Therapists in 45653

Photo of Joseph Alto, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Joseph Alto
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
13 Endorsed
Minford, OH 45653
Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom (Viktor Frankl). Joe is a relatable connector who has worked with many different diagnoses throughout his time in the field. He passionately believes that relationships are powerful, especially the therapy relationship. Specializing in the treatment of grief, anxiety, depression, and spiritual crisis, Joe provides eclectic treatment, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral and Existential Therapies. Possessing a contagious sense of humor, Joe has helped many clients rediscover laughter in life.
Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom (Viktor Frankl). Joe is a relatable connector who has worked with many different diagnoses throughout his time in the field. He passionately believes that relationships are powerful, especially the therapy relationship. Specializing in the treatment of grief, anxiety, depression, and spiritual crisis, Joe provides eclectic treatment, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral and Existential Therapies. Possessing a contagious sense of humor, Joe has helped many clients rediscover laughter in life.
(234) 516-2897 View (234) 516-2897
Photo of Shannon Gallagher, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Shannon Gallagher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
13 Endorsed
Online Only
Shannon is a safe space to heal for both individuals and couples. She is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment where you can face your challenges with honesty and empathy! Specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and relationship issues, Shannon utilizes Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies, as well as Motivational Interviewing and interventions from the Gottman's. She is authentic, patient, relatable, community-driven, and non-judgmental, and seeks to create a safe space for her clients to learn more about themselves as they grow.
Shannon is a safe space to heal for both individuals and couples. She is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment where you can face your challenges with honesty and empathy! Specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and relationship issues, Shannon utilizes Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies, as well as Motivational Interviewing and interventions from the Gottman's. She is authentic, patient, relatable, community-driven, and non-judgmental, and seeks to create a safe space for her clients to learn more about themselves as they grow.
(440) 671-7928 View (440) 671-7928
Photo of Caleb Folkerts - Cornerstone Behavioral Health, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, CCTP, CCFP, CDBT, EMDR-T
Cornerstone Behavioral Health
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, CCTP, CCFP, CDBT, EMDR-T
7 Endorsed
Online Only
Hope starts here. Are you feeling sad or stressed? Do you experience mood swings but don't really know why? Maybe you've been withdrawing from family, friends, or activities that used to breathe light into your life. If you have been feeling depressed, have found yourself more angry or hostile than normal, or suffer from low energy or problems sleeping, you may have an untreated mental health issue. Mental health impacts your way of thinking, relating to others, and overall quality of life. Many issues have been identified and defined including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress (PTSD), etc. You don't have to suffer anymore.
Hope starts here. Are you feeling sad or stressed? Do you experience mood swings but don't really know why? Maybe you've been withdrawing from family, friends, or activities that used to breathe light into your life. If you have been feeling depressed, have found yourself more angry or hostile than normal, or suffer from low energy or problems sleeping, you may have an untreated mental health issue. Mental health impacts your way of thinking, relating to others, and overall quality of life. Many issues have been identified and defined including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress (PTSD), etc. You don't have to suffer anymore.
(440) 636-4871 View (440) 636-4871
Photo of Linda Koenig, Counselor, LPCC
Linda Koenig
Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
Hi! I'm Dr. Linda Koenig, and I have over two decades of experience helping adolescents and adults navigate anxiety, mood concerns, trauma, and complex life transitions in both community and university settings. I offer evidence-based, practical support that balances warmth, clear feedback, and real-world skills clients can use right away. I have extensive experience working with people involved in the legal system, college students facing stress and identity questions, and individuals managing long-standing emotional or behavioral patterns.
