Therapists in 92256

Photo of CRYSTAL A LAWSON, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS,, LMFT
CRYSTAL A LAWSON
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS,, LMFT
Serves Area
My goal as a therapist is to listen, teach communication, and partner in every aspect of the treatment process. My experience is that the Client is the expert in their lived experience; I need to listen and bring to the surface elements contributing to the dysfunctions of life. Allowing me the opportunity to do so is placing a great trust in me, which I value and esteem.
My goal as a therapist is to listen, teach communication, and partner in every aspect of the treatment process. My experience is that the Client is the expert in their lived experience; I need to listen and bring to the surface elements contributing to the dysfunctions of life. Allowing me the opportunity to do so is placing a great trust in me, which I value and esteem.
(760) 389-1322 View (760) 389-1322
Photo of Melissa Lanza, Psychologist, PhD, LPCC
Melissa Lanza
Psychologist, PhD, LPCC
Serves Area
I know how difficult making changes in your life can be. Asking for help and support is a sign of strength and commitment to improving your life. I am here to help you on your personal journey to achieve a life filled with peace, happiness, and emotional well-being. My goal is to empower you to find personal strategies to discover your full potential. Using therapeutic approaches with proven results, I am able to help identify behaviors and/or thoughts might be holding you back from living a meaningful and happy life. To make an appointment, please visit my website and choose "Initial Assessment.”
I know how difficult making changes in your life can be. Asking for help and support is a sign of strength and commitment to improving your life. I am here to help you on your personal journey to achieve a life filled with peace, happiness, and emotional well-being. My goal is to empower you to find personal strategies to discover your full potential. Using therapeutic approaches with proven results, I am able to help identify behaviors and/or thoughts might be holding you back from living a meaningful and happy life. To make an appointment, please visit my website and choose "Initial Assessment.”
(858) 414-3523 View (858) 414-3523
Photo of Cheryl R Hoffman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Cheryl R Hoffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am passionate about working with adults striving to make positive changes in their lives, those in early recovery and with adults from dysfunctional families. My clients often have a history of trauma and/or struggle with self-sabotaging behavior. They seek therapy to improve their lives, and develop positive coping skills for handling difficult emotions and life stressors. Welcome! And good for you for looking for support to create positive changes in your life! The first steps are difficult, especially when you are experiencing emotional distress.
I am passionate about working with adults striving to make positive changes in their lives, those in early recovery and with adults from dysfunctional families. My clients often have a history of trauma and/or struggle with self-sabotaging behavior. They seek therapy to improve their lives, and develop positive coping skills for handling difficult emotions and life stressors. Welcome! And good for you for looking for support to create positive changes in your life! The first steps are difficult, especially when you are experiencing emotional distress.
(760) 760-2701 View (760) 760-2701
Photo of Lisa Hunt-Vasquez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lisa Hunt-Vasquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hello, I’m Lisa, a compassionate and dedicated bilingual (Spanish) licensed clinical therapist with 14 years of experience in providing support and guidance to individuals facing various challenges. I use modalities using psychoeducation, crisis intervention, cognitive behavioral therapy, and narrative therapy embraced by a strength and solution-based approach to meet you exactly where you are to provide the support you need to reach your goals. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, active listening, and collaboration which aims to create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings.
Hello, I’m Lisa, a compassionate and dedicated bilingual (Spanish) licensed clinical therapist with 14 years of experience in providing support and guidance to individuals facing various challenges. I use modalities using psychoeducation, crisis intervention, cognitive behavioral therapy, and narrative therapy embraced by a strength and solution-based approach to meet you exactly where you are to provide the support you need to reach your goals. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, active listening, and collaboration which aims to create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings.
(424) 401-5342 View (424) 401-5342

