Therapists in 90265

Bruce Bates
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Malibu, CA 90265
I have been a licensed Marriage and family therapist in California for the last 24 years. I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, which is an evidenced based treatment that uses skill development to address problems with emotion regulation. stress tolerance, and interpersonal skills. It is an effective treatment for anxiety, depression, impulse control issues, stage of life issues, and relationship issues. I provide exclusively online services throughout the state of California and do not take private insurance.
I have been a licensed Marriage and family therapist in California for the last 24 years. I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, which is an evidenced based treatment that uses skill development to address problems with emotion regulation. stress tolerance, and interpersonal skills. It is an effective treatment for anxiety, depression, impulse control issues, stage of life issues, and relationship issues. I provide exclusively online services throughout the state of California and do not take private insurance.
(747) 836-3714 View (747) 836-3714
Photo of Alisa Ruby Bash, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Alisa Ruby Bash
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Malibu, CA 90265
Are you going through a challenging period in your life? Do you feel stuck in a situation you would like to change? Covid has triggered so much trauma this year. You are not alone. Do you struggle with anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, blocks, or insecurities? Do you wonder if there is more to life and how to find lasting peace and happiness, or balance in your life? I work with clients through traditional therapy, & a mind, body, spirit approach, including kundalini yoga, sound healing, and meditation. My goal is to help my clients find peace & create lasting change in all areas of their lives in my oceanfront Malibu office.
Are you going through a challenging period in your life? Do you feel stuck in a situation you would like to change? Covid has triggered so much trauma this year. You are not alone. Do you struggle with anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, blocks, or insecurities? Do you wonder if there is more to life and how to find lasting peace and happiness, or balance in your life? I work with clients through traditional therapy, & a mind, body, spirit approach, including kundalini yoga, sound healing, and meditation. My goal is to help my clients find peace & create lasting change in all areas of their lives in my oceanfront Malibu office.
(424) 570-1259 View (424) 570-1259
Photo of Marni Kamins, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Marni Kamins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Malibu, CA 90265
Are you the one everyone leans on—but secretly feel worn down, unseen, or lonely in your own life? You might look like you’re holding it all together from the outside, but inside, you’re overwhelmed, disconnected, or simply tired of pretending. Maybe you’re navigating a major life transition—grief, a breakup, parenting burnout, or even the quiet ache of a relationship that’s lost its spark. Whether you’re working through relationship issues, emotional exhaustion, or just trying to make sense of what’s next, disordered eating, or depression, I create space for real, lasting change.
Are you the one everyone leans on—but secretly feel worn down, unseen, or lonely in your own life? You might look like you’re holding it all together from the outside, but inside, you’re overwhelmed, disconnected, or simply tired of pretending. Maybe you’re navigating a major life transition—grief, a breakup, parenting burnout, or even the quiet ache of a relationship that’s lost its spark. Whether you’re working through relationship issues, emotional exhaustion, or just trying to make sense of what’s next, disordered eating, or depression, I create space for real, lasting change.
(424) 327-9175 View (424) 327-9175
Photo of Dr. Theodore Armstrong, MD
Dr. Theodore Armstrong
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
I'm a board-certified MD with a passion for chronic pain rehab, as well as diagnosis and treatment of other psychophysiologic conditions. This work is based around a cutting-edge paradigm which draws on the role of the brain and nervous system in regulating the state of the body. Whether you have chronic pain or other medically unexplained symptoms, there is hope for recovery. The felt sense of threat vs safety underlies changes in the nervous system, from which chronic pain, migraines, anxiety, irritable bowel syndrome, long COVID and many other syndromes can arise, perpetuated by heightened sensitivity and distorted perception.
