Therapists in 63116

Photo of Emme Harms, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Emme Harms
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Saint Louis, MO 63116
Starting therapy is a big step and finding the right therapist can be overwhelming. You're on the right path! ​I have worked with children and families in a variety of settings, including outpatient mental health clinics, developmental centers, schools, hospitals, and a behavioral health urgent care center. I have served clients from toddlerhood through young adulthood with a range of diagnoses.
Starting therapy is a big step and finding the right therapist can be overwhelming. You're on the right path! ​I have worked with children and families in a variety of settings, including outpatient mental health clinics, developmental centers, schools, hospitals, and a behavioral health urgent care center. I have served clients from toddlerhood through young adulthood with a range of diagnoses.
(314) 271-7530 View (314) 271-7530
Photo of Joan Brackmann, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, SEP
Joan Brackmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, SEP
Saint Louis, MO 63116
I believe that through being respected, listened to, feeling validated and cared about, the healing process is well under way. Whether experiencing depression, anxiety, fear or shame, unresolved pain from the past, or difficulties currently, we will explore your problems together and they will all make sense. I have helped clients with: eating disorders; alcohol and drug addictions; unresolved childhood trauma; depression; anxiety; grief; post-traumatic stress; LGBTQIA related issues; and relationship problems. My approach is eclectic and collaborative. I will help you find a way to heal and change that works for you.
I believe that through being respected, listened to, feeling validated and cared about, the healing process is well under way. Whether experiencing depression, anxiety, fear or shame, unresolved pain from the past, or difficulties currently, we will explore your problems together and they will all make sense. I have helped clients with: eating disorders; alcohol and drug addictions; unresolved childhood trauma; depression; anxiety; grief; post-traumatic stress; LGBTQIA related issues; and relationship problems. My approach is eclectic and collaborative. I will help you find a way to heal and change that works for you.
(314) 227-9950 View (314) 227-9950
Photo of Kelly Stickley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MAG, MSW, LCSW
Kelly Stickley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MAG, MSW, LCSW
Saint Louis, MO 63116
Every new day presents the opportunity to begin a new chapter. What is already written on our pages may shape us, but it does not define us. Every obstacle, experience, and transition we encounter brings opportunity for joy, growth, meaning, and connection. Therapy provides support to reflect on where you have been, where you are now, and where you want to be. New Chapter offers therapy services that fit your life and comfort level.
Every new day presents the opportunity to begin a new chapter. What is already written on our pages may shape us, but it does not define us. Every obstacle, experience, and transition we encounter brings opportunity for joy, growth, meaning, and connection. Therapy provides support to reflect on where you have been, where you are now, and where you want to be. New Chapter offers therapy services that fit your life and comfort level.
(314) 470-9485 View (314) 470-9485
Photo of Megan Dooley Hussmann, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Megan Dooley Hussmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Saint Louis, MO 63116
I help people process the impact of harmful relationships so that they can learn how to cultivate more nourishing relationships. I am especially interested in working with childhood trauma, parents, and offer individual and couples counseling. My counseling style is warm and inquisitive. I’m a therapist because I believe that we all have a right to be heard and understood. I help us build a relationship that is encouraging, honest, attentive, and genuinely caring.
I help people process the impact of harmful relationships so that they can learn how to cultivate more nourishing relationships. I am especially interested in working with childhood trauma, parents, and offer individual and couples counseling. My counseling style is warm and inquisitive. I’m a therapist because I believe that we all have a right to be heard and understood. I help us build a relationship that is encouraging, honest, attentive, and genuinely caring.
(314) 970-5716 View (314) 970-5716
Photo of Kerry Hogan Votaw, Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC, NCC
Kerry Hogan Votaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63116
Hello! As someone who values sincerity, I feel as though the best work happens when clients feel very deeply seen, heard, and known. Authenticity and vulnerability are the cornerstones of my practice. I believe that the ultimate driving factor in life is secure attachment. I also believe in building a therapeutic practice that mirrors my own principles. Therefore, you can expect warmth, informality, passion, and a playful spirit permeating throughout my work.
Hello! As someone who values sincerity, I feel as though the best work happens when clients feel very deeply seen, heard, and known. Authenticity and vulnerability are the cornerstones of my practice. I believe that the ultimate driving factor in life is secure attachment. I also believe in building a therapeutic practice that mirrors my own principles. Therefore, you can expect warmth, informality, passion, and a playful spirit permeating throughout my work.
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Photo of Eric Gregory, Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MAC, LPC, CSAT-C
Eric Gregory
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MAC, LPC, CSAT-C
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63116
