Photo of Gail L. Gabbert, DMin, LMFT, CRADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gail L. Gabbert
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMin, LMFT, CRADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Galena, IL 61036
Is your relationship struggling? Do you think it is too good to leave but too bad to stay? Or, are you struggling with an excessive use of alcohol or drugs? When this happens, it's easy for well meaning friends to give opinions that may not be right for you. Sometimes an unbiased party can help. If you've tried your best but it's not getting better, let me help. I have specific techniques to improve your situation. I may provide education, assign homework or suggest behavioral tasks to help you reach your goals. Let's work it out together.r,
Is your relationship struggling? Do you think it is too good to leave but too bad to stay? Or, are you struggling with an excessive use of alcohol or drugs? When this happens, it's easy for well meaning friends to give opinions that may not be right for you. Sometimes an unbiased party can help. If you've tried your best but it's not getting better, let me help. I have specific techniques to improve your situation. I may provide education, assign homework or suggest behavioral tasks to help you reach your goals. Let's work it out together.r,
(815) 661-2889 View (815) 661-2889
Photo of Joseph White, LCPC, LMHC, LPC
Joseph White
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Galena, IL 61036  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma that affects your daily life and relationships, especially as a parent or teen? Do you feel stuck or overwhelmed by past experiences and current stressors? Do you long for a greater sense of peace and fulfillment that your emotional health could be better? Now more than ever, teens, young adults, and families are feeling disconnected and uncertain about their futures and relationships.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma that affects your daily life and relationships, especially as a parent or teen? Do you feel stuck or overwhelmed by past experiences and current stressors? Do you long for a greater sense of peace and fulfillment that your emotional health could be better? Now more than ever, teens, young adults, and families are feeling disconnected and uncertain about their futures and relationships.
(815) 629-3289 View (815) 629-3289
Photo of Thom Dennis, D Min, LCPC, LMHC, FT
Thom Dennis
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, D Min, LCPC, LMHC, FT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Galena, IL 61036
​​​It’s not just you, we’re all doing our best to deal with the stresses of modern life and it seems many of us are becoming increasingly overwhelmed. I companion adults who feel they are being stretched to the breaking point by one or more of those "bigger issues" in life that threaten our over-all wellbeing, if not our very existence:​ Identity, Isolation, Death, Meaning, Freedom, and Happiness. With a background in healthcare and advanced training in pastoral care and counseling, I’m going to respect and honor you as a person no matter what issues or troubles you bring with you into our conversations.
​​​It’s not just you, we’re all doing our best to deal with the stresses of modern life and it seems many of us are becoming increasingly overwhelmed. I companion adults who feel they are being stretched to the breaking point by one or more of those "bigger issues" in life that threaten our over-all wellbeing, if not our very existence:​ Identity, Isolation, Death, Meaning, Freedom, and Happiness. With a background in healthcare and advanced training in pastoral care and counseling, I’m going to respect and honor you as a person no matter what issues or troubles you bring with you into our conversations.
(773) 454-9176 View (773) 454-9176
Photo of Stephanie Cocagne, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Stephanie Cocagne
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Galena, IL 61036
Thank you for looking at my profile. As a counselor I try to get know each person who enters my office. We will work together to identify your goals and develop a plan to achieve them.
Thank you for looking at my profile. As a counselor I try to get know each person who enters my office. We will work together to identify your goals and develop a plan to achieve them.
(815) 402-3238 View (815) 402-3238
Photo of Sharon Walker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Galena, IL 61036  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Sharon Walker. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have a passion for walking alongside others who are struggling with challenges that life can bring for us all. My goal is to offer you a safe and non-judgmental space where you can begin to heal and achieve your goals. Many of the clients I serve present with Anxiety, Trauma-Related Outcomes, and Family/Relationship Issues as primary concerns. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is my favorite method of approach. I also favor Eclectic Therapy, which allows me to integrate multiple approaches and tailor them to your unique needs.
Welcome! My name is Sharon Walker. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have a passion for walking alongside others who are struggling with challenges that life can bring for us all. My goal is to offer you a safe and non-judgmental space where you can begin to heal and achieve your goals. Many of the clients I serve present with Anxiety, Trauma-Related Outcomes, and Family/Relationship Issues as primary concerns. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is my favorite method of approach. I also favor Eclectic Therapy, which allows me to integrate multiple approaches and tailor them to your unique needs.
(773) 741-9631 View (773) 741-9631
Photo of Dieunn S Musser, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Dieunn S Musser
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Galena, IL 61036
There are many reasons you may be looking for a counselor. There doesn't need to be a specific reason, you may simply be looking for a perspective, a good listener or to gain insight. Common reasons people seek counseling: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma or Abuse, Grieving and Life Stressors. I can walk alongside you as you navigate a painful or difficult time in your life.
There are many reasons you may be looking for a counselor. There doesn't need to be a specific reason, you may simply be looking for a perspective, a good listener or to gain insight. Common reasons people seek counseling: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma or Abuse, Grieving and Life Stressors. I can walk alongside you as you navigate a painful or difficult time in your life.
