Therapists in 23462

Photo of Caroline Minto, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Caroline Minto
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you navigating a major life shift and feel like the ground beneath you has disappeared? Whether you're facing a career change, relationship upheaval, or questioning your identity in the midst of this change, it can leave you feeling anxious, disconnected, and uncertain about what’s next. You may be overwhelmed by pressure to “have it all together” while silently battling self-doubt and emotional burnout. You don’t have to carry it all alone. I offer a safe, compassionate space to help you process the chaos, reconnect with yourself, and move forward with clarity, confidence, and renewed purpose.
Are you navigating a major life shift and feel like the ground beneath you has disappeared? Whether you're facing a career change, relationship upheaval, or questioning your identity in the midst of this change, it can leave you feeling anxious, disconnected, and uncertain about what’s next. You may be overwhelmed by pressure to “have it all together” while silently battling self-doubt and emotional burnout. You don’t have to carry it all alone. I offer a safe, compassionate space to help you process the chaos, reconnect with yourself, and move forward with clarity, confidence, and renewed purpose.
(757) 982-3149 View (757) 982-3149
Photo of Christopher B Younkins - Christopher B Younkins, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Christopher B Younkins, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I provide individual therapy to adults for anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, relationship problems, alcohol/substance abuse, and various other challenges. I enjoy helping my clients gain insight and make changes to live more intentional and meaningful lives with improved connection to others.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I provide individual therapy to adults for anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, relationship problems, alcohol/substance abuse, and various other challenges. I enjoy helping my clients gain insight and make changes to live more intentional and meaningful lives with improved connection to others.
(757) 330-8528 View (757) 330-8528
Photo of Raymond Smith - Ray Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QCSW
Ray Smith, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QCSW
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
ANXIETY! The alarm clock goes off, and you peel your head from under the covers. "Oh crap, another day", you think to yourself. You try to muster the courage to face today, but you feel stuck. You stand on the side of the bed with what feels like cement bricks on your fee. The worry and fear of leaving the house is too familiar an experience you've been trying to manage for so long. Sadly, you become deflated, lay back down, hoping to try again tomorrow. But it seems like your tomorrow will never come. Constantly stuck in the cycle of trying to concur the anxiety that has crippled you seems too much so you quit.
ANXIETY! The alarm clock goes off, and you peel your head from under the covers. "Oh crap, another day", you think to yourself. You try to muster the courage to face today, but you feel stuck. You stand on the side of the bed with what feels like cement bricks on your fee. The worry and fear of leaving the house is too familiar an experience you've been trying to manage for so long. Sadly, you become deflated, lay back down, hoping to try again tomorrow. But it seems like your tomorrow will never come. Constantly stuck in the cycle of trying to concur the anxiety that has crippled you seems too much so you quit.
(757) 702-3938 View (757) 702-3938
Photo of Carissa Newman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC
Carissa Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Since an early age, my passion has been helping those around me. Over the last ten years, I have had the pleasure and vast experience working with children, adolescents and their families in multiple settings including outpatient clinics, schools and community partners. My most favorite has been over the last four years in my own private practice. I am trained and specialize in evidenced based trauma treatment modalities (CPP and TF-CBT) for children and adolescents. Anxiety, adjustment issues and depression are also diagnoses that I work with on a daily basis.
Since an early age, my passion has been helping those around me. Over the last ten years, I have had the pleasure and vast experience working with children, adolescents and their families in multiple settings including outpatient clinics, schools and community partners. My most favorite has been over the last four years in my own private practice. I am trained and specialize in evidenced based trauma treatment modalities (CPP and TF-CBT) for children and adolescents. Anxiety, adjustment issues and depression are also diagnoses that I work with on a daily basis.
(757) 854-9563 View (757) 854-9563
Photo of Nicole Sirko - Sunlight Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Sunlight Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
It's hard to make decisions when we feel anxious, sad or are facing challenges. Certain life events can feel isolating and overwhelming, and we may find ourselves shutting down. Sometimes, just getting through the day can seem like too much. It can help to have someone to talk to in a nonjudgmental, supportive manner to help you establish and achieve your goals to live life more fully. Our therapy sessions provide a secure and nurturing environment for you to explore your thoughts and emotions, promoting personal growth and healing.
It's hard to make decisions when we feel anxious, sad or are facing challenges. Certain life events can feel isolating and overwhelming, and we may find ourselves shutting down. Sometimes, just getting through the day can seem like too much. It can help to have someone to talk to in a nonjudgmental, supportive manner to help you establish and achieve your goals to live life more fully. Our therapy sessions provide a secure and nurturing environment for you to explore your thoughts and emotions, promoting personal growth and healing.
(757) 832-8015 View (757) 832-8015