I come to the counseling room as a fellow traveller with a strong desire to create emotional and spiritual safety, regardless of what must be faced. Much of my experience has been focused on helping men find hope and a voice amid brokenness, loneliness, and relational trouble. I meet with individuals wrestling with anxiety, depression, past or present abuse, sexual confusion, sexual addiction, and spiritual and emotional health in general. Real relief and real growth are really possible!
I come to the counseling room as a fellow traveller with a strong desire to create emotional and spiritual safety, regardless of what must be faced. Much of my experience has been focused on helping men find hope and a voice amid brokenness, loneliness, and relational trouble. I meet with individuals wrestling with anxiety, depression, past or present abuse, sexual confusion, sexual addiction, and spiritual and emotional health in general. Real relief and real growth are really possible!
(314) 207-5890 View (314) 207-5890
Photo of Ellie de Lucca, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLMFT, EFT-A
Ellie de Lucca
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLMFT, EFT-A
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63116
You feel like you’re constantly "performing" your roles, yet still feel misunderstood or alone. Whether you’re a couple trapped in a "push-pull" cycle or an individual navigating a heavy transition of identity, you are tired of feeling stuck. You want to feel truly seen and finally become the author of your own life. You describe feeling unworthy or disconnected from the joy that used to feel easy. You aren't just looking for "talk therapy", instead you want a path toward genuine connection, emotional safety, and a sense of purpose in the many "hats" you wear every day.
You feel like you’re constantly "performing" your roles, yet still feel misunderstood or alone. Whether you’re a couple trapped in a "push-pull" cycle or an individual navigating a heavy transition of identity, you are tired of feeling stuck. You want to feel truly seen and finally become the author of your own life. You describe feeling unworthy or disconnected from the joy that used to feel easy. You aren't just looking for "talk therapy", instead you want a path toward genuine connection, emotional safety, and a sense of purpose in the many "hats" you wear every day.
(314) 947-4374 View (314) 947-4374
Photo of Jamie Gregory, Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC
Jamie Gregory
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63116
Life is a complex experience of pain and beauty and sometimes we need focused care to understand our experiences and heal from past wounds. I find it a privilege to walk alongside my clients through that process of discovery and healing. I counsel women struggling with depression and anxiety, wrestling with their personal and spiritual identities, longing to make sense of their past and heal from grief and trauma (physical, sexual, emotional, spiritual), and experiencing betrayal trauma by their significant other through infidelity or other sexual behaviors and addictions (including pornography).
Life is a complex experience of pain and beauty and sometimes we need focused care to understand our experiences and heal from past wounds. I find it a privilege to walk alongside my clients through that process of discovery and healing. I counsel women struggling with depression and anxiety, wrestling with their personal and spiritual identities, longing to make sense of their past and heal from grief and trauma (physical, sexual, emotional, spiritual), and experiencing betrayal trauma by their significant other through infidelity or other sexual behaviors and addictions (including pornography).
(314) 970-4346 View (314) 970-4346
Nicole Graham
Counselor, M. Ed, LPC
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63116
Showing up as your authentic self in the world can be scary. Will I be accepted? Why am I the way that I am? What are these feelings I’m experiencing, and can I trust them? I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore and process all of these questions and more. As a Professional Counselor, I believe that you are the expert on the story you’re writing. I am simply here to come alongside you in your journey to grow and heal – to support you, to collaborate with you, sometimes to laugh or cuss or cry with you (sometimes all at the same time!).
Showing up as your authentic self in the world can be scary. Will I be accepted? Why am I the way that I am? What are these feelings I’m experiencing, and can I trust them? I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore and process all of these questions and more. As a Professional Counselor, I believe that you are the expert on the story you’re writing. I am simply here to come alongside you in your journey to grow and heal – to support you, to collaborate with you, sometimes to laugh or cuss or cry with you (sometimes all at the same time!).
(314) 804-0308 View (314) 804-0308
Photo of Dondra Agovino, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Dondra Agovino
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63116
Is your relationship going through a hard time? With over 13 years of clinical experience, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals and couples navigate communication problems, heal from past traumas, and build secure, meaningful connections. I help couples figure out what is keeping their relationship stuck. I work collaboratively with clients to understand the underlying patterns that are causing disruption or discord in their lives and relationships so they can experience lasting change. My approach integrates evidence-based techniques with deep empathy, creating a safe space for clients to process.
Is your relationship going through a hard time? With over 13 years of clinical experience, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals and couples navigate communication problems, heal from past traumas, and build secure, meaningful connections. I help couples figure out what is keeping their relationship stuck. I work collaboratively with clients to understand the underlying patterns that are causing disruption or discord in their lives and relationships so they can experience lasting change. My approach integrates evidence-based techniques with deep empathy, creating a safe space for clients to process.
(636) 923-8925 View (636) 923-8925
