change their lives.
(571) 992-0060 View (571) 992-0060
Photo of Stacy McCarty-Nash, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S
Stacy McCarty-Nash
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I am Stacy McCarty-Nash, but just Stacy will do! I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist Supervisor (LMFT-S) and an AAMFT Approved Supervisor/Mentor. I have been practicing therapy for 24+ years after earning my Master of Science (MS) degree from Friends University. I am licensed in Virginia, Texas, and Florida. My niche is working with culturally diverse individuals struggling with relationship distress, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem. My mission is to nurture emotional well-being and help you heal and grow one step at a time.
Hi! I am Stacy McCarty-Nash, but just Stacy will do! I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist Supervisor (LMFT-S) and an AAMFT Approved Supervisor/Mentor. I have been practicing therapy for 24+ years after earning my Master of Science (MS) degree from Friends University. I am licensed in Virginia, Texas, and Florida. My niche is working with culturally diverse individuals struggling with relationship distress, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem. My mission is to nurture emotional well-being and help you heal and grow one step at a time.
(281) 205-3624 View (281) 205-3624
Photo of Gabby de la Flor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Gabby de la Flor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I strive to create a calm, safe, and comfortable space for individuals to engage in therapeutic work to improve their mental wellbeing and overall quality of life. I am a firm believer in the power of acknowledging and talking through thoughts, feelings, and experiences aloud as they so easily get tangled and overwhelming when left unsaid.
I strive to create a calm, safe, and comfortable space for individuals to engage in therapeutic work to improve their mental wellbeing and overall quality of life. I am a firm believer in the power of acknowledging and talking through thoughts, feelings, and experiences aloud as they so easily get tangled and overwhelming when left unsaid.
(703) 686-8236 View (703) 686-8236
Photo of Amy-Lynn Gerber, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Amy-Lynn Gerber
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
5 Endorsed
Lorton, VA 22079
I specialize in working with Millenials, Gen Z, LGBTQ+ folx, who want to get to know themselves on a deeper level, improve relationships with self and others, and find more meaning and joy in life. I have a gentle and loving approach, while also working together to learn when I may need to challenge you or call you out on your blind spots that might be getting in your way. If you have ever struggled to untangle your identity, felt alienation from your community, religion, or even your family in a way that has made you question if who you are or your life choices are “bad,” I’d love to help you sort through that, and heal old wounds.
I specialize in working with Millenials, Gen Z, LGBTQ+ folx, who want to get to know themselves on a deeper level, improve relationships with self and others, and find more meaning and joy in life. I have a gentle and loving approach, while also working together to learn when I may need to challenge you or call you out on your blind spots that might be getting in your way. If you have ever struggled to untangle your identity, felt alienation from your community, religion, or even your family in a way that has made you question if who you are or your life choices are “bad,” I’d love to help you sort through that, and heal old wounds.
(213) 293-1468 View (213) 293-1468
Photo of Aysha Kemp, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Aysha Kemp
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Lorton, VA 22079
Life and relationships sometimes offer inaccurate messages about who we are, what we deserve, and what is available to us. Where you have felt invalidated, shamed, limited, or unsafe, I want to help you rewrite your story. I am passionate about connection, communication, mind-body-soul healing, and guiding others into their light. I support individuals and couples in identifying patterns such as over-functioning, perfectionism, people-pleasing, shutting down, withdrawing, or focusing on tasks. As we explore the roots of these strategies, we can find new ways to relate, meet needs, build self-worth, and heal old hurts.
Life and relationships sometimes offer inaccurate messages about who we are, what we deserve, and what is available to us. Where you have felt invalidated, shamed, limited, or unsafe, I want to help you rewrite your story. I am passionate about connection, communication, mind-body-soul healing, and guiding others into their light. I support individuals and couples in identifying patterns such as over-functioning, perfectionism, people-pleasing, shutting down, withdrawing, or focusing on tasks. As we explore the roots of these strategies, we can find new ways to relate, meet needs, build self-worth, and heal old hurts.
(703) 260-7104 View (703) 260-7104
Photo of Dominique Bonner, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dominique Bonner
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Only
I am a compassionate therapist dedicated to helping you overcome your identified challenges and find a positive resolution in a supportive and non-judgmental therapeutic setting. I am committed to improving your overall well-being and believe that I can serve as a catalyst for positive mental health. With my extensive experience, training, education, and certifications, I can provide exceptional services for you or your family members. I can guide you in acquiring healthy and effective skills to manage anxiety, depression, anger, and difficulties within personal relationships.