Photo of Abigail Mendoza, Social Worker, MSW
Abigail Mendoza
Social Worker, MSW
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Life can feel overwhelming at any age—and whether you're seeking therapy for yourself, your child or teen, or your family, support can make all the difference. I work with children/teens, adults, and families to help manage anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and behavioral challenges. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, respected, and empowered to grow.
Life can feel overwhelming at any age—and whether you're seeking therapy for yourself, your child or teen, or your family, support can make all the difference. I work with children/teens, adults, and families to help manage anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and behavioral challenges. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, respected, and empowered to grow.
(757) 233-0003 View (757) 233-0003
Photo of Chylanda Williams, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Chylanda Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
As a dedicated mental health professional, I specialize in providing comprehensive care through individual therapy, family therapy, and group therapy. My approach is rooted in compassion, understanding, and evidence-based practices to help clients navigate life's challenges and unlock their potential for growth.
As a dedicated mental health professional, I specialize in providing comprehensive care through individual therapy, family therapy, and group therapy. My approach is rooted in compassion, understanding, and evidence-based practices to help clients navigate life's challenges and unlock their potential for growth.
(757) 794-4501 View (757) 794-4501
Photo of Terra Jones-Steele, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Terra Jones-Steele
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Hi, I'm Terra, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. With 8 years of experience, I specialize in helping adolescents and adults navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and relationship issues on their journey to healing. I earned my undergraduate degree in Psychology from Talladega College and my graduate degree from Faulkner University. I look forward to meeting you and supporting you in achieving your goals.
Hi, I'm Terra, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. With 8 years of experience, I specialize in helping adolescents and adults navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and relationship issues on their journey to healing. I earned my undergraduate degree in Psychology from Talladega College and my graduate degree from Faulkner University. I look forward to meeting you and supporting you in achieving your goals.
(757) 992-9395 View (757) 992-9395
Photo of Sarah Wright, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT-S
Sarah Wright
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT-S
6 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Is your child experiencing difficulty at school, preschool, or in day to day life? Are you a parent that is experiencing stress due to child issues? I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Virginia and California, as well as a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor who can assist you and your child create a sense of calm in the current storm. While I primarily work with children, I feel that it is equally important to work with parents in conjunction or just the parents in some instances to create a better outcome for the family unit. For families in California, I would be working solely through telehealth.
Is your child experiencing difficulty at school, preschool, or in day to day life? Are you a parent that is experiencing stress due to child issues? I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Virginia and California, as well as a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor who can assist you and your child create a sense of calm in the current storm. While I primarily work with children, I feel that it is equally important to work with parents in conjunction or just the parents in some instances to create a better outcome for the family unit. For families in California, I would be working solely through telehealth.
(757) 208-9507 View (757) 208-9507
Photo of Steven Turner, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Steven Turner
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
I am dedicated to understanding the human experience and helping individuals achieve positive life changes. I believe in the inherent strength of emotions and view them as opportunities for self-exploration and growth. My approach is rooted in compassion, empathy, and meeting individuals where they are on their journey. I strive to create a safe space where clients can explore their feelings, traumas, and challenges without judgment. I employ positive interventions and practices to individuals with a variety of mental and behavioral health diagnosis to support healing and behavioral change.
I am dedicated to understanding the human experience and helping individuals achieve positive life changes. I believe in the inherent strength of emotions and view them as opportunities for self-exploration and growth. My approach is rooted in compassion, empathy, and meeting individuals where they are on their journey. I strive to create a safe space where clients can explore their feelings, traumas, and challenges without judgment. I employ positive interventions and practices to individuals with a variety of mental and behavioral health diagnosis to support healing and behavioral change.
(757) 863-2595 View (757) 863-2595
Photo of Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Taylor Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Hi, I’m Taylor! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker passionate about walking alongside others through life’s toughest seasons. I’ve worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings, helping people navigate anxiety, depression, PTSD, schizophrenia, and major life changes. I earned my BSW from James Madison University (Go DUKES!) and my MSW from George Mason University. I believe healing is a collaborative process rooted in empathy, care, and grace. As a social worker, I view every individual as inherently worthy—and I hope that through our work together, you’ll begin to feel that truth in yourself too.
