Therapists in 63108

Photo of Dr. A. P. Carmichael, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MEd, MA, LMFT
Dr. A. P. Carmichael
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MEd, MA, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Relationships are part of what makes us human. We thrive when connected with others. I am passionate about helping people create and maintain healthy and loving relationships. I work with couples, families, and individuals and have strong experience working with LGBTQ clients. I make it a priority to create a safe space for all of my clients. It is through this atmosphere of acceptance that we can work together to create true change and growth. I work with individuals, families and couples who are going through a crisis, or those who are simply looking to strengthen their relationships.
Relationships are part of what makes us human. We thrive when connected with others. I am passionate about helping people create and maintain healthy and loving relationships. I work with couples, families, and individuals and have strong experience working with LGBTQ clients. I make it a priority to create a safe space for all of my clients. It is through this atmosphere of acceptance that we can work together to create true change and growth. I work with individuals, families and couples who are going through a crisis, or those who are simply looking to strengthen their relationships.
(314) 682-4859 View (314) 682-4859
Photo of Cynthia Stewart, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Cynthia Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Saint Louis, MO 63108
As a licensed therapist in Missouri, Kentucky, and New Jersey, I bring 25 years of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My approach centers on creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their inner experiences and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. I specialize in addressing a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem challenges, LGBTQ+,and life transitions.
As a licensed therapist in Missouri, Kentucky, and New Jersey, I bring 25 years of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My approach centers on creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their inner experiences and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. I specialize in addressing a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem challenges, LGBTQ+,and life transitions.
(314) 988-2364 View (314) 988-2364
Photo of Jacilynn Peacock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Jacilynn Peacock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
My ideal clients are women, adolescents, and families facing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relationship issues. If you're struggling with stress, communication problems, or seeking healthier coping mechanisms, I can help. Together, we'll build resilience, increase self-confidence, and develop effective strategies to improve your mental wellness. You don’t have to face these challenges alone—reach out today and take the first step toward healing, growth, and a more fulfilling life!
My ideal clients are women, adolescents, and families facing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and relationship issues. If you're struggling with stress, communication problems, or seeking healthier coping mechanisms, I can help. Together, we'll build resilience, increase self-confidence, and develop effective strategies to improve your mental wellness. You don’t have to face these challenges alone—reach out today and take the first step toward healing, growth, and a more fulfilling life!
(314) 717-0095 View (314) 717-0095
Photo of Rita Skiba-Mathews, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Rita Skiba-Mathews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
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 Kaisey Braun, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kaisey Braun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
I work with clients 12+ who may feel anxious, overwhelmed, or like life’s weight is too heavy—whether navigating transitions, caregiver or parenting challenges, or struggles with self-esteem and confidence. Together, we’ll build clarity, resilience, and healthy boundaries using CBT, DBT, ACT, Solution-Focused, and mindfulness techniques, with practical tools and “homework” to continue growth outside of therapy, helping you feel supported, understood, and less isolated.
I work with clients 12+ who may feel anxious, overwhelmed, or like life’s weight is too heavy—whether navigating transitions, caregiver or parenting challenges, or struggles with self-esteem and confidence. Together, we’ll build clarity, resilience, and healthy boundaries using CBT, DBT, ACT, Solution-Focused, and mindfulness techniques, with practical tools and “homework” to continue growth outside of therapy, helping you feel supported, understood, and less isolated.
(314) 887-4812 View (314) 887-4812
Photo of James Douglas Pettinelli - J. Douglas Pettinelli, Ph.D., Psychologist, PhD
J. Douglas Pettinelli, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
2 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 Joy M Camp - Joy and Hope Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Joy and Hope Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Having affordable access and resources to mental health services can be a great relief to both everyday stressors and life's trauma. Acknowledging and seeking help are the first steps to achieving life goals to feel better inside and out. We are proud that you are here, and we are ready to help you move forward. We will help you take the next steps in life to achieve your goals. We will help you through life challenges and help you to become more equipped to become your best self. We offer a safe a supportive environment.
Having affordable access and resources to mental health services can be a great relief to both everyday stressors and life's trauma. Acknowledging and seeking help are the first steps to achieving life goals to feel better inside and out. We are proud that you are here, and we are ready to help you move forward. We will help you take the next steps in life to achieve your goals. We will help you through life challenges and help you to become more equipped to become your best self. We offer a safe a supportive environment.
(314) 208-2239 View (314) 208-2239
Photo of Michelle Treece - Thriveworks Counseling & Therapy St Louis, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Therapy St Louis
Licensed Professional Counselor
Saint Louis, MO 63108
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of Jennifer Bernstein, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Jennifer Bernstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Saint Louis, MO 63108
