Therapists in 53225

Photo of Barbara Bartlein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RN, MSW
Barbara Bartlein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RN, MSW
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53225
Are you feeling a bit down lately? Struggling to find joy in your daily life or feeling stuck professionally? Let's work together to develop a strategy that can bring about the positive changes you're seeking. As a supportive and empathetic counselor, I'm here to listen and provide the resources you need.
Are you feeling a bit down lately? Struggling to find joy in your daily life or feeling stuck professionally? Let's work together to develop a strategy that can bring about the positive changes you're seeking. As a supportive and empathetic counselor, I'm here to listen and provide the resources you need.
(414) 867-2335 View (414) 867-2335
Photo of Angela L Zapata, Psychologist, PhD
Angela L Zapata
Psychologist, PhD
5 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53225
We all have things we like in our lives and things we'd like to change for the better. This may mean improving relationships, a desire to improve mood, and/or addressing health issues or social issues impeding on one's ability to have the life they want. We are all doing the best we can, but often we want something more out of life, and we need some help to bring this to fruition. Therapy provides a safe and supportive space to identify what is going well and what might need change. It can also facilitate new effective ways of being.
We all have things we like in our lives and things we'd like to change for the better. This may mean improving relationships, a desire to improve mood, and/or addressing health issues or social issues impeding on one's ability to have the life they want. We are all doing the best we can, but often we want something more out of life, and we need some help to bring this to fruition. Therapy provides a safe and supportive space to identify what is going well and what might need change. It can also facilitate new effective ways of being.
(414) 441-5640 View (414) 441-5640
Photo of Alyssa Zajdel, Psychologist, PhD
Alyssa Zajdel
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53225
You want to appear successful and like you have it “all together,” but deep down, you are struggling to manage your overthinking, perform when it counts, or feel like you’re “enough." Maybe you work hard but still don’t get the results you are striving for. When this happens, you say mean things to yourself you would NEVER say to a friend. Or, you worry about something you said or did long after everyone else has forgotten about it. Furthermore, you aren’t always sure how you really feel or what to do with your emotions. You may question why things are so difficult when it seems like everyone else gets through life more easily.
You want to appear successful and like you have it “all together,” but deep down, you are struggling to manage your overthinking, perform when it counts, or feel like you’re “enough." Maybe you work hard but still don’t get the results you are striving for. When this happens, you say mean things to yourself you would NEVER say to a friend. Or, you worry about something you said or did long after everyone else has forgotten about it. Furthermore, you aren’t always sure how you really feel or what to do with your emotions. You may question why things are so difficult when it seems like everyone else gets through life more easily.
(414) 441-1661 View (414) 441-1661
Photo of Tiffany A Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, MEd
Tiffany A Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, MEd
Online Only
I specialize in working with individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation—guiding them toward healing, hope, and wholeness. I offer a culturally affirming space where your voice matters. Together, we’ll explore the roots of your pain and build tools to help you reclaim your worth, confidence, and emotional freedom. My approach is grounded in compassion and empowerment, with a strong focus on self-esteem, identity, and personal value. I am also a certified special education teacher with years of experience working with children. Please contact me via email for the quickest response.
I specialize in working with individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation—guiding them toward healing, hope, and wholeness. I offer a culturally affirming space where your voice matters. Together, we’ll explore the roots of your pain and build tools to help you reclaim your worth, confidence, and emotional freedom. My approach is grounded in compassion and empowerment, with a strong focus on self-esteem, identity, and personal value. I am also a certified special education teacher with years of experience working with children. Please contact me via email for the quickest response.
(414) 441-1315 View (414) 441-1315
Photo of April Shields, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC
April Shields
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
You’ve worked hard to get where you are, but life still feels heavy. You value working on your own terms, but managing all the moving parts—work, relationships, self-care—often feels overwhelming, leaving you drained and anxious. If you’re navigating life as neurodivergent without fully understanding your unique way of thinking or experiencing the world, meeting expectations can be exhausting. You want to live authentically, but it’s hard to know what that looks like. I see you. Together, we’ll explore how to let go of the pressures you’ve carried and make space for your true self to show up, without apology.
You’ve worked hard to get where you are, but life still feels heavy. You value working on your own terms, but managing all the moving parts—work, relationships, self-care—often feels overwhelming, leaving you drained and anxious. If you’re navigating life as neurodivergent without fully understanding your unique way of thinking or experiencing the world, meeting expectations can be exhausting. You want to live authentically, but it’s hard to know what that looks like. I see you. Together, we’ll explore how to let go of the pressures you’ve carried and make space for your true self to show up, without apology.
(608) 927-5092 View (608) 927-5092
