Therapists in Los Angeles, CA
Elizabeth Jerison Terry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Why therapy? Why assessment? In both, my approach identifies barriers and builds bridges to success. Therapy may address personal issues (e.g., anxiety/depression/OCD, sleep problems, living one's values) or supporting a family member with neuropsychological issues (brain injury, Alzheimer's, seizures, ADHD, LD). Assessment may help answer: Why is my child struggling in school? How does their neurological history affect daily performance? Is my child gifted? What kind of accommodations can we get for ADHD/learning disabilities/autism? I had a diagnosis as a kid, what does that mean for me now? Visit:www.elizabethjerisonterryphd.com
Why therapy? Why assessment? In both, my approach identifies barriers and builds bridges to success. Therapy may address personal issues (e.g., anxiety/depression/OCD, sleep problems, living one's values) or supporting a family member with neuropsychological issues (brain injury, Alzheimer's, seizures, ADHD, LD). Assessment may help answer: Why is my child struggling in school? How does their neurological history affect daily performance? Is my child gifted? What kind of accommodations can we get for ADHD/learning disabilities/autism? I had a diagnosis as a kid, what does that mean for me now? Visit:www.elizabethjerisonterryphd.com
Leily Labuda
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90004
Are you struggling with anxiety, grief, low self esteem or are stuck in patterns and relationships that are no longer serving you? I offer a warm, empathic, and non-judgmental place, so that we can work together to process painful and traumatic emotions, navigate life-stressors, gain new insights, and take practical steps toward healthy self-acceptance. I specialize in treating trauma through an attachment and relational lens. I use evident-based treatments such as EMDR, EFT and mindfulness that allow for a holistic and collaborative approach to help my clients gain awareness and to cultivate change and deeper connection.
Are you struggling with anxiety, grief, low self esteem or are stuck in patterns and relationships that are no longer serving you? I offer a warm, empathic, and non-judgmental place, so that we can work together to process painful and traumatic emotions, navigate life-stressors, gain new insights, and take practical steps toward healthy self-acceptance. I specialize in treating trauma through an attachment and relational lens. I use evident-based treatments such as EMDR, EFT and mindfulness that allow for a holistic and collaborative approach to help my clients gain awareness and to cultivate change and deeper connection.
Andrea Simon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90017 (Online Only)
Whether you're trying to understand trauma, find your way through a transition, or just navigating who you are, I enjoy helping clients figure out what they truly want and how they feel. My clients may be working through concerns such as trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, women's issues, grief and loss, and active duty and/or veterans dynamics. Together we'll help you figure out what is keeping you stuck, we'll learn how to understand and name your experiences, and learn new patterns and behaviors.
Whether you're trying to understand trauma, find your way through a transition, or just navigating who you are, I enjoy helping clients figure out what they truly want and how they feel. My clients may be working through concerns such as trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, women's issues, grief and loss, and active duty and/or veterans dynamics. Together we'll help you figure out what is keeping you stuck, we'll learn how to understand and name your experiences, and learn new patterns and behaviors.
Ash Springer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90004
I work with parents, often new parents, who deeply desire to enjoy their new lives, but find conflict is holding them back. They often struggle to divide all the new responsibilities in a way that seems "fair." Exhausted and overwhelmed, they see resentment and blame creeping into their relationships. Many of my clients find themselves caught in cycles of conflict, repeating the same arguments again and again. Despite these challenges, they often hold onto a hope that things can be different. I see my work as helping clients re-create relationships that are strong enough to support them even in the most difficult of times.
I work with parents, often new parents, who deeply desire to enjoy their new lives, but find conflict is holding them back. They often struggle to divide all the new responsibilities in a way that seems "fair." Exhausted and overwhelmed, they see resentment and blame creeping into their relationships. Many of my clients find themselves caught in cycles of conflict, repeating the same arguments again and again. Despite these challenges, they often hold onto a hope that things can be different. I see my work as helping clients re-create relationships that are strong enough to support them even in the most difficult of times.
Veronica Correa Perin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024 (Online Only)
Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery that can often feel daunting to begin and my goal is to make it as comfortable as possible. I have always enjoyed the art of deep listening. I understood from a young age that opportunities to connect with others in these meaningful ways are a true gift are some of life's luxuries. People often gravitate towards relationships that feel safe and I've had the pleasure of being that somebody in clinic, school, and hospital settings.
Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery that can often feel daunting to begin and my goal is to make it as comfortable as possible. I have always enjoyed the art of deep listening. I understood from a young age that opportunities to connect with others in these meaningful ways are a true gift are some of life's luxuries. People often gravitate towards relationships that feel safe and I've had the pleasure of being that somebody in clinic, school, and hospital settings.
Andy Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90065 (Online Only)
You've come to the realization that something is missing or just doesn't square up like it used to. Maybe there are communication issues within your marriage, maybe you are realizing that you are lonely and have lost connection to friends or perhaps you are finding less satisfaction and connection to your work. You might not even have a clear sense of why you are feeling the way you are feeling and just want help orienting back to your North Star. All of this is natural within the modern human experience, yet men aren't often taught how to recognize and talk through these feelings and scenarios.
You've come to the realization that something is missing or just doesn't square up like it used to. Maybe there are communication issues within your marriage, maybe you are realizing that you are lonely and have lost connection to friends or perhaps you are finding less satisfaction and connection to your work. You might not even have a clear sense of why you are feeling the way you are feeling and just want help orienting back to your North Star. All of this is natural within the modern human experience, yet men aren't often taught how to recognize and talk through these feelings and scenarios.
Jennifer Lara
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma-related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma-related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
Kristin Michelle Howard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025 (Online Only)
Are you stuck in a rut, going through a difficult life transition, or just not feeling like yourself? Life is not a linear process and comes with ups and downs that can cause us to experience difficult emotions. Sometimes we need guidance in finding our center again, getting back to who we authentically are, and finding what brings us fulfillment. Kristin Howard is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the Los Angeles area, and is here to support you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.
Are you stuck in a rut, going through a difficult life transition, or just not feeling like yourself? Life is not a linear process and comes with ups and downs that can cause us to experience difficult emotions. Sometimes we need guidance in finding our center again, getting back to who we authentically are, and finding what brings us fulfillment. Kristin Howard is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the Los Angeles area, and is here to support you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.
Katherine M Fleisher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 91335 (Online Only)
Welcome, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist providing individual therapy to people seeking support. I have been working in mental health for over 20 years as a Therapist, Clinical Supervisor and Program Director with community non-profits serving underserved and Latino communities. Currently I am focusing on providing a safe space to those finding themselves with anxiety, depression and/or trauma.
Welcome, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist providing individual therapy to people seeking support. I have been working in mental health for over 20 years as a Therapist, Clinical Supervisor and Program Director with community non-profits serving underserved and Latino communities. Currently I am focusing on providing a safe space to those finding themselves with anxiety, depression and/or trauma.
Anjna Champaneri - Expansive Therapy
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90004
My aim is to create a caring therapeutic relationship with you that is founded in empathy, trust, and respect. Together we will create a safe and open environment for brave and insightful explorations. I offer collaborative, client-centered therapy that supports the development of personal insights and practical coping skills through curiosity, mindfulness, and compassion.
My aim is to create a caring therapeutic relationship with you that is founded in empathy, trust, and respect. Together we will create a safe and open environment for brave and insightful explorations. I offer collaborative, client-centered therapy that supports the development of personal insights and practical coping skills through curiosity, mindfulness, and compassion.
Tony Chavira
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90015 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Tony and my couples therapy practice is a space of hope, clarity, and limitless compassion. Maybe you’re struggling. Maybe you’re in pain or a difficult place in your relationship. Or maybe you’re passing through complicated times. It's safe if your marriage feels this hard, whether you're going through a breakdown or just a rough patch. In therapy, I can journey with you to a place of discovery, curiosity, and refreshing connection. I’ll help you uncover new ways to open, empathize, communicate, and find comfort with one another. But most importantly, we will grow a new culture of freedom and understanding for your future.
Hi, I'm Tony and my couples therapy practice is a space of hope, clarity, and limitless compassion. Maybe you’re struggling. Maybe you’re in pain or a difficult place in your relationship. Or maybe you’re passing through complicated times. It's safe if your marriage feels this hard, whether you're going through a breakdown or just a rough patch. In therapy, I can journey with you to a place of discovery, curiosity, and refreshing connection. I’ll help you uncover new ways to open, empathize, communicate, and find comfort with one another. But most importantly, we will grow a new culture of freedom and understanding for your future.
