Donna Hicks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am licensed in Texas with 4 years of professional work experience. I have an associates in justice administration, a bachelor's in justice administration with a focus on human services and a minor in psychology, and a master's of arts in counseling. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I have worked with all levels of addiction, Bexar County Probation, in-patient recovery, wounded transition for military members, domestic violence, and crisis intervention.
I am licensed in Texas with 4 years of professional work experience. I have an associates in justice administration, a bachelor's in justice administration with a focus on human services and a minor in psychology, and a master's of arts in counseling. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I have worked with all levels of addiction, Bexar County Probation, in-patient recovery, wounded transition for military members, domestic violence, and crisis intervention.
(832) 471-8049 View (832) 471-8049
Photo of Stephen Vega - Addiction and Men's Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Addiction and Men's Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78227
Life can be full of challenges—whether you're working through mental health struggles or towards recovery, facing changes, or simply looking to improve your overall well-being. No matter where you are in your journey, I'm here to support you in making the changes that matter to you. With 26 years of personal recovery and 20 years in the working in the helping professions, you can feel confident that you're receiving quality care. I offer virtual service from 9am to 5pm and in network with most major insurances.
Life can be full of challenges—whether you're working through mental health struggles or towards recovery, facing changes, or simply looking to improve your overall well-being. No matter where you are in your journey, I'm here to support you in making the changes that matter to you. With 26 years of personal recovery and 20 years in the working in the helping professions, you can feel confident that you're receiving quality care. I offer virtual service from 9am to 5pm and in network with most major insurances.
(726) 239-4414 View (726) 239-4414
Photo of Cynthia Kemp, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Cynthia Kemp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Cynthia Kemp, LPC, currently work as a licensed practitioner of the healing arts at a mental health clinic and have worked there for the last 4 years. My approach is nonjudgmental and accepting of all individuals that I talk with as we build an alliance to work together. I realize that each individual is different, and I need to adjust treatment to fit that unique individual. I practice from several models dependent upon the needs of the client. Listed are the most common approaches that I use for treatment: Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused, Person-Centered, Supportive Therapy.
My name is Cynthia Kemp, LPC, currently work as a licensed practitioner of the healing arts at a mental health clinic and have worked there for the last 4 years. My approach is nonjudgmental and accepting of all individuals that I talk with as we build an alliance to work together. I realize that each individual is different, and I need to adjust treatment to fit that unique individual. I practice from several models dependent upon the needs of the client. Listed are the most common approaches that I use for treatment: Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused, Person-Centered, Supportive Therapy.
(346) 572-9819 View (346) 572-9819
Photo of Ulises Cardenas, MA
Ulises Cardenas
MA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Your journey toward healing starts with a choice to seek assistance. As your therapist, I will walk alongside you to start what I call “A Time to Heal”. I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist who specializes in children, adolescents, couples, and family therapy. I work with the following issues: anxiety, depression, divorce, grief, behavioral issues, and family conflict.
Your journey toward healing starts with a choice to seek assistance. As your therapist, I will walk alongside you to start what I call “A Time to Heal”. I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking therapist who specializes in children, adolescents, couples, and family therapy. I work with the following issues: anxiety, depression, divorce, grief, behavioral issues, and family conflict.
(708) 726-8098 View (708) 726-8098
Photo of Maribel Arias, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC
Maribel Arias
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Welcome! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor with over 9 years of experience in helping individuals and communities thrive. As a dedicated LPC Supervisor, I’m passionate about guiding LPC-Associates through their journey to becoming fully licensed professionals. My supervision approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, compassion, and a commitment to fostering personal and professional growth. Currently accepting new clients! I specialize working with couples, teens, and adults. Whether you're dealing with past trauma, struggling with mood fluctuations, or seeking relationship support, I am here to help you!
Welcome! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor with over 9 years of experience in helping individuals and communities thrive. As a dedicated LPC Supervisor, I’m passionate about guiding LPC-Associates through their journey to becoming fully licensed professionals. My supervision approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, compassion, and a commitment to fostering personal and professional growth. Currently accepting new clients! I specialize working with couples, teens, and adults. Whether you're dealing with past trauma, struggling with mood fluctuations, or seeking relationship support, I am here to help you!