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Maureen P Misuraca, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Maureen P Misuraca
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Palm Desert, CA 92260
If you have not had much success so far with therapy and feel that the suggestions have not helped to shift things in your life, I may be a good fit for you. I can help you explore what is contributing to your feeling stuck and overwhelmed and move beyond it towards real healing. I work with children, teens, parents, adults and families. Being a parent myself, I can often bridge gaps between children and parents. Chronic pain is now understood in a new and amazing way. If you have struggled with chronic pain and experience hopelessness around it, know that there is much hope. Pain Reprocessing Therapy is a powerful new tool.
If you have not had much success so far with therapy and feel that the suggestions have not helped to shift things in your life, I may be a good fit for you. I can help you explore what is contributing to your feeling stuck and overwhelmed and move beyond it towards real healing. I work with children, teens, parents, adults and families. Being a parent myself, I can often bridge gaps between children and parents. Chronic pain is now understood in a new and amazing way. If you have struggled with chronic pain and experience hopelessness around it, know that there is much hope. Pain Reprocessing Therapy is a powerful new tool.
(760) 214-9595 View (760) 214-9595
Photo of Alexis Earkman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Alexis Earkman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Palm Desert, CA 92260
If you’re feeling drained or disconnected, I get it—burnout is real, and it can leave you feeling stuck. Hi, I’m Alexis. With 15 years of experience in the mental health field, I know how life can pile up, especially when balancing work, relationships, and personal expectations. In 2023, I started working independently with Rula, and I’m here to help those struggling with symptoms of burnout, which include fatigue, irritability, worry, fear, depression and feeling overwhelmed. I focus on helping my clients regain balance by addressing both the emotional and physical aspects of burnout.
If you’re feeling drained or disconnected, I get it—burnout is real, and it can leave you feeling stuck. Hi, I’m Alexis. With 15 years of experience in the mental health field, I know how life can pile up, especially when balancing work, relationships, and personal expectations. In 2023, I started working independently with Rula, and I’m here to help those struggling with symptoms of burnout, which include fatigue, irritability, worry, fear, depression and feeling overwhelmed. I focus on helping my clients regain balance by addressing both the emotional and physical aspects of burnout.
(747) 966-4750 View (747) 966-4750
Photo of Joe Boss, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CACD II, ICADC
Joe Boss
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CACD II, ICADC
Bermuda Dunes, CA 92203
Have you ever wondered why you keep getting into the same relationship, just with different people? Do you have difficulty setting and holding boundaries or truly know what a boundary looks like? Do you struggle to speak up? Do you lack self-confidence? Do you have entire conversations in your head before you have the actual conversation? Do you spend a lot of time in the future, trying to figure out what will happen and how to either make it happen or prevent it from happening? If you answered yes to any, I can help. I offer in-person, Zoom and on the golf course appointments. The golf course is more than just a game. It's a place
Have you ever wondered why you keep getting into the same relationship, just with different people? Do you have difficulty setting and holding boundaries or truly know what a boundary looks like? Do you struggle to speak up? Do you lack self-confidence? Do you have entire conversations in your head before you have the actual conversation? Do you spend a lot of time in the future, trying to figure out what will happen and how to either make it happen or prevent it from happening? If you answered yes to any, I can help. I offer in-person, Zoom and on the golf course appointments. The golf course is more than just a game. It's a place
(760) 276-6619 View (760) 276-6619
Photo of Jose Gonzalez, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jose Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Palm Springs, CA 92264
Hi, My name is Jose Gonzalez and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 10 years of experience. I have worked with clients ages 3-98 years old. I believe that everyone deserves fair, good, and quality care. I have experience working in many different Mental Health Services capacities. I feel privileged to work with individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, and all other mental illness. My approach to therapy varies depending on where the client is at in treatment. I mainly utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Hi, My name is Jose Gonzalez and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 10 years of experience. I have worked with clients ages 3-98 years old. I believe that everyone deserves fair, good, and quality care. I have experience working in many different Mental Health Services capacities. I feel privileged to work with individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, and all other mental illness. My approach to therapy varies depending on where the client is at in treatment. I mainly utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
(442) 291-7068 View (442) 291-7068
Photo of Jacqueline Rivera, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jacqueline Rivera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Palm Desert, CA 92260
Navigating trauma, depression, and stress demands a compassionate, understanding approach. My practice offers a safe haven where your feelings and experiences are the forefront of our therapeutic journey. Utilizing a client-centered and reflective therapy framework, I focus on understanding your unique story, acknowledging the weight of your experiences while fostering resilience and empowerment. Our goal is to navigate these challenges together, leaning heavily on DBT to equip you with effective coping strategies and a renewed sense of hope.
Navigating trauma, depression, and stress demands a compassionate, understanding approach. My practice offers a safe haven where your feelings and experiences are the forefront of our therapeutic journey. Utilizing a client-centered and reflective therapy framework, I focus on understanding your unique story, acknowledging the weight of your experiences while fostering resilience and empowerment. Our goal is to navigate these challenges together, leaning heavily on DBT to equip you with effective coping strategies and a renewed sense of hope.
(858) 326-9919 View (858) 326-9919
