Photo of Melony Crayton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melony Crayton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
If you're reading this, chances are you’ve felt the weight of past experiences that have shaped how you connect with those around you. Perhaps you struggle with intimacy or feel a deep sense of loneliness even in the company of loved ones. Maybe you find yourself caught in patterns that leave you feeling unfulfilled, underappreciated, or disconnected from yourself or others. These feelings often stem from attachment trauma. Attachment or childhood trauma can significantly impact not just our relationships but also our sense of self-worth and autonomy.
If you're reading this, chances are you’ve felt the weight of past experiences that have shaped how you connect with those around you. Perhaps you struggle with intimacy or feel a deep sense of loneliness even in the company of loved ones. Maybe you find yourself caught in patterns that leave you feeling unfulfilled, underappreciated, or disconnected from yourself or others. These feelings often stem from attachment trauma. Attachment or childhood trauma can significantly impact not just our relationships but also our sense of self-worth and autonomy.
(314) 912-2581 View (314) 912-2581
Photo of Patrick Cleveland, LMFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patrick Cleveland
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
He is currently working to complete the Licensed Addiction Counselor Credential. He accepts in-person and on-line clients. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado and Missouri, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Colorado and Michigan, and a Licensed Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor in New Mexico. He has 21 years of experience counseling children, adolescents and adults. He has extensive training in communication skills for couples. He uses solution-focused treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. He speaks English.
He is currently working to complete the Licensed Addiction Counselor Credential. He accepts in-person and on-line clients. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado and Missouri, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Colorado and Michigan, and a Licensed Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor in New Mexico. He has 21 years of experience counseling children, adolescents and adults. He has extensive training in communication skills for couples. He uses solution-focused treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. He speaks English.
(314) 912-0629 View (314) 912-0629
Photo of Kat Seal, LMSW
Kat Seal
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Feeling fractured from your once-strong sense of self can be confusing, isolating, and painful. Oftentimes these feelings can arise from societal pressures to conform, living in a sex-negative society, or relationship and systemic trauma. Sex & relationship therapy can be a good fit for improving the relational quality of your life and accessing desire as a tool for living well. I specialize in supporting individuals and relationships (of all styles) who struggle to access authenticity and wholeness in their daily lives. I work best with engaged clients who practice active self reflection.
Feeling fractured from your once-strong sense of self can be confusing, isolating, and painful. Oftentimes these feelings can arise from societal pressures to conform, living in a sex-negative society, or relationship and systemic trauma. Sex & relationship therapy can be a good fit for improving the relational quality of your life and accessing desire as a tool for living well. I specialize in supporting individuals and relationships (of all styles) who struggle to access authenticity and wholeness in their daily lives. I work best with engaged clients who practice active self reflection.
(314) 897-4049 View (314) 897-4049
Photo of Tiffany Burke, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tiffany Burke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Tiffany Burke, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the states of Missouri and Maryland, with 9 years of experience providing individualized services to adults struggling with mental health and substance use issues. I completed my undergraduate studies at Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville, where I double-majored in Psychology and Criminal Justice, and earned my Master of Arts in Counseling from Lindenwood University in Belleville, IL.
I am Tiffany Burke, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the states of Missouri and Maryland, with 9 years of experience providing individualized services to adults struggling with mental health and substance use issues. I completed my undergraduate studies at Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville, where I double-majored in Psychology and Criminal Justice, and earned my Master of Arts in Counseling from Lindenwood University in Belleville, IL.
(314) 470-9893 View (314) 470-9893
Photo of Scott Heuer, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scott Heuer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Life is full of experiences that hold a lasting effect on us and deter us from moving forward, but we also have a long list of personal strengths within our “SELF” that too often go unnoticed due to the overwhelm of life in general. I will work with you to identify, and utilize these strengths by processing through past trauma, stress and anxiety, as well as the heaviness of a lack of self-worth. I work with individuals of all identities, but being someone who has personal life experiences with addiction, identifies as LGBTQ and is an adoptive parent, I have developed a special interest in these populations.
Life is full of experiences that hold a lasting effect on us and deter us from moving forward, but we also have a long list of personal strengths within our “SELF” that too often go unnoticed due to the overwhelm of life in general. I will work with you to identify, and utilize these strengths by processing through past trauma, stress and anxiety, as well as the heaviness of a lack of self-worth. I work with individuals of all identities, but being someone who has personal life experiences with addiction, identifies as LGBTQ and is an adoptive parent, I have developed a special interest in these populations.
