Therapists in Winston Salem, NC

Photo of Donna P. Dunlap, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Donna P. Dunlap
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
You've just taken the first step in a journey to the New Life you deserve. The thought of finding a counselor you trust, feel safe and comfortable with can be a little scary, but so is the alternative: living with frustration, pain, fear and confusion...with no end in sight. I'm always amazed at the courage of my clients as they move from a painful existence to one of hope & joy and with confidence that they have the tools needed to create the life they want. Don't wait another day. Your New Life is waiting!
You've just taken the first step in a journey to the New Life you deserve. The thought of finding a counselor you trust, feel safe and comfortable with can be a little scary, but so is the alternative: living with frustration, pain, fear and confusion...with no end in sight. I'm always amazed at the courage of my clients as they move from a painful existence to one of hope & joy and with confidence that they have the tools needed to create the life they want. Don't wait another day. Your New Life is waiting!
(336) 447-7610 View (336) 447-7610
Photo of Peggy Haymes, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Peggy Haymes
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MDiv, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
You keep thinking that one day it will be better. One day your grief won't be so hard. One day you'll stop calling yourself such awful names that you'd never dream of saying to anyone else. One day your anxiety won't make anything and everything harder. One day you might discover who you want to be when you grow up. Here's the thing: time doesn't heal all wounds. It's what we do with that time. Aren't you ready for something different? What healing and change looks like is different for everyone. Why not see what it could look like for you? (Please note that as of 1/1/24 I am not able to see clients who have Medicare.)
You keep thinking that one day it will be better. One day your grief won't be so hard. One day you'll stop calling yourself such awful names that you'd never dream of saying to anyone else. One day your anxiety won't make anything and everything harder. One day you might discover who you want to be when you grow up. Here's the thing: time doesn't heal all wounds. It's what we do with that time. Aren't you ready for something different? What healing and change looks like is different for everyone. Why not see what it could look like for you? (Please note that as of 1/1/24 I am not able to see clients who have Medicare.)
(336) 554-7428 View (336) 554-7428
Photo of Tonjia Kiara Armstrong, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Tonjia Kiara Armstrong
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
Today is your day to make the decision to be a better you! Are you just existing and not living? Do you feel like something is missing? Do you feel like you are free falling? Is there an elephant in the room that you have not addressed? Are you losing a battle with your mind everyday? Do you feel stuck? Allow me to help guide you through these things. Just know that you are not alone and even the toughest warriors need strategy to fight through the war. Together, we can face these battles and find victory in blooming into the person you are meant to be.
Today is your day to make the decision to be a better you! Are you just existing and not living? Do you feel like something is missing? Do you feel like you are free falling? Is there an elephant in the room that you have not addressed? Are you losing a battle with your mind everyday? Do you feel stuck? Allow me to help guide you through these things. Just know that you are not alone and even the toughest warriors need strategy to fight through the war. Together, we can face these battles and find victory in blooming into the person you are meant to be.
(336) 585-8653 View (336) 585-8653
Photo of Catia Gittard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Catia Gittard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, complex trauma, anger management, grief, life transitions, marital issues, parent coaching, performance issues, sleep issues, and more.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, complex trauma, anger management, grief, life transitions, marital issues, parent coaching, performance issues, sleep issues, and more.
(336) 438-2696 View (336) 438-2696
Photo of Emily Wroblewski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Emily Wroblewski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27127  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Your current situation does not define you! Whether you have experienced trauma, a major life change, or want to improve your overall mental health, change is possible and therapy is for you! Speaking your mind in an empathetic, judgement free zone is beneficial and a powerful tool for change. I strive to provide a safe space to explore issues such as anxiety, anger, depression, low self esteem, and much more. I believe this journey looks different for everyone, and using interventions based on the principles of DBT, strengths perspective, CBT, mindfulness, psychoeducation and ACT, we will find the tools that work best for you!
Your current situation does not define you! Whether you have experienced trauma, a major life change, or want to improve your overall mental health, change is possible and therapy is for you! Speaking your mind in an empathetic, judgement free zone is beneficial and a powerful tool for change. I strive to provide a safe space to explore issues such as anxiety, anger, depression, low self esteem, and much more. I believe this journey looks different for everyone, and using interventions based on the principles of DBT, strengths perspective, CBT, mindfulness, psychoeducation and ACT, we will find the tools that work best for you!