Photo of Michael Shahan, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Michael Shahan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
5 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63116
Life can often leave us feeling stuck, anxious, or overwhelmed. Many times, we know the steps we should take, yet struggle to truly believe in ourselves and move forward. Our fears and worries can hijack our rational thinking, keeping us from living as our authentic selves. These challenges, whether small or life-altering, can affect our relationships, self-worth, and overall sense of peace. But there’s hope. I believe that self-awareness and self-compassion are the keys to unlocking real transformation.
Life can often leave us feeling stuck, anxious, or overwhelmed. Many times, we know the steps we should take, yet struggle to truly believe in ourselves and move forward. Our fears and worries can hijack our rational thinking, keeping us from living as our authentic selves. These challenges, whether small or life-altering, can affect our relationships, self-worth, and overall sense of peace. But there’s hope. I believe that self-awareness and self-compassion are the keys to unlocking real transformation.
(816) 439-8683 View (816) 439-8683
Photo of Jesse J Jonesberg - Divergent Therapy Milwaukee - Jesse Jonesberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Divergent Therapy Milwaukee - Jesse Jonesberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
5 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63116
Therapy, ADHD focused therapy, and supervision - Looking for a new approach to therapy that is neuroaffirming, culturally humble, and compassion-based? You can get better and heal - even if traditional talk therapies have not helped in the past. I am a neurodivergent therapist, and I enjoy working with folks who have ADHD, Autism, and other neuro-differences. Being different in a rigid society can have serious mental health impacts. I help with trauma, anxiety, and substance use issues from a place of acceptance, non-judgment, and common humanity.
Therapy, ADHD focused therapy, and supervision - Looking for a new approach to therapy that is neuroaffirming, culturally humble, and compassion-based? You can get better and heal - even if traditional talk therapies have not helped in the past. I am a neurodivergent therapist, and I enjoy working with folks who have ADHD, Autism, and other neuro-differences. Being different in a rigid society can have serious mental health impacts. I help with trauma, anxiety, and substance use issues from a place of acceptance, non-judgment, and common humanity.
(414) 409-9736 View (414) 409-9736
Photo of Cortney Dollens, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Cortney Dollens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
In a world riddled with sadness and struggle, I strive to provide a safe haven for my clients to find support and hope, recognizing that all too often these vital components for living just can't be found anywhere else. My hope is to be source of grounding as you face your struggle, and ultimately, yourself. Counseling can be a transformative and life-changing experience if we are brave enough to engage it with earnestness and sincerity. I'll be with you along the way.
In a world riddled with sadness and struggle, I strive to provide a safe haven for my clients to find support and hope, recognizing that all too often these vital components for living just can't be found anywhere else. My hope is to be source of grounding as you face your struggle, and ultimately, yourself. Counseling can be a transformative and life-changing experience if we are brave enough to engage it with earnestness and sincerity. I'll be with you along the way.
(314) 270-1492 View (314) 270-1492
Photo of Tina M Vora, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Tina M Vora
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello… Making the decision to start therapy can be hard enough, finding a therapist and starting the process shouldn’t have to be. I strive to get new clients on my schedule within 1-3wks… Is something holding you back from truly living life and experiencing joy? Do you long for more fulfilling relationships with others? You Are Not Alone! Having someone to connect with and share your story can be one of the best ways to start making the changes you want and deserve. As your therapist I will provide a judgement free space that is safe for you to drop the mask and share the inner thoughts that have been occupying your mind.
Hello… Making the decision to start therapy can be hard enough, finding a therapist and starting the process shouldn’t have to be. I strive to get new clients on my schedule within 1-3wks… Is something holding you back from truly living life and experiencing joy? Do you long for more fulfilling relationships with others? You Are Not Alone! Having someone to connect with and share your story can be one of the best ways to start making the changes you want and deserve. As your therapist I will provide a judgement free space that is safe for you to drop the mask and share the inner thoughts that have been occupying your mind.
(314) 470-9572 View (314) 470-9572
Photo of Elizabeth Von, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Elizabeth Von
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Serves Area
Welcome. I’m so glad you’re here. I view the human experience much like a cup of coffee–complex, layered, and ever-changing. Some moments may feel bitter; others leave us feeling nourished and fulfilled. You may be seeking to better understand yourself, build a healthier relationship with the world around you, or heal from patterns that no longer serve you. As your therapist, I’ll meet you wherever you are and walk alongside you as we navigate your lived experiences together.
Welcome. I’m so glad you’re here. I view the human experience much like a cup of coffee–complex, layered, and ever-changing. Some moments may feel bitter; others leave us feeling nourished and fulfilled. You may be seeking to better understand yourself, build a healthier relationship with the world around you, or heal from patterns that no longer serve you. As your therapist, I’ll meet you wherever you are and walk alongside you as we navigate your lived experiences together.
