Therapists in 35126

Photo of Amber Fox, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Amber Fox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you experiencing depression or anxiety? Are you wanting to feel like the best version of yourself? Do you just need someone to talk to? As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am here to help you process life's difficulties and experience your best self. I strive to provide a comfortable, trusting, and nonjudgmental environment where we can discuss your specific needs and goals and work together to improve your quality of life. I offer evening telehealth appointments so you will not have to miss work and can meet with me from the comfort and safety of your own home.
Are you experiencing depression or anxiety? Are you wanting to feel like the best version of yourself? Do you just need someone to talk to? As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am here to help you process life's difficulties and experience your best self. I strive to provide a comfortable, trusting, and nonjudgmental environment where we can discuss your specific needs and goals and work together to improve your quality of life. I offer evening telehealth appointments so you will not have to miss work and can meet with me from the comfort and safety of your own home.
(659) 200-0922 View (659) 200-0922
Photo of Tangie Martin Macon - Willow Grace Wellness Center LLC , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PIP
Willow Grace Wellness Center LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PIP
Serves Area
Are you feeling worried all the time? Are you dealing with a bad relationship? Are you ready to make a change in your life? It takes courage and strength to ask for help, but it can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. Let me help you focus on things you change. In working together we can understand the obstacles that you face and develop practical solutions that can help you gain control over your life.
Are you feeling worried all the time? Are you dealing with a bad relationship? Are you ready to make a change in your life? It takes courage and strength to ask for help, but it can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. Let me help you focus on things you change. In working together we can understand the obstacles that you face and develop practical solutions that can help you gain control over your life.
(205) 293-0786 View (205) 293-0786
Photo of Donna G Marsh, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, RPT-S, NCC
Donna G Marsh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, RPT-S, NCC
Serves Area
I look forward to working with clients who are interested in making changes in their lives so they can grow and feel confident in handling any stressors that come along. I have found that with an objective counselor, who is supportive and allows the client to share and work through his/her feelings, they can realize their strength to make the changes needed to improve their lives. My career has spanned over 25 years, working with clients with depression, anxiety, grief, life stressors, medical crises, military service members, and children with ADHD, behavioral issues and custody issues.
I look forward to working with clients who are interested in making changes in their lives so they can grow and feel confident in handling any stressors that come along. I have found that with an objective counselor, who is supportive and allows the client to share and work through his/her feelings, they can realize their strength to make the changes needed to improve their lives. My career has spanned over 25 years, working with clients with depression, anxiety, grief, life stressors, medical crises, military service members, and children with ADHD, behavioral issues and custody issues.
(205) 839-7751 View (205) 839-7751