Hi! I'm Dr. Linda Koenig, and I have over two decades of experience helping adolescents and adults navigate anxiety, mood concerns, trauma, and complex life transitions in both community and university settings. I offer evidence-based, practical support that balances warmth, clear feedback, and real-world skills clients can use right away. I have extensive experience working with people involved in the legal system, college students facing stress and identity questions, and individuals managing long-standing emotional or behavioral patterns.
(740) 908-8210 View (740) 908-8210
Photo of Michael W. Wilson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Michael W. Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
13 Endorsed
Online Only
What you think is what you say. What you say is what you do. What you do continually becomes your habit. Your habits create your character; your character determines your destiny (Jeremy Anderson). Michael Wilson is a compassionate connector skilled in the art of therapy over his six years of experience aiding clients in achieving their mental health goals. To Michael, trust is crucial to the healing process. To that end, he approaches each session with a genuine and empathic desire to connect. When you're in session with Michael, you have his undivided attention. Bridging the gap between individuals and social change is his core.
What you think is what you say. What you say is what you do. What you do continually becomes your habit. Your habits create your character; your character determines your destiny (Jeremy Anderson). Michael Wilson is a compassionate connector skilled in the art of therapy over his six years of experience aiding clients in achieving their mental health goals. To Michael, trust is crucial to the healing process. To that end, he approaches each session with a genuine and empathic desire to connect. When you're in session with Michael, you have his undivided attention. Bridging the gap between individuals and social change is his core.
(234) 423-4427 View (234) 423-4427
Photo of Shannon Gallagher, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Shannon Gallagher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
13 Endorsed
Online Only
Shannon is a safe space to heal for both individuals and couples. She is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment where you can face your challenges with honesty and empathy! Specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and relationship issues, Shannon utilizes Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies, as well as Motivational Interviewing and interventions from the Gottman's. She is authentic, patient, relatable, community-driven, and non-judgmental, and seeks to create a safe space for her clients to learn more about themselves as they grow.
Shannon is a safe space to heal for both individuals and couples. She is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment where you can face your challenges with honesty and empathy! Specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and relationship issues, Shannon utilizes Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies, as well as Motivational Interviewing and interventions from the Gottman's. She is authentic, patient, relatable, community-driven, and non-judgmental, and seeks to create a safe space for her clients to learn more about themselves as they grow.
(330) 443-5761 View (330) 443-5761
Photo of Caleb Folkerts - Cornerstone Behavioral Health, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, CCFP, CCTP, CDBT, EMDR-T
Cornerstone Behavioral Health
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, CCFP, CCTP, CDBT, EMDR-T
8 Endorsed
Online Only
Hope starts here. Are you feeling sad or stressed? Do you experience mood swings but don't really know why? Maybe you've been withdrawing from family, friends, or activities that used to breathe light into your life. If you have been feeling depressed, have found yourself more angry or hostile than normal, or suffer from low energy or problems sleeping, you may have an untreated mental health issue. Mental health impacts your way of thinking, relating to others, and overall quality of life. Many issues have been identified and defined including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress (PTSD), etc. You don't have to suffer anymore.
Hope starts here. Are you feeling sad or stressed? Do you experience mood swings but don't really know why? Maybe you've been withdrawing from family, friends, or activities that used to breathe light into your life. If you have been feeling depressed, have found yourself more angry or hostile than normal, or suffer from low energy or problems sleeping, you may have an untreated mental health issue. Mental health impacts your way of thinking, relating to others, and overall quality of life. Many issues have been identified and defined including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress (PTSD), etc. You don't have to suffer anymore.
(330) 785-7076 View (330) 785-7076