Photo of Shannon Rapalo Medina, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Shannon Rapalo Medina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am taking new clients! I believe that every individual deserves to have a unique therapeutic style that fits their specific needs. During every session. I will provide a safe, inviting, and empathetic environment. I believe that everyone has an innate ability to change, grow, and prosper. I also firmly believe that all humans have the right to access conditions that successfully reinforce happiness and inner peace. I am excited to work with clients who are looking to gain insight into his/her personal needs, unresolved challenges, and those who are seeking hope.
I am taking new clients! I believe that every individual deserves to have a unique therapeutic style that fits their specific needs. During every session. I will provide a safe, inviting, and empathetic environment. I believe that everyone has an innate ability to change, grow, and prosper. I also firmly believe that all humans have the right to access conditions that successfully reinforce happiness and inner peace. I am excited to work with clients who are looking to gain insight into his/her personal needs, unresolved challenges, and those who are seeking hope.
(763) 343-6487 View (763) 343-6487
Photo of Brian Smothers, Psychologist, PsyD
Brian Smothers
Psychologist, PsyD
Milwaukee, WI 53225
Not accepting new clients
I believe that difficulties develop within relational contexts influenced by early relationships and current interactions. Good treatment is goal focused, and based on the here-and-now distress that brings you to treatment while also being curious about how the present is influenced by the past. Treatment must occur within a safe professional relationship. In my work, the therapeutic relationship is an important part of the healing process. Through on-going conversations and shared curiosity my clients and I broaden our understanding of their current distress and future aspirations. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.
I believe that difficulties develop within relational contexts influenced by early relationships and current interactions. Good treatment is goal focused, and based on the here-and-now distress that brings you to treatment while also being curious about how the present is influenced by the past. Treatment must occur within a safe professional relationship. In my work, the therapeutic relationship is an important part of the healing process. Through on-going conversations and shared curiosity my clients and I broaden our understanding of their current distress and future aspirations. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.
(414) 240-1616 View (414) 240-1616
Photo of Laura Janson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MDiv, LPC
Laura Janson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MDiv, LPC
Serves Area
Laura is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing since 2010. She works with children aged 10 years and older, adolescents and adults. She graduated from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School with a Master of Divinity degree. Laura also has her Master of Art s degree in Counseling.
Laura is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing since 2010. She works with children aged 10 years and older, adolescents and adults. She graduated from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School with a Master of Divinity degree. Laura also has her Master of Art s degree in Counseling.
(262) 588-4234 View (262) 588-4234
Photo of Lauren Damai, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lauren Damai
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Lauren Damai is a licensed clinical social worker who has been practicing in the Milwaukee community for 10 years. She holds a B.A. from Marquette University and an MSW from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a certificate in Applied Gerontology. Lauren enjoys working with individuals and families to find a resolution to life s challenges. She approaches treatment from a holistic perspective and uses strengths based modalities such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered treatment.
Lauren Damai is a licensed clinical social worker who has been practicing in the Milwaukee community for 10 years. She holds a B.A. from Marquette University and an MSW from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a certificate in Applied Gerontology. Lauren enjoys working with individuals and families to find a resolution to life s challenges. She approaches treatment from a holistic perspective and uses strengths based modalities such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered treatment.
(262) 592-5046 View (262) 592-5046
Photo of Maria Erdmann-Rodriguez, Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Maria Erdmann-Rodriguez
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Serves Area
Dr. Maria Erdmann Rodriguez is a psychotherapist of over 20 years experience. A specialist in treating mood-regulation disorders, Dr. Rodriguez has special interest and expertise in the psychological care of patients with chronic pain and other medical conditions. As a chronic pain sufferer herself, Dr. Rodriguez has personal insight into the unique needs and challenges facing those with invisible and chronic medical illness. Additional interests include the treatment of relationship issues, mood and anxiety related to the perinatal period, trauma, life-transition challenges, and grief .
Dr. Maria Erdmann Rodriguez is a psychotherapist of over 20 years experience. A specialist in treating mood-regulation disorders, Dr. Rodriguez has special interest and expertise in the psychological care of patients with chronic pain and other medical conditions. As a chronic pain sufferer herself, Dr. Rodriguez has personal insight into the unique needs and challenges facing those with invisible and chronic medical illness. Additional interests include the treatment of relationship issues, mood and anxiety related to the perinatal period, trauma, life-transition challenges, and grief .
(262) 588-4063 View (262) 588-4063
Photo of Kari Duncan, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kari Duncan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