(314) 270-2285 View (314) 270-2285
Photo of Dr. Ryan D Liberati - Dr. Ryan Liberati, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, RPT-S, LCPC
Dr. Ryan Liberati
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, RPT-S, LCPC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Thank you for your interest. My ideal client is motivated for change and open to exploring more about themselves. I use a more direct style of counseling that heavily incorporates aspects of choice theory, reality therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy to help my adult clients make real changes in their lives. For children, I utilize evidence-based directive and non-directive play therapy approaches, depending upon the child's unique psychosocial needs.
Thank you for your interest. My ideal client is motivated for change and open to exploring more about themselves. I use a more direct style of counseling that heavily incorporates aspects of choice theory, reality therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy to help my adult clients make real changes in their lives. For children, I utilize evidence-based directive and non-directive play therapy approaches, depending upon the child's unique psychosocial needs.
(314) 669-3653 View (314) 669-3653
Photo of Leah Polk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Leah Polk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Have you ever wanted to begin counseling, but didn’t feel like your problems were big enough? Or, have you ever ghosted a therapist because you didn’t feel helped? Me too. So, we go it alone - doing everything to change ourselves and our relationships. We continuously find ourselves stuck between what we want to do and what we “should” do. This dilemma often shows up as anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. That’s why it’s my mission to provide approachable counseling that works.
Have you ever wanted to begin counseling, but didn’t feel like your problems were big enough? Or, have you ever ghosted a therapist because you didn’t feel helped? Me too. So, we go it alone - doing everything to change ourselves and our relationships. We continuously find ourselves stuck between what we want to do and what we “should” do. This dilemma often shows up as anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. That’s why it’s my mission to provide approachable counseling that works.
(314) 794-5846 View (314) 794-5846
Photo of Dr. Kim Davis - Evolet Counseling and Wellness, Counselor, PhD, LPC
Evolet Counseling and Wellness
Counselor, PhD, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You are the one who holds everything together - for your family, your job, your relationships - but inside you feel anxious, exhausted, disconnected, or quietly overwhelmed. You may struggle with chronic worry, people-pleasing, relationship stress, burnout, or feeling like you’ve lost yourself. You want peace in your body, clarity in your mind, and to finally feel emotionally safe. You’re not looking to be “fixed.” You want to feel understood, grounded, and whole again.
You are the one who holds everything together - for your family, your job, your relationships - but inside you feel anxious, exhausted, disconnected, or quietly overwhelmed. You may struggle with chronic worry, people-pleasing, relationship stress, burnout, or feeling like you’ve lost yourself. You want peace in your body, clarity in your mind, and to finally feel emotionally safe. You’re not looking to be “fixed.” You want to feel understood, grounded, and whole again.
(314) 208-3286 View (314) 208-3286
Photo of Lori E Kiefer, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Lori E Kiefer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Serves Area
I have 30+ years experience working with individual adults, and couples, on a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, self esteem and other challenges to well being. My desire as a therapist is to provide a place of safety in which these issues can be addressed. I utilize a combination of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy.
I have 30+ years experience working with individual adults, and couples, on a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, self esteem and other challenges to well being. My desire as a therapist is to provide a place of safety in which these issues can be addressed. I utilize a combination of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy.
(314) 277-0118 View (314) 277-0118
Photo of Sara Kay Coker - Reach Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC, NCC
Reach Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC, NCC
Serves Area
Life reads a lot like Dr. Seuss' Oh, the Places You'll Go. Sometimes you'll be waiting, sometimes you're on top, sometimes you fall down hard, and sometimes the darkness overwhelms. You may feel unsure who you are, where to turn, and how to function again. Approaching such times with honesty and curiosity can invite new freedom and healing. Counseling offers a safe place to bring your hopes and pains as you continue on your journey. I'd love to join you in this process.
Life reads a lot like Dr. Seuss' Oh, the Places You'll Go. Sometimes you'll be waiting, sometimes you're on top, sometimes you fall down hard, and sometimes the darkness overwhelms. You may feel unsure who you are, where to turn, and how to function again. Approaching such times with honesty and curiosity can invite new freedom and healing. Counseling offers a safe place to bring your hopes and pains as you continue on your journey. I'd love to join you in this process.
(737) 313-5777 View (737) 313-5777

See more therapy options for 63116

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 63116

90+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in 63116 who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
84% Depression
79% Trauma and PTSD
77% Relationship Issues
70% Stress
68% Self Esteem
55% Grief

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

98% Aetna
83% Cigna and Evernorth
76% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in 63116 see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 63116?

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.