Therapists in 28630

Photo of Meghan Johnston, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Meghan Johnston
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
1 Endorsed
Granite Falls, NC 28630
Feeling anxious, stuck in familiar relationship patterns, or weighed down by past experiences? You don’t have to figure it out on your own. Therapy can be a space to slow down, feel supported, and begin healing at your own pace. I work with anxiety, trauma, and relationship concerns using a compassionate, trauma-informed approach. Drawing from brainspotting, mindfulness, and attachment-based therapy, we focus on what both your mind and body are holding onto. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, connected, and confident in your relationship with yourself and with others. Currently going through EMDR training.
Feeling anxious, stuck in familiar relationship patterns, or weighed down by past experiences? You don’t have to figure it out on your own. Therapy can be a space to slow down, feel supported, and begin healing at your own pace. I work with anxiety, trauma, and relationship concerns using a compassionate, trauma-informed approach. Drawing from brainspotting, mindfulness, and attachment-based therapy, we focus on what both your mind and body are holding onto. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, connected, and confident in your relationship with yourself and with others. Currently going through EMDR training.
(828) 888-0525 View (828) 888-0525
Photo of Stephanie L. Holmes, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, EdS, NCC, LCMHC
Stephanie L. Holmes
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, EdS, NCC, LCMHC
2 Endorsed
Granite Falls, NC 28630
I provide support for individuals and couples facing mental, emotional and spiritual challenges that interfere with their daily lives. My expertise includes addressing concerns such as OCD, trauma and PTSD, perfectionism, grief, parenting, marital and premarital issues, career and professional development, as well as managing significant life transitions. I see therapy as a space for individuals to build self-awareness and work through the complexities of their relationships.
I provide support for individuals and couples facing mental, emotional and spiritual challenges that interfere with their daily lives. My expertise includes addressing concerns such as OCD, trauma and PTSD, perfectionism, grief, parenting, marital and premarital issues, career and professional development, as well as managing significant life transitions. I see therapy as a space for individuals to build self-awareness and work through the complexities of their relationships.
(828) 662-9441 View (828) 662-9441
Photo of Jacqueline Martinez - Riverstone Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Riverstone Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
At Riverstone Counseling, PLLC, we support individuals who’ve lived through trauma or high-stress experiences, whether shaped by military service, first response, healthcare, caregiving, or the everyday complexities of life. Our clients may be veterans or civilians navigating grief, workplace trauma, chronic stress, anxiety, or depression. What they seek is a space where their stories are honored, their healing is prioritized, and their resilience is truly seen.
At Riverstone Counseling, PLLC, we support individuals who’ve lived through trauma or high-stress experiences, whether shaped by military service, first response, healthcare, caregiving, or the everyday complexities of life. Our clients may be veterans or civilians navigating grief, workplace trauma, chronic stress, anxiety, or depression. What they seek is a space where their stories are honored, their healing is prioritized, and their resilience is truly seen.
(828) 610-8921 View (828) 610-8921
Photo of Abigail Shook, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA
Abigail Shook
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a therapist, I am passionate about supporting teens and young adults navigating life's challenges and transitions. I work with clients experiencing a wide range of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, heightened stress, and relational conflict. In our work together, I encourage openness and active engagement so clients can fully benefit from the therapeutic process. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where individuals feel comfortable exploring their emotions, reflecting on past experiences, and engaging in meaningful self-discovery.
As a therapist, I am passionate about supporting teens and young adults navigating life's challenges and transitions. I work with clients experiencing a wide range of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, heightened stress, and relational conflict. In our work together, I encourage openness and active engagement so clients can fully benefit from the therapeutic process. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where individuals feel comfortable exploring their emotions, reflecting on past experiences, and engaging in meaningful self-discovery.
(828) 818-8455 View (828) 818-8455
Photo of Patricia Bryant-Renfro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, LCAS-A
Patricia Bryant-Renfro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, LCAS-A
Serves Area
I am a therapist and clinical director for Heart of Peace Counseling PLLC in Hickory, NC. I am committed to supporting individuals of all ages as they navigate the complexities of life who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, separation, or adjustments related to life challenges. I specialize in helping individuals heal from PTSD caused by traumatic experiences, such as abuse, neglect, domestic or community violence, natural disasters, injuries, or challenges faced by veterans. My goal is to empower clients to set meaningful goals, embrace change, find peace, and ultimately create a life filled with hope and resilience.
