Therapists in 37934

Photo of Layton Wade, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Layton Wade
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Knoxville, TN 37934
He utilizes a variety of therapeutic techniques, including Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and psychodynamic approaches. This blend of methods allows him to tailor his interventions to the unique needs of each client, fostering personal growth and emotional resilience. Layton's therapeutic practice also focuses on individuals dealing with childhood behavior issues, school avoidance, and family dynamics.
He utilizes a variety of therapeutic techniques, including Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and psychodynamic approaches. This blend of methods allows him to tailor his interventions to the unique needs of each client, fostering personal growth and emotional resilience. Layton's therapeutic practice also focuses on individuals dealing with childhood behavior issues, school avoidance, and family dynamics.
(865) 424-9208 View (865) 424-9208
Photo of Dr. Emily Vanderbleek, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Emily Vanderbleek
Psychologist, PhD
Knoxville, TN 37934
Emily Vanderbleek, PhD, is a licensed Psychologist who helps adolescents, adults, and seniors in Tennessee gain clarity, understanding, and direction through comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological testing. At LifeStance Health, she provides evaluations that assist in identifying cognitive, emotional, and behavioral patterns that may be impacting daily functioning, relationships, and overall quality of life. Whether clients are experiencing concerns about memory, attention, mood, or functioning after a medical event, Dr. Vanderbleek tailors each assessment to address their unique needs and goals. Dr.
Emily Vanderbleek, PhD, is a licensed Psychologist who helps adolescents, adults, and seniors in Tennessee gain clarity, understanding, and direction through comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological testing. At LifeStance Health, she provides evaluations that assist in identifying cognitive, emotional, and behavioral patterns that may be impacting daily functioning, relationships, and overall quality of life. Whether clients are experiencing concerns about memory, attention, mood, or functioning after a medical event, Dr. Vanderbleek tailors each assessment to address their unique needs and goals. Dr.
(865) 353-5646 View (865) 353-5646
Photo of Dr. Carly Chwat, Psychologist, PhD, LP
Dr. Carly Chwat
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Knoxville, TN 37934
Her primary objective is to facilitate self-awareness and empower her clients to navigate their challenges effectively. Committed to professional growth and collaboration, Carly is an active member of the Tennessee Association of School Psychologists. Through her unwavering dedication and compassionate care, she strives to make a positive impact on the lives of those she serves.
Her primary objective is to facilitate self-awareness and empower her clients to navigate their challenges effectively. Committed to professional growth and collaboration, Carly is an active member of the Tennessee Association of School Psychologists. Through her unwavering dedication and compassionate care, she strives to make a positive impact on the lives of those she serves.
(865) 822-8119 View (865) 822-8119
Photo of Kristi Dugger, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Kristi Dugger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Knoxville, TN 37934
What if the pain you never asked for could become your greatest breakthrough? Divorce, betrayal, addiction recovery, parenting struggles, blended family chaos, healing from emotional abuse, and pressures of performance may feel impossible—but these are the battles we will win together. We've all seen it, the destruction when these very real wounds go unaddressed. As a Christian counselor, I work with adults, couples, parents, and young adults by empowering clients. I am private pay so your care stays fully confidential, flexible, and free from insurance limits- -clear expectations from the start.
What if the pain you never asked for could become your greatest breakthrough? Divorce, betrayal, addiction recovery, parenting struggles, blended family chaos, healing from emotional abuse, and pressures of performance may feel impossible—but these are the battles we will win together. We've all seen it, the destruction when these very real wounds go unaddressed. As a Christian counselor, I work with adults, couples, parents, and young adults by empowering clients. I am private pay so your care stays fully confidential, flexible, and free from insurance limits- -clear expectations from the start.
(865) 346-5231 View (865) 346-5231
Photo of Jamie Harvey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jamie Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Knoxville, TN 37934
Jamie Harvey is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2012. Jamie utilizes Cognitive Behavioral therapy and other evidence based therapeutic interventions in order to assist the client in processing the challenges that they have faced in their life. She offers a judgement free space to allow clients to heal and continue their journey. Outside of work, Jamie enjoys attending car shows, crafting, and spending time with her family. She loves to read, especially thriller/crimebased books.
Jamie Harvey is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2012. Jamie utilizes Cognitive Behavioral therapy and other evidence based therapeutic interventions in order to assist the client in processing the challenges that they have faced in their life. She offers a judgement free space to allow clients to heal and continue their journey. Outside of work, Jamie enjoys attending car shows, crafting, and spending time with her family. She loves to read, especially thriller/crimebased books.
(855) 454-9049 View (855) 454-9049
Photo of Regina Reed-Davis - Heart, Mind & Soul Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Heart, Mind & Soul Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Knoxville, TN 37934
