Therapists in 98005

Photo of Jannie Driver, Psychologist, PhD
Jannie Driver
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
If you are visiting my website, you have already begun the process of change. Whether it is interpersonal relationships, parenting, or trauma, you want something different. My goal as a psychologist is to support you and challenge you toward change. My therapeutic approach is evidence-based and client-centered. This means that I bring the research and science of psychology into each session, while maintaining compassion and empathy for my client.
If you are visiting my website, you have already begun the process of change. Whether it is interpersonal relationships, parenting, or trauma, you want something different. My goal as a psychologist is to support you and challenge you toward change. My therapeutic approach is evidence-based and client-centered. This means that I bring the research and science of psychology into each session, while maintaining compassion and empathy for my client.
(425) 341-1950 View (425) 341-1950
Photo of Spomenka Vitman, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Spomenka Vitman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
4 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Daily life can feel lonely and disconnected, like you're at a crossroads and you don't know where to turn. This can happen when safety and love are lacking. People tend to be overwhelmed and have trouble achieving a work/life balance when they feel stuck, worried or depressed. I am here to help identify those feeling and help you lead a healthy, balanced and fulfilling life. Unlike some therapy styles, my approach is dynamic. I will not only talk through your issues, but I will also share applicable ways to help you improve your situation for the better.
Daily life can feel lonely and disconnected, like you're at a crossroads and you don't know where to turn. This can happen when safety and love are lacking. People tend to be overwhelmed and have trouble achieving a work/life balance when they feel stuck, worried or depressed. I am here to help identify those feeling and help you lead a healthy, balanced and fulfilling life. Unlike some therapy styles, my approach is dynamic. I will not only talk through your issues, but I will also share applicable ways to help you improve your situation for the better.
(425) 321-2647 View (425) 321-2647
Photo of Julie Bullock - Traverse Therapy Services, Counselor, MS, LMHC, SUDP
Traverse Therapy Services
Counselor, MS, LMHC, SUDP
Online Only
We are currently accepting clients in-person and via telehealth. My name is Julie Bullock and I work with individuals struggling with substance use disorder, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, work issues and chronic illness. Through our connection you will find relief from the bondage of isolation and of habits that no longer serve you. The opportunity for healing is in the telling so together we will carve a safe space for you to tell your story. Through time linked, measurable goals you will be able to see your growth and be proud of who you are becoming.
We are currently accepting clients in-person and via telehealth. My name is Julie Bullock and I work with individuals struggling with substance use disorder, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, work issues and chronic illness. Through our connection you will find relief from the bondage of isolation and of habits that no longer serve you. The opportunity for healing is in the telling so together we will carve a safe space for you to tell your story. Through time linked, measurable goals you will be able to see your growth and be proud of who you are becoming.
(425) 264-8385 View (425) 264-8385
Photo of Colin Neff, Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Colin Neff
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
My name is Colin Neff and I am currently accepting new clients. I work with children (10+), teens, adults and couples on a variety of issues. I specialize in helping individuals and families manage their symptoms and recover from anxiety, mood disorders, traumatic experiences, and interpersonal conflicts. In addition, I help couples navigate communication, build intimacy and work toward shared goals to strengthen their relationship.
My name is Colin Neff and I am currently accepting new clients. I work with children (10+), teens, adults and couples on a variety of issues. I specialize in helping individuals and families manage their symptoms and recover from anxiety, mood disorders, traumatic experiences, and interpersonal conflicts. In addition, I help couples navigate communication, build intimacy and work toward shared goals to strengthen their relationship.
(425) 600-7402 View (425) 600-7402
Photo of Emily Lee-Escher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Emily Lee-Escher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who holds a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Washington. My focus is on working with adults and adolescents individually with varying issues. I see the therapeutic process as a transformative and healing experience.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who holds a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Washington. My focus is on working with adults and adolescents individually with varying issues. I see the therapeutic process as a transformative and healing experience.