I am a therapist and clinical director for Heart of Peace Counseling PLLC in Hickory, NC. I am committed to supporting individuals of all ages as they navigate the complexities of life who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, separation, or adjustments related to life challenges. I specialize in helping individuals heal from PTSD caused by traumatic experiences, such as abuse, neglect, domestic or community violence, natural disasters, injuries, or challenges faced by veterans. My goal is to empower clients to set meaningful goals, embrace change, find peace, and ultimately create a life filled with hope and resilience.
(828) 471-9801 View (828) 471-9801
Photo of Donavon Kirby, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Donavon Kirby
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Online Only
Hi, I'm Donavon. I am a counselor with almost 20 years of experience. Some words that folks have used to describe me are encouraging, supportive, compassionate, and understanding. One of the things I feel I am especially good at is helping people find the connections to the origins of their problems. Do I spend days or weeks having you relive the past? No. But, being able to understand how your problems or negative coping strategies of today developed, is an important step in doing things better in the present.
Hi, I'm Donavon. I am a counselor with almost 20 years of experience. Some words that folks have used to describe me are encouraging, supportive, compassionate, and understanding. One of the things I feel I am especially good at is helping people find the connections to the origins of their problems. Do I spend days or weeks having you relive the past? No. But, being able to understand how your problems or negative coping strategies of today developed, is an important step in doing things better in the present.
(704) 459-4126 View (704) 459-4126
Photo of Amy Eades Fisher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amy Eades Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Accepting only Telehealth patients in North Carolina and West Virginia. I have been working in the social work field for over 25 years and have focused in healthcare and crisis settings. I am hoping to connect with others who want to explore trauma and grief, anxiety and depression, however that may look for them. As a therapist, I am here to listen and to help you problem solve, find solutions and be the best you that you can possibly be! Because you are unique and valuable! I believe in you! Take the first step today...
Accepting only Telehealth patients in North Carolina and West Virginia. I have been working in the social work field for over 25 years and have focused in healthcare and crisis settings. I am hoping to connect with others who want to explore trauma and grief, anxiety and depression, however that may look for them. As a therapist, I am here to listen and to help you problem solve, find solutions and be the best you that you can possibly be! Because you are unique and valuable! I believe in you! Take the first step today...
(828) 518-1772 View (828) 518-1772
Photo of Amy Eades Fisher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Amy Eades Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Online Only
Accepting only Telehealth patients in North Carolina and West Virginia. I have been working in the social work field for over 25 years and have focused in healthcare and crisis settings. I am hoping to connect with others who want to explore trauma and grief, anxiety and depression, however that may look for them.
Accepting only Telehealth patients in North Carolina and West Virginia. I have been working in the social work field for over 25 years and have focused in healthcare and crisis settings. I am hoping to connect with others who want to explore trauma and grief, anxiety and depression, however that may look for them.
(828) 202-8360 View (828) 202-8360
Photo of Cameron Short, Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Cameron Short
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
4 Endorsed
Granite Falls, NC 28630
Not accepting new clients
Hi, I'm Cameron Short - therapist and founder of Oak & Echo Counseling, PLLC. I'm so glad you're here! My ideal client is a deep thinker who often feels overwhelmed by emotion, unsure of their path, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. They may be grieving, navigating trauma, exploring their identity, or longing for more ease in their relationships. They want to feel understood, grounded, and connected—to themselves and others. They seek clarity, self-trust, and healing, and are open to a collaborative process that blends insight, embodiment, and compassionate self-inquiry.
Hi, I'm Cameron Short - therapist and founder of Oak & Echo Counseling, PLLC. I'm so glad you're here! My ideal client is a deep thinker who often feels overwhelmed by emotion, unsure of their path, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. They may be grieving, navigating trauma, exploring their identity, or longing for more ease in their relationships. They want to feel understood, grounded, and connected—to themselves and others. They seek clarity, self-trust, and healing, and are open to a collaborative process that blends insight, embodiment, and compassionate self-inquiry.
(828) 761-0566 View (828) 761-0566
Photo of Carla Rob Robinson, Pre-Licensed Professional
Carla Rob Robinson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I am a Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) student at Lenoir-Rhyne University working as a CMHC Intern The Brain Spot, PLLC under the supervision of Kenneth Doyle, LCHMC, NCC and a faculty supervisor from LRU. I already passed both exams required in the state of North Carolina to earn licensure as a CMHC after graduation in August 2026 with a Master of Arts in counseling.
I am a Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) student at Lenoir-Rhyne University working as a CMHC Intern The Brain Spot, PLLC under the supervision of Kenneth Doyle, LCHMC, NCC and a faculty supervisor from LRU. I already passed both exams required in the state of North Carolina to earn licensure as a CMHC after graduation in August 2026 with a Master of Arts in counseling.