FOCUS: Trauma Recovery, Divorce Recovery, Relationship Counseling, Emotionally Focused Counseling. I am trained in The Gottman Method for Relationship therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing for trauma, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral, Christian counseling, and Prepare & Enrich Premarital Counseling.
FOCUS: Trauma Recovery, Divorce Recovery, Relationship Counseling, Emotionally Focused Counseling. I am trained in The Gottman Method for Relationship therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing for trauma, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral, Christian counseling, and Prepare & Enrich Premarital Counseling.
(865) 309-5044 View (865) 309-5044
Photo of Mary Chastain Kennedy, Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-Tem
Mary Chastain Kennedy
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-Tem
Knoxville, TN 37934
Angela Kennedy provides compassionate, evidence-informed mental health care to individuals and families across Tennessee. She creates a safe, welcoming space where clients can explore their challenges, build resilience, and develop practical strategies for growth and healing. By tailoring her approach to meet the unique needs of each client, Angela helps children, teens, adults, and seniors navigate issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, and emotional stress. At LifeStance Health, Angela is dedicated to helping clients better understand their emotions, strengthen coping skills, and foster healthier relationships.
Angela Kennedy provides compassionate, evidence-informed mental health care to individuals and families across Tennessee. She creates a safe, welcoming space where clients can explore their challenges, build resilience, and develop practical strategies for growth and healing. By tailoring her approach to meet the unique needs of each client, Angela helps children, teens, adults, and seniors navigate issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, and emotional stress. At LifeStance Health, Angela is dedicated to helping clients better understand their emotions, strengthen coping skills, and foster healthier relationships.
(865) 832-9364 View (865) 832-9364
Photo of Shannon D Warden, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Shannon D Warden
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37934
It is my honor and privilege to get to work in a profession that I love, where I am able to partner with hard-working people to find solutions to their struggles. I have seen the positive results of people being able to open up in a non-threatening environment. Together, we look at your whole self, taking into account relationships and their influence on who you are. I'm passionate about my work and I'm blessed to have the opportunity to witness someone making a significant change and being there when they experience the moment or series of moments where it all clicks.
It is my honor and privilege to get to work in a profession that I love, where I am able to partner with hard-working people to find solutions to their struggles. I have seen the positive results of people being able to open up in a non-threatening environment. Together, we look at your whole self, taking into account relationships and their influence on who you are. I'm passionate about my work and I'm blessed to have the opportunity to witness someone making a significant change and being there when they experience the moment or series of moments where it all clicks.
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Photo of Dr. Shannon Hays, Psychologist, PhD, PSY
Dr. Shannon Hays
Psychologist, PhD, PSY
Knoxville, TN 37934
Dr. Shannon K. Hays is a Psychologist in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2001. Dr. Hays feels that her skills in assessment can provide valuable information to the treatment team and can aid in a comprehensive treatment plan for the client. Outside of work Dr. Hays enjoys reading, writing letters, concerts, the theater, museums, and spending time with her family and 4 cats.
Dr. Shannon K. Hays is a Psychologist in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2001. Dr. Hays feels that her skills in assessment can provide valuable information to the treatment team and can aid in a comprehensive treatment plan for the client. Outside of work Dr. Hays enjoys reading, writing letters, concerts, the theater, museums, and spending time with her family and 4 cats.
(865) 346-3419 View (865) 346-3419
Photo of Linn A Davidson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Linn A Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37934
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or as if life is out of balance? This is the case for many people. Stress and trauma can affect us in many ways leading to difficulty with medical and emotional well-being. Reaching out for support is the first step in the change process, empowering us with the skills to overcome life's challenges. It is important to me to provide you with a safe, relaxing, and non-judgmental space while assisting you in your journey to learn coping strategies and grow as an individual, family, or couple.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or as if life is out of balance? This is the case for many people. Stress and trauma can affect us in many ways leading to difficulty with medical and emotional well-being. Reaching out for support is the first step in the change process, empowering us with the skills to overcome life's challenges. It is important to me to provide you with a safe, relaxing, and non-judgmental space while assisting you in your journey to learn coping strategies and grow as an individual, family, or couple.
(865) 234-4215 View (865) 234-4215
Photo of Marissa Penn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Marissa Penn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Knoxville, TN 37934
Marissa Penn is a compassionate and experienced therapist dedicated to helping patients navigate their mental health journeys in Tennessee. She provides a safe and supportive environment where individuals can explore their feelings and experiences authentically. By utilizing a relational, traumainformed approach, Marissa assists patients in reducing suffering, gaining insight, and achieving personal growth. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma, her goal is to empower patients to find resilience and healing.