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Charlece Bishop, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Charlece Bishop
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35210
You may be facing abrupt or long-term challenges that seem to be getting difficult to manage. Those challenges have been affecting you mentally and you may have noticed an increase in overthinking, worry, isolation, sadness, or fear. It is time to get the help that you need with a therapist who can relate to you. My desire is to create a vibe with the client to decrease unwanted feelings and increase a healthier life that consists of effective communication, acknowledging things you can control, and facing your fears. CRC will teach you how to cope with chaos, implement coping skills, and work through uncomfortable feelings.
You may be facing abrupt or long-term challenges that seem to be getting difficult to manage. Those challenges have been affecting you mentally and you may have noticed an increase in overthinking, worry, isolation, sadness, or fear. It is time to get the help that you need with a therapist who can relate to you. My desire is to create a vibe with the client to decrease unwanted feelings and increase a healthier life that consists of effective communication, acknowledging things you can control, and facing your fears. CRC will teach you how to cope with chaos, implement coping skills, and work through uncomfortable feelings.
(205) 526-3316 View (205) 526-3316
Photo of Katie Gaushell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Katie Gaushell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35244
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who is dedicated to instilling hope and empowering clients to embrace the possibility of change. I have experience working with diverse presenting problems and specialize in assisting individuals dealing with anxiety, life transitions, peer relationships, depression, self-esteem issues, and trauma. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who is dedicated to instilling hope and empowering clients to embrace the possibility of change. I have experience working with diverse presenting problems and specialize in assisting individuals dealing with anxiety, life transitions, peer relationships, depression, self-esteem issues, and trauma. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults.
(205) 997-3537 View (205) 997-3537
Photo of Jonathan Ray Gregg, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Jonathan Ray Gregg
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! My name is Jonathan Gregg, and I am a former law enforcement officer with a Masters Degree in Clinical Counseling from Faulkner University. I am currently licensed as a Professional Counselor (LPC) through the state of Alabama. I have been an inpatient counselor at a men's treatment facility for substance abuse for the last 3 years, dealing with substance use and associated underlying issues (trauma, grief, mental illness, relationships, and so on). In my time in law enforcement, I learned how desperate the need is for practical, solutions-based treatment for people on both sides of the justice system.
Hello! My name is Jonathan Gregg, and I am a former law enforcement officer with a Masters Degree in Clinical Counseling from Faulkner University. I am currently licensed as a Professional Counselor (LPC) through the state of Alabama. I have been an inpatient counselor at a men's treatment facility for substance abuse for the last 3 years, dealing with substance use and associated underlying issues (trauma, grief, mental illness, relationships, and so on). In my time in law enforcement, I learned how desperate the need is for practical, solutions-based treatment for people on both sides of the justice system.
(256) 292-8410 View (256) 292-8410
Photo of Dr. Dionne Mahaffey, Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NCC, C-DBT, CCATP
Dr. Dionne Mahaffey
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NCC, C-DBT, CCATP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am licensed in both Alabama and Georgia as a solution-focused Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I/O Psychologist (PsyD), and purpose coach. My approach is collaborative, offering support, guidance, and practical feedback to help clients effectively tackle life's challenges. My mission is to deliver the highest quality clinical services to enhance the emotional and relational potential of all my clients. I am deeply committed to the core values of respect, responsiveness, innovation, and quality, aiming to enrich the unique experiences of each individual I work with.
I am licensed in both Alabama and Georgia as a solution-focused Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I/O Psychologist (PsyD), and purpose coach. My approach is collaborative, offering support, guidance, and practical feedback to help clients effectively tackle life's challenges. My mission is to deliver the highest quality clinical services to enhance the emotional and relational potential of all my clients. I am deeply committed to the core values of respect, responsiveness, innovation, and quality, aiming to enrich the unique experiences of each individual I work with.
(404) 390-4098 View (404) 390-4098
Photo of Tanya Odaniel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Tanya Odaniel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Online Only
I am originally from Lexington, KY, and after graduating with my Master's. I moved to western central Ohio, where I opened a private practice. I wanted to create a unique mental health counseling experience, headquartered in a renovated Victorian home in Historic Sidney, Ohio, that provides a relaxing, home-like atmosphere. In 2013, I moved to Birmingham, Alabama. I have continued providing Mental Health Counseling Services in both Alabama and the Ohio location.
I am originally from Lexington, KY, and after graduating with my Master's. I moved to western central Ohio, where I opened a private practice. I wanted to create a unique mental health counseling experience, headquartered in a renovated Victorian home in Historic Sidney, Ohio, that provides a relaxing, home-like atmosphere. In 2013, I moved to Birmingham, Alabama. I have continued providing Mental Health Counseling Services in both Alabama and the Ohio location.
(334) 213-9225 View (334) 213-9225
Photo of Aisha Holmes Thorn, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC
Aisha Holmes Thorn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that each person is the expert of their life. I also believe that at times we all need an objective person to listen and to help us find our center. I strive to meet each person where they are, no judgements, no preconceived ideas. I believe that counseling is not about labeling problems, it is about developing coping skills, gaining self awareness and self understanding. Together we find ways to uncover your strengths and live a more meaningful life.
I believe that each person is the expert of their life. I also believe that at times we all need an objective person to listen and to help us find our center. I strive to meet each person where they are, no judgements, no preconceived ideas. I believe that counseling is not about labeling problems, it is about developing coping skills, gaining self awareness and self understanding. Together we find ways to uncover your strengths and live a more meaningful life.
