Photo of Annetta Thomas - Purposely Be, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Purposely Be, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Let me guess; you’re the strong friend that everyone’s saying to check on. You’re the one who ignores the red flags in relationships or neglects the responsibility of self-care because someone needs you. You’re the overwhelmed person juggling too many tasks, feeling depleted, or trying to heal yourself from past traumas. Life is about transitions, and we need support getting through the rough patches. You are more resilient, capable of healing, worthy of love, and deserving of peace than you may realize. If you’re ready to reduce the stress, heal, or confidently achieve peace for a better quality of life, you're in the right place.
Let me guess; you’re the strong friend that everyone’s saying to check on. You’re the one who ignores the red flags in relationships or neglects the responsibility of self-care because someone needs you. You’re the overwhelmed person juggling too many tasks, feeling depleted, or trying to heal yourself from past traumas. Life is about transitions, and we need support getting through the rough patches. You are more resilient, capable of healing, worthy of love, and deserving of peace than you may realize. If you’re ready to reduce the stress, heal, or confidently achieve peace for a better quality of life, you're in the right place.
(540) 210-1057 View (540) 210-1057
Photo of Nicole Mann - Thriving Steps ABA Therapy & Consulting Services, BCBA, LBA
Thriving Steps ABA Therapy & Consulting Services
BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Stafford, VA 22556
Hi, I’m Nicole Mann, the founder of Thriving Steps ABA Therapy and Consulting Services, LLC. I hold a Master’s degree in Special Education, and graduate-level certification in Behavior Analysis from George Mason University. I am Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), licensed by the state of Virginia with over a decade of experience in education and behavioral therapy. I’m dedicated to fostering meaningful growth and independence that creates opportunities for lasting positive behavior change for client’s and their families.
Hi, I’m Nicole Mann, the founder of Thriving Steps ABA Therapy and Consulting Services, LLC. I hold a Master’s degree in Special Education, and graduate-level certification in Behavior Analysis from George Mason University. I am Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), licensed by the state of Virginia with over a decade of experience in education and behavioral therapy. I’m dedicated to fostering meaningful growth and independence that creates opportunities for lasting positive behavior change for client’s and their families.
(540) 565-5469 View (540) 565-5469
Photo of Tionell Waddler, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NBCC
Tionell Waddler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am licensed in Virginia with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with parent/child issues, motivation, self esteem and confidence, and coping with life changes. As a mom of a teenager, I understand some of the stressors teens face today and am motivated to work with clients to navigate these often confusing or stressful times. I work with clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment for healing and healthy well-being. I believe you are the expert on you, and I am thrilled to join you on this journey of healing, finding pu
I am licensed in Virginia with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with parent/child issues, motivation, self esteem and confidence, and coping with life changes. As a mom of a teenager, I understand some of the stressors teens face today and am motivated to work with clients to navigate these often confusing or stressful times. I work with clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment for healing and healthy well-being. I believe you are the expert on you, and I am thrilled to join you on this journey of healing, finding pu
(540) 452-9159 View (540) 452-9159
Photo of Sarah Berger, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, :LPC, NCC
Sarah Berger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, :LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I love working with clients who maybe feeling stuck or at a cross roads in their lives. I am happy to offer some clarity and offer some possible interventions that can hopefully address any problems or concerns.
I love working with clients who maybe feeling stuck or at a cross roads in their lives. I am happy to offer some clarity and offer some possible interventions that can hopefully address any problems or concerns.
(540) 384-5985 View (540) 384-5985
Photo of Dr. Latoya Gassaway-White - Healthy Emotions for Life's Problems (HELP), LLC, Psychologist, PsyD
Healthy Emotions for Life's Problems (HELP), LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have experience working with various populations, but in particular working with families going through difficult transitions such as marital concerns, custody disputes, separations and/or divorce. These transitions can entail needing conflict resolutions, trauma specialist and/or anger management while not only working on oneself but working on better relationships with one's partner, spouse and/or children. I have experience working with all ages as well as working in forensic populations and in a group practice with individuals, couples and families with various severe mental health diagnosis.
I have experience working with various populations, but in particular working with families going through difficult transitions such as marital concerns, custody disputes, separations and/or divorce. These transitions can entail needing conflict resolutions, trauma specialist and/or anger management while not only working on oneself but working on better relationships with one's partner, spouse and/or children. I have experience working with all ages as well as working in forensic populations and in a group practice with individuals, couples and families with various severe mental health diagnosis.
(540) 502-4784 View (540) 502-4784
Photo of Mary Jo Betyak-Eisler, Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CSAC
Mary Jo Betyak-Eisler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
Stafford, VA 22556