(815) 209-0403 View (815) 209-0403
Photo of Laura A Hoffmann, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Laura A Hoffmann
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Galena, IL 61036
Waitlist for new clients
No matter where you are at on your therapy journey, I will provide you with unconditional positive regard and genuine encouragement. I promote an eclectic style and incorporate a person centered, strengths based approach. In addition to an appropriate blend of humor, my clients describe me as warm, empathetic, and very approachable about difficult subjects. I enjoy and pride myself on being a lifelong learner. I additionally have Iowa Board of Behavioral Sciences approval to provide clinical supervision/mentoring for therapists in the beginning stages of their career.
No matter where you are at on your therapy journey, I will provide you with unconditional positive regard and genuine encouragement. I promote an eclectic style and incorporate a person centered, strengths based approach. In addition to an appropriate blend of humor, my clients describe me as warm, empathetic, and very approachable about difficult subjects. I enjoy and pride myself on being a lifelong learner. I additionally have Iowa Board of Behavioral Sciences approval to provide clinical supervision/mentoring for therapists in the beginning stages of their career.
(563) 265-6893 View (563) 265-6893
Photo of Kate Kadleck, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kate Kadleck
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Galena, IL 61036
Healthy relationships are fundamental to our well-being. And yet, relationships are hard! I am here to help you deepen and heal your marriage or relationship so that you can be the best version of yourself. In addition to couples, I enjoy working with teens and young adults and encouraging them to live more authentically. I love empowering young people to cope with the chaos of entering adulthood and eventually blossom into their most fulfilled selves.
Healthy relationships are fundamental to our well-being. And yet, relationships are hard! I am here to help you deepen and heal your marriage or relationship so that you can be the best version of yourself. In addition to couples, I enjoy working with teens and young adults and encouraging them to live more authentically. I love empowering young people to cope with the chaos of entering adulthood and eventually blossom into their most fulfilled selves.
(563) 227-5740 View (563) 227-5740
Photo of Valerie Gill, LISW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valerie Gill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MSW
Verified Verified
Galena, IL 61036
With over 28 years of social work experience, my empathetic approach compassionately and openly builds upon client strengths to foster a collaborative working relationship. I am a strong advocate and go the extra mile for my clients. Together, we can create positive change for you to meet your life goals. My clients describe me as “skilled, experienced, direct, and caring”. I comfortably address trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, life transitions, LGBTQ+, grief, and loss. I work well with individuals, adolescents, families, and couples.
With over 28 years of social work experience, my empathetic approach compassionately and openly builds upon client strengths to foster a collaborative working relationship. I am a strong advocate and go the extra mile for my clients. Together, we can create positive change for you to meet your life goals. My clients describe me as “skilled, experienced, direct, and caring”. I comfortably address trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, life transitions, LGBTQ+, grief, and loss. I work well with individuals, adolescents, families, and couples.
(563) 235-2853 View (563) 235-2853
Photo of Beth Garza, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Garza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Galena, IL 61036
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, confused, or stuck in life? Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root cause of your difficulties while improving your resiliency. Hi, I’m Beth Garza. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker. I returned to Eastern Iowa after living in many locations for more than 25 years as a military spouse. This has given me a diverse perspective on culture, the human condition, and what makes us unique as individuals. Interests are treatment of anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, moral injury, mood disorders, life transitions, grief/loss, self-esteem, and relationship issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, confused, or stuck in life? Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root cause of your difficulties while improving your resiliency. Hi, I’m Beth Garza. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker. I returned to Eastern Iowa after living in many locations for more than 25 years as a military spouse. This has given me a diverse perspective on culture, the human condition, and what makes us unique as individuals. Interests are treatment of anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, moral injury, mood disorders, life transitions, grief/loss, self-esteem, and relationship issues.
(563) 239-5342 View (563) 239-5342
Photo of Audrey DaMore, LCSW , CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audrey DaMore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , CADC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Galena, IL 61036
Are you feeling low or anxious, but can’t sort out why? Would you like to better understand your emotional and physical reactions? Maybe you’re noticing themes in your relationships and wondering how childhood experiences challenge these connections? Focused on soothing the nervous system and recognizing the parts that form you, our work together will help you restore your sense of wholeness. By honoring self-energy, letting go of burdens, and learning to trust your internal wisdom, you can find calm in everyday life.
Are you feeling low or anxious, but can’t sort out why? Would you like to better understand your emotional and physical reactions? Maybe you’re noticing themes in your relationships and wondering how childhood experiences challenge these connections? Focused on soothing the nervous system and recognizing the parts that form you, our work together will help you restore your sense of wholeness. By honoring self-energy, letting go of burdens, and learning to trust your internal wisdom, you can find calm in everyday life.
(779) 209-0965 View (779) 209-0965