Photo of Ari Regar, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Ari Regar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in one on one therapy, as well as couples therapy, and family therapy where I utilize my background in clinical psychology to provide coping skills for individuals who are experiencing emotional distress. I'm grateful for having earned the respect of my professional colleagues, where I have been enlisted as a consultant to doctors in need of professional guidance. I know the vital impact of "great therapy," and I will work with you in a genuine way, illuminating profound insights which lead to lasting life changes and personal growth.
I specialize in one on one therapy, as well as couples therapy, and family therapy where I utilize my background in clinical psychology to provide coping skills for individuals who are experiencing emotional distress. I'm grateful for having earned the respect of my professional colleagues, where I have been enlisted as a consultant to doctors in need of professional guidance. I know the vital impact of "great therapy," and I will work with you in a genuine way, illuminating profound insights which lead to lasting life changes and personal growth.
(760) 348-8677 View (760) 348-8677
Photo of Sarah Torres, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Sarah Torres
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
2 Endorsed
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Are you struggling to get through the day? Dealing with anxiety or depression? Having trouble adjusting to motherhood? Feeling lost or unmotivated? You are not alone if you have experienced any of these burdens. Asking for help can be difficult, even scary at times. Therapy can provide you the safe and confidential space to allow for exploration, processing, and growth to occur. Together we can identify tools that can be used in your daily life that strengthen your self-worth and interpersonal relationships.
Are you struggling to get through the day? Dealing with anxiety or depression? Having trouble adjusting to motherhood? Feeling lost or unmotivated? You are not alone if you have experienced any of these burdens. Asking for help can be difficult, even scary at times. Therapy can provide you the safe and confidential space to allow for exploration, processing, and growth to occur. Together we can identify tools that can be used in your daily life that strengthen your self-worth and interpersonal relationships.
(760) 334-5682 View (760) 334-5682
Photo of Linda Bramel, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Linda Bramel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I use the proven method of therapy, EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing). I also incorporate CBT and person-centered therapy in sessions. This combination seems to be effective in helping people work through the issues that are creating anxiety, depression, anger, and other feelings that interfere with relationships and daily living. I love helping people reach new levels of understanding about themselves. With this understanding comes tools for coping with issues that are solvable problems.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I use the proven method of therapy, EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing). I also incorporate CBT and person-centered therapy in sessions. This combination seems to be effective in helping people work through the issues that are creating anxiety, depression, anger, and other feelings that interfere with relationships and daily living. I love helping people reach new levels of understanding about themselves. With this understanding comes tools for coping with issues that are solvable problems.
(424) 452-2861 View (424) 452-2861
Photo of Laura Ransdell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Laura Ransdell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Yucca Valley, CA 92284
Would you like to feel more fully alive? I come from a mindfulness-based healing perspective integrating body, mind and spirit. Together we explore the "roadblocks" that all of us unknowingly put up which use up our energy, cloud our vision of our life's purpose and prevent us from having authentic, meaningful and fulfilling lives. Healing and an improved sense of well-being can happen!
Would you like to feel more fully alive? I come from a mindfulness-based healing perspective integrating body, mind and spirit. Together we explore the "roadblocks" that all of us unknowingly put up which use up our energy, cloud our vision of our life's purpose and prevent us from having authentic, meaningful and fulfilling lives. Healing and an improved sense of well-being can happen!
(760) 621-8078 View (760) 621-8078
Photo of Les Cole, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Les Cole
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Do you feel like your relationship is dying right before your eyes? Do you feel powerless and confused? Have you tried everything? I can help you discover your major relationship style and destroy roadblocks preventing you from having a much more exciting, passionate life that you desire and deserve. I can help you identify your core values, beliefs and motives effecting the choices you make in your primary relationships. If you would like more clarity about what you value and believe, and what drives and motivates you in your relationship, then call or contact me for a session today.
Do you feel like your relationship is dying right before your eyes? Do you feel powerless and confused? Have you tried everything? I can help you discover your major relationship style and destroy roadblocks preventing you from having a much more exciting, passionate life that you desire and deserve. I can help you identify your core values, beliefs and motives effecting the choices you make in your primary relationships. If you would like more clarity about what you value and believe, and what drives and motivates you in your relationship, then call or contact me for a session today.
(707) 549-6843 View (707) 549-6843
Photo of Diane Lass, Psychologist, PhD
Diane Lass
Psychologist, PhD
Palm Desert, CA 92211
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist located in the Ocean Beach and Palm Desert area. I provide individual and couples therapy as well as empowerment support groups. My approach is non-judgmental and compassionate. I believe we can all use support at various times throughout our lives. Change can be difficult. Even positive changes can bring about uncertainties. My focus is on the whole person: mind, body and spirit.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist located in the Ocean Beach and Palm Desert area. I provide individual and couples therapy as well as empowerment support groups. My approach is non-judgmental and compassionate. I believe we can all use support at various times throughout our lives. Change can be difficult. Even positive changes can bring about uncertainties. My focus is on the whole person: mind, body and spirit.
(619) 493-4402 View (619) 493-4402