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Patricia Mares - Mares Cares Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Mares Cares Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Serves Area
We are a mental health private practice in the South Central Ohio community with more than twelve years of experience. Clients of all ages and walks of life are treated caringly, respectfully, and professionally in our offices which provide a uniquely warm and welcoming environment for all, especially for children. Our mission is to provide a safe and supportive environment where people can access the resources, support, and strength they need to live a happier, healthier life.
We are a mental health private practice in the South Central Ohio community with more than twelve years of experience. Clients of all ages and walks of life are treated caringly, respectfully, and professionally in our offices which provide a uniquely warm and welcoming environment for all, especially for children. Our mission is to provide a safe and supportive environment where people can access the resources, support, and strength they need to live a happier, healthier life.
(740) 804-6800 View (740) 804-6800
Photo of John Michael O’Brien, Counselor, MEd, LPCC
John Michael O’Brien
Counselor, MEd, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you're overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or struggling to find peace, joy, and purpose I want you to know that there is help. If you are striving and working to just get by, feeling the effects of trauma, dealing with addiction, know that it's time to begin moving forward, be heard, and move toward wholeness.
If you're overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or struggling to find peace, joy, and purpose I want you to know that there is help. If you are striving and working to just get by, feeling the effects of trauma, dealing with addiction, know that it's time to begin moving forward, be heard, and move toward wholeness.
(740) 730-0408 View (740) 730-0408
Photo of Melanie Danielson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LISW-S, AADC, SAP
Melanie Danielson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LISW-S, AADC, SAP
Ironton, OH 45638
Starting therapy can feel intimidating, especially if you’ve been carrying a lot on your own. I work with children learning to identify and manage big emotions, teens who feel overwhelmed or misunderstood, adults who are exhausted from holding everything together, and individuals with autism experiencing burnout. You may be navigating mood challenges, trauma, or major life transitions. What you deserve most is compassion, patience, and a space that feels safe, supportive, and free from judgment.
Starting therapy can feel intimidating, especially if you’ve been carrying a lot on your own. I work with children learning to identify and manage big emotions, teens who feel overwhelmed or misunderstood, adults who are exhausted from holding everything together, and individuals with autism experiencing burnout. You may be navigating mood challenges, trauma, or major life transitions. What you deserve most is compassion, patience, and a space that feels safe, supportive, and free from judgment.
(740) 273-6839 View (740) 273-6839
Photo of Jami Munn, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC
Jami Munn
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC
Portsmouth, OH 45662
Are you wanting to increase happiness and overall satisfaction with your life? Would you like to work towards gaining control of your thoughts, feelings, and actions? Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-worth, addiction, trauma, or just simply feeling overwhelmed with life, these are goals that you can reach.
Are you wanting to increase happiness and overall satisfaction with your life? Would you like to work towards gaining control of your thoughts, feelings, and actions? Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-worth, addiction, trauma, or just simply feeling overwhelmed with life, these are goals that you can reach.
(740) 200-8028 View (740) 200-8028
Photo of Yvonne Judge, Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT, CCHt, MAMFT
Yvonne Judge
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT, CCHt, MAMFT
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a couples, trauma, and Personality Disorder specialist, as well as an AAMFT approved supervisor. I work with individuals, couples, and families who are often successful in parts of their lives but struggling in others such as their relationships. Most have already tried to fix the problem, or have been in therapy, without lasting change. The issue is rarely lack of effort. It is knowing what to do and how to apply it. This is not cookie cutter therapy. The work is selected and adapted based on what will actually be effective for you.
I am a couples, trauma, and Personality Disorder specialist, as well as an AAMFT approved supervisor. I work with individuals, couples, and families who are often successful in parts of their lives but struggling in others such as their relationships. Most have already tried to fix the problem, or have been in therapy, without lasting change. The issue is rarely lack of effort. It is knowing what to do and how to apply it. This is not cookie cutter therapy. The work is selected and adapted based on what will actually be effective for you.
(614) 892-9813 View (614) 892-9813
Photo of Jacob Sheehan, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Jacob Sheehan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Deep-feeler? Over-thinker? Over-achiever? Not sure what your deal is, but just tired of going through it all on your own? I'm betting part of you already knows this deep down: there’s nothing wrong with you. You’ve been doing your best to survive, for so long. Together, let's approach your story with curiosity and compassion—first asking what is "right" with you—understanding what helped you to get through, and then exploring how those same strategies might be limiting for you now. I believe that we heal and build resiliency and internal integration through learning self-compassion. Could you be willing to try that?
Deep-feeler? Over-thinker? Over-achiever? Not sure what your deal is, but just tired of going through it all on your own? I'm betting part of you already knows this deep down: there’s nothing wrong with you. You’ve been doing your best to survive, for so long. Together, let's approach your story with curiosity and compassion—first asking what is "right" with you—understanding what helped you to get through, and then exploring how those same strategies might be limiting for you now. I believe that we heal and build resiliency and internal integration through learning self-compassion. Could you be willing to try that?
(330) 859-4138 View (330) 859-4138
Photo of Sargina R Engle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LICDC
Sargina R Engle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LICDC
2 Endorsed
Wheelersburg, OH 45694
My favorite thing about helping others is meeting you right where you are and working together on the journey to wellness. My approach allows for a self-paced plan of action, whether you are ready to make small, manageable changes, or motivated to charge full steam ahead at your areas for improvement. In my years of experience working with others, I have come to truly value each person as an individual, and like to help discover solutions, based on your strengths.
My favorite thing about helping others is meeting you right where you are and working together on the journey to wellness. My approach allows for a self-paced plan of action, whether you are ready to make small, manageable changes, or motivated to charge full steam ahead at your areas for improvement. In my years of experience working with others, I have come to truly value each person as an individual, and like to help discover solutions, based on your strengths.