(210) 934-0361 View (210) 934-0361
Photo of Maribelle Lock, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Maribelle Lock
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have been a counselor in the state of Texas for nearly ten years, and I am deeply passionate about helping people navigate life’s challenges. My approach to therapy is heartfelt and grounded in compassion. I meet clients where they are, creating a space of understanding and shared humanity. I believe everyone’s story matters, and I work to get to know the whole person—exploring not just the present moment but also the past experiences that shape who you are today.
I have been a counselor in the state of Texas for nearly ten years, and I am deeply passionate about helping people navigate life’s challenges. My approach to therapy is heartfelt and grounded in compassion. I meet clients where they are, creating a space of understanding and shared humanity. I believe everyone’s story matters, and I work to get to know the whole person—exploring not just the present moment but also the past experiences that shape who you are today.
(956) 593-2143 View (956) 593-2143
Photo of Tania Lopez, MS, LPC
Tania Lopez
MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, my name is Tania Lopez. I am a bilingual licensed professional counselor (hablo español). I provide therapy to a variety of ages and demographics ranging from ages 3 to 100. My specialties are children's behavioral issues, anxiety, self-esteem, and relational issues. I believe that healing and growth begins with the therapeutic relationship. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can communicate their concerns openly and free of judgement.
Hi, my name is Tania Lopez. I am a bilingual licensed professional counselor (hablo español). I provide therapy to a variety of ages and demographics ranging from ages 3 to 100. My specialties are children's behavioral issues, anxiety, self-esteem, and relational issues. I believe that healing and growth begins with the therapeutic relationship. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can communicate their concerns openly and free of judgement.
(346) 591-8662 View (346) 591-8662
Photo of Renee Floer, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Renee Floer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
If you're new to therapy or having reservations about trying it, you’re exactly who I’d love to meet! I offer a non-judgmental and relatable space to explore and make changes to the places in life you're feeling stuck. The most common issues I help people with are; anxiety, relationship transitions, mood instability, negative self-talk, guilt & shame, codependent behaviors such as 'people pleasing', feelings of inadequacy, and substance misuse. Many of my clients have experienced childhood trauma, sexual trauma, PTSD, or CPTSD. I have a particular passion for helping folks in the music & hospitality industries.
If you're new to therapy or having reservations about trying it, you’re exactly who I’d love to meet! I offer a non-judgmental and relatable space to explore and make changes to the places in life you're feeling stuck. The most common issues I help people with are; anxiety, relationship transitions, mood instability, negative self-talk, guilt & shame, codependent behaviors such as 'people pleasing', feelings of inadequacy, and substance misuse. Many of my clients have experienced childhood trauma, sexual trauma, PTSD, or CPTSD. I have a particular passion for helping folks in the music & hospitality industries.
(985) 241-7911 View (985) 241-7911
Photo of LaQuondra Patterson-Levias, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
LaQuondra Patterson-Levias
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
If you're considering counseling you're already on the right track. Do you have goals or changes that you'd like to make? Have you ever wondered how others seem to get ahead in life or maintain peace and happiness?
If you're considering counseling you're already on the right track. Do you have goals or changes that you'd like to make? Have you ever wondered how others seem to get ahead in life or maintain peace and happiness?
(832) 925-3488 View (832) 925-3488
Photo of Anne Tuttle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Anne Tuttle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
While reaching out for help can feel scary, please know that in therapy you have a lot of control, and I work hard to help you feel safe. My clients often prefer the flexibility that video visits offer. Typically my clients are living stressful lives, may have a history of trauma, or feel overwhelmed. In particular, I'm experienced in working with people living with anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma/PTSD, people in recovery, teachers and healthcare workers. Everyone is different, and I prefer to shape how we work together based on your individual needs and goals. I see clients virtually in Texas, New Hampshire and Maryland.
While reaching out for help can feel scary, please know that in therapy you have a lot of control, and I work hard to help you feel safe. My clients often prefer the flexibility that video visits offer. Typically my clients are living stressful lives, may have a history of trauma, or feel overwhelmed. In particular, I'm experienced in working with people living with anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma/PTSD, people in recovery, teachers and healthcare workers. Everyone is different, and I prefer to shape how we work together based on your individual needs and goals. I see clients virtually in Texas, New Hampshire and Maryland.