(314) 328-8731 View (314) 328-8731
Photo of Kira Banks - Dr. Kira Banks, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Kira Banks
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Waitlist for new clients
As a licensed Clinical Psychologist since 2008, I have experience supporting clients through a variety of life challenges, transitions and diagnoses. My approach takes into account the ways our various identities shape how we experience the world. I offer brief or longer term treatment to clients 18 and older.
As a licensed Clinical Psychologist since 2008, I have experience supporting clients through a variety of life challenges, transitions and diagnoses. My approach takes into account the ways our various identities shape how we experience the world. I offer brief or longer term treatment to clients 18 and older.
(314) 970-4306 View (314) 970-4306
Photo of Dr. Carolyn Catchings, PhD, LPC, CRC, AMP, Coach, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Carolyn Catchings
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CRC, AMP, Coach
Verified Verified
Online Only
If your behavior does not reflect your core potential, make this your day to initiate personal growth & evolutionary change. Learn how to discover and employ your personal power to activate transformation! As a Personal Empowerment Coach, I help clients learn cognitive restructuring and behavior modification techniques to release their "authentic self" making change operational in their everyday life. I address physical, mental, emotional & spiritual issues through a wellness paradigm vs. symptom treatment approach. My philosophy is framed from a strength based perspective, "what's well with you" not "what's wrong with you".
If your behavior does not reflect your core potential, make this your day to initiate personal growth & evolutionary change. Learn how to discover and employ your personal power to activate transformation! As a Personal Empowerment Coach, I help clients learn cognitive restructuring and behavior modification techniques to release their "authentic self" making change operational in their everyday life. I address physical, mental, emotional & spiritual issues through a wellness paradigm vs. symptom treatment approach. My philosophy is framed from a strength based perspective, "what's well with you" not "what's wrong with you".
(314) 222-2261 View (314) 222-2261
Photo of Amy L. Miller, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy L. Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
I was a traditional therapist for a decade; I now offer life & relationship coaching. It suits me to be so much more free & authentic! Coaching focuses on solving the current problems in your life; clients typically report feeling better after just a few sessions. Sometimes after just one! BUT it's not appropriate for everyone; I can't treat trauma or mood disorders. Coaching assumes you've done your therapy work already. If you're specifically looking for practical support for life, relationships, or work, check me out. You can easily book yourself on my calendar if it feels like a good fit, and I offer equitable fee options.
I was a traditional therapist for a decade; I now offer life & relationship coaching. It suits me to be so much more free & authentic! Coaching focuses on solving the current problems in your life; clients typically report feeling better after just a few sessions. Sometimes after just one! BUT it's not appropriate for everyone; I can't treat trauma or mood disorders. Coaching assumes you've done your therapy work already. If you're specifically looking for practical support for life, relationships, or work, check me out. You can easily book yourself on my calendar if it feels like a good fit, and I offer equitable fee options.
(314) 470-3666 View (314) 470-3666
Photo of Athena Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Athena Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Online Only
I was raised in the Kansas City area, born in the Pacific Northwest. My father, a shrimper who then spent his days on the Bering Sea, moved home to the Midwest to raise his twins around family. He would one day become a social worker and set an example for me that brings us to this very moment in time. I started my education non traditionally at 28 years old studying Psychology and Public Administration at NWMSU. I continued my education at the University of Missouri - Kansas City earning my MA in Social Work.
I was raised in the Kansas City area, born in the Pacific Northwest. My father, a shrimper who then spent his days on the Bering Sea, moved home to the Midwest to raise his twins around family. He would one day become a social worker and set an example for me that brings us to this very moment in time. I started my education non traditionally at 28 years old studying Psychology and Public Administration at NWMSU. I continued my education at the University of Missouri - Kansas City earning my MA in Social Work.
(636) 265-8069 View (636) 265-8069
Photo of Yasmira Emofor, LPC, CCDP-D, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yasmira Emofor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCDP-D
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Waitlist for new clients
Have you felt like you are missing out on life? Have you felt like you are in a slump that you can’t dig yourself out off? Like you have been struggling for so long without a break from the stress of it all? Whether your struggle is depression, anxiety, phobias, substance abuse or trauma, I am here to offer a safe space for you. What you want to feel is empowered, capable and resilient to handle the challenge; or ready to face down any fear. I've helped countless individuals! Let me help you reclaim resiliency today!
Have you felt like you are missing out on life? Have you felt like you are in a slump that you can’t dig yourself out off? Like you have been struggling for so long without a break from the stress of it all? Whether your struggle is depression, anxiety, phobias, substance abuse or trauma, I am here to offer a safe space for you. What you want to feel is empowered, capable and resilient to handle the challenge; or ready to face down any fear. I've helped countless individuals! Let me help you reclaim resiliency today!