Marissa Penn is a compassionate and experienced therapist dedicated to helping patients navigate their mental health journeys in Tennessee. She provides a safe and supportive environment where individuals can explore their feelings and experiences authentically. By utilizing a relational, traumainformed approach, Marissa assists patients in reducing suffering, gaining insight, and achieving personal growth. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma, her goal is to empower patients to find resilience and healing.
(865) 346-4753 View (865) 346-4753
Photo of Carol Omos Crawley, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Carol Omos Crawley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
1 Endorsed
Farragut, TN 37934
My focus is working with survivors of narcissistic abuse, first responders, and couples looking to recover from infidelity. I see individuals as well as couples and if appropriate, will alternate seeing a couple together and then separately for individual sessions. I use an integrative approach that combines evidence-based practices with a personalized, holistic perspective. Whether you are struggling with infidelity, trauma, anxiety, depression, or other challenges, I am here to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences and develop the skills and tools you need to achieve your goals.
My focus is working with survivors of narcissistic abuse, first responders, and couples looking to recover from infidelity. I see individuals as well as couples and if appropriate, will alternate seeing a couple together and then separately for individual sessions. I use an integrative approach that combines evidence-based practices with a personalized, holistic perspective. Whether you are struggling with infidelity, trauma, anxiety, depression, or other challenges, I am here to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences and develop the skills and tools you need to achieve your goals.
(865) 509-9254 View (865) 509-9254
Photo of Tracina Cross, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MHS
Tracina Cross
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MHS
Knoxville, TN 37934
Tracina Cross helps patients find healing and growth by offering compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each person’s needs. Serving individuals and families throughout Tennessee, she provides support across life’s challenges with a focus on creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment where people can build resilience, develop effective coping strategies, and move toward lasting change. She works with adolescents, teens, adults, and seniors, offering both individual and family therapy to meet the unique needs of each stage of life.
Tracina Cross helps patients find healing and growth by offering compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each person’s needs. Serving individuals and families throughout Tennessee, she provides support across life’s challenges with a focus on creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment where people can build resilience, develop effective coping strategies, and move toward lasting change. She works with adolescents, teens, adults, and seniors, offering both individual and family therapy to meet the unique needs of each stage of life.
(865) 503-5971 View (865) 503-5971
Photo of Ann O'Connor, Psychologist, PhD
Ann O'Connor
Psychologist, PhD
Knoxville, TN 37934
Do you feel stuck? Do you struggle with emotional ups and downs? Are you challenged by this internet-driven era? Life can be hard; even the most resilient person can struggle. I would like to help you develop coping skills, reduce distress and have more effective relationships. I have worked as a licensed psychologist in Tennessee for 30 years and consider my role a privilege. I integrate evidenced-based interventions with practical skills to help you move forward. All clients are welcome (16 years of age or older), and for those who are interested, I integrate faith-based principles in our sessions.
Do you feel stuck? Do you struggle with emotional ups and downs? Are you challenged by this internet-driven era? Life can be hard; even the most resilient person can struggle. I would like to help you develop coping skills, reduce distress and have more effective relationships. I have worked as a licensed psychologist in Tennessee for 30 years and consider my role a privilege. I integrate evidenced-based interventions with practical skills to help you move forward. All clients are welcome (16 years of age or older), and for those who are interested, I integrate faith-based principles in our sessions.
(865) 302-3434 View (865) 302-3434
Photo of Matthew Crescenzi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Matthew Crescenzi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Knoxville, TN 37934
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 9 years of experience helping clients achieve goals, reduce symptoms, and improve their overall mental health. My behavioral health and medical experience includes providing group and individual psychotherapy to clients suffering from addiction and behavioral issues; assisting clients with the ability to cope with anxiety and/or stress related to chronic illnesses; and addressing impactful life events in a safe manner, at your pace, to heal and resolve past trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 9 years of experience helping clients achieve goals, reduce symptoms, and improve their overall mental health. My behavioral health and medical experience includes providing group and individual psychotherapy to clients suffering from addiction and behavioral issues; assisting clients with the ability to cope with anxiety and/or stress related to chronic illnesses; and addressing impactful life events in a safe manner, at your pace, to heal and resolve past trauma.
(865) 800-8626 View (865) 800-8626
Mark Kryter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37934
In the past, Mark has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly and in residential treatment settings, inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, drug rehab, nursing homes and hospice settings. Outside of his career as a therapist, Mark enjoys hiking, swimming, classic cars and gardening. He is also committed to lifelong learning and, on occasion, pushing his comfort level by taking on new challenges to further expand his own life experience. Mark prides himself on being an excellent listener and has noticed that what is not said is every bit as important as what is said.