(210) 405-9560 View (210) 405-9560
Photo of Juazzelyn A. Barrera, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CSC
Juazzelyn A. Barrera
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Have you been trying to stay afloat on your own? Are you overwhelmed with work, kids, or school? Do you have nights when you are unable to fall asleep and the lists keep running in your mind? You don't have to go on this journey alone. I empower you to develop skills that you have always had inside and may not have tapped into them yet. Stop second guessing your decisions and find your voice and inner peace.
Have you been trying to stay afloat on your own? Are you overwhelmed with work, kids, or school? Do you have nights when you are unable to fall asleep and the lists keep running in your mind? You don't have to go on this journey alone. I empower you to develop skills that you have always had inside and may not have tapped into them yet. Stop second guessing your decisions and find your voice and inner peace.
(210) 361-3112 View (210) 361-3112

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lavelda Naylor, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S, DCC
Lavelda Naylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S, DCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Online Only
Meaning in life can be hard to find when we are struggling to just get through each day, and therapy can help. If you feel empty, overwhelmed or lost, please reach out because you don't have to go through it without support. While I work with many issues, I specialize in mood disorders, cluster B personality disorders, adult 'giftedness' /GT issues, low belongingness, polyamory and relationship problems of all types. If you have felt othered or marginalized before, I want to assure you I offer affirming care and operate from an inclusive point of view. Currently accepting new clients for virtual therapy only.
Meaning in life can be hard to find when we are struggling to just get through each day, and therapy can help. If you feel empty, overwhelmed or lost, please reach out because you don't have to go through it without support. While I work with many issues, I specialize in mood disorders, cluster B personality disorders, adult 'giftedness' /GT issues, low belongingness, polyamory and relationship problems of all types. If you have felt othered or marginalized before, I want to assure you I offer affirming care and operate from an inclusive point of view. Currently accepting new clients for virtual therapy only.
(210) 598-5012 View (210) 598-5012
Photo of M. Diane Way, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LMFT, LPC, EMDR
M. Diane Way
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LMFT, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Adkins, TX 78101
I love what I do! I am a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and caring individual who has gone through painful life experiences myself and have likewise experienced the freedom and peace of healing. I am an experienced, skillful clinician who treats adults, adolescents, and children who are experiencing anxiety, insecurity, nightmares, depression, emotional reactions to trauma, stress, grief, guilt, and/or anger. I diagnose and treat children's' issues including ADHD, separation anxiety, divorce issues, anxiety, depressive disorders, autistic spectrum disorders, behavioral, social, school, or academic problems. I teach parents to implement structure & behavioral techniques that really work!
I love what I do! I am a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and caring individual who has gone through painful life experiences myself and have likewise experienced the freedom and peace of healing. I am an experienced, skillful clinician who treats adults, adolescents, and children who are experiencing anxiety, insecurity, nightmares, depression, emotional reactions to trauma, stress, grief, guilt, and/or anger. I diagnose and treat children's' issues including ADHD, separation anxiety, divorce issues, anxiety, depressive disorders, autistic spectrum disorders, behavioral, social, school, or academic problems. I teach parents to implement structure & behavioral techniques that really work!
(830) 448-0508 View (830) 448-0508
Photo of Elisabeth Zaragoza, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Elisabeth Zaragoza
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing grief, loss, life transitions, stress, and those feeling overwhelmed. I provide a warm and welcoming space for you to share what you are experiencing. You may be feeling lost, overwhelmed, and unsure if what you are feeling is "normal." I work with you to understand your experience and provide you with different tools and techniques for you to try.
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing grief, loss, life transitions, stress, and those feeling overwhelmed. I provide a warm and welcoming space for you to share what you are experiencing. You may be feeling lost, overwhelmed, and unsure if what you are feeling is "normal." I work with you to understand your experience and provide you with different tools and techniques for you to try.
(737) 225-6870 View (737) 225-6870
Photo of Becky Davenport - Institute for Couple and Family Enhancement, Pre-Licensed Professional
Institute for Couple and Family Enhancement
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258
The Institute for Couple and Family Enhancement was founded based in the knowledge that relationships are a central part of all of our lives. When relationships are strong, they provide us with a sense of security and a confidence in ourselves. When we encounter problems in any significant relationship, we can feel deep despair, disconnection, and frustration that can negatively impact all aspects of our lives.