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Naseem Saleh, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Naseem Saleh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Apple River, IL 61001  (Online Only)
I am deeply passionate about working with BIPOC and queer individuals, as well as those from immigrant backgrounds who navigate complex family systems and beyond. My mission is to create spaces where their experiences are affirmed and valued. This includes destigmatizing mental health discussions within marginalized communities, fostering environments where individuals feel safe to explore and address their mental health needs without fear or judgment. I strive to create a collaborative and conversational environment where your needs and experiences guide our sessions.
I am deeply passionate about working with BIPOC and queer individuals, as well as those from immigrant backgrounds who navigate complex family systems and beyond. My mission is to create spaces where their experiences are affirmed and valued. This includes destigmatizing mental health discussions within marginalized communities, fostering environments where individuals feel safe to explore and address their mental health needs without fear or judgment. I strive to create a collaborative and conversational environment where your needs and experiences guide our sessions.
(773) 309-3445 View (773) 309-3445
Photo of Judy Rudny - Judy Rudny LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judy Rudny LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Apple River, IL 61001
If you are feeling confused or frustrated, helpless, angry or isolated, schedule a time to talk with me about strategies that will empower you to work toward identified goals and bring balance back into your life. With certified professionalism, I will attentively listen to your specific situation and goals, and intelligently advise you along a path to an improved quality of life. Phone or FaceTime sessions available.
If you are feeling confused or frustrated, helpless, angry or isolated, schedule a time to talk with me about strategies that will empower you to work toward identified goals and bring balance back into your life. With certified professionalism, I will attentively listen to your specific situation and goals, and intelligently advise you along a path to an improved quality of life. Phone or FaceTime sessions available.
(630) 733-1640 View (630) 733-1640
Photo of Jennifer L Vandigo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer L Vandigo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Apple River, IL 61001  (Online Only)
My goal is to support you on your journey of self-discovery and help you create a peaceful and fulfilling life. I am deeply committed to assisting you in embracing your true power and understanding your inherent worth. With my compassionate and loving nature, I derive great joy from helping individuals enhance their lives. As a clinician, I have come to recognize that the most crucial aspect of counseling is the establishment of a strong connection and a sense of comfort between the therapist and the individual seeking support. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for those I assist.
My goal is to support you on your journey of self-discovery and help you create a peaceful and fulfilling life. I am deeply committed to assisting you in embracing your true power and understanding your inherent worth. With my compassionate and loving nature, I derive great joy from helping individuals enhance their lives. As a clinician, I have come to recognize that the most crucial aspect of counseling is the establishment of a strong connection and a sense of comfort between the therapist and the individual seeking support. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for those I assist.
(815) 595-8156 View (815) 595-8156
Photo of Richard Goldin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Richard Goldin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warren, IL 61087
Hello, I'm an LCSW with over 29 years of experience. I have extensive experience working with individuals and couples. Issues I have experience and knowledge in are depression/anxiety, substance use issues, relationship issues - committed intimate relationships and extended family, adversity in childhood that leads to trauma response in emotional processing, ADHD, LGBTQ issues, working with individuals who lack clarity in purpose and how to move forward, grief/loss, and anger management. I utilize effective clinical tools to help individuals and couples and also incorporate healthy spirituality in my counseling practice.
Hello, I'm an LCSW with over 29 years of experience. I have extensive experience working with individuals and couples. Issues I have experience and knowledge in are depression/anxiety, substance use issues, relationship issues - committed intimate relationships and extended family, adversity in childhood that leads to trauma response in emotional processing, ADHD, LGBTQ issues, working with individuals who lack clarity in purpose and how to move forward, grief/loss, and anger management. I utilize effective clinical tools to help individuals and couples and also incorporate healthy spirituality in my counseling practice.
(773) 912-0192 View (773) 912-0192
Photo of Adriana Franco, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adriana Franco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
East Dubuque, IL 61025
Welcome! I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Addictions Counselor with over 17 years of experience. Currently, my main focus is providing therapy to young adults and adults, for a wide range of concerns including, anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, anger, domestic violence, and parenting. My role as a therapist is to understand you as an individual, listen, provide a non-judgmental safe space, guide, advocate, advice, and educate those in need as they find their voices and healthier lifestyles, meeting them where they are at – believing that clients are the experts of their lives.