Kari Duncan is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin with five years of experience. She received an undergraduate psychology degree with an emphasis in At-Risk Child and Youth Care from UW-La Crosse before completing a Master's of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Marquette University. Kari has a history of working with young children (6 years and under) and both biological and foster parents on concerns such as challenging behavior, trauma, and anxiety using behavioral and trauma focused therapy.
Kari Duncan is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin with five years of experience. She received an undergraduate psychology degree with an emphasis in At-Risk Child and Youth Care from UW-La Crosse before completing a Master's of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Marquette University. Kari has a history of working with young children (6 years and under) and both biological and foster parents on concerns such as challenging behavior, trauma, and anxiety using behavioral and trauma focused therapy.
(262) 208-1946 View (262) 208-1946
Photo of Dr. Vicki L Cox-Clayborn - C & C Therapy LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist, Ph D, MS Ed, MFT-IT
C & C Therapy LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, Ph D, MS Ed, MFT-IT
Serves Area
Do you and your partner feel more like roommates than a couple? Has emotional distance, frequent conflict, or poor communication left you disconnected? You want to feel close, secure, and understood again—but don’t know how to get there. I help couples break negative cycles, rebuild intimacy, and strengthen bonds. We’ll work together to restore connection and trust by using therapy tailored to your needs. Your relationship matters. Let’s start today—email me to take the first step toward healing.
Do you and your partner feel more like roommates than a couple? Has emotional distance, frequent conflict, or poor communication left you disconnected? You want to feel close, secure, and understood again—but don’t know how to get there. I help couples break negative cycles, rebuild intimacy, and strengthen bonds. We’ll work together to restore connection and trust by using therapy tailored to your needs. Your relationship matters. Let’s start today—email me to take the first step toward healing.
(414) 420-1489 View (414) 420-1489
Photo of Emma Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Emma Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Serves Area
Emma Davis is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2020. Emma’s approach to the therapeutic relationship is to view each client as an individual, and to incorporate their wants, needs, and interests into the therapeutic space. She believes in a client centered, strengthsbased approach. Within her practice, Emma utilizes elements of CBT, brainspotting, motivational interviewing, and play and talk therapy. Emma believes each client deserves to be met with kindness and compassion.
Emma Davis is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2020. Emma’s approach to the therapeutic relationship is to view each client as an individual, and to incorporate their wants, needs, and interests into the therapeutic space. She believes in a client centered, strengthsbased approach. Within her practice, Emma utilizes elements of CBT, brainspotting, motivational interviewing, and play and talk therapy. Emma believes each client deserves to be met with kindness and compassion.
(262) 254-6266 View (262) 254-6266
Photo of Elizabeth Dulak, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Elizabeth Dulak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Serves Area
Betsy Dulak is a state licensed professional counselor, nationally registered art therapist, and has been working with clients since 2005. She earned her undergraduate degree at Florida State University, where she swam for their swim team, and her master s degree at Mount Mary University.
Betsy Dulak is a state licensed professional counselor, nationally registered art therapist, and has been working with clients since 2005. She earned her undergraduate degree at Florida State University, where she swam for their swim team, and her master s degree at Mount Mary University.
(262) 381-2167 View (262) 381-2167
Photo of Naomi Arenzon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Naomi Arenzon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Serves Area
Naomi Arenzon is a Licensed Certified Social Worker in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2020. Before coming to Lifestance, Naomi has worked with a variety of ages facilitating group therapy which consists of both psycho-education and processing. Facilitating group therapy has helped Naomi to efficiently teach coping skills as well as increased her patience, compassion, and understanding. Naomi's priority is to create and maintain a relaxed, comfortable environment where you can feel safe to explore your thoughts, frustrations, and behaviors, without fear, judgment, or shame.
Naomi Arenzon is a Licensed Certified Social Worker in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2020. Before coming to Lifestance, Naomi has worked with a variety of ages facilitating group therapy which consists of both psycho-education and processing. Facilitating group therapy has helped Naomi to efficiently teach coping skills as well as increased her patience, compassion, and understanding. Naomi's priority is to create and maintain a relaxed, comfortable environment where you can feel safe to explore your thoughts, frustrations, and behaviors, without fear, judgment, or shame.
(262) 400-3027 View (262) 400-3027
Photo of Sara Saunders, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Sara Saunders
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
Sara Saunders is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2018. Sara believes that every client has the ability within themselves to heal and that counseling helps uncover, enhance, and aide in your personal healing process. She also believes that life is a journey not a destination, and that it takes courage to take the next step toward healing. You and Sara can work together to uncover your strengths and enhance the strengths that are within you so that you can achieve your goals.