15 Second Videos
Andy Williams
Kristin Michelle Howard
Tony Chavira
Ryan Grady
Spencer Scott
Charlene Mcpherson
Peter R Getoff
Michele Goldberg
Alexia Holovatyk
Connor McClenahan
Marcy Cole
Euriah (Dong E.) Lee
Chris Peters
Cole Williams
Ambika (Amy) Raswant
Elham Shoa
Thais (Guimaraes) Sky
Christa Scholtz
Mirjam Afeni Hatton
Julia Curran
Christina Williams
Jacqueline Glosman
Joshua L Davis
Kimani Norrington-Sands
Kristi Dechairo Ahern
Jess Adam Converse
Jorge Cherbosque
Nikki Lewis
Jennifer Robinson
Essy Knopf
Andrew Flynn
Heidi Liese Edsall
Allison M Stepka
Carmen Spears
Quinney & Associates Inc
Talk It Out Therapy Services
Natalie Jacobs
Faith Yoo
Steven Reigns
Anthony Barnes
Meridian Counseling: Individual & Family Therapy
Nancy B Irwin
Kaaren Migdale
Janet B Shiver
Olivia Einbund
Robert Buhrow
Tai Finley
Eliana Lev
Gary Penn
Eric Burke
Kimberley Sligar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
My name is Kimberley Sligar, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have experience working with diverse individuals and families in outpatient settings. My modalities include strength-based approaches, relaxation techniques, motivational interviewing skills, and cognitive behavioral therapy to target trauma, anxiety, self-development, and relationship conflicts. I am here to provide therapeutic support to help you on your journey to self-awareness and accomplish your goals.
My name is Kimberley Sligar, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have experience working with diverse individuals and families in outpatient settings. My modalities include strength-based approaches, relaxation techniques, motivational interviewing skills, and cognitive behavioral therapy to target trauma, anxiety, self-development, and relationship conflicts. I am here to provide therapeutic support to help you on your journey to self-awareness and accomplish your goals.
Shauna Goodenough
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026
Hi, my name is Shauna Goodenough and I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I enjoy working with a variety of ages, with a focus on teens and young adults. My style is warm and supportive. I value client education and skill building to effect change.
Hi, my name is Shauna Goodenough and I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I enjoy working with a variety of ages, with a focus on teens and young adults. My style is warm and supportive. I value client education and skill building to effect change.
Carmen Mercado
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFTI
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Everyone needs support.Have you been dealing with life with no support from friends or family? Are you dealing with childhood trauma, estrangement and or abandonment from your family of origin?Are you having difficulty attracting and keeping a healthy intimate relationship? Maybe you have been coping all these years without really exploring and understanding your pain.We help clients understand themselves with compassion rather than shame and self judgment.We are sensitive to your values ,needs and are culturally sensitive. I work well with actors struggling through their challenges. Hablo ESPANOL
Everyone needs support.Have you been dealing with life with no support from friends or family? Are you dealing with childhood trauma, estrangement and or abandonment from your family of origin?Are you having difficulty attracting and keeping a healthy intimate relationship? Maybe you have been coping all these years without really exploring and understanding your pain.We help clients understand themselves with compassion rather than shame and self judgment.We are sensitive to your values ,needs and are culturally sensitive. I work well with actors struggling through their challenges. Hablo ESPANOL
Hannah Jane Elins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90020
Reaching out to find a therapist for your child may be an overwhelming experience. It means that your child may need some extra support, and that your efforts to find them that support are based in love and maybe some frustration. Perhaps you’ve noticed some concerning changes in your young child’s demeanor, a lack of confidence or increased temper tantrums. Maybe you've observed your teenager slipping into depression or anxiety as they merge into young adulthood. I’m here to support you and your family.
Reaching out to find a therapist for your child may be an overwhelming experience. It means that your child may need some extra support, and that your efforts to find them that support are based in love and maybe some frustration. Perhaps you’ve noticed some concerning changes in your young child’s demeanor, a lack of confidence or increased temper tantrums. Maybe you've observed your teenager slipping into depression or anxiety as they merge into young adulthood. I’m here to support you and your family.
Penelope Sargent
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90004
Greetings! My name is Penelope Sargent and I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I regularly work with individual clients on identifying and exploring issues that keep them from moving forward in their lives. My approach is collaborative and client-centered. I come from an Existential/ Humanistic background. I'm here to be supportive when needed and gently challenging when you require motivation. I believe in encouraging clients to work at finding meaning in their lives.