I am a compassionate therapist dedicated to helping you overcome your identified challenges and find a positive resolution in a supportive and non-judgmental therapeutic setting. I am committed to improving your overall well-being and believe that I can serve as a catalyst for positive mental health. With my extensive experience, training, education, and certifications, I can provide exceptional services for you or your family members. I can guide you in acquiring healthy and effective skills to manage anxiety, depression, anger, and difficulties within personal relationships.
(804) 391-0988 View (804) 391-0988
Photo of Anwar Taylor, Pre-Licensed Professional, LMFT-R
Anwar Taylor
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMFT-R
1 Endorsed
Lorton, VA 22079
When we are in conflict, disconnection, or misunderstanding with a loved one, we all experience distress. Our protective strategies come alive- we shut down, criticize, go numb, or pursue for reconnection. We find ourselves in the same old dance, talking different relational languages we can’t seem to reconcile, having the same old fight. I help individuals and couples talk about what is happening inside them, identify their needs, and understand what is at the core of any recurring patterns. I make space for all the ways life has shaped each of you, how this impacts your interactions, and where the misses are taking place.
When we are in conflict, disconnection, or misunderstanding with a loved one, we all experience distress. Our protective strategies come alive- we shut down, criticize, go numb, or pursue for reconnection. We find ourselves in the same old dance, talking different relational languages we can’t seem to reconcile, having the same old fight. I help individuals and couples talk about what is happening inside them, identify their needs, and understand what is at the core of any recurring patterns. I make space for all the ways life has shaped each of you, how this impacts your interactions, and where the misses are taking place.
(703) 552-9617 View (703) 552-9617
Photo of Nancy Shawki - Vanguard Therapy, LLC., Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Vanguard Therapy, LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
10 Endorsed
Online Only
We have immediate availability for anyone seeking to schedule as soon as possible! Contact us to schedule an appointment. We are happy to help you. We have been in practice for over 12 years and we are happy to help! Do you feel alone and unsure of your purpose in life? Are you always feeling anxious or depressed? Do you find that living life and getting out of bed daily is a struggle and oftentimes impossible? We can help you by providing a compassionate, nurturing,and non-judgemental environment to express your deepest thoughts and feelings and explore ways to resolve the problems you encounter.
We have immediate availability for anyone seeking to schedule as soon as possible! Contact us to schedule an appointment. We are happy to help you. We have been in practice for over 12 years and we are happy to help! Do you feel alone and unsure of your purpose in life? Are you always feeling anxious or depressed? Do you find that living life and getting out of bed daily is a struggle and oftentimes impossible? We can help you by providing a compassionate, nurturing,and non-judgemental environment to express your deepest thoughts and feelings and explore ways to resolve the problems you encounter.
(703) 935-8314 View (703) 935-8314
Photo of Thomas Macalik, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Thomas Macalik
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Lorton, VA 22079
As a family therapist and father, I deeply understand the journey of parenthood. Being a parent is incredibly rewarding, and paved with moments of overwhelm, anxiety, and helplessness. Within this context of immense love and inevitable struggle, I collaborate with parents to gain greater understanding, resilience, connection, skills, and joy in this role. I use a systemic approach, prioritizing the parent-child relationship as the catalyst for your child’s growth, well-being, and authentic self. Children help us know what they need, through play, and I serve as interpreter, helping parents know how best to respond to these needs.
As a family therapist and father, I deeply understand the journey of parenthood. Being a parent is incredibly rewarding, and paved with moments of overwhelm, anxiety, and helplessness. Within this context of immense love and inevitable struggle, I collaborate with parents to gain greater understanding, resilience, connection, skills, and joy in this role. I use a systemic approach, prioritizing the parent-child relationship as the catalyst for your child’s growth, well-being, and authentic self. Children help us know what they need, through play, and I serve as interpreter, helping parents know how best to respond to these needs.
(703) 215-9548 View (703) 215-9548
Photo of Basma Armanious, Pre-Licensed Professional
Basma Armanious
Pre-Licensed Professional
13 Endorsed
Lorton, VA 22079
Feeling like you're living a life that isn't truly yours? Struggling to find your purpose, feeling lonely, stressed, or anxious as a result? I can guide you through these thoughts and emotions to find harmony and fulfillment in your life. My unique journey, transitioning from a 20-year career in dentistry to finding my purpose in counseling, provides me with a distinct perspective. As an Egyptian-American Christian, I intimately understand the challenges of cultural assimilation, offering a diverse and empathetic outlook to my clients.