The Institute for Couple and Family Enhancement was founded based in the knowledge that relationships are a central part of all of our lives. When relationships are strong, they provide us with a sense of security and a confidence in ourselves. When we encounter problems in any significant relationship, we can feel deep despair, disconnection, and frustration that can negatively impact all aspects of our lives.
(210) 496-0100 View (210) 496-0100
Photo of Denise Pounds, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Denise Pounds
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(346) 445-9948 View (346) 445-9948
Photo of Carly Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Carly Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Beginning therapy is a brave act of self-care, and working with an effective clinician can be the support you deserve in bringing about powerful changes in your world. Clients come to me with a variety of symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and anger, as well as attachment wounds that impact the quality of their relationships. I work with people seeking to center psychological wellness in their lives, people navigating life transitions, and people courageously healing from complex trauma. I have extensive experience working with adult survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and child abuse.
Beginning therapy is a brave act of self-care, and working with an effective clinician can be the support you deserve in bringing about powerful changes in your world. Clients come to me with a variety of symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and anger, as well as attachment wounds that impact the quality of their relationships. I work with people seeking to center psychological wellness in their lives, people navigating life transitions, and people courageously healing from complex trauma. I have extensive experience working with adult survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and child abuse.
(504) 608-6974 View (504) 608-6974
Photo of Lourdes Durham, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S
Lourdes Durham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216
Weekend Appointments and some afternoons at this time ONLY. Have you ever felt lost? Misunderstood? Alone? You are not the only one and I'm here to walk the healing journey with you. I’ve been a Licensed Professional Counselor for more than 14 years. My experience include different populations and age groups with a variety of challenges. I have worked in a variety of settings from hospital ,residential and partial for children, adolescents and adults, and private practice among others, including veterans, military personnel, first responders and their families.
Weekend Appointments and some afternoons at this time ONLY. Have you ever felt lost? Misunderstood? Alone? You are not the only one and I'm here to walk the healing journey with you. I’ve been a Licensed Professional Counselor for more than 14 years. My experience include different populations and age groups with a variety of challenges. I have worked in a variety of settings from hospital ,residential and partial for children, adolescents and adults, and private practice among others, including veterans, military personnel, first responders and their families.
(210) 972-8100 View (210) 972-8100
Photo of Arturo Freyre, Licensed Professional Counselor, PMHNP, LPC-S
Arturo Freyre
Licensed Professional Counselor, PMHNP, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78217
Spanish and English speaking clinician with early morning appointments at 8am available today. Arturo is a an exceptional clinician with a dynamic background of experience and wealth of knowledge to support his patients successful treatment plan. He completed his M.S in Counseling Psychology at Loyola University, New Orleans, LA. He also holds a MSN as a PMHNP from Northern Kentucky University. He believes that the physical is just as important as the mental and spiritual when it comes to good health. He places strong values in empathy and understanding his client's experiences.
Spanish and English speaking clinician with early morning appointments at 8am available today. Arturo is a an exceptional clinician with a dynamic background of experience and wealth of knowledge to support his patients successful treatment plan. He completed his M.S in Counseling Psychology at Loyola University, New Orleans, LA. He also holds a MSN as a PMHNP from Northern Kentucky University. He believes that the physical is just as important as the mental and spiritual when it comes to good health. He places strong values in empathy and understanding his client's experiences.
(210) 794-7312 View (210) 794-7312
Photo of Marcela B Gonzales - VCounselors, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
VCounselors
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), my mission is to empower individuals to discover their inner strength, heal from past wounds, and navigate the complexities of their mental health journeys. This has instilled in me a deep commitment to helping others cultivate resilience, self-compassion, and clarity. I am driven by the belief that mental health is just as important as physical health and that with the right support, anyone can overcome barriers to living a fulfilling life.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), my mission is to empower individuals to discover their inner strength, heal from past wounds, and navigate the complexities of their mental health journeys. This has instilled in me a deep commitment to helping others cultivate resilience, self-compassion, and clarity. I am driven by the belief that mental health is just as important as physical health and that with the right support, anyone can overcome barriers to living a fulfilling life.
(830) 582-7721 View (830) 582-7721

See more therapy options for 78227

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 78227

10+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in 78227 who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
91% Coping Skills
82% Depression
82% Trauma and PTSD
82% Stress
82% Life Transitions
73% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
88% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 78227 see their clients

72% Online Only
28% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 78227?

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.