(336) 933-9344 View (336) 933-9344
Photo of Mary Catherine Grant, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Mary Catherine Grant
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
I currently work with adolescents, young adults, and mature adults using a trauma-informed approach to address challenges surrounding interpersonal relationships, mood disorders, substance use, and life transitions. I provide comprehensive counseling services that not only address presenting concerns, but also explore potential barriers to recovery and wellness in each life domain. In addition to individual sessions, I often provide ongoing coordination with various stakeholders in clients' lives such as medical providers, community supports, family, and attorneys.
I currently work with adolescents, young adults, and mature adults using a trauma-informed approach to address challenges surrounding interpersonal relationships, mood disorders, substance use, and life transitions. I provide comprehensive counseling services that not only address presenting concerns, but also explore potential barriers to recovery and wellness in each life domain. In addition to individual sessions, I often provide ongoing coordination with various stakeholders in clients' lives such as medical providers, community supports, family, and attorneys.
(336) 804-8386 View (336) 804-8386
Photo of Salem Counseling & Consulting KAP in Winston Salem, NC
Salem Counseling & Consulting KAP
LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Now accepting new clients for Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) . KAP can bring relief from trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, & OCD. Effects post-treatment with KAP can include reduced depression & anxiety, an increased feeling of connectedness, and reduction in stress responses that often trigger mental and emotional discomfort. KAP is shown to reduce the frequency of treatments and create longer lasting effects by taking advantage of the neural plasticity induced by ketamine to create a canvas for change and relief. Here at Salem, we are proud to offer KAP for patients of Restorting Wellness Solutions in Winston-Salem
Now accepting new clients for Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) . KAP can bring relief from trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, & OCD. Effects post-treatment with KAP can include reduced depression & anxiety, an increased feeling of connectedness, and reduction in stress responses that often trigger mental and emotional discomfort. KAP is shown to reduce the frequency of treatments and create longer lasting effects by taking advantage of the neural plasticity induced by ketamine to create a canvas for change and relief. Here at Salem, we are proud to offer KAP for patients of Restorting Wellness Solutions in Winston-Salem
(980) 268-2745 View (980) 268-2745
Photo of Ashley Rabon, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Ashley Rabon
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
It can be intimidating to trust someone with the pain, heartache, and uncertainty in your life. My hope is for counseling to be a place that feels safe enough for you to grow in the ability to trust and feel safe in your body. I want you to find a place where you can be seen, heard, and have your story held with dignity and honor. Whether that is with me or another therapist, I hope you can find someone to walk alongside you as you rest, grow in strength, and face the challenges in your life.
It can be intimidating to trust someone with the pain, heartache, and uncertainty in your life. My hope is for counseling to be a place that feels safe enough for you to grow in the ability to trust and feel safe in your body. I want you to find a place where you can be seen, heard, and have your story held with dignity and honor. Whether that is with me or another therapist, I hope you can find someone to walk alongside you as you rest, grow in strength, and face the challenges in your life.
(336) 866-0876 View (336) 866-0876
Photo of Harry Lerner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Harry Lerner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, QS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101  (Online Only)
As a family systems therapist, I believe that individuals are best understood within the context of relationships and through the assessment of our various daily interactions. I specialize in child, adolescent, and adult psychotherapy, which depending on the need, may include couples, whole families, or just an individual. Specifically, much of my practice focuses on relationship stress, family issues, couple/marital satisfaction, communication skills, anxiety/depression, child/adolescent disorders and behaviors, and parenting success. (Please visit our website for more detail about our clinicians and specialties)
As a family systems therapist, I believe that individuals are best understood within the context of relationships and through the assessment of our various daily interactions. I specialize in child, adolescent, and adult psychotherapy, which depending on the need, may include couples, whole families, or just an individual. Specifically, much of my practice focuses on relationship stress, family issues, couple/marital satisfaction, communication skills, anxiety/depression, child/adolescent disorders and behaviors, and parenting success. (Please visit our website for more detail about our clinicians and specialties)
(336) 750-6615 View (336) 750-6615
Photo of Liz Wagner Mecham, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Liz Wagner Mecham
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106  (Online Only)
We are all not OK all of the time. We struggle. We all struggle, whether with mental illness or adjusting to the concerns of everyday life. Could you benefit from having someone help you sort out those issues? I approach counseling from a Person Centered perspective which means my foundation is in being genuine, regarding each client as valuable and trying to understand their view. With couples I take this foundation and focus on attachment, or our need for emotional bonding.
We are all not OK all of the time. We struggle. We all struggle, whether with mental illness or adjusting to the concerns of everyday life. Could you benefit from having someone help you sort out those issues? I approach counseling from a Person Centered perspective which means my foundation is in being genuine, regarding each client as valuable and trying to understand their view. With couples I take this foundation and focus on attachment, or our need for emotional bonding.