Feeling like you're living a life that isn't truly yours? Struggling to find your purpose, feeling lonely, stressed, or anxious as a result? I can guide you through these thoughts and emotions to find harmony and fulfillment in your life. My unique journey, transitioning from a 20-year career in dentistry to finding my purpose in counseling, provides me with a distinct perspective. As an Egyptian-American Christian, I intimately understand the challenges of cultural assimilation, offering a diverse and empathetic outlook to my clients.
(571) 536-2756 View (571) 536-2756
Photo of Delayna Choat, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Delayna Choat
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Lorton, VA 22079
We are all shaped by our relationships, the transitions we’ve weathered, the losses we’ve endured, and the moments that left a lasting mark. Our experiences influence how we see ourselves, connect with others, and respond to the world. I offer a warm and skilled map for exploring the parts of you that feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unheard, particularly where you are vulnerable to people-pleasing, perfectionism, burnout, or the experience of being neurodivergent in a world that doesn’t always make room for difference. Together, we can work towards reconnecting you with your voice, your needs, your worth, and your important others.
We are all shaped by our relationships, the transitions we’ve weathered, the losses we’ve endured, and the moments that left a lasting mark. Our experiences influence how we see ourselves, connect with others, and respond to the world. I offer a warm and skilled map for exploring the parts of you that feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unheard, particularly where you are vulnerable to people-pleasing, perfectionism, burnout, or the experience of being neurodivergent in a world that doesn’t always make room for difference. Together, we can work towards reconnecting you with your voice, your needs, your worth, and your important others.
(571) 546-3946 View (571) 546-3946
Photo of Kyle Stephan, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Kyle Stephan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Lorton, VA 22079
I specialize in the relationships we have with ourselves, partners, children, and families. Whether a child or adult, our behaviors can always be made sense of when seen as a bid for connection, security, co-regulation, or validation. Where responses feel disruptive, defiant, shut down, withdrawn, critical, or overwhelming, they are a protest against disconnection or change, indications of a missed need, or a signal that whatever is happening is outside of a capacity to cope at that moment. I make space for everyone’s resourceful, brilliant, and sometimes limiting patterns, emotions, needs, protectors, and adaptations.
I specialize in the relationships we have with ourselves, partners, children, and families. Whether a child or adult, our behaviors can always be made sense of when seen as a bid for connection, security, co-regulation, or validation. Where responses feel disruptive, defiant, shut down, withdrawn, critical, or overwhelming, they are a protest against disconnection or change, indications of a missed need, or a signal that whatever is happening is outside of a capacity to cope at that moment. I make space for everyone’s resourceful, brilliant, and sometimes limiting patterns, emotions, needs, protectors, and adaptations.
(540) 264-3085 View (540) 264-3085
Photo of Kaylah Carter, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaylah Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Only
I have experience working with clients who need support with family conflict, relationship issues, life changes, adjustments, ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, coping skills, & parenting. My goal is to work alongside you and support you, while meeting you exactly where you are in this stage of your life.
I have experience working with clients who need support with family conflict, relationship issues, life changes, adjustments, ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, coping skills, & parenting. My goal is to work alongside you and support you, while meeting you exactly where you are in this stage of your life.
(571) 554-5997 View (571) 554-5997
Photo of Cathy Becker, Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CSAC, PMH-C
Cathy Becker
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CSAC, PMH-C
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe healing happens through relationships. When we can share all parts of ourselves with another and be truly seen. Witnessed. Understood. The messy, the dark, the confusing and the seemingly unlovable. All parts of you are welcome here. You’re invited to bring your whole self to each session where you will be seen, heard, and validated. From a place of openness and curiosity, I provide a warm and affirming space for you to heal and grow. You don’t have to do it alone, I would be honored and humbled to join you.
I believe healing happens through relationships. When we can share all parts of ourselves with another and be truly seen. Witnessed. Understood. The messy, the dark, the confusing and the seemingly unlovable. All parts of you are welcome here. You’re invited to bring your whole self to each session where you will be seen, heard, and validated. From a place of openness and curiosity, I provide a warm and affirming space for you to heal and grow. You don’t have to do it alone, I would be honored and humbled to join you.
(571) 583-6042 View (571) 583-6042

See more therapy options for 22079

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 22079

50+

Average cost per session

$137

Therapists in 22079 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
92% Depression
81% Stress
73% Trauma and PTSD
73% Life Transitions
71% Relationship Issues
67% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% CareFirst
75% Aetna
75% Anthem

How Therapists in 22079 see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 22079?

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.