Therapists in 22303

Photo of Cara Cicero, Psychologist, PsyD
Cara Cicero
Psychologist, PsyD
Alexandria, VA 22303
I enjoy working with adults to help them manage challenges that are causing difficulties in their daily lives and relationships. Often my clients complain about feeling stuck and discouraged. They’ve usually tried many things before coming to therapy. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and tailor treatment to clients’ personal needs and goals. I take a strengths-based, trauma-informed, systems approach to therapy so clients can understand the relationship between thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I integrate goal-focused work with insight and meaning-making, which allows clients to fully heal.
I enjoy working with adults to help them manage challenges that are causing difficulties in their daily lives and relationships. Often my clients complain about feeling stuck and discouraged. They’ve usually tried many things before coming to therapy. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and tailor treatment to clients’ personal needs and goals. I take a strengths-based, trauma-informed, systems approach to therapy so clients can understand the relationship between thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I integrate goal-focused work with insight and meaning-making, which allows clients to fully heal.
(571) 789-0126 View (571) 789-0126
Photo of Amy Rueffert, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Amy Rueffert
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Alexandria, VA 22303
Hello! Thanks for visiting my profile. I love working with couples and adults to help them improve the quality of their relationships and better understand their behavioral motivations and patterns that keep them feeling stuck. I approach therapy with compassion and warmth, allowing clients the space to comfortably share their stories and access their personal strengths to make desired changes.
Hello! Thanks for visiting my profile. I love working with couples and adults to help them improve the quality of their relationships and better understand their behavioral motivations and patterns that keep them feeling stuck. I approach therapy with compassion and warmth, allowing clients the space to comfortably share their stories and access their personal strengths to make desired changes.
(571) 556-4250 View (571) 556-4250
Photo of Romita Afzal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Romita Afzal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandria, VA 22303
Hi! Reaching out and seeking help are manifestations of resilience. If you are looking for support to work on the burden of unresolved trauma or challenges of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or life transitions, you deserve the care that meets you where you are with compassion, expertise, clarity, and hope.
Hi! Reaching out and seeking help are manifestations of resilience. If you are looking for support to work on the burden of unresolved trauma or challenges of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or life transitions, you deserve the care that meets you where you are with compassion, expertise, clarity, and hope.
(703) 659-4961 View (703) 659-4961
Photo of Lisa Nava, Psychologist, PhD
Lisa Nava
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22303
Hello, and thanks for visiting my web page! Therapy is about helping you become the person you want to be. The focus and goals of therapy depend on where you are feeling stuck or dissatisfied in your life. I am an "eclectic" therapist, which means that I draw from many different perspectives as I learn about you and help you implement the changes you'd like to make. If you'd like to talk to me more about working together, please give me a call or contact me through email.
Hello, and thanks for visiting my web page! Therapy is about helping you become the person you want to be. The focus and goals of therapy depend on where you are feeling stuck or dissatisfied in your life. I am an "eclectic" therapist, which means that I draw from many different perspectives as I learn about you and help you implement the changes you'd like to make. If you'd like to talk to me more about working together, please give me a call or contact me through email.
(703) 596-0184 View (703) 596-0184
Photo of Sean Walsh, Psychologist, PhD
Sean Walsh
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22303
Understanding the causes of anxiety, depression, and other types of psychological suffering by increasing self-awareness is the key to navigating life's challenges. With years of experience in clinical practice and academia, I've had the privilege of assisting individuals from various walks of life in navigating their psychological challenges. My approach to therapy is based on empathic attunement, fostering self-awareness, and empirically supported approaches tailored to the needs of each person. I am committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings openly.
Understanding the causes of anxiety, depression, and other types of psychological suffering by increasing self-awareness is the key to navigating life's challenges. With years of experience in clinical practice and academia, I've had the privilege of assisting individuals from various walks of life in navigating their psychological challenges. My approach to therapy is based on empathic attunement, fostering self-awareness, and empirically supported approaches tailored to the needs of each person. I am committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings openly.
(703) 810-3532 View (703) 810-3532
Photo of Morganne V Owens, Psychologist
Morganne V Owens
Psychologist
Serves Area
Hi! My name is Morganne (she/her). I am an Afro-Asian, queer, intuitive empath and intersectional environmentalist, who is a therapist and psychologist. I show people how to navigate their subconscious thoughts while healing. Decolonized holistic healing incorporates intersectionality and centers on discovering true mental health—rooted in self-assurance, authentic self-love, and a deep connection to your true self, the Earth, and the universe around you. I view health holistically and believe that real healing begins from within.