(919) 624-5274 View (919) 624-5274
Photo of Intentionally Transformed, Pastoral Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Intentionally Transformed
Pastoral Counselor, MA, CLC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
I suffered the loss of two of my children and my heart was broken. I needed help. Have you suffered a loss and need to share with someone how you feel or maybe you don't really know how you feel? Let's talk! Many people suffer with challenges from life experiences such as death, loss, mental health, finances, careers, marriage and family. As a Christian Counselor and Life Coach, I will work collaboratively with you to integrate all aspects of the human experience - mind. body and spirit. Our time of sharing may include learning the art of thoughtful conflict and how to intentionally transform your life.
I suffered the loss of two of my children and my heart was broken. I needed help. Have you suffered a loss and need to share with someone how you feel or maybe you don't really know how you feel? Let's talk! Many people suffer with challenges from life experiences such as death, loss, mental health, finances, careers, marriage and family. As a Christian Counselor and Life Coach, I will work collaboratively with you to integrate all aspects of the human experience - mind. body and spirit. Our time of sharing may include learning the art of thoughtful conflict and how to intentionally transform your life.
(336) 502-5630 View (336) 502-5630
Photo of Jordan Harrold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Jordan Harrold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
Waitlist for new clients
The therapy room is a place that is emotionally safe. It is a space free of judgment. Working with clients who are ready to show up for themselves authentically is a benefit for me being a therapist. No matter how, what or who causes our ‘wounds’, it is our responsibility to be intentional and work towards healing.
The therapy room is a place that is emotionally safe. It is a space free of judgment. Working with clients who are ready to show up for themselves authentically is a benefit for me being a therapist. No matter how, what or who causes our ‘wounds’, it is our responsibility to be intentional and work towards healing.
(336) 536-6307 View (336) 536-6307
Photo of Lindsay Jordan, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Lindsay Jordan
Counselor, MEd , ATRP, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Waitlist for new clients
When working with my client's I understand there is not a one-size-fits all kind of treatment, and try to tailor to my client's needs as much as possible. Ultimately, I want to try to help you help yourself so you can be independent as possible, but have some guidance when it comes to figuring out life challenges so you do not have to face them alone.
When working with my client's I understand there is not a one-size-fits all kind of treatment, and try to tailor to my client's needs as much as possible. Ultimately, I want to try to help you help yourself so you can be independent as possible, but have some guidance when it comes to figuring out life challenges so you do not have to face them alone.
(336) 892-9694 View (336) 892-9694
Photo of Lindsay Ponce, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Winston Salem, NC
Lindsay Ponce
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
First, thank you for being here! Making the decision to attend therapy is a courageous and strong decision you have made and I am absolutely honored to join you on your wellness journey. Whether your goals are to treat a current mental illness, explore yourself and find meaning and joy or find clarity on purpose and well-being in your life, I am absolutely thrilled to join you on that path towards light and healing, whatever that might look like for you; everyone's journey is unique! I love working towards healing looking inward at nervous system regulation as well to help the mind and body find harmony.
First, thank you for being here! Making the decision to attend therapy is a courageous and strong decision you have made and I am absolutely honored to join you on your wellness journey. Whether your goals are to treat a current mental illness, explore yourself and find meaning and joy or find clarity on purpose and well-being in your life, I am absolutely thrilled to join you on that path towards light and healing, whatever that might look like for you; everyone's journey is unique! I love working towards healing looking inward at nervous system regulation as well to help the mind and body find harmony.
(336) 360-0481 View (336) 360-0481
Photo of Victoria Lydon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Victoria Lydon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
We all long for connection and belonging, and positive relationships are essential in helping us live happy, fulfilling lives. Yet old wounds and communication styles often keep us from finding satisfaction in our current relationships, leaving us feeling stuck & disillusioned. Life also has a way of pulling the rug from under our feet at times and we find ourselves feeling lost, broken, and questioning how we reached this point in our story.
We all long for connection and belonging, and positive relationships are essential in helping us live happy, fulfilling lives. Yet old wounds and communication styles often keep us from finding satisfaction in our current relationships, leaving us feeling stuck & disillusioned. Life also has a way of pulling the rug from under our feet at times and we find ourselves feeling lost, broken, and questioning how we reached this point in our story.
(980) 705-9925 View (980) 705-9925
Photo of Adrienne Reich, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Adrienne Reich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
I am a licensed professional counselor as well as a licensed clinical addictions specialist. I have over twenty years of counseling experience conducting individual, family, and couples counseling. I strive to create an atmosphere that feels safe for people to talk openly about their stories and emotions and help people determine what is best for them to help their current situation.