I'm a board-certified MD with a passion for chronic pain rehab, as well as diagnosis and treatment of other psychophysiologic conditions. This work is based around a cutting-edge paradigm which draws on the role of the brain and nervous system in regulating the state of the body. Whether you have chronic pain or other medically unexplained symptoms, there is hope for recovery. The felt sense of threat vs safety underlies changes in the nervous system, from which chronic pain, migraines, anxiety, irritable bowel syndrome, long COVID and many other syndromes can arise, perpetuated by heightened sensitivity and distorted perception.
(805) 422-7855 View (805) 422-7855
Photo of Dr. Erin Foster, Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Dr. Erin Foster
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
Are you feeling overwhelmed, lost, or confused? Ever been stuck and don’t know why? Felt isolated in your struggles? Have you experienced the pain of betrayal or the frustration of not being supported? If any of these resonate with you, know you're not alone. I get it. Been there. The pain, the guilt, the sense of failure.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, lost, or confused? Ever been stuck and don’t know why? Felt isolated in your struggles? Have you experienced the pain of betrayal or the frustration of not being supported? If any of these resonate with you, know you're not alone. I get it. Been there. The pain, the guilt, the sense of failure.
(310) 923-9374 View (310) 923-9374
Photo of Devorah Ilene Rader, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Devorah Ilene Rader
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Malibu, CA 90265
Are you struggling with Fear, Anxiety and Stress and have concerns to go into therapy? If you have time during your day you have time for quality solution based therapy through Virtual Visits & Phone sessions. As an innovator, Dr. Rader's approach to counseling combines several philosophies & techniques to create a variety of strategies. Dr. Rader provides compassionate, customized treatment, which provide a route to results that is specifically tailored to an individual's needs to create the life you desire. Clients who resist typical therapy find Dr. Rader's approach to be a perfect fit for their lifestyle.
Are you struggling with Fear, Anxiety and Stress and have concerns to go into therapy? If you have time during your day you have time for quality solution based therapy through Virtual Visits & Phone sessions. As an innovator, Dr. Rader's approach to counseling combines several philosophies & techniques to create a variety of strategies. Dr. Rader provides compassionate, customized treatment, which provide a route to results that is specifically tailored to an individual's needs to create the life you desire. Clients who resist typical therapy find Dr. Rader's approach to be a perfect fit for their lifestyle.
(424) 835-9317 View (424) 835-9317
Photo of James Kalivas, Psychologist, PsyD
James Kalivas
Psychologist, PsyD
8 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
It takes time to choose the best therapist for you. When you're ready, let's talk and see if we might be a good fit. I appreciate the importance of this process, which is why I offer a free phone consultation to address any questions or concerns you may have prior to scheduling an appointment. Consider me a resource- even if we don't end up working together. Remember, life can be much more than survival. Change is closer than you may think. Keep reaching out.
It takes time to choose the best therapist for you. When you're ready, let's talk and see if we might be a good fit. I appreciate the importance of this process, which is why I offer a free phone consultation to address any questions or concerns you may have prior to scheduling an appointment. Consider me a resource- even if we don't end up working together. Remember, life can be much more than survival. Change is closer than you may think. Keep reaching out.
(424) 329-6022 View (424) 329-6022
Photo of Jeffrey Titcher, Psychologist, PsyD
Jeffrey Titcher
Psychologist, PsyD
Malibu, CA 90265
I treat adults, couples, families, and children. I view treatment from a developmental perspective and will meet the client wherever they exist on the life span continuum, and whenever they have difficulty negotiating the next step. I have an expertise in disorders of attachment, as well as exposure therapy for trauma, and I've trained many classes of interns and psychologists, in the treatment of these disorders utilizing neurological correlates to psychological mechanisms. My focus is on training the individual to understand his/her own process, so that dissociated material can be integrated, bringing the individual into the present moment.
I treat adults, couples, families, and children. I view treatment from a developmental perspective and will meet the client wherever they exist on the life span continuum, and whenever they have difficulty negotiating the next step. I have an expertise in disorders of attachment, as well as exposure therapy for trauma, and I've trained many classes of interns and psychologists, in the treatment of these disorders utilizing neurological correlates to psychological mechanisms. My focus is on training the individual to understand his/her own process, so that dissociated material can be integrated, bringing the individual into the present moment.