(425) 470-5923 View (425) 470-5923
Photo of Dr. Jeff Cook, Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Dr. Jeff Cook
Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in substance use, sex addiction, trauma, and ruptures from infidelity. If you struggle with feelings of despair, and want to make sense of destructive decisions and to repair your relationship, I can help. At times we may find ourselves stuck, unable to move past certain experiences and it is in these phases of life that feelings of emptiness, or the experience of shame, or the quiet desperation to feel alive again, consume us. When these experiences are not understood and cared for, they often lead to poor decisions and ruptured relationships. Together we can create a plan for you to thrive and heal your relationship.
I specialize in substance use, sex addiction, trauma, and ruptures from infidelity. If you struggle with feelings of despair, and want to make sense of destructive decisions and to repair your relationship, I can help. At times we may find ourselves stuck, unable to move past certain experiences and it is in these phases of life that feelings of emptiness, or the experience of shame, or the quiet desperation to feel alive again, consume us. When these experiences are not understood and cared for, they often lead to poor decisions and ruptured relationships. Together we can create a plan for you to thrive and heal your relationship.
(425) 441-3470 View (425) 441-3470
Photo of Rebecca Barnett, Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Rebecca Barnett
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to a nurturing space where you need not face life's challenges alone. I understand the weight of worst-case scenarios and the drowning out of reason. Life transitions can be daunting, especially if you deviate from the heteronormative path. My approach is warm, laid-back, and compassionate. Our work is based on trust, respect, and your goals. I’m a queer, neurodivergent therapist in the final year of an APA-accredited doctoral program, working toward licensure as a psychologist. My lived experience informs my work, and my dissertation research focuses on sensory neurodivergence and how our environments shape well-being.
Welcome to a nurturing space where you need not face life's challenges alone. I understand the weight of worst-case scenarios and the drowning out of reason. Life transitions can be daunting, especially if you deviate from the heteronormative path. My approach is warm, laid-back, and compassionate. Our work is based on trust, respect, and your goals. I’m a queer, neurodivergent therapist in the final year of an APA-accredited doctoral program, working toward licensure as a psychologist. My lived experience informs my work, and my dissertation research focuses on sensory neurodivergence and how our environments shape well-being.
(206) 672-8913 View (206) 672-8913
Photo of Elizabeth Vu, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Elizabeth Vu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
In this first step, you have started on a path towards growth and healing. You may be struggling with feeling lost, disconnected to your self, going through big life changes, or just a general feeling of things not working quite right, and your regular strategies to cope are not working. Perhaps past experiences, patterns, or traumas are showing up in ways that are negatively impacting your relationships or mood. As a Certified EMDR therapist, I help my clients heal from past trauma and develop new ways of responding to current stress.
In this first step, you have started on a path towards growth and healing. You may be struggling with feeling lost, disconnected to your self, going through big life changes, or just a general feeling of things not working quite right, and your regular strategies to cope are not working. Perhaps past experiences, patterns, or traumas are showing up in ways that are negatively impacting your relationships or mood. As a Certified EMDR therapist, I help my clients heal from past trauma and develop new ways of responding to current stress.
(425) 409-5308 View (425) 409-5308
Photo of Maya Nelson, Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Maya Nelson
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Hi, I’m Maya—a licensed mental health counselor dedicated to helping you find clarity, confidence, and emotional balance. My approach is collaborative, affirming, and rooted in evidence-based techniques like CBT, DBT, and Internal Family Systems (IFS). Whether you're navigating anxiety, racial trauma, PTSD, identity struggles, or major life transitions, I’ll support you in reframing disruptive thoughts, setting boundaries, and fostering self-compassion.
Hi, I’m Maya—a licensed mental health counselor dedicated to helping you find clarity, confidence, and emotional balance. My approach is collaborative, affirming, and rooted in evidence-based techniques like CBT, DBT, and Internal Family Systems (IFS). Whether you're navigating anxiety, racial trauma, PTSD, identity struggles, or major life transitions, I’ll support you in reframing disruptive thoughts, setting boundaries, and fostering self-compassion.
(425) 329-8525 View (425) 329-8525
Photo of Aysha Rafiq, Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Aysha Rafiq
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Hi there, I'm here to help you bloom into your best self. I'm a person centered therapist who works with Adolescents and Adults. For Adults, I provide you with a safe place to reconnect with your inner child. I can help