Photo of Melissa Hurt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Melissa Hurt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Yucca Valley, CA 92284
Life is a beautiful journey, but sometimes it can feel like too much to handle on your own. It’s really important to build in more support during difficult times, which is why I’m here to validate your experiences and help you find strength and peace while you navigate the natural ups and downs of life. I will always hold space for you to share what is most pressing for you in that moment. We will explore how past experiences influence current emotions using a cognitive behavioral approach. We will work together to identify whether the value sets that are being applied to the situation truly reflect your present beliefs.
Life is a beautiful journey, but sometimes it can feel like too much to handle on your own. It’s really important to build in more support during difficult times, which is why I’m here to validate your experiences and help you find strength and peace while you navigate the natural ups and downs of life. I will always hold space for you to share what is most pressing for you in that moment. We will explore how past experiences influence current emotions using a cognitive behavioral approach. We will work together to identify whether the value sets that are being applied to the situation truly reflect your present beliefs.
(760) 493-6397 View (760) 493-6397
Photo of Chaundra Prehara, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Chaundra Prehara
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Palm Desert, CA 92260
Are you exhausted by the same arguments, walking on eggshells, or feeling lonely in your relationship? I specialize in couples therapy and relationally focused individual therapy that helps people understand the patterns beneath conflict, anxiety, and disconnection. My work is active, compassionate, and practical, helping clients develop the skills for clearer communication, healthier boundaries, and deeper connection. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Relational Life Therapist serving Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, and nearby communities.
Are you exhausted by the same arguments, walking on eggshells, or feeling lonely in your relationship? I specialize in couples therapy and relationally focused individual therapy that helps people understand the patterns beneath conflict, anxiety, and disconnection. My work is active, compassionate, and practical, helping clients develop the skills for clearer communication, healthier boundaries, and deeper connection. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Relational Life Therapist serving Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, and nearby communities.
(650) 316-5680 View (650) 316-5680
Photo of Jason Owens, Counselor, LPC
Jason Owens
Counselor, LPC
Palm Springs, CA 92264
My name is Jason Owens, and I'm looking forward to working with you. As a career mental health professional and educator, I bring over 20 years of experience-allowing a unique perspective to walk with you along the path toward your mental health, wellness, and life goals. Let's connect. All clients are welcome. My experience in the educational mental health field has allowed me to work with a huge variety of clients over the past 20+ years. My specialty is LGBTQIA+ counseling with clients of all ages.
My name is Jason Owens, and I'm looking forward to working with you. As a career mental health professional and educator, I bring over 20 years of experience-allowing a unique perspective to walk with you along the path toward your mental health, wellness, and life goals. Let's connect. All clients are welcome. My experience in the educational mental health field has allowed me to work with a huge variety of clients over the past 20+ years. My specialty is LGBTQIA+ counseling with clients of all ages.
(916) 252-1962 View (916) 252-1962
Photo of Jacqueline Rasar, Counselor, PhD, LPCC
Jacqueline Rasar
Counselor, PhD, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you ever feel like something is preventing you from engaging in your own life? Something like depression, anxiety, adjustment, trauma, grief, or an eating disorder? If so, please consider contacting me. Regardless of your struggle, in my practice you will find a comfortable and supportive atmosphere to reach your therapeutic goals. I am a Certified Grief Educator and am committed to providing the highest level of grief support through education, experience, and insights into the often unacknowledged rocky terrain of grief.
Do you ever feel like something is preventing you from engaging in your own life? Something like depression, anxiety, adjustment, trauma, grief, or an eating disorder? If so, please consider contacting me. Regardless of your struggle, in my practice you will find a comfortable and supportive atmosphere to reach your therapeutic goals. I am a Certified Grief Educator and am committed to providing the highest level of grief support through education, experience, and insights into the often unacknowledged rocky terrain of grief.
(909) 895-0565 View (909) 895-0565
Photo of Megan E. Hanson, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Megan E. Hanson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Landers, CA 92285
Seeking therapy can feel daunting. Even when we know something has to change, it can feel more comfortable to stick with old habits. Clients are often surprised when I say - we keep "bad" habits for good reasons. We develop patterns to feel safe when we lack internal or outside supports to help us feel grounded, connected, accomplished, or hopeful. I support clients to increase their awareness of their own patterns, perceptions, reactions, learned behaviors, and true desires, so they have more choice in how they respond to people and situations and can take steps to build better relationships and more fulfilling lives.
Seeking therapy can feel daunting. Even when we know something has to change, it can feel more comfortable to stick with old habits. Clients are often surprised when I say - we keep "bad" habits for good reasons. We develop patterns to feel safe when we lack internal or outside supports to help us feel grounded, connected, accomplished, or hopeful. I support clients to increase their awareness of their own patterns, perceptions, reactions, learned behaviors, and true desires, so they have more choice in how they respond to people and situations and can take steps to build better relationships and more fulfilling lives.
(213) 320-4382 View (213) 320-4382

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 92256

< 10

Therapists in 92256 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Life Transitions
75% Relationship Issues
75% Anxiety
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Family Conflict
75% Drug Abuse

Average years in practice

28 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
67% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in 92256 see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 92256?

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.