(424) 256-1790 View (424) 256-1790
Photo of Barbara Lampert, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Barbara Lampert
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Malibu, CA 90265
I believe that the better you feel about yourself, the clearer your judgment will be, and the more effectively you'll be able to address your issues. So I work to provide you with a safe, energizing environment. Which means I listen carefully to what you have to say - that's key. I put myself in your place. I reflect back to you what I've seen and heard. And I let you know what I think, so you don't have to guess. I have a Marriage and Family Therapist license, a Ph.D., and two master's degrees.
I believe that the better you feel about yourself, the clearer your judgment will be, and the more effectively you'll be able to address your issues. So I work to provide you with a safe, energizing environment. Which means I listen carefully to what you have to say - that's key. I put myself in your place. I reflect back to you what I've seen and heard. And I let you know what I think, so you don't have to guess. I have a Marriage and Family Therapist license, a Ph.D., and two master's degrees.
(310) 905-8291 View (310) 905-8291
Photo of Karen Gurr, Psychologist, PsyD
Karen Gurr
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist that takes an Integrative approach. I combine Evidence-based modalities with CAMs, such as Brainspotting and Havening. I treat substance use issues, PTSD, anxiety, mood disorders and interpersonal challenges. I also offer professional coaching. In today's world, people from all walks of life struggle with the very real issues that come with just being human. Stress, anxiety, depression and grief are everyday experiences for many. How we deal with them often determines our capacity for balance, resilience and happiness. Therapy can be an effective tool for identifying and resolving such issues.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist that takes an Integrative approach. I combine Evidence-based modalities with CAMs, such as Brainspotting and Havening. I treat substance use issues, PTSD, anxiety, mood disorders and interpersonal challenges. I also offer professional coaching. In today's world, people from all walks of life struggle with the very real issues that come with just being human. Stress, anxiety, depression and grief are everyday experiences for many. How we deal with them often determines our capacity for balance, resilience and happiness. Therapy can be an effective tool for identifying and resolving such issues.
(323) 709-8334 View (323) 709-8334
Photo of Linda Haack, Psychologist, PhD
Linda Haack
Psychologist, PhD
Malibu, CA 90265
PROBLEMS?? Let's talk SOULUTIONS!! My private practice offers both an in office setting, West Los Angeles area, or the convenience of Teletherapy sessions. The flexibility of Teletherapy sessions saves on your drive time & eliminates uncomfortable "psych" office waiting rooms. Teens, adults, couples & families have an opportunity to recieve the help they need in a safe comfortable setting at a time best for you! I am interested in assisting you with your conflicts, creating a healthier happier lifestyle for yourself and your relationships. Feel free to call me 858-451-0771 to get you the help you need.
PROBLEMS?? Let's talk SOULUTIONS!! My private practice offers both an in office setting, West Los Angeles area, or the convenience of Teletherapy sessions. The flexibility of Teletherapy sessions saves on your drive time & eliminates uncomfortable "psych" office waiting rooms. Teens, adults, couples & families have an opportunity to recieve the help they need in a safe comfortable setting at a time best for you! I am interested in assisting you with your conflicts, creating a healthier happier lifestyle for yourself and your relationships. Feel free to call me 858-451-0771 to get you the help you need.
(858) 451-0771 View (858) 451-0771
Photo of Dr. Jeremy Fink, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD
Dr. Jeremy Fink
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
I specialize in short and long term psychotherapy and psychoanalysis for individual adults, couples, children, adolescents, and parents. I am a trained psychoanalyst, a child specialist, with additional training in cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR. I focus on the importance of finding balance, vision, creativity, and meaning in one's life. From disorder and chaos comes balance and order. My clients have found my approach to mental health effective in creating long-term positive change.
I specialize in short and long term psychotherapy and psychoanalysis for individual adults, couples, children, adolescents, and parents. I am a trained psychoanalyst, a child specialist, with additional training in cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR. I focus on the importance of finding balance, vision, creativity, and meaning in one's life. From disorder and chaos comes balance and order. My clients have found my approach to mental health effective in creating long-term positive change.