(205) 861-0057 View (205) 861-0057
Photo of Nikki O'Dell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Nikki O'Dell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Trussville, AL 35173
I began my career as a therapist over 20 years ago working with women, adolescents, children and families. I'm passionate about seeing my clients thrive in their lives and relationships. I'm inspired by the resiliency of people and love watching them grow in their ability to better handle their circumstances. I work hard to create a warm, comfortable environment for you to explore your experiences, change your current situation and build the life you want. I am focused on giving each client practical tools they can use in their every day life.
I began my career as a therapist over 20 years ago working with women, adolescents, children and families. I'm passionate about seeing my clients thrive in their lives and relationships. I'm inspired by the resiliency of people and love watching them grow in their ability to better handle their circumstances. I work hard to create a warm, comfortable environment for you to explore your experiences, change your current situation and build the life you want. I am focused on giving each client practical tools they can use in their every day life.
(618) 205-6660 View (618) 205-6660
Photo of Dorothy Bailey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Dorothy Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Dr. Dotti Bailey, DSW, LICSW-S, RYT-200, RCYT. I offer a multi-dimensional, holistic, and individualized approach to trauma-focused services in a safe and supportive environment. I believe everyone deserves access to compassionate, high-quality mental health care. My goal is to create spaces where individuals can receive specialized support. I see children and adolescents in person while offering telehealth services for adult referrals. For the past 23 years, I have lived and worked in communities deeply impacted by trauma, often spanning lifetimes.
Dr. Dotti Bailey, DSW, LICSW-S, RYT-200, RCYT. I offer a multi-dimensional, holistic, and individualized approach to trauma-focused services in a safe and supportive environment. I believe everyone deserves access to compassionate, high-quality mental health care. My goal is to create spaces where individuals can receive specialized support. I see children and adolescents in person while offering telehealth services for adult referrals. For the past 23 years, I have lived and worked in communities deeply impacted by trauma, often spanning lifetimes.
(256) 807-2540 View (256) 807-2540
Photo of Brian Bradford, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Brian Bradford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Birmingham, AL 35226
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I bring a personable and practical style to my counseling approach. I believe counseling should be approachable and accessible for everyone. I’m thorough, treat clients as individuals, and guide them to their goals by joining them in a collaborative approach to face life’s challenges. I’m a passionate and seasoned human growth and development therapist with over 20 years of experience serving as a coach, consultant, and advisor in a variety of industries. With that experience, I bring a real-world approach to counseling.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I bring a personable and practical style to my counseling approach. I believe counseling should be approachable and accessible for everyone. I’m thorough, treat clients as individuals, and guide them to their goals by joining them in a collaborative approach to face life’s challenges. I’m a passionate and seasoned human growth and development therapist with over 20 years of experience serving as a coach, consultant, and advisor in a variety of industries. With that experience, I bring a real-world approach to counseling.
(205) 990-3674 View (205) 990-3674
Photo of Dr. Brandon Sentell, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Brandon Sentell
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you exhausted from endless nights of poor sleep, lying awake no matter how hard you try to rest? Does trauma from your past still affect your daily life, making it hard to feel safe or at peace? Are you struggling with the emotional toll of chronic pain, feeling frustrated, hopeless, or stuck? If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Sleep struggles, trauma, and pain can take over your life, leaving you feeling drained, anxious, or disconnected from the things that matter most.
Are you exhausted from endless nights of poor sleep, lying awake no matter how hard you try to rest? Does trauma from your past still affect your daily life, making it hard to feel safe or at peace? Are you struggling with the emotional toll of chronic pain, feeling frustrated, hopeless, or stuck? If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Sleep struggles, trauma, and pain can take over your life, leaving you feeling drained, anxious, or disconnected from the things that matter most.
(205) 651-2071 View (205) 651-2071
Photo of Caroline Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Caroline Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Birmingham, AL 35209
Everyone experiences difficult or emotional situations. Sometimes, it can be difficult to cope with changes that feel overwhelming. You may be facing a divorce, or an important decision in your parenting, work, or life transitions. My practice is devoted to helping children, adolescents, adults, and families work through family and parenting issues, which may include separation, divorce, remarriage, blending their families, loss and/or grief. I bring my current experience as a counselor, my former experience in family and child development, and my personal family experiences with divorce, remarriage, and parenting, to each client.
Everyone experiences difficult or emotional situations. Sometimes, it can be difficult to cope with changes that feel overwhelming. You may be facing a divorce, or an important decision in your parenting, work, or life transitions. My practice is devoted to helping children, adolescents, adults, and families work through family and parenting issues, which may include separation, divorce, remarriage, blending their families, loss and/or grief. I bring my current experience as a counselor, my former experience in family and child development, and my personal family experiences with divorce, remarriage, and parenting, to each client.
(205) 883-1636 View (205) 883-1636
Photo of Nicole Sisson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, ADHD, CCSP
Nicole Sisson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, ADHD, CCSP
3 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35209
Book your online session now by clicking on my website! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama and Virginia, as well as an ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider. I enjoy providing therapeutic care to individuals who want to improve their ability to function executively, juggle responsibilities, manage stress, engage in meaningful relationships, and navigate parenthood. I have experience working with a variety of issues, but my specialties are adult ADHD and women’s issues.