Hi, I’m Taylor! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker passionate about walking alongside others through life’s toughest seasons. I’ve worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings, helping people navigate anxiety, depression, PTSD, schizophrenia, and major life changes. I earned my BSW from James Madison University (Go DUKES!) and my MSW from George Mason University. I believe healing is a collaborative process rooted in empathy, care, and grace. As a social worker, I view every individual as inherently worthy—and I hope that through our work together, you’ll begin to feel that truth in yourself too.
(757) 936-4456 View (757) 936-4456
Photo of Eeremene Piaro, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Eeremene Piaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Hello! I'm a licensed professional therapist with four years of experience specializing in outpatient counseling. My practice encompasses working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with various challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ issues, life stage transition difficulties, and other mental health disorders. Taking the initiative to pursue a more fulfilling and happier life requires courage, and I commend you for taking that first step towards change. I'm here to provide you with the support and empowerment you need on your journey.
Hello! I'm a licensed professional therapist with four years of experience specializing in outpatient counseling. My practice encompasses working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with various challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ issues, life stage transition difficulties, and other mental health disorders. Taking the initiative to pursue a more fulfilling and happier life requires courage, and I commend you for taking that first step towards change. I'm here to provide you with the support and empowerment you need on your journey.
(757) 844-5723 x1 View (757) 844-5723 x1
Photo of Laura Dabney, Psychologist, MD
Laura Dabney
Psychologist, MD
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Dr. Dabney and her team specialize in relationship problems, which includes their aftermath, and we would love to support you in working through them so you can achieve the relationships you desire and deserve! Relationship problems can cover many areas, including: relationship red flags, dating after divorce, infidelity, parent-child strain, blended family issues, relationship strain due to substance or porn abuse and difficulty leaving toxic relationships. Relationship problems can overpower even the most successful people, filling us with embarrassment and shame.
Dr. Dabney and her team specialize in relationship problems, which includes their aftermath, and we would love to support you in working through them so you can achieve the relationships you desire and deserve! Relationship problems can cover many areas, including: relationship red flags, dating after divorce, infidelity, parent-child strain, blended family issues, relationship strain due to substance or porn abuse and difficulty leaving toxic relationships. Relationship problems can overpower even the most successful people, filling us with embarrassment and shame.
(757) 693-4609 View (757) 693-4609
Photo of Kyra Watkins, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd
Kyra Watkins
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd
2 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
At some point in our lives, most of us will experience feeling that no one sees or understands who we truly are. Isolation and loneliness are strangers to no one, but they are experiences that do impact marginalized communities disproportionately. I enjoy working with individuals with a variety of presenting concerns but am most passionate about supporting individuals navigating stressors associated with Autism/ADHD/Neurodivergence(especially diagnoses later in life), multicultural identities, LGBTQ+ individuals, as well as people who have experienced trauma over their lifespan.
At some point in our lives, most of us will experience feeling that no one sees or understands who we truly are. Isolation and loneliness are strangers to no one, but they are experiences that do impact marginalized communities disproportionately. I enjoy working with individuals with a variety of presenting concerns but am most passionate about supporting individuals navigating stressors associated with Autism/ADHD/Neurodivergence(especially diagnoses later in life), multicultural identities, LGBTQ+ individuals, as well as people who have experienced trauma over their lifespan.
(757) 551-9556 View (757) 551-9556
Photo of Stephanie Gagnon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Stephanie Gagnon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
I'm Stephanie Gagnon, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with three decades of experience. Throughout my career, I've focused on providing outpatient therapy to individuals and couples grappling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. In the face of significant life stressors, it's natural for one's life to feel disrupted. My dedication lies in restoring healing and joy to their lives. My counseling approach is integrative, meaning I adapt the therapeutic journey to suit each individual's unique needs.
I'm Stephanie Gagnon, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with three decades of experience. Throughout my career, I've focused on providing outpatient therapy to individuals and couples grappling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. In the face of significant life stressors, it's natural for one's life to feel disrupted. My dedication lies in restoring healing and joy to their lives. My counseling approach is integrative, meaning I adapt the therapeutic journey to suit each individual's unique needs.
(757) 210-9668 x1 View (757) 210-9668 x1