(828) 532-2321 View (828) 532-2321

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kyle Flannelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kyle Flannelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I have a passion for adulthood and aging, LGBTQ issues, and anxiety disorders. I welcome any client 16+ who is interested in therapy...for any reason. I am very client-centered in that I encourage every session to be a dialogue, and your goals are my goals.
I have a passion for adulthood and aging, LGBTQ issues, and anxiety disorders. I welcome any client 16+ who is interested in therapy...for any reason. I am very client-centered in that I encourage every session to be a dialogue, and your goals are my goals.
(919) 277-0253 View (919) 277-0253
Photo of Bettie McKemie Hill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bettie McKemie Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
I love working with people who are taking steps to better understand themselves and how they relate to the world around them. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, family conflict, life transitions, academic struggles, college milestones, work-life balance and relationships with specialties in narcissism and adult children of emotionally immature parents. I love working with folks to support empathy building in family relationships.
I love working with people who are taking steps to better understand themselves and how they relate to the world around them. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, family conflict, life transitions, academic struggles, college milestones, work-life balance and relationships with specialties in narcissism and adult children of emotionally immature parents. I love working with folks to support empathy building in family relationships.
(828) 332-5489 View (828) 332-5489
Photo of Mekayla Boswell, Counselor, LCMHC
Mekayla Boswell
Counselor, LCMHC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you navigating the unique challenges of ADHD or Autism? I'm Mekayla, a dedicated Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with experience in supporting neurodivergent individuals, and I’m currently accepting new clients through Telehealth! I believe in creating a space where neurodivergent folks can feel seen, understood, and empowered to thrive. Whether you're looking for strategies to manage ADHD, explore how to better meet your needs as an autistic individual, or simply need a safe space to express yourself – I'm here to help and I want to meet you!
Are you navigating the unique challenges of ADHD or Autism? I'm Mekayla, a dedicated Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with experience in supporting neurodivergent individuals, and I’m currently accepting new clients through Telehealth! I believe in creating a space where neurodivergent folks can feel seen, understood, and empowered to thrive. Whether you're looking for strategies to manage ADHD, explore how to better meet your needs as an autistic individual, or simply need a safe space to express yourself – I'm here to help and I want to meet you!
(919) 373-6508 View (919) 373-6508
Photo of Elizabeth Vaughan, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Elizabeth Vaughan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Serves Area
Elizabeth Vaughan holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish from Messiah College. Once her three children were grown, she furthered her education by obtaining a Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Elizabeth is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who enjoys working with children, young adults and women and has previous work experience as a high school Spanish Teacher and a Homeschooling mom as well as 20 years of combined experience as a Children's Ministry Leader and Youth Pastor.
Elizabeth Vaughan holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish from Messiah College. Once her three children were grown, she furthered her education by obtaining a Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Elizabeth is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who enjoys working with children, young adults and women and has previous work experience as a high school Spanish Teacher and a Homeschooling mom as well as 20 years of combined experience as a Children's Ministry Leader and Youth Pastor.
(704) 859-0662 View (704) 859-0662
Photo of Alisha Hall, Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Alisha Hall
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You may feel stuck in cycles you promised yourself would end; substance use, anxiety, depression or patterns that keep showing up despite your best efforts. If that’s where you are, you’re not broken, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. I work with individuals seeking recovery from substance use and those facing the mental and emotional challenges that often come alongside it, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and major life transitions. I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where we can explore underlying issues, strengthen healthier coping skills, and build a path toward meaningful, lasting change.
You may feel stuck in cycles you promised yourself would end; substance use, anxiety, depression or patterns that keep showing up despite your best efforts. If that’s where you are, you’re not broken, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. I work with individuals seeking recovery from substance use and those facing the mental and emotional challenges that often come alongside it, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and major life transitions. I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where we can explore underlying issues, strengthen healthier coping skills, and build a path toward meaningful, lasting change.
(704) 237-6632 View (704) 237-6632
Photo of Liza M. Shaw, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ACHT
Liza M. Shaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ACHT
1 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28601
When working with me, you'll experience a gentle yet assertive advocate to help transform your life! I have a kind yet directive approach and am not a passive therapist who just nods and asks you "how does this make you feel?" I will actively partner with you to help explore the issues you bring to therapy, and I'm determined to assist clients in finding solutions! I consider the therapeutic relationship to be an important factor in creating a healthy and safe environment inside of which CHANGE can occur. I offer free 30 minute consults in-person or via HIPAA compliant Zoom. Let's get started in creating the life you really want!