Greetings! My name is Penelope Sargent and I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I regularly work with individual clients on identifying and exploring issues that keep them from moving forward in their lives. My approach is collaborative and client-centered. I come from an Existential/ Humanistic background. I'm here to be supportive when needed and gently challenging when you require motivation. I believe in encouraging clients to work at finding meaning in their lives.
Katherine Chan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RYT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I specialize in folks who are struggling with the impact of past relational trauma. This means you might have had a difficult relationship with a parent, struggled with friendships, or have a hard time feeling like you belong or are "good enough." This often shows up in your life today as chronic anxiety and worry, depression and low self-esteem, as well as unfulfilling relationships or a lack of direction in life. You also struggle with difficult emotions, noticing yourself getting triggered by seemingly mundane moments. Overall, you're feeling lost in life and unsure of how to get past this.
I specialize in folks who are struggling with the impact of past relational trauma. This means you might have had a difficult relationship with a parent, struggled with friendships, or have a hard time feeling like you belong or are "good enough." This often shows up in your life today as chronic anxiety and worry, depression and low self-esteem, as well as unfulfilling relationships or a lack of direction in life. You also struggle with difficult emotions, noticing yourself getting triggered by seemingly mundane moments. Overall, you're feeling lost in life and unsure of how to get past this.
Kelly L Hyde
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071 (Online Only)
I have over 17 years of experience providing psychotherapy to adults, couples, and adolescents. I started my career at John's Hopkins Hospital working as a clinician in the Departments of Psychology and Psychiatry. I’ve also worked on interdisciplinary clinical mental health teams in schools, treatment centers and in private practice.
I have over 17 years of experience providing psychotherapy to adults, couples, and adolescents. I started my career at John's Hopkins Hospital working as a clinician in the Departments of Psychology and Psychiatry. I’ve also worked on interdisciplinary clinical mental health teams in schools, treatment centers and in private practice.
Joan I Rosenberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Well-being involves having awareness of and connection to your self plus good connections with others. If you have struggled with distracting from your own experience, are lost in negative self evaluation, or if you have lost your curiousity about the world, face roadblocks or obstacles to your creativity and want to get relief, reclaim a sense of aliveness, vitality, presence, purpose or optimism - then I can be of help to you. I developed Emotional Pilates - the focus is on helping you build your core emotional strength, balance, flexibility and resilience, including learning how to speak your true experience.
Well-being involves having awareness of and connection to your self plus good connections with others. If you have struggled with distracting from your own experience, are lost in negative self evaluation, or if you have lost your curiousity about the world, face roadblocks or obstacles to your creativity and want to get relief, reclaim a sense of aliveness, vitality, presence, purpose or optimism - then I can be of help to you. I developed Emotional Pilates - the focus is on helping you build your core emotional strength, balance, flexibility and resilience, including learning how to speak your true experience.
James A. Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, CCATP
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90004
"Time does not heal all wounds; it just gives them space to sink into the subconscious, where they continue to impact your emotions and behavior. What heals is going inward, loving yourself, accepting yourself, listening to your needs, addressing your attachments and emotional history and following your intuition" (Yung Pueblo). I partner with my clients to help them find their voice, tell their story, re-engage their strengths and cultivate new ways to stay mindful and grounded—no matter what life throws at them. I work with couples and adults suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship challenges and LGBTQI-related issues.
"Time does not heal all wounds; it just gives them space to sink into the subconscious, where they continue to impact your emotions and behavior. What heals is going inward, loving yourself, accepting yourself, listening to your needs, addressing your attachments and emotional history and following your intuition" (Yung Pueblo). I partner with my clients to help them find their voice, tell their story, re-engage their strengths and cultivate new ways to stay mindful and grounded—no matter what life throws at them. I work with couples and adults suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship challenges and LGBTQI-related issues.
See more therapy options for Los Angeles
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Los Angeles, CA
3,000+
Average cost per session
$175
Therapists in Los Angeles, CA who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
74% | Self Esteem |
72% | Relationship Issues |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
65% | Coping Skills |
63% | Stress |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
76% | Aetna |
69% | Cigna and Evernorth |
68% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Los Angeles, CA see their clients
56% | In Person and Online | |
44% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
21% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Los Angeles?
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
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.
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.
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.