I am a licensed professional counselor as well as a licensed clinical addictions specialist. I have over twenty years of counseling experience conducting individual, family, and couples counseling. I strive to create an atmosphere that feels safe for people to talk openly about their stories and emotions and help people determine what is best for them to help their current situation.
(336) 939-0712 View (336) 939-0712
Photo of Dr. Joshua Ziesel, Psychologist in Winston Salem, NC
Dr. Joshua Ziesel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Waitlist for new clients
It can be frustrating to realize that you are "stuck" but have no idea how to become "unstuck." Whether you are experiencing difficulties in your relationships with others, dealing with overwhelming negative emotions, or wrestling with your own identity, therapy can be an incredibly helpful way to make the changes you need to start feeling better. As your therapist, I will strive to create an environment in which we can explore the parts of your life that are causing difficulty and identify strategies to provide relief and help you thrive.
It can be frustrating to realize that you are "stuck" but have no idea how to become "unstuck." Whether you are experiencing difficulties in your relationships with others, dealing with overwhelming negative emotions, or wrestling with your own identity, therapy can be an incredibly helpful way to make the changes you need to start feeling better. As your therapist, I will strive to create an environment in which we can explore the parts of your life that are causing difficulty and identify strategies to provide relief and help you thrive.
(336) 551-9521 View (336) 551-9521
Photo of Cindy Brown Stiltner, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Cindy Brown Stiltner
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LCAS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103  (Online Only)
Unexpected loss, challenging situations, employment, parenting, illness-all of which can cause significant stress. A single stressful event or series of events could trigger the onset of depression or anxiety at any point in your life, even years after the event(s) have occurred. While we certainly cannot control the challenges life throws our way, we can control what we do about them. We have the right to use those challenges to learn and strengthen ourselves…to become a better version of ourselves.
Unexpected loss, challenging situations, employment, parenting, illness-all of which can cause significant stress. A single stressful event or series of events could trigger the onset of depression or anxiety at any point in your life, even years after the event(s) have occurred. While we certainly cannot control the challenges life throws our way, we can control what we do about them. We have the right to use those challenges to learn and strengthen ourselves…to become a better version of ourselves.
(336) 203-9643 View (336) 203-9643
Photo of Amanda Blackwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Amanda Blackwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Although I welcome the opportunity to work with any person, I specialize in women’s issues, trauma, anxiety, life transitions, parenting and spirituality. I have experience working with adults of all ages. I respect all persons and strive to create a safe and welcoming environment for each individual - regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, nationality, religion, or belief. I believe everyone has the right to pursue happiness and healing, and I would love to work with you and support you in your journey.
Although I welcome the opportunity to work with any person, I specialize in women’s issues, trauma, anxiety, life transitions, parenting and spirituality. I have experience working with adults of all ages. I respect all persons and strive to create a safe and welcoming environment for each individual - regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, nationality, religion, or belief. I believe everyone has the right to pursue happiness and healing, and I would love to work with you and support you in your journey.
(336) 360-6163 View (336) 360-6163
Photo of Elaine Pendergrass, LCSW Associate in Winston Salem, NC
Elaine Pendergrass
LCSW Associate , MSW, LCSWA, PMP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
If you're looking for a hopeful space and a sense of partnership in your therapeutic journey, I am here to walk alongside you. Together, we can discover the path that leads you to a more fulfilling and balanced life. My practice is rooted in the philosophy of offering a 'hand up' rather than a 'handout.' I am committed to empowering you, building upon your strengths, and fostering resilience that sustains you beyond our sessions. My approach is collaborative and focused on taking manageable steps.
If you're looking for a hopeful space and a sense of partnership in your therapeutic journey, I am here to walk alongside you. Together, we can discover the path that leads you to a more fulfilling and balanced life. My practice is rooted in the philosophy of offering a 'hand up' rather than a 'handout.' I am committed to empowering you, building upon your strengths, and fostering resilience that sustains you beyond our sessions. My approach is collaborative and focused on taking manageable steps.
(336) 559-3807 View (336) 559-3807

See more therapy options for Winston Salem

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Winston Salem, NC

500+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Winston Salem, NC who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
89% Depression
77% Self Esteem
73% Coping Skills
73% Stress
72% Relationship Issues
71% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% BlueCross and BlueShield
65% Aetna
48% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Winston Salem, NC see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
19% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Winston Salem?

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.