(310) 906-2738 View (310) 906-2738
Photo of Lydia Luna, Psychologist, PhD
Lydia Luna
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
You’ve built a successful life, yet something still feels out of alignment. Whether you’re navigating high-performance burnout, emotional overwhelm, or unfulfilling relationships, you know there’s more to life than simply managing emotions—you want to thrive. I specialize in working with high-achieving individuals seeking deeper fulfillment, using advanced clinical and integrative approaches, including Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and somatic therapies, to help you break through limitations and rediscover clarity, purpose, and balance.
You’ve built a successful life, yet something still feels out of alignment. Whether you’re navigating high-performance burnout, emotional overwhelm, or unfulfilling relationships, you know there’s more to life than simply managing emotions—you want to thrive. I specialize in working with high-achieving individuals seeking deeper fulfillment, using advanced clinical and integrative approaches, including Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and somatic therapies, to help you break through limitations and rediscover clarity, purpose, and balance.
(747) 279-3049 View (747) 279-3049
Photo of Liza Auciello, Psychologist, PsyD
Liza Auciello
Psychologist, PsyD
Malibu, CA 90265
Are you living the life you want? Do old patterns get in the way of feeling present in your life and relationships? I’ve dedicated my career to helping people find deeper fulfillment and meaning in how they connect with others and themselves. I also have advanced training in supporting neurodiverse individuals and couples, helping them understand their patterns and strengthen communication. Whether you need a life reboot or want to overcome long-standing blocks, our work can help you heal and nurture your relationship with your body, mind, and spirit so you can live with greater confidence and self-trust.
Are you living the life you want? Do old patterns get in the way of feeling present in your life and relationships? I’ve dedicated my career to helping people find deeper fulfillment and meaning in how they connect with others and themselves. I also have advanced training in supporting neurodiverse individuals and couples, helping them understand their patterns and strengthen communication. Whether you need a life reboot or want to overcome long-standing blocks, our work can help you heal and nurture your relationship with your body, mind, and spirit so you can live with greater confidence and self-trust.
(747) 245-3572 View (747) 245-3572
Photo of Melanie A. Argo, Psychologist, PsyD, SEP
Melanie A. Argo
Psychologist, PsyD, SEP
2 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
Seeking psychotherapy can be an exciting yet intimidating step to take in your life. It is difficult to know what to expect from the experience, from your therapist, or from yourself. Acknowledging these uncertainties and the often complex nature of psychotherapy, I approach the process with warmth, empathy, and professionalism.
Seeking psychotherapy can be an exciting yet intimidating step to take in your life. It is difficult to know what to expect from the experience, from your therapist, or from yourself. Acknowledging these uncertainties and the often complex nature of psychotherapy, I approach the process with warmth, empathy, and professionalism.
(424) 622-5676 View (424) 622-5676
Photo of Justin J Leitstein, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Justin J Leitstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Malibu, CA 90265
Justin Leitstein is a marriage and family therapist. The Malibu-based psychotherapist and former director of two acclaimed treatment centers works with individuals, couples, and families. Justin has an established reputation amongst many treatment professionals for providing instrumental therapeutic results for a wide range of challenges. He draws upon his refined therapeutic resources to deliver customized treatment programs for individuals and families.
Justin Leitstein is a marriage and family therapist. The Malibu-based psychotherapist and former director of two acclaimed treatment centers works with individuals, couples, and families. Justin has an established reputation amongst many treatment professionals for providing instrumental therapeutic results for a wide range of challenges. He draws upon his refined therapeutic resources to deliver customized treatment programs for individuals and families.
(323) 886-9568 View (323) 886-9568
Photo of Mark L Rose, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, SUDP, ICRC, CIP
Mark L Rose
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, SUDP, ICRC, CIP
Malibu, CA 90265
I am an interventionist, case manager, and addition professional. My client base are families, employer, individual, and stakeholders that need addiction services and family consultation. I work with clients with a need for referral to follow up services following treatment such as therapy, psychiatry, medical, and legal. I posses a specific expertise on executive intervention working with large corporations, trust companies, high net worth people.