There are times in life when we feel like we are lost and don't know who to turn to or how to solve our problems. Asking for help is a sign of strength and we all need to acknowledge that getting extra support is a step in the right direction. You might be dealing with depression, stress, anxiety, grief, relationship conflicts(parenting, marital, friends, family, co-workers), identity issues, self confidence, life transitions, anger or any of these difficulties due to past trauma. Counseling can be a place to get that support and realize your potential to make positive changes in your life.
There are times in life when we feel like we are lost and don't know who to turn to or how to solve our problems. Asking for help is a sign of strength and we all need to acknowledge that getting extra support is a step in the right direction. You might be dealing with depression, stress, anxiety, grief, relationship conflicts(parenting, marital, friends, family, co-workers), identity issues, self confidence, life transitions, anger or any of these difficulties due to past trauma. Counseling can be a place to get that support and realize your potential to make positive changes in your life.
(540) 452-9962 View (540) 452-9962
Photo of Phyllis A Burgin - Clarity Clinical Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Clarity Clinical Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stafford, VA 22556
I believe in a strength-based approach that is holistic, integrative and client-centered. I provide a non-judgmental and compassionate atmosphere in which clients can safely explore and work through feelings, thoughts, images and beliefs that may be keeping them stuck.
I believe in a strength-based approach that is holistic, integrative and client-centered. I provide a non-judgmental and compassionate atmosphere in which clients can safely explore and work through feelings, thoughts, images and beliefs that may be keeping them stuck.
(540) 701-5718 View (540) 701-5718
Photo of Dustin Gantos - Dustin Gantos (Lifespan Therapy & Counseling), Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC, NCC
Dustin Gantos (Lifespan Therapy & Counseling)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you ready to feel more empowered and take control of your life? My goal as a therapist is to help you gain confidence and competence in your daily functioning. Through intensive trauma work (EMDR and TF-CBT), treatment for anxiety and depression, and an integrative approach to mental health, I will support you in navigating life's challenges with resilience. Allow me guide you on your path to self-discovery and empowerment, helping you build a brighter, more fulfilling future.
Are you ready to feel more empowered and take control of your life? My goal as a therapist is to help you gain confidence and competence in your daily functioning. Through intensive trauma work (EMDR and TF-CBT), treatment for anxiety and depression, and an integrative approach to mental health, I will support you in navigating life's challenges with resilience. Allow me guide you on your path to self-discovery and empowerment, helping you build a brighter, more fulfilling future.
(540) 517-7076 View (540) 517-7076
Photo of Andreanna King, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Andreanna King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! I am grateful you stopped by and are considering my services during a vulnerable time in your life. I believe that we are shaped by each experience we have, the systems we interact with, and the relationships we engage in. Every individual is unique in their identities (race, gender, sexual orientation, Roles, culture, religion, etc.). Those identities are key factors in the individual’s view of the world and interaction within it. I am also a gender affirming therapist, and here to help anyone on their journey.
Welcome! I am grateful you stopped by and are considering my services during a vulnerable time in your life. I believe that we are shaped by each experience we have, the systems we interact with, and the relationships we engage in. Every individual is unique in their identities (race, gender, sexual orientation, Roles, culture, religion, etc.). Those identities are key factors in the individual’s view of the world and interaction within it. I am also a gender affirming therapist, and here to help anyone on their journey.
(540) 274-5626 View (540) 274-5626
Photo of Patricia Hall, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patricia Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Online Only
Licensed Professional Counselor since 2016, but has been in the mental health field since 2000. I live in Lynchburg, VA and have my whole life. I have a passion for helping people feel comfortable in their own skin. I am an Ally and have a Transgender Son. I work from a CBT approach with Trauma Informed Care. I am very open minded and laid back. There is nothing that is off limits when a client needs to process. It their Journey and I am here to help along the way. I Love Horror Films, Being on the River, doing Jeep Events, and spending time with my chosen people.
Licensed Professional Counselor since 2016, but has been in the mental health field since 2000. I live in Lynchburg, VA and have my whole life. I have a passion for helping people feel comfortable in their own skin. I am an Ally and have a Transgender Son. I work from a CBT approach with Trauma Informed Care. I am very open minded and laid back. There is nothing that is off limits when a client needs to process. It their Journey and I am here to help along the way. I Love Horror Films, Being on the River, doing Jeep Events, and spending time with my chosen people.
(571) 604-5923 View (571) 604-5923
Photo of Cheryl L Simms, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCMHC, NCC, LSATP
Cheryl L Simms
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCMHC, NCC, LSATP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Cheryl Simms. I have 16 years of experience in the field of counseling. I specialize in trauma, substance use, family, couples, and children. I also work with those struggling with depression and anxiety. I am EMDR trained and have years of experience working with the military community and their families. I enjoy traveling and exploring other countries. I am fun-loving and caring. I often put a twist on difficult situations by adding hope and empowerment. I am licensed in South Carolina and Virginia.