(314) 742-8208 View (314) 742-8208
Photo of Wykeeta Lee, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wykeeta Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Online Only
Counseling is more than a job for me, it is a calling. I believe that everything has a purpose. Even this moment. Do you find it hard to shut off that button in your head? Are the events from yesterday keeping you up at night? Does it feel like there's an invisible weighted blanket wrapped around you? Do you find yourself being the sounding board for everyone else, with few or no people to really listen and hear what you have to say? You're not alone. Life happens. I have had those moments and I have helped a number of people to discover their triggers and indicators of depression and anxiety.
Counseling is more than a job for me, it is a calling. I believe that everything has a purpose. Even this moment. Do you find it hard to shut off that button in your head? Are the events from yesterday keeping you up at night? Does it feel like there's an invisible weighted blanket wrapped around you? Do you find yourself being the sounding board for everyone else, with few or no people to really listen and hear what you have to say? You're not alone. Life happens. I have had those moments and I have helped a number of people to discover their triggers and indicators of depression and anxiety.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Ernest E. Garrett - Garrett LCSW & Consulting, L.L.C., ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Garrett LCSW & Consulting, L.L.C.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Garrett LCSW & Consulting, L.L.C. offers culturally affirmative, linguistically accessible, and clinically competent social work services with and on behalf of diverse populations in Missouri, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia.
Garrett LCSW & Consulting, L.L.C. offers culturally affirmative, linguistically accessible, and clinically competent social work services with and on behalf of diverse populations in Missouri, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia.
(314) 887-8072 View (314) 887-8072
Photo of Pamela A Behnen, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela A Behnen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Are you looking for deeper and lasting psychological development? As a certified Jungian Analyst, my work involves soul-building, connecting to your most authentic and alive self, centering on the search for meaning and purpose. Analysis can provide lasting change for those dealing with loss, transitions, anxiety, depression, as well as survivors of trauma. I have more than twenty years experience in dream work, mindfulness, and the creative process. I am a senior training analyst in the Inter-Regional Society of Jungian Analysts and the IAAP.
Are you looking for deeper and lasting psychological development? As a certified Jungian Analyst, my work involves soul-building, connecting to your most authentic and alive self, centering on the search for meaning and purpose. Analysis can provide lasting change for those dealing with loss, transitions, anxiety, depression, as well as survivors of trauma. I have more than twenty years experience in dream work, mindfulness, and the creative process. I am a senior training analyst in the Inter-Regional Society of Jungian Analysts and the IAAP.
(314) 238-8039 View (314) 238-8039
Photo of Jamie Gebhardt, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Gebhardt
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Online Only
For over 20 years, I have assisted clients of all ages and backgrounds in achieving wellness and healing. I am dedicated to helping you find the best approach for your mental health journey, whether you struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, parenting, communicating or any other issue. My extensive healthcare background and training enables me to care for clients with the utmost professionalism and knowledge. Finding the right therapist is an important first step, and I would love the opportunity to collaborate with you to determine the best path forward for your wellbeing and healing.
For over 20 years, I have assisted clients of all ages and backgrounds in achieving wellness and healing. I am dedicated to helping you find the best approach for your mental health journey, whether you struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, parenting, communicating or any other issue. My extensive healthcare background and training enables me to care for clients with the utmost professionalism and knowledge. Finding the right therapist is an important first step, and I would love the opportunity to collaborate with you to determine the best path forward for your wellbeing and healing.
(816) 486-2653 View (816) 486-2653
Photo of Rita Skiba-Mathews, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rita Skiba-Mathews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Are you seeking a therapist who is committed to providing a safe and affirming environment where your experiences, feelings, and identity are respected and valued? Perhaps you have experienced hardship or traumas and feel stuck in a loop of past memories. Or maybe you are finding it challenging to be effective in your day to day life. If something about this resonates with you, I think we might be a good fit! I hope to provide a comfortable and nonjudgemental environment where you can safely show up as your authentic self to work on treatment goals that fit your current struggles.
Are you seeking a therapist who is committed to providing a safe and affirming environment where your experiences, feelings, and identity are respected and valued? Perhaps you have experienced hardship or traumas and feel stuck in a loop of past memories. Or maybe you are finding it challenging to be effective in your day to day life. If something about this resonates with you, I think we might be a good fit! I hope to provide a comfortable and nonjudgemental environment where you can safely show up as your authentic self to work on treatment goals that fit your current struggles.