I am an interventionist, case manager, and addition professional. My client base are families, employer, individual, and stakeholders that need addiction services and family consultation. I work with clients with a need for referral to follow up services following treatment such as therapy, psychiatry, medical, and legal. I posses a specific expertise on executive intervention working with large corporations, trust companies, high net worth people.
(206) 785-3835 View (206) 785-3835
Photo of Lindsay Tasse, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MEd
Lindsay Tasse
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MEd
Malibu, CA 90265
All mixed up? Let’s untangle it together.
You’re not just a floating head—even if life has trained you to live that way. If you feel stuck in negative cycles, anxious in your own skin, or caught in patterns that don’t make sense, you’re not alone. Together, we’ll go beyond “just talking” to create real shifts in your body, mind, and sense of self. Using parts work such as IFS and EMDR informed skills, I’ll help you in becoming more whole, alive, and unapologetically you. With over 20+ years in integrative approaches, I offer a collaborative; playful and creative space.
All mixed up? Let’s untangle it together.
You’re not just a floating head—even if life has trained you to live that way. If you feel stuck in negative cycles, anxious in your own skin, or caught in patterns that don’t make sense, you’re not alone. Together, we’ll go beyond “just talking” to create real shifts in your body, mind, and sense of self. Using parts work such as IFS and EMDR informed skills, I’ll help you in becoming more whole, alive, and unapologetically you. With over 20+ years in integrative approaches, I offer a collaborative; playful and creative space.
(401) 293-8279 View (401) 293-8279
Photo of Melissa Chisari-Noori, Psychologist, PsyD
Melissa Chisari-Noori
Psychologist, PsyD
Malibu, CA 90265
Please send an email to set up initial phone consult or appointment. Do you find yourself struggling in relationships? Do you find yourself repeating patterns? Are you unsure of how to manage and cope with discomfort? Are you ready to make a change? Seeking help and acknowledging your difficulties is the first step in healing. Therapy is a valuable space to begin the self-exploration process as well as to learn ways to create a healthy more meaningful life. I take an action oriented interactive approach to identify goals and implement change.
Please send an email to set up initial phone consult or appointment. Do you find yourself struggling in relationships? Do you find yourself repeating patterns? Are you unsure of how to manage and cope with discomfort? Are you ready to make a change? Seeking help and acknowledging your difficulties is the first step in healing. Therapy is a valuable space to begin the self-exploration process as well as to learn ways to create a healthy more meaningful life. I take an action oriented interactive approach to identify goals and implement change.
(805) 793-0894 View (805) 793-0894
Photo of Lisa Jo Cohen, Psychologist, PhD
Lisa Jo Cohen
Psychologist, PhD
Malibu, CA 90265
As a child & family therapist, I guide families through meaningful change. I help parents move from feeling concerned and frustrated to optimistic and empowered. Children move from lost and alone, to secure and loved. I focus on communication and relationship building, supporting families by increasing their effectiveness in these areas. Parents and youth experience increased mutual respect, understanding, and empathy, creating opportunities for communication, validation, and problem-solving, in a safe environment. I use a Family Therapy orientation because I believe your relationship with your child is their most valuable asset.
As a child & family therapist, I guide families through meaningful change. I help parents move from feeling concerned and frustrated to optimistic and empowered. Children move from lost and alone, to secure and loved. I focus on communication and relationship building, supporting families by increasing their effectiveness in these areas. Parents and youth experience increased mutual respect, understanding, and empathy, creating opportunities for communication, validation, and problem-solving, in a safe environment. I use a Family Therapy orientation because I believe your relationship with your child is their most valuable asset.
(805) 590-2915 View (805) 590-2915

See more therapy options for 90265

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 90265

100+

Average cost per session

$225

Therapists in 90265 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
90% Depression
83% Relationship Issues
76% Stress
73% Grief
69% Trauma and PTSD
65% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Aetna
71% Cigna and Evernorth
68% Blue Cross

How Therapists in 90265 see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 90265?

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.