Hello, my name is Cheryl Simms. I have 16 years of experience in the field of counseling. I specialize in trauma, substance use, family, couples, and children. I also work with those struggling with depression and anxiety. I am EMDR trained and have years of experience working with the military community and their families. I enjoy traveling and exploring other countries. I am fun-loving and caring. I often put a twist on difficult situations by adding hope and empowerment. I am licensed in South Carolina and Virginia.
(803) 770-5577 View (803) 770-5577
Photo of Dana Haynes, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Dana Haynes
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Can you identify with feeling overly anxious, struggling in your relationships, lacking motivation, or just feeling “stuck”? As a supervisee, I have the opportunity to support individuals who are looking to process past trauma, depression, and anxiety at different stages of their lives. I often work with individuals who experienced dysfunction in their family of origin and are still dealing with the repercussions of that today. Or, work with individuals that are struggling with transitions, boundaries, grief, or relational issues.
Can you identify with feeling overly anxious, struggling in your relationships, lacking motivation, or just feeling “stuck”? As a supervisee, I have the opportunity to support individuals who are looking to process past trauma, depression, and anxiety at different stages of their lives. I often work with individuals who experienced dysfunction in their family of origin and are still dealing with the repercussions of that today. Or, work with individuals that are struggling with transitions, boundaries, grief, or relational issues.
(540) 258-4724 View (540) 258-4724
Photo of Ashley Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Ashley Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced” - James Baldwin. I am a good old fashioned hardworking advocate and fighter for the people I support! Facing our problems involves bravery, it takes guts. I don’t know if I would have accomplished so far what I have- if I didn’t do what scares me! I would love to form a relationship built on trust, over time, and stand by your side as we tackle the things that are stealing your joy! You can feel confident with me that I don't give up and that I will get to know you as an individual. Your story is important!
“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced” - James Baldwin. I am a good old fashioned hardworking advocate and fighter for the people I support! Facing our problems involves bravery, it takes guts. I don’t know if I would have accomplished so far what I have- if I didn’t do what scares me! I would love to form a relationship built on trust, over time, and stand by your side as we tackle the things that are stealing your joy! You can feel confident with me that I don't give up and that I will get to know you as an individual. Your story is important!
(434) 448-3843 View (434) 448-3843
Photo of Shayna Sargent - Seeking Solace LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Seeking Solace LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life presents many challenges that can deeply impact your emotional well-being, relationships, and overall sense of self. My hope is to provide a safe space for you to process past experiences, find solace in the present, and awaken your true self. My counseling style is supportive, interactive, positive, and nonjudgmental. I work with children, teens, and adults. Concerns include but not limited to childhood trauma, life changes, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and parenting/family issues.
Life presents many challenges that can deeply impact your emotional well-being, relationships, and overall sense of self. My hope is to provide a safe space for you to process past experiences, find solace in the present, and awaken your true self. My counseling style is supportive, interactive, positive, and nonjudgmental. I work with children, teens, and adults. Concerns include but not limited to childhood trauma, life changes, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and parenting/family issues.
(540) 787-2932 View (540) 787-2932
Photo of Nicole Crennan, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Nicole Crennan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Hopeless, scared, stagnant. Life has thrown all of its punches, and you have tried your best to guard your heart and mind. Your past has left you anxious, and yet time seems to keep moving. Fear of your past has you in its clutches and your are ready to rediscover your inner strength; When you are not sure about your next steps, come take a seat on my virtual couch.
Hopeless, scared, stagnant. Life has thrown all of its punches, and you have tried your best to guard your heart and mind. Your past has left you anxious, and yet time seems to keep moving. Fear of your past has you in its clutches and your are ready to rediscover your inner strength; When you are not sure about your next steps, come take a seat on my virtual couch.
View
Photo of Cynthia Harford, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cynthia Harford
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! I'm Cynthia Harford, a Licensed Professional Counselor. More importantly, I'm a person who welcomes the opportunity to help you in whatever area of life you feel stuck right now. To me, the most important quality of a good therapist is genuinely caring about the people I work with. I recognize that for many, seeking out therapy and speaking with a stranger can seem pretty intimidating. I'm confident that it will become more comfortable as our therapeutic relationship grows over time. My goal in therapy is to create a safe place where we can explore your struggles, and celebrate your strengths.
Hi! I'm Cynthia Harford, a Licensed Professional Counselor. More importantly, I'm a person who welcomes the opportunity to help you in whatever area of life you feel stuck right now. To me, the most important quality of a good therapist is genuinely caring about the people I work with. I recognize that for many, seeking out therapy and speaking with a stranger can seem pretty intimidating. I'm confident that it will become more comfortable as our therapeutic relationship grows over time. My goal in therapy is to create a safe place where we can explore your struggles, and celebrate your strengths.
(757) 997-6744 View (757) 997-6744