When working with me, you'll experience a gentle yet assertive advocate to help transform your life! I have a kind yet directive approach and am not a passive therapist who just nods and asks you "how does this make you feel?" I will actively partner with you to help explore the issues you bring to therapy, and I'm determined to assist clients in finding solutions! I consider the therapeutic relationship to be an important factor in creating a healthy and safe environment inside of which CHANGE can occur. I offer free 30 minute consults in-person or via HIPAA compliant Zoom. Let's get started in creating the life you really want!
(828) 202-3074 View (828) 202-3074
Photo of Chelsea McCracking - Teen Health Connection, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCSW
Teen Health Connection
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCSW
Serves Area
At Teen Health Connection, we empower every adolescent to be healthy, safe, and successful. Our team of 12 therapists specialize in working with adolescents and their families and use evidence-based practices to treat a variety of mental health disorders. Some of our specialties include anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQ+, and disordered eating. For more information about our therapists, please visit our website at TeenHealthConnection.org/Behavioral-Health/.
At Teen Health Connection, we empower every adolescent to be healthy, safe, and successful. Our team of 12 therapists specialize in working with adolescents and their families and use evidence-based practices to treat a variety of mental health disorders. Some of our specialties include anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQ+, and disordered eating. For more information about our therapists, please visit our website at TeenHealthConnection.org/Behavioral-Health/.
(704) 381-8379 View (704) 381-8379
Photo of John L Padgett - Living Hope Ministries, MA
Living Hope Ministries
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
Young man who is seeking a relationship with a young lady but having a hard time knowing how to pursue her and connect with her. We discuss what makes it hard for him to relate with a female. Then talk about how he sees himself and what his thoughts are about himself and the conclusions he has made. We work on learning to capture all those negatives thoughts and replace them with positive thoughts and the reality and truth about his life. Learn how to start a conversation with the opposite sex and develop better interpersonal skills as a young adult. Also, learn how to develop more self confidence, being assertive and decisive.
Young man who is seeking a relationship with a young lady but having a hard time knowing how to pursue her and connect with her. We discuss what makes it hard for him to relate with a female. Then talk about how he sees himself and what his thoughts are about himself and the conclusions he has made. We work on learning to capture all those negatives thoughts and replace them with positive thoughts and the reality and truth about his life. Learn how to start a conversation with the opposite sex and develop better interpersonal skills as a young adult. Also, learn how to develop more self confidence, being assertive and decisive.
(828) 457-8795 View (828) 457-8795
Photo of Lenni M Travis, Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Lenni M Travis
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Morganton, NC 28655
As a therapist, I believe that the cornerstone of effective therapy lies in meeting clients where they are in their journey, fostering a space of empathy and understanding. Being grounded in the principles of positive psychology, I focus on identifying and amplifying your inherent strengths, enabling my clients to build resilience and navigate challenges with confidence. As a Clinician, I work to establish rapport, create a safe and trusting environment where my clients feel heard, accepted, and empowered to explore their thoughts and feelings.
As a therapist, I believe that the cornerstone of effective therapy lies in meeting clients where they are in their journey, fostering a space of empathy and understanding. Being grounded in the principles of positive psychology, I focus on identifying and amplifying your inherent strengths, enabling my clients to build resilience and navigate challenges with confidence. As a Clinician, I work to establish rapport, create a safe and trusting environment where my clients feel heard, accepted, and empowered to explore their thoughts and feelings.
(828) 439-0836 View (828) 439-0836
Photo of Nichole C Lentz - New Arrows Counseling, PLLC , Counselor, LCMHC
New Arrows Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, LCMHC
1 Endorsed
Statesville, NC 28625
At New Arrows Counseling, PLLC we work with children, teens, and adults that are struggling with any of the challenges that life throws our way. Our therapist, Nichole Lentz, specializes in dealing with anxiety, depression, and parenting skills as well postpartum and perinatal issues. We also provide Life Coach services for those individuals who are needing help and support in reaching their goals in personal growth, relationships, work, diet/exercise, or organizational skills.
At New Arrows Counseling, PLLC we work with children, teens, and adults that are struggling with any of the challenges that life throws our way. Our therapist, Nichole Lentz, specializes in dealing with anxiety, depression, and parenting skills as well postpartum and perinatal issues. We also provide Life Coach services for those individuals who are needing help and support in reaching their goals in personal growth, relationships, work, diet/exercise, or organizational skills.
(704) 981-9778 View (704) 981-9778

See more therapy options for 28630

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 28630

10+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in 28630 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
90% Anxiety
90% Grief
90% Trauma and PTSD
60% Relationship Issues
60% Women's Issues
50% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
89% Cigna and Evernorth
78% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 28630 see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
13% Male
12% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 28630?

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.