(740) 245-3859 View (740) 245-3859
Photo of Melanie Danielson - PsychShift, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LISW-S
PsychShift
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LISW-S
Ironton, OH 45638
Our mission is to improve the emotional health and well-being of the people we care for. We achieve this by delivering superior mental health services with compassionate care. At PsychShift we believe that healing happens in connection—with self, others, and community. We are a team of compassionate, licensed therapists committed to providing high-quality, culturally responsive care that supports your emotional well-being and personal growth.
Our mission is to improve the emotional health and well-being of the people we care for. We achieve this by delivering superior mental health services with compassionate care. At PsychShift we believe that healing happens in connection—with self, others, and community. We are a team of compassionate, licensed therapists committed to providing high-quality, culturally responsive care that supports your emotional well-being and personal growth.
(740) 762-6093 View (740) 762-6093
Photo of Tamara D Murphy, Counselor, MA, LPCC
Tamara D Murphy
Counselor, MA, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Bidwell, OH 45614
Need to build insight and learn tools to manage challenges you are facing? I am a licensed professional clinical counselor, and I work to help others build awareness of their needs, gain insight by recognizing their strengths and learn effective ways to manage difficulties.
Need to build insight and learn tools to manage challenges you are facing? I am a licensed professional clinical counselor, and I work to help others build awareness of their needs, gain insight by recognizing their strengths and learn effective ways to manage difficulties.
(740) 279-3824 View (740) 279-3824
Photo of Kelsey Ardner, Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Kelsey Ardner
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
“Healing doesn’t mean that the damage never existed. It means the damage no longer controls your life.” (Akshay Dubey) A safe space is a healing space, and growth happens when you feel right at home. Kelsey Ardner is passionate about cultivating this safety with her clients through an open, trusted relationship that builds one step at a time. As a driven, empathetic, and committed provider, Kelsey will always go the extra mile for her clients, providing them with the support, advocacy and empowerment they need on their journey of lasting change.
“Healing doesn’t mean that the damage never existed. It means the damage no longer controls your life.” (Akshay Dubey) A safe space is a healing space, and growth happens when you feel right at home. Kelsey Ardner is passionate about cultivating this safety with her clients through an open, trusted relationship that builds one step at a time. As a driven, empathetic, and committed provider, Kelsey will always go the extra mile for her clients, providing them with the support, advocacy and empowerment they need on their journey of lasting change.
(330) 846-5027 View (330) 846-5027
Photo of Timothy Maxwell Liles - Liles Solutions LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LICDC
Liles Solutions LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LICDC
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, OH 45662
Hi - I'm Max! I am an Independently Licensed Social Worker (LISW-s) and Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC) in the state of Ohio. My profession has offered me the opportunity to build a lot of knowledge in helping individuals through adversity; whether it be mental health, substance use, judicial involvement, or the impact those topics have on the family system, I’ve developed 10 years’ experience in the helping field. People deserve support, and to be treated with dignity & respect. Through therapy, I want to help you get motivated and increase your ability to meet the challenges of your life.
Hi - I'm Max! I am an Independently Licensed Social Worker (LISW-s) and Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC) in the state of Ohio. My profession has offered me the opportunity to build a lot of knowledge in helping individuals through adversity; whether it be mental health, substance use, judicial involvement, or the impact those topics have on the family system, I’ve developed 10 years’ experience in the helping field. People deserve support, and to be treated with dignity & respect. Through therapy, I want to help you get motivated and increase your ability to meet the challenges of your life.
(740) 759-3670 View (740) 759-3670
Photo of Franette Mok, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, ATR
Franette Mok
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, ATR
Serves Area
Hello, my name is Fran. If you are struggling with managing depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions or anger I can help. I have over a decade of experience helping individuals navigate mental and emotional challenges. My goal as a counselor and art therapist is to provide coping strategies and combined with your strengths that you can begin implementing from your first session. I provide attention to individualized care, given with dignity and respect. I am currently accepting new clients. You can schedule an initial intake session and get started usually within a day or two.
Hello, my name is Fran. If you are struggling with managing depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions or anger I can help. I have over a decade of experience helping individuals navigate mental and emotional challenges. My goal as a counselor and art therapist is to provide coping strategies and combined with your strengths that you can begin implementing from your first session. I provide attention to individualized care, given with dignity and respect. I am currently accepting new clients. You can schedule an initial intake session and get started usually within a day or two.
(234) 231-6241 View (234) 231-6241
Photo of Adam B. Conn, MS, CH, EFT
Adam B. Conn
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, OH 45662
My top priority as a consulting hypnotist is to help my clients achieve their goals through a sense of safety, happiness, and success that is consistent, respectful and in alignment with their wellness, interests, and natural abilities, as well as the best interest of the duties and persons they serve and the duties and persons they are served by. I believe that the very best resources for helping any client thrive are the very same thoughts, feelings, and emotions within that client that led to them seeking change in their life. They know what they want and don't want.
My top priority as a consulting hypnotist is to help my clients achieve their goals through a sense of safety, happiness, and success that is consistent, respectful and in alignment with their wellness, interests, and natural abilities, as well as the best interest of the duties and persons they serve and the duties and persons they are served by. I believe that the very best resources for helping any client thrive are the very same thoughts, feelings, and emotions within that client that led to them seeking change in their life. They know what they want and don't want.
(740) 996-4266 View (740) 996-4266

See more therapy options for 45653

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 45653

< 10

Therapists in 45653 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Grief
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Family Conflict
100% Marriage Counseling
100% Social Anxiety

Average years in practice

2 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
86% Aetna
86% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 45653 see their clients

86% Online Only
14% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

67% Female
33% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 45653?

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.