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lawrence P. Riso, Psychologist, PhD
Lawrence P. Riso
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Expert in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and practicing over 25 years. I commonly treat panic attacks, social anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, generalized anxiety disorder, depression, and marital/couples problems. I am a practitioner-scholar with over 50 published journal articles, books and book chapters on psychotherapy and psychological disorders. I primarily use CBT, a problem-focused, evidence-based approach and hold several psychotherapy certifications (including "Cognitive Therapy," "Schema Therapy," and "Schema Therapy for Couples". For long-standing problems, I employ more "emotion-focused" approaches.
Expert in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and practicing over 25 years. I commonly treat panic attacks, social anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, generalized anxiety disorder, depression, and marital/couples problems. I am a practitioner-scholar with over 50 published journal articles, books and book chapters on psychotherapy and psychological disorders. I primarily use CBT, a problem-focused, evidence-based approach and hold several psychotherapy certifications (including "Cognitive Therapy," "Schema Therapy," and "Schema Therapy for Couples". For long-standing problems, I employ more "emotion-focused" approaches.
(703) 957-7743 View (703) 957-7743
Photo of Dr. Twonya Collins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Dr. Twonya Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients at this time. Discover the Path to Healing with my practice. I am dedicated to helping you navigate through life’s challenges. I specialize in addressing grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, anger management, and stress related to life transitions. By engaging in therapy with me, you can expect to gain valuable insights and coping strategies to manage your emotions and stress. You’ll work towards healing past wounds, improving your mental health, and achieving a greater sense of well-being. I am committed to supporting you in becoming the best version of yourself.
Not accepting new clients at this time. Discover the Path to Healing with my practice. I am dedicated to helping you navigate through life’s challenges. I specialize in addressing grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, anger management, and stress related to life transitions. By engaging in therapy with me, you can expect to gain valuable insights and coping strategies to manage your emotions and stress. You’ll work towards healing past wounds, improving your mental health, and achieving a greater sense of well-being. I am committed to supporting you in becoming the best version of yourself.
(804) 792-3695 View (804) 792-3695
Photo of Daniel Hutson, Psychologist, PsyD
Daniel Hutson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Burke, VA 22015
My approach to therapy focuses on a collaborative relationship between therapist and client. This allows clients to work through their struggles in an emotionally safe, non-judgmental, honest, and compassionate space. The journey of working through struggle becomes an opportunity for growth and healing. I have formal training in cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, and Gottman Method Couples Training (1 & 2). I have experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults, but my passion is working with couples.
My approach to therapy focuses on a collaborative relationship between therapist and client. This allows clients to work through their struggles in an emotionally safe, non-judgmental, honest, and compassionate space. The journey of working through struggle becomes an opportunity for growth and healing. I have formal training in cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, and Gottman Method Couples Training (1 & 2). I have experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults, but my passion is working with couples.
(571) 496-9953 View (571) 496-9953
Photo of Kathleen Ross-Kidder, PhD, MA, LCP, LSP
Kathleen Ross-Kidder
PhD, MA, LCP, LSP
Verified Verified
Locust Grove, VA 22508
As a licensed clinical and licensed school psychologist, and special education advocate, I understand the impact a student's school struggles has on you, your family, and your child. I specialize in helping you navigate the complexities of the special education maze to foster academic and emotional success..
As a licensed clinical and licensed school psychologist, and special education advocate, I understand the impact a student's school struggles has on you, your family, and your child. I specialize in helping you navigate the complexities of the special education maze to foster academic and emotional success..
(540) 590-5271 View (540) 590-5271

See more therapy options for 22556

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 22556

10+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in 22556 who prioritize treating:

88% Depression
88% Anxiety
75% Stress
69% Grief
69% Trauma and PTSD
69% Self Esteem
69% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
77% Aetna
62% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 22556 see their clients

56% Online Only
44% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

94% Female
6% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 22556?

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.