Hi! My name is Morganne (she/her). I am an Afro-Asian, queer, intuitive empath and intersectional environmentalist, who is a therapist and psychologist. I show people how to navigate their subconscious thoughts while healing. Decolonized holistic healing incorporates intersectionality and centers on discovering true mental health—rooted in self-assurance, authentic self-love, and a deep connection to your true self, the Earth, and the universe around you. I view health holistically and believe that real healing begins from within.
(571) 601-1809 View (571) 601-1809
Photo of Sana Gaitonde, Psychologist, PsyD
Sana Gaitonde
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have an extensive background working with adolescents, and adults, providing psychotherapy. I have worked in a variety of settings including private practices, community clinics, and residential treatment centers. With specialized training and experience in different theoretical approaches including psychodynamic, mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma-focused CBT, interpersonal, and narrative therapy, I use an integrated approach to meet the unique needs of each client. Due to my own diverse background and experience, I am intimately aware of multicultural issues, and enjoy working with a clientele from various arrays of life.
I have an extensive background working with adolescents, and adults, providing psychotherapy. I have worked in a variety of settings including private practices, community clinics, and residential treatment centers. With specialized training and experience in different theoretical approaches including psychodynamic, mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma-focused CBT, interpersonal, and narrative therapy, I use an integrated approach to meet the unique needs of each client. Due to my own diverse background and experience, I am intimately aware of multicultural issues, and enjoy working with a clientele from various arrays of life.
(571) 496-8985 View (571) 496-8985
Photo of Emily Soukhanouvong, Psychologist, PsyD
Emily Soukhanouvong
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You learned that to get through life, you must be perfect, “proper,” and stay invisible. But operating down this path comes at a cost: overwhelming pressure, self-hatred, and feeling like an imposter in your skin. Belonging has never been easy for me, especially as a child of Asian immigrant parents. The pressure to be "enough" for others or to offset the guilt I felt for all the sacrifices my parents made to succeed in the United States has contributed to my resilience and anxious attempts to hide my imperfections. So, this is an invitation to those who want permission to mess up, be imperfect, and recover from unmet needs.
You learned that to get through life, you must be perfect, “proper,” and stay invisible. But operating down this path comes at a cost: overwhelming pressure, self-hatred, and feeling like an imposter in your skin. Belonging has never been easy for me, especially as a child of Asian immigrant parents. The pressure to be "enough" for others or to offset the guilt I felt for all the sacrifices my parents made to succeed in the United States has contributed to my resilience and anxious attempts to hide my imperfections. So, this is an invitation to those who want permission to mess up, be imperfect, and recover from unmet needs.
(704) 734-9782 View (704) 734-9782
Photo of Siu-Lin Ting Robinson - Ellie Mental Health - Alexandria, VA, Licensed Master Social Worker
Ellie Mental Health - Alexandria, VA
Licensed Master Social Worker
Serves Area
At Ellie Mental Health Alexandria we provide therapy, counseling, and wellness services to individuals, couples, and families. We provide both in-person and secure online therapy sessions. We offer compassionate and specialized mental health services to support individuals navigating a range of challenges. We’ve created a comfortable, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs.
At Ellie Mental Health Alexandria we provide therapy, counseling, and wellness services to individuals, couples, and families. We provide both in-person and secure online therapy sessions. We offer compassionate and specialized mental health services to support individuals navigating a range of challenges. We’ve created a comfortable, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs.
(571) 581-6559 View (571) 581-6559
Photo of George Wanke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
George Wanke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 49 years of experience working with a wide variety of clients, from pre-teens to adults. I specialize in treating individuals who are struggling with mood management, thought distress, and behavioral mental health conditions such as ADHD, conduct disorder, or substance abuse issues. I received my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Kansas and served as a Family Therapy Training Supervisor for the Karl Menninger School of Psychiatry.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 49 years of experience working with a wide variety of clients, from pre-teens to adults. I specialize in treating individuals who are struggling with mood management, thought distress, and behavioral mental health conditions such as ADHD, conduct disorder, or substance abuse issues. I received my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Kansas and served as a Family Therapy Training Supervisor for the Karl Menninger School of Psychiatry.
(571) 630-3236 View (571) 630-3236
Photo of Amy Lyn Wood, Psychologist, PhD
Amy Lyn Wood