Welcome! I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Addictions Counselor with over 17 years of experience. Currently, my main focus is providing therapy to young adults and adults, for a wide range of concerns including, anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, anger, domestic violence, and parenting. My role as a therapist is to understand you as an individual, listen, provide a non-judgmental safe space, guide, advocate, advice, and educate those in need as they find their voices and healthier lifestyles, meeting them where they are at – believing that clients are the experts of their lives.
(217) 912-5448 View (217) 912-5448
Photo of Michele Clark, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, IL 61028
Hi, my name is Michele Clark and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over twenty years of experience working in diverse settings such as schools, hospitals, private practices, and community programs. I have been a School Social Worker for 18 years and provide individual and group social work services to students in general education and special education program. I specialize in anxiety and depressive disorders and I assist my clients with managing life stressors that can cause emotional distress. I have a special interest in women’s issues and working with teenage girls.
Hi, my name is Michele Clark and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over twenty years of experience working in diverse settings such as schools, hospitals, private practices, and community programs. I have been a School Social Worker for 18 years and provide individual and group social work services to students in general education and special education program. I specialize in anxiety and depressive disorders and I assist my clients with managing life stressors that can cause emotional distress. I have a special interest in women’s issues and working with teenage girls.
(312) 626-7594 View (312) 626-7594
Photo of Richard Corfman, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Richard Corfman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
East Dubuque, IL 61025
Not accepting new clients
Clients have come to me for various reasons- marital conflict, depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, bipolar illness, grief, ADHD and other related mental health diagnoses. I have felt honored to help people to move from feeling distressed to better managing their thoughts, feelings and behaviors so they can enjoy greater success and control over their lives.
Clients have come to me for various reasons- marital conflict, depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, bipolar illness, grief, ADHD and other related mental health diagnoses. I have felt honored to help people to move from feeling distressed to better managing their thoughts, feelings and behaviors so they can enjoy greater success and control over their lives.
(563) 649-4449 View (563) 649-4449
Photo of Meghan M. Smith, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meghan M. Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Dubuque, IL 61025
My passion lies in helping adults and children navigate the complexities of life, especially when facing Anxiety, ADHD, Life Transitions, Mood Disorders, Relationship Issues, School Issues, and Trauma. As a compassionate mental health therapist, I take a client-centered, strengths-based approach, believing that each person is capable of growth and healing. Whether you or your child is struggling with overwhelming emotions, behavioral issues, feeling stuck or struggling in relationships, or navigating major life transitions, I am here to support you and/ or your family along your healing journey.
My passion lies in helping adults and children navigate the complexities of life, especially when facing Anxiety, ADHD, Life Transitions, Mood Disorders, Relationship Issues, School Issues, and Trauma. As a compassionate mental health therapist, I take a client-centered, strengths-based approach, believing that each person is capable of growth and healing. Whether you or your child is struggling with overwhelming emotions, behavioral issues, feeling stuck or struggling in relationships, or navigating major life transitions, I am here to support you and/ or your family along your healing journey.
(563) 200-7541 View (563) 200-7541
Photo of Trevor Gregerson, LPC, Counselor
Trevor Gregerson
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Stockton, IL 61085
I have experience working with a wide range of different diagnoses including; Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Borderline Personality Disorder, and ASPD. I work with clients from ages 12 and up. I have helped clients manage major life transitions, relationship problems, grief and loss, and other life challenges. I use a multicultural lens when working with each client. I see each client as an expert of their lived experience. For me, therapy as a collaborative process in which I help clients achieve their own goals.
I have experience working with a wide range of different diagnoses including; Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Borderline Personality Disorder, and ASPD. I work with clients from ages 12 and up. I have helped clients manage major life transitions, relationship problems, grief and loss, and other life challenges. I use a multicultural lens when working with each client. I see each client as an expert of their lived experience. For me, therapy as a collaborative process in which I help clients achieve their own goals.
(708) 866-1491 View (708) 866-1491

See more therapy options for 61036

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 61036

10+

Average cost per session

$145

Therapists in 61036 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
91% Self Esteem
91% Stress
82% Grief
82% Coping Skills
73% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
64% Aetna
55% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in 61036 see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 61036?

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.