My journey into therapy began when my daughter was diagnosed with ADHD at a young age. As I learned more about how to support her, I realized how meaningful it would be to help others navigate similar challenges. That experience inspired me to become the kind of therapist I had wanted for her—someone who listens deeply, meets clients where they are, and helps them feel truly understood. What I love most about being a therapist is connecting with people from all walks of life.
My journey into therapy began when my daughter was diagnosed with ADHD at a young age. As I learned more about how to support her, I realized how meaningful it would be to help others navigate similar challenges. That experience inspired me to become the kind of therapist I had wanted for her—someone who listens deeply, meets clients where they are, and helps them feel truly understood. What I love most about being a therapist is connecting with people from all walks of life.
(314) 350-5725 View (314) 350-5725
Photo of Maria Kometer, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Maria Kometer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
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 Renee Ann Hodgins, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, CCTP, CIMHP
Renee Ann Hodgins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, CCTP, CIMHP
Saint Louis, MO 63108
We all face times in our life where it seems we have been thrown a curve ball. We suddenly find ourselves in the midst of a personal crisis. Where do we go, and who can we turn to for help? It is these times, when professional counseling and therapy is helpful. My motto is, "When life hurts...healing helps." My ideal client is an individual, or family member who is seeking a skilled mental health professional. I provide a therapeutic environment for my client, that will assist you in navigating through the personal issues that you have been struggling with.
We all face times in our life where it seems we have been thrown a curve ball. We suddenly find ourselves in the midst of a personal crisis. Where do we go, and who can we turn to for help? It is these times, when professional counseling and therapy is helpful. My motto is, "When life hurts...healing helps." My ideal client is an individual, or family member who is seeking a skilled mental health professional. I provide a therapeutic environment for my client, that will assist you in navigating through the personal issues that you have been struggling with.
(314) 254-9756 View (314) 254-9756
Photo of Stephen Greenberg, Licensed Professional Counselor, CSAT, LPC, CRAADC
Stephen Greenberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, CSAT, LPC, CRAADC
Saint Louis, MO 63108
There’s no shame in seeking someone too talk too. Your support network begins here. I combine evidence-based therapy with real-life strategies to help you break free from what is holding you back. Together, we’ll tackle the tough stuff with honesty, empathy, humor, and make a plan that actually fits your life. Therapy and Recovery Services is a private practice serving clients across St. Louis and St. Louis County. I offer in-person and online counseling for adults navigating addiction, sex addiction and mental health issues. I also offer group therapy for sex addiction.
There’s no shame in seeking someone too talk too. Your support network begins here. I combine evidence-based therapy with real-life strategies to help you break free from what is holding you back. Together, we’ll tackle the tough stuff with honesty, empathy, humor, and make a plan that actually fits your life. Therapy and Recovery Services is a private practice serving clients across St. Louis and St. Louis County. I offer in-person and online counseling for adults navigating addiction, sex addiction and mental health issues. I also offer group therapy for sex addiction.
(314) 948-4417 View (314) 948-4417
Photo of Angela Howard, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angela Howard
Marriage & Family Therapist
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Hello, I'm Angela. I began my career in marriage and family therapy after raising three children and following my military husband around the world. My journey into this field was driven by a deep desire to support military families, including couples counseling, divorce, and blended families. For several years, I concentrated heavily in this area, and in the last three years, I have shifted my focus to working with military veterans, particularly in trauma work. Additionally, I have expanded my practice to counsel a wider population of people through online formats.
Hello, I'm Angela. I began my career in marriage and family therapy after raising three children and following my military husband around the world. My journey into this field was driven by a deep desire to support military families, including couples counseling, divorce, and blended families. For several years, I concentrated heavily in this area, and in the last three years, I have shifted my focus to working with military veterans, particularly in trauma work. Additionally, I have expanded my practice to counsel a wider population of people through online formats.
(314) 860-3492 View (314) 860-3492
Photo of Brittany Carter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Brittany Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Saint Louis, MO 63108
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by life’s transitions, struggles to find balance between work and personal life, or deals with anxiety. They are ready to explore their inner world, overcome obstacles, and discover strength within themselves. Whether navigating a major life change or feeling stuck, they seek clarity, peace, and fulfillment.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by life’s transitions, struggles to find balance between work and personal life, or deals with anxiety. They are ready to explore their inner world, overcome obstacles, and discover strength within themselves. Whether navigating a major life change or feeling stuck, they seek clarity, peace, and fulfillment.
(314) 742-8278 View (314) 742-8278
Photo of Kimberly Rojas, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kimberly Rojas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Hi there, my name is Kim and I've been a therapist for over ten years. I have a wide range of experiences working with adults and kids in setting like private practice, schools, hospitals and in crisis work. I would love to learn more about what brings you to therapy and help you develop the tools to cope with what you're going through.
Hi there, my name is Kim and I've been a therapist for over ten years. I have a wide range of experiences working with adults and kids in setting like private practice, schools, hospitals and in crisis work. I would love to learn more about what brings you to therapy and help you develop the tools to cope with what you're going through.