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, who enjoys working with individuals ages 7+. Assessment and therapy can be useful ways to better understand one's strengths/challenges at each developmental stage. Students today can face an array of struggles from lack of motivation to anxiety/perfectionism. School-age children may encounter difficulties with learning and self-regulation in the classroom. Adolescents are figuring out who they are, while navigating the ever-present world of social media in a safe, healthy way. Adults typically strive to function at their best in numerous realms, often feeling unsuccessful or overwhelmed.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, who enjoys working with individuals ages 7+. Assessment and therapy can be useful ways to better understand one's strengths/challenges at each developmental stage. Students today can face an array of struggles from lack of motivation to anxiety/perfectionism. School-age children may encounter difficulties with learning and self-regulation in the classroom. Adolescents are figuring out who they are, while navigating the ever-present world of social media in a safe, healthy way. Adults typically strive to function at their best in numerous realms, often feeling unsuccessful or overwhelmed.
(703) 596-3153 View (703) 596-3153
Photo of Heather Menasco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW-S
Heather Menasco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW-S
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Thank you for considering me as a part of your journey towards healing. I understand choosing a therapist is a deeply personal decision. Often times, unresolved mental health issues lead to isolation. You are not alone. Individuals often experience unpleasant symptoms associated with trauma or adverse life events that often lead to mental illness. Often times, depression, anxiety, and other trauma-related symptoms are often linked in some way to traumatic life events, generational trauma, or hereditary factors. I offer the expertise to help you connect with your inner and external strengths to foster healing, resilience, and hope.
Thank you for considering me as a part of your journey towards healing. I understand choosing a therapist is a deeply personal decision. Often times, unresolved mental health issues lead to isolation. You are not alone. Individuals often experience unpleasant symptoms associated with trauma or adverse life events that often lead to mental illness. Often times, depression, anxiety, and other trauma-related symptoms are often linked in some way to traumatic life events, generational trauma, or hereditary factors. I offer the expertise to help you connect with your inner and external strengths to foster healing, resilience, and hope.
(806) 230-5924 View (806) 230-5924
Photo of Lisa Swann - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Alexandria, Counselor
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(571) 444-6912 View (571) 444-6912
Photo of Kayla Barnoski, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kayla Barnoski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over six years of professional experience working with infants, toddlers, children, and teens facing issues related to anxiety, depression, family dynamics, developmental disorders, behavioral challenges, mood disorders, and more. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Child Development and Family Studies at West Virginia University, followed by a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology at Chatham University.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over six years of professional experience working with infants, toddlers, children, and teens facing issues related to anxiety, depression, family dynamics, developmental disorders, behavioral challenges, mood disorders, and more. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Child Development and Family Studies at West Virginia University, followed by a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology at Chatham University.
(571) 497-5286 View (571) 497-5286
Photo of Jorge Wallace, Counselor, LPC
Jorge Wallace
Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia and Missouri, with over 15 years of experience in the mental health and social service fields. Throughout my career, I have taught and counseled adolescents, teens, and young adults, building vast experience in substance abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma, and veterans' issues.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia and Missouri, with over 15 years of experience in the mental health and social service fields. Throughout my career, I have taught and counseled adolescents, teens, and young adults, building vast experience in substance abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma, and veterans' issues.
(571) 556-9864 View (571) 556-9864
Photo of Kari Ayoroa, Counselor, LCPC, LPC, CCATP, CCTP
Kari Ayoroa
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, CCATP, CCTP
Serves Area
I work with adults on a variety of topics and my areas of particular speciality include:​ Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Helping those struggling with obsessive thoughts or repetitive actions. Anxiety: Addressing worries and excessive concerns about various aspects of life. Women Focused: Providing support for challenges unique to women. Perfectionism: Working through the impacts of perfectionistic tendencies. Body Image Concerns: Addressing struggles related to body image and self-perception. Life Transitions: Guiding clients through significant life changes.
I work with adults on a variety of topics and my areas of particular speciality include:​ Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Helping those struggling with obsessive thoughts or repetitive actions. Anxiety: Addressing worries and excessive concerns about various aspects of life. Women Focused: Providing support for challenges unique to women. Perfectionism: Working through the impacts of perfectionistic tendencies. Body Image Concerns: Addressing struggles related to body image and self-perception. Life Transitions: Guiding clients through significant life changes.
(301) 889-9395 View (301) 889-9395