Sara Saunders is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2018. Sara believes that every client has the ability within themselves to heal and that counseling helps uncover, enhance, and aide in your personal healing process. She also believes that life is a journey not a destination, and that it takes courage to take the next step toward healing. You and Sara can work together to uncover your strengths and enhance the strengths that are within you so that you can achieve your goals.
(262) 588-4277 View (262) 588-4277
Photo of Brae Vlaj, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Brae Vlaj
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
Brae Vlaj is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master's in Professional Counseling from Mount Mary University. Brae enjoys working with children, adolescents, and young adults with a variety of mental health and behavioral concerns. She has experience in working with clients with ADHD, ASD, attachment issues, anxiety, self-esteem related issues, and a history of trauma. Brae uses a client-centered approach to counseling, so she believes that you are the expert of your own life, and she is here as a guide to help you along the way.
Brae Vlaj is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master's in Professional Counseling from Mount Mary University. Brae enjoys working with children, adolescents, and young adults with a variety of mental health and behavioral concerns. She has experience in working with clients with ADHD, ASD, attachment issues, anxiety, self-esteem related issues, and a history of trauma. Brae uses a client-centered approach to counseling, so she believes that you are the expert of your own life, and she is here as a guide to help you along the way.
(262) 444-5641 View (262) 444-5641
Photo of Jordan Johnson, Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Jordan Johnson
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you struggle with excessive worry, low mood, or difficulty managing stress? You may feel overwhelmed by daily challenges, find it hard to stay motivated, or feel stuck in negative thought patterns. If you're seeking support to improve your mental well-being and regain control of your life, I'm here to help you navigate these difficult emotions and build the resilience needed to thrive. In addition, if you are an athlete or high performer, you may be grappling with performance anxiety, mental blocks, or a lack of confidence that’s causing you to perform below your potential.
Do you struggle with excessive worry, low mood, or difficulty managing stress? You may feel overwhelmed by daily challenges, find it hard to stay motivated, or feel stuck in negative thought patterns. If you're seeking support to improve your mental well-being and regain control of your life, I'm here to help you navigate these difficult emotions and build the resilience needed to thrive. In addition, if you are an athlete or high performer, you may be grappling with performance anxiety, mental blocks, or a lack of confidence that’s causing you to perform below your potential.
(262) 218-4948 View (262) 218-4948
Photo of Andrea Dawydowycz, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Andrea Dawydowycz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Andrea Dawydowycz is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Masters of Education in Counseling from Boston University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin. Andrea has experience working with children, adolescents, and their families in residential treatment settings. She likes to work collaboratively with clients as she believes they are the experts in their own lives. Andrea also likes to use a variety of treatment modalities to fit the needs of her clients.
Andrea Dawydowycz is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Masters of Education in Counseling from Boston University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin. Andrea has experience working with children, adolescents, and their families in residential treatment settings. She likes to work collaboratively with clients as she believes they are the experts in their own lives. Andrea also likes to use a variety of treatment modalities to fit the needs of her clients.
(262) 600-3709 View (262) 600-3709
Photo of Stephany Pruitt - Stephany Pruitt, MS, THD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, THD, LPC
Stephany Pruitt, MS, THD, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, THD, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
"Hope motivates Change." Careful Balance of evidenced-based therapy's, holistic approaches, and spirituality, in ways that offer more optimal recovery and functioning. Treating the whole person rather than just symptom relief. Person Centered, Recovery-Orientated Care. Helping to build on strengths, resilience, and manage recovery. Help to provide wellness skills that encourage relapse prevention and re-build social skills where possible. Some approaches include trauma informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy, Rogerian, Stages of Change, Motivational Interveiwing and natural alternatives-when and where possible.
"Hope motivates Change." Careful Balance of evidenced-based therapy's, holistic approaches, and spirituality, in ways that offer more optimal recovery and functioning. Treating the whole person rather than just symptom relief. Person Centered, Recovery-Orientated Care. Helping to build on strengths, resilience, and manage recovery. Help to provide wellness skills that encourage relapse prevention and re-build social skills where possible. Some approaches include trauma informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy, Rogerian, Stages of Change, Motivational Interveiwing and natural alternatives-when and where possible.
(414) 246-5345 View (414) 246-5345

See more therapy options for 53225

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 53225

30+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in 53225 who prioritize treating:

83% Anxiety
73% Depression
60% Grief
60% Trauma and PTSD
43% Life Transitions
37% ADHD
33% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
89% Aetna
89% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 53225 see their clients

87% In Person and Online
13% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 53225?

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.