In the past, Mark has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly and in residential treatment settings, inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, drug rehab, nursing homes and hospice settings. Outside of his career as a therapist, Mark enjoys hiking, swimming, classic cars and gardening. He is also committed to lifelong learning and, on occasion, pushing his comfort level by taking on new challenges to further expand his own life experience. Mark prides himself on being an excellent listener and has noticed that what is not said is every bit as important as what is said.
(865) 347-1999 View (865) 347-1999
Photo of Diana Biciusca, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-MHS
Diana Biciusca
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-MHS
Knoxville, TN 37934
Outside of her work, Diana enjoys raising and caring for her beloved Standard Poodles, which bring her joy and balance. She brings the same sense of empathy, patience, and dedication to her clinical work that she does to her personal life. Diana is honored to serve individuals and couples throughout Tennessee, providing professional, compassionate, and personalized care to help each person thrive.
Outside of her work, Diana enjoys raising and caring for her beloved Standard Poodles, which bring her joy and balance. She brings the same sense of empathy, patience, and dedication to her clinical work that she does to her personal life. Diana is honored to serve individuals and couples throughout Tennessee, providing professional, compassionate, and personalized care to help each person thrive.
(865) 658-5061 View (865) 658-5061
Photo of Connie Ward, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
Connie Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37934
Connie Ward is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Mental Health Service Provider in the state of Tennessee. Connie welcomes challenges in her work with clients, and values every unique perspective offered through the process of counseling. After completing her Master's degree at Lincoln Memorial University, she worked within community service agencies, local court systems, in residential settings, and in crisis management. Connie has been in the field of counseling and social services for over 20 years. She has worked with a wide range of populations including children, adolescents, and families.
Connie Ward is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Mental Health Service Provider in the state of Tennessee. Connie welcomes challenges in her work with clients, and values every unique perspective offered through the process of counseling. After completing her Master's degree at Lincoln Memorial University, she worked within community service agencies, local court systems, in residential settings, and in crisis management. Connie has been in the field of counseling and social services for over 20 years. She has worked with a wide range of populations including children, adolescents, and families.
(865) 345-5716 View (865) 345-5716
Photo of Dr. Rae Mazzei, Psychologist, PsyD, BCB
Dr. Rae Mazzei
Psychologist, PsyD, BCB
Knoxville, TN 37934
Are you struggling with trauma, addiction, anxiety, or a phobia? As a Health Psychologist, I will help you heal and thrive by relying on proven psychological therapies. I firmly believe in each individual's capacity to overcome obstacles, particularly when provided with the right support to achieve their goals. Fostering a supportive relationship, I am committed to assisting you in alleviating suffering, recovering from past traumas, fostering positive neurological changes, and enhancing overall well-being. Collaboratively, we will delve into the core of your concerns and work towards creating a more fulfilling life.
Are you struggling with trauma, addiction, anxiety, or a phobia? As a Health Psychologist, I will help you heal and thrive by relying on proven psychological therapies. I firmly believe in each individual's capacity to overcome obstacles, particularly when provided with the right support to achieve their goals. Fostering a supportive relationship, I am committed to assisting you in alleviating suffering, recovering from past traumas, fostering positive neurological changes, and enhancing overall well-being. Collaboratively, we will delve into the core of your concerns and work towards creating a more fulfilling life.
(480) 485-2101 View (480) 485-2101
Photo of Anne Goss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Anne Goss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Knoxville, TN 37934
Over the years Anne has worked with a multitude of issues including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, personality challenges, crisis prevention, anger management, and relationship challenges. Anne has provided services to individuals, couples, groups, and families in both community and private practice, as well as inpatient and outpatient settings.
Over the years Anne has worked with a multitude of issues including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, personality challenges, crisis prevention, anger management, and relationship challenges. Anne has provided services to individuals, couples, groups, and families in both community and private practice, as well as inpatient and outpatient settings.
(865) 217-2659 View (865) 217-2659

See more therapy options for 37934

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 37934

100+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in 37934 who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
89% Depression
72% Trauma and PTSD
69% Grief
68% Self Esteem
66% Relationship Issues
62% Stress

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Aetna
81% Cigna and Evernorth
70% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 37934 see their clients

79% In Person and Online
21% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
25% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 37934?

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.