Photo of Verniecia Bell, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verniecia Bell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
Let’s face it, life can be hard. Everyone experiences anxiety, depression, and loneliness at times. When those feelings are frequent, it may be time to seek out more support. When people access the right resources and treatment they can overcome nearly anything, including what they thought wasn’t possible. That’s why my favorite quote is “We get knocked down but we are not destroyed.” I provide support for adults, older adults and all ethnicities, including women of color. I treat a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, domestic violence, life transitions and more.
Let’s face it, life can be hard. Everyone experiences anxiety, depression, and loneliness at times. When those feelings are frequent, it may be time to seek out more support. When people access the right resources and treatment they can overcome nearly anything, including what they thought wasn’t possible. That’s why my favorite quote is “We get knocked down but we are not destroyed.” I provide support for adults, older adults and all ethnicities, including women of color. I treat a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, domestic violence, life transitions and more.
(571) 200-5563 View (571) 200-5563
Photo of Tracy Blanchard - Dr. Tracy Blanchard, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CHST
Dr. Tracy Blanchard, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CHST
Serves Area
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, panic feelings or emotional triggers from your past? Are your relationships less fulfilling than you want them to be? Is there a part of you that is wounded from poor communication and feelings of resentment? Are these feelings negatively affecting your relationship or sex life? Do you feel stuck or find yourself repeating patterns? If so, I can help. For over 20 years my expertise has been in individual and relationship counseling, trauma, affair recovery, break-up stabilization, sexless marriage, decreased sexual function/frequency, and sexual abuse/assault.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, panic feelings or emotional triggers from your past? Are your relationships less fulfilling than you want them to be? Is there a part of you that is wounded from poor communication and feelings of resentment? Are these feelings negatively affecting your relationship or sex life? Do you feel stuck or find yourself repeating patterns? If so, I can help. For over 20 years my expertise has been in individual and relationship counseling, trauma, affair recovery, break-up stabilization, sexless marriage, decreased sexual function/frequency, and sexual abuse/assault.
(703) 215-9168 View (703) 215-9168
Photo of Shaunda Thompson, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shaunda Thompson
Pre-Licensed Professional
17 Endorsed
Serves Area
Guided by the wisdom of vincit qui se vincit—“he who conquers himself, conquers”—I support clients in cultivating self-mastery, personal growth, and the skills needed to navigate internal challenges while pursuing a meaningful life. I work with adolescents and adults across all life stages. With an inclusive, holistic perspective, I support individuals from diverse backgrounds in addressing concerns such as career transitions, Christian counseling, self-esteem, life changes, grief, and anxiety.
Guided by the wisdom of vincit qui se vincit—“he who conquers himself, conquers”—I support clients in cultivating self-mastery, personal growth, and the skills needed to navigate internal challenges while pursuing a meaningful life. I work with adolescents and adults across all life stages. With an inclusive, holistic perspective, I support individuals from diverse backgrounds in addressing concerns such as career transitions, Christian counseling, self-esteem, life changes, grief, and anxiety.
(571) 347-2630 View (571) 347-2630
Photo of Dr. Gabrielle Green-Oakes, PsyD
Dr. Gabrielle Green-Oakes
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome! As a clinician who understands that your journey is unique and it’s often not easy to take the first step, my goal is to get to know you, your individual strengths, needs, and the unique experiences that shape you. Whether you're navigating relationship challenges, life transitions, matters of identity, or patterns that no longer serve you, my approach is strengths-based and collaborative with the intention of creating meaningful and lasting change. You deserve a safe and supportive space to explore your experience with honesty and self-compassion, while growing toward greater clarity, connection, and emotional well-being.
Welcome! As a clinician who understands that your journey is unique and it’s often not easy to take the first step, my goal is to get to know you, your individual strengths, needs, and the unique experiences that shape you. Whether you're navigating relationship challenges, life transitions, matters of identity, or patterns that no longer serve you, my approach is strengths-based and collaborative with the intention of creating meaningful and lasting change. You deserve a safe and supportive space to explore your experience with honesty and self-compassion, while growing toward greater clarity, connection, and emotional well-being.
(571) 568-5745 View (571) 568-5745

See more therapy options for 22303

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 22303

70+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in 22303 who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
86% Depression
72% Trauma and PTSD
70% Self Esteem
70% Stress
67% Relationship Issues
57% Grief

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
81% BlueCross and BlueShield
79% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 22303 see their clients

53% Online Only
47% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

88% Female
12% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 22303?

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.