(314) 804-7725 View (314) 804-7725
Photo of James Douglas Pettinelli - J. Douglas Pettinelli, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
J. Douglas Pettinelli, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families from a relational, trauma informed, attachment informed, developmental perspective. Trained in child psychotherapy, couples therapy and family therapy, I work to understand clients within the context of their primary and family relationships. I especially enjoy working with couples and families. I work to identify the emotional and interpersonal obstacles to further growth, and build on the strength and resilience of the individual, couple and family. .I have experience working with children and adolescents experiencing the full range of emotional, social and developmental difficulties.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families from a relational, trauma informed, attachment informed, developmental perspective. Trained in child psychotherapy, couples therapy and family therapy, I work to understand clients within the context of their primary and family relationships. I especially enjoy working with couples and families. I work to identify the emotional and interpersonal obstacles to further growth, and build on the strength and resilience of the individual, couple and family. .I have experience working with children and adolescents experiencing the full range of emotional, social and developmental difficulties.
(314) 858-5040 View (314) 858-5040
Photo of Erica Harmon, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica Harmon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, disconnected from family or loved ones, hopeless about the future, or like they’re struggling to make decisions or meaningful change. They may be uncertain of how to start the process of change or healing, though they’re ready for growth and understanding.
Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, disconnected from family or loved ones, hopeless about the future, or like they’re struggling to make decisions or meaningful change. They may be uncertain of how to start the process of change or healing, though they’re ready for growth and understanding.
(314) 207-0130 View (314) 207-0130
Photo of Maria Kometer, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maria Kometer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
If you are reading this, there’s a good chance you feel unknown. Your family and friends think highly of you, but you’re afraid that might be because you’ve fooled them. Deep down you feel like there is something wrong with you, and no amount of “doing the right thing” can change that. You’ve spent much of your life between procrastination and perfection, but nothing really calms the racing thoughts and anxiety. A lifetime of trying to fix what feels broken in your family has taken its toll. It’s actually been pretty tough—and there’s a lot of pain.
If you are reading this, there’s a good chance you feel unknown. Your family and friends think highly of you, but you’re afraid that might be because you’ve fooled them. Deep down you feel like there is something wrong with you, and no amount of “doing the right thing” can change that. You’ve spent much of your life between procrastination and perfection, but nothing really calms the racing thoughts and anxiety. A lifetime of trying to fix what feels broken in your family has taken its toll. It’s actually been pretty tough—and there’s a lot of pain.
(314) 274-6510 View (314) 274-6510
Photo of Courtney Kempker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney Kempker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you have struggles in relationships or have a trauma history that is still impacting you? I can help you to break out of unhealthy patterns and cope and integrate negative experiences in positive ways. I can help clients to have healthier relationships, a stronger sense of self, better ways to cope with and manage symptoms, and to resolve unprocessed trauma. Achieving these goals means experiencing a higher quality of life. My ideal client is also able to be open minded in exploring their emotions in psychosomatic ways through interventions like brain spotting.
Do you have struggles in relationships or have a trauma history that is still impacting you? I can help you to break out of unhealthy patterns and cope and integrate negative experiences in positive ways. I can help clients to have healthier relationships, a stronger sense of self, better ways to cope with and manage symptoms, and to resolve unprocessed trauma. Achieving these goals means experiencing a higher quality of life. My ideal client is also able to be open minded in exploring their emotions in psychosomatic ways through interventions like brain spotting.
(314) 834-6372 View (314) 834-6372
Photo of Clayton A. Clark, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Clayton A. Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Waitlist for new clients
Something’s not right, and maybe it hasn’t been for a while, but you know it’s time to make some changes. If you (or you & your partner) need help making that change, I’d be honored to work with you. I take a flexible approach, bringing thoughtfulness and creativity to the process to meet you where you are. Here are areas I help people with most often: anxiety & stress, depression, couples counseling (Gottman Method), trauma (Brainspotting), career counseling & life design, substance use & addiction, men's issues, life transitions, anger, mindfulness, and grief.
Something’s not right, and maybe it hasn’t been for a while, but you know it’s time to make some changes. If you (or you & your partner) need help making that change, I’d be honored to work with you. I take a flexible approach, bringing thoughtfulness and creativity to the process to meet you where you are. Here are areas I help people with most often: anxiety & stress, depression, couples counseling (Gottman Method), trauma (Brainspotting), career counseling & life design, substance use & addiction, men's issues, life transitions, anger, mindfulness, and grief.
(314) 666-6308 View (314) 666-6308

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 63108

100+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in 63108 who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
85% Depression
66% Trauma and PTSD
66% Stress
66% Life Transitions
65% Relationship Issues
59% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Cigna and Evernorth
85% Aetna
85% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 63108 see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
14% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 63108?

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.