Photo of Marsha Cox, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Marsha Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Overthinking everything? Losing sleep to “what ifs”? You deserve more peace and less pressure. Therapy is a space to breathe, unpack, and grow without judgment. Let’s start wherever you are. Hello, I'm Marsha. I hold degrees in Psychology from both UVA and Virginia Tech, and I've dedicated several years to the mental healthcare field in Virginia. I find fulfillment in equipping my clients with tools, strategies, and coping skills to swiftly and effectively achieve their therapy objectives. .
Overthinking everything? Losing sleep to “what ifs”? You deserve more peace and less pressure. Therapy is a space to breathe, unpack, and grow without judgment. Let’s start wherever you are. Hello, I'm Marsha. I hold degrees in Psychology from both UVA and Virginia Tech, and I've dedicated several years to the mental healthcare field in Virginia. I find fulfillment in equipping my clients with tools, strategies, and coping skills to swiftly and effectively achieve their therapy objectives. .
(757) 993-4586 View (757) 993-4586
Photo of Karla Drake, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Karla Drake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
The people I work with have had a variety of negative life experiences with ONE thing in common. It still bothers them days, months or even years since it happened. I help people who feel like "I should be over this by now" and are tired of feeling overwhelmed by the images, feelings and sensations that come up unexpectedly day or night. The people I work with often say "I just want to stop thinking about it". They often feel shame because they feel something is wrong with them because they can't "get over it".
The people I work with have had a variety of negative life experiences with ONE thing in common. It still bothers them days, months or even years since it happened. I help people who feel like "I should be over this by now" and are tired of feeling overwhelmed by the images, feelings and sensations that come up unexpectedly day or night. The people I work with often say "I just want to stop thinking about it". They often feel shame because they feel something is wrong with them because they can't "get over it".
(757) 716-8972 View (757) 716-8972
Photo of Laura K Hitchcock, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NBCC
Laura K Hitchcock
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NBCC
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Not accepting new clients
I am an LPC, NBCC & Board Approved Clinical Supervisor with the state of Virginia. I specialize in Gottman Method couples counseling and clinical supervision. I have extensive experience working with military issues, divorce/separation/coparenting issues, anxiety/depression, gender/sexuality issues. I have facilitated mindfulness practices extensively and offer introductions to meditation sessions. Begin your journey towards mental health, happiness, and well-being. Share your concerns, fears, personal/professional needs in a warm comforting environment with a caring individual focused on you.
I am an LPC, NBCC & Board Approved Clinical Supervisor with the state of Virginia. I specialize in Gottman Method couples counseling and clinical supervision. I have extensive experience working with military issues, divorce/separation/coparenting issues, anxiety/depression, gender/sexuality issues. I have facilitated mindfulness practices extensively and offer introductions to meditation sessions. Begin your journey towards mental health, happiness, and well-being. Share your concerns, fears, personal/professional needs in a warm comforting environment with a caring individual focused on you.
(757) 904-1002 View (757) 904-1002
Photo of Nicole Gibbs - Hope Psychotherapy Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hope Psychotherapy Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
During this time of uncertainty and worry, we may struggle with managing our emotions. If you are struggling, you do not have to do it alone. Therapy is a place to explore what in your life needs attention and support. Together, we will work through and explore concerns & symptoms and determine what strategies will best enhance your life.
During this time of uncertainty and worry, we may struggle with managing our emotions. If you are struggling, you do not have to do it alone. Therapy is a place to explore what in your life needs attention and support. Together, we will work through and explore concerns & symptoms and determine what strategies will best enhance your life.
(757) 695-9294 View (757) 695-9294
Photo of Gabrielle Oblena, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Gabrielle Oblena
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Hello there! I'm Gabby Oblena, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and a National Certified Counselor. Should you choose to embark on this journey with me, my aim is to empower you with the ability to embrace vulnerability, discover your resilience, foster healthier relationships with both yourself and others, and untangle any complexities you may be facing. You are in control of your voyage, and I am here to serve as your navigator, meeting you at your current point and collaborating towards achieving your desired outcomes.
Hello there! I'm Gabby Oblena, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and a National Certified Counselor. Should you choose to embark on this journey with me, my aim is to empower you with the ability to embrace vulnerability, discover your resilience, foster healthier relationships with both yourself and others, and untangle any complexities you may be facing. You are in control of your voyage, and I am here to serve as your navigator, meeting you at your current point and collaborating towards achieving your desired outcomes.
(757) 919-3447 x1 View (757) 919-3447 x1

See more therapy options for 23462

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 23462

300+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in 23462 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
88% Depression
76% Coping Skills
75% Self Esteem
75% Stress
70% Trauma and PTSD
66% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
86% BlueCross and BlueShield
86% Anthem

How Therapists in 23462 see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

88% Female
11% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 23462?

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.