(314) 228-3431 View (314) 228-3431
Photo of David K McGraw, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
David K McGraw
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or stress? Going through a major life transition like a career change or academic challenges? If you’re feeling overwhelmed by life’s complexities and seeking clarity, personal growth, or emotional balance, you’re not alone. Many people face challenges around their identity, career, relationships, or life purpose. Your goal might be to better understand yourself, manage stress, and develop practical tools to navigate life’s ups and downs. You deserve to feel grounded, confident, and connected, working toward a greater sense of well-being and fulfillment.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or stress? Going through a major life transition like a career change or academic challenges? If you’re feeling overwhelmed by life’s complexities and seeking clarity, personal growth, or emotional balance, you’re not alone. Many people face challenges around their identity, career, relationships, or life purpose. Your goal might be to better understand yourself, manage stress, and develop practical tools to navigate life’s ups and downs. You deserve to feel grounded, confident, and connected, working toward a greater sense of well-being and fulfillment.
(314) 926-9030 View (314) 926-9030
Photo of Melony Crayton, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Melony Crayton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
You may feel stuck in cycles of disconnection. Craving intimacy but feeling blocked by fear, past wounds, or protective walls. You hold back, pull away, or stay silent when closeness feels too risky. These patterns are exhausting, and deep down, you long for safe, nourishing, and real connection. Whether you’re healing from relational trauma, struggling with communication, or feeling disconnected from yourself or a partner, you're here because something in you still hopes for repair and intimacy, and that hope matters.
You may feel stuck in cycles of disconnection. Craving intimacy but feeling blocked by fear, past wounds, or protective walls. You hold back, pull away, or stay silent when closeness feels too risky. These patterns are exhausting, and deep down, you long for safe, nourishing, and real connection. Whether you’re healing from relational trauma, struggling with communication, or feeling disconnected from yourself or a partner, you're here because something in you still hopes for repair and intimacy, and that hope matters.
(314) 912-2581 View (314) 912-2581
Photo of Christine Coleman-Sandwell, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Christine Coleman-Sandwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Saint Louis, MO 63108
I’m Chris, a licensed professional counselor who provides therapy for both individuals and couples seeking support, clarity, and healthier ways of navigating life’s challenges. I use an eclectic and integrative approach, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, trauma-informed practices, and the Gottman Method. This flexibility allows me to tailor therapy to each person or relationship, ensuring that the work we do together fits your goals, values, and pace.
I’m Chris, a licensed professional counselor who provides therapy for both individuals and couples seeking support, clarity, and healthier ways of navigating life’s challenges. I use an eclectic and integrative approach, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, trauma-informed practices, and the Gottman Method. This flexibility allows me to tailor therapy to each person or relationship, ensuring that the work we do together fits your goals, values, and pace.
(314) 408-2081 View (314) 408-2081
Photo of Norinee Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Norinee Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed, isolated, or unsupported. I work with a variety of populations, helping individuals navigate fear, uncertainty, and life’s challenges. Whether you're struggling with trauma, anxiety, or life transitions, I offer a compassionate, empathetic approach rooted in active listening and understanding. My goal is to build trust and provide support, especially for those who feel abandoned by others. With years of experience and a Master’s in Counseling, I’m here to empower you on your healing journey.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed, isolated, or unsupported. I work with a variety of populations, helping individuals navigate fear, uncertainty, and life’s challenges. Whether you're struggling with trauma, anxiety, or life transitions, I offer a compassionate, empathetic approach rooted in active listening and understanding. My goal is to build trust and provide support, especially for those who feel abandoned by others. With years of experience and a Master’s in Counseling, I’m here to empower you on your healing journey.
(636) 396-0571 View (636) 396-0571
Photo of Latoya Love, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Latoya Love
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Saint Louis, MO 63108
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Missouri. I received my B.A. in Psychology from the University of Missouri - Kansas City in 2009. In 2013, I received my M.A. in Counseling from Webster University in St. Louis, Missouri. I have worked in the mental health field for over 14 years and have been a licensed professional counselor for 11 of those years. I am a wife and mother who is passionate about enriching the lives of people who struggle with showing up for themselves daily especially as it pertains to self-care and mental health.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Missouri. I received my B.A. in Psychology from the University of Missouri - Kansas City in 2009. In 2013, I received my M.A. in Counseling from Webster University in St. Louis, Missouri. I have worked in the mental health field for over 14 years and have been a licensed professional counselor for 11 of those years. I am a wife and mother who is passionate about enriching the lives of people who struggle with showing up for themselves daily especially as it pertains to self-care and mental health.
(314) 860-7566 View (314) 860-7566

See more therapy options for 63108

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 63108

100+

Average cost per session

$134

Therapists in 63108 who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
83% Depression
70% Trauma and PTSD
63% Stress
62% Relationship Issues
62% Self Esteem
52% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% Cigna and Evernorth
78% Aetna
68% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 63108 see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
15% Male
4% 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.