Book your online session now by clicking on my website! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama and Virginia, as well as an ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider. I enjoy providing therapeutic care to individuals who want to improve their ability to function executively, juggle responsibilities, manage stress, engage in meaningful relationships, and navigate parenthood. I have experience working with a variety of issues, but my specialties are adult ADHD and women’s issues.
(256) 634-6375 View (256) 634-6375
Photo of Eboni Omar, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Eboni Omar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! I am Eboni Omar an LPC, a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), and a certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ADC). Being open, honest, and providing a safe space is my approach to therapy to assist in teaching individuals the tools to learn healthier ways to handle life’s challenges with thoughts, feelings, relationships, and home and work life. My approach to therapy is collaborative and client-centered, drawing on techniques from various therapeutic frameworks, primarily CBT. I focus on helping clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns, develop coping strategies, and achieve their personal goals.
Hello! I am Eboni Omar an LPC, a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), and a certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ADC). Being open, honest, and providing a safe space is my approach to therapy to assist in teaching individuals the tools to learn healthier ways to handle life’s challenges with thoughts, feelings, relationships, and home and work life. My approach to therapy is collaborative and client-centered, drawing on techniques from various therapeutic frameworks, primarily CBT. I focus on helping clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns, develop coping strategies, and achieve their personal goals.
(256) 672-4938 View (256) 672-4938
Photo of Janel Porter, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Janel Porter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hello! I am Janel Porter, a licensed marriage and family therapist with a passion for helping individuals, families, and couples overcome struggles. I utilize a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy, family systems work, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy strategies. This means we will address the thoughts and beliefs influencing your behavior, set realistic and achievable goals based on your current situation, and work together to move beyond challenges towards a more promising future.
Hello! I am Janel Porter, a licensed marriage and family therapist with a passion for helping individuals, families, and couples overcome struggles. I utilize a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy, family systems work, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy strategies. This means we will address the thoughts and beliefs influencing your behavior, set realistic and achievable goals based on your current situation, and work together to move beyond challenges towards a more promising future.
(659) 216-7741 View (659) 216-7741
Photo of Rachel Foreman, Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW, MA
Rachel Foreman
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW, MA
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35244
Are you struggling to navigate your way through the dips and valleys of life and looking for someone to really hear your story and be present for you? Let me journey along with you through this divorce, break-up, parenting struggle, time of depression, caregiving role or whatever situation you find yourself bogged down in. You do not have to stay stuck in this rut and there is help and healing for you.
Are you struggling to navigate your way through the dips and valleys of life and looking for someone to really hear your story and be present for you? Let me journey along with you through this divorce, break-up, parenting struggle, time of depression, caregiving role or whatever situation you find yourself bogged down in. You do not have to stay stuck in this rut and there is help and healing for you.
(205) 289-5443 View (205) 289-5443
Photo of Caroline Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Caroline Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223
I'm passionate about working with individuals to find healing, self-compassion, and connection in the context of a secure relationship. I believe that while we get hurt in the context of relationships, we can also heal in the power of relationships. I care about helping individuals discover more of their true selves, access self-compassion, and live in alignment with their values. Whether its healing from traumatic past experiences, navigating transitions in life, or exploring values, I enjoy the process of helping individuals come more into alignment with their most authentic selves.
I'm passionate about working with individuals to find healing, self-compassion, and connection in the context of a secure relationship. I believe that while we get hurt in the context of relationships, we can also heal in the power of relationships. I care about helping individuals discover more of their true selves, access self-compassion, and live in alignment with their values. Whether its healing from traumatic past experiences, navigating transitions in life, or exploring values, I enjoy the process of helping individuals come more into alignment with their most authentic selves.
(205) 784-4337 View (205) 784-4337
Photo of Richard Krebs, Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Richard Krebs
Counselor, LPC, EMDR
7 Endorsed
Online Only
If you are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or the weight of past trauma, you are not alone. Maybe you struggle with panic attacks, obsessive thoughts, or navigating challenging life transitions that leave you feeling stuck or uncertain. You want to rediscover your inner strength, find peace in your relationships, and build resilience to face life’s ups and downs with confidence. You hope to feel heard, understood, and supported on your journey toward healing and growth.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or the weight of past trauma, you are not alone. Maybe you struggle with panic attacks, obsessive thoughts, or navigating challenging life transitions that leave you feeling stuck or uncertain. You want to rediscover your inner strength, find peace in your relationships, and build resilience to face life’s ups and downs with confidence. You hope to feel heard, understood, and supported on your journey toward healing and growth.
(205) 964-9312 View (205) 964-9312

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 35126

< 10

Therapists in 35126 who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
100% Coping Skills
100% Stress
67% Relationship Issues
67% Depression
67% ADHD
67% Grief

Average years in practice

25 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BHS | Behavioral Health Systems
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% New Directions | Lucet

How Therapists in 35126 see their clients

67% In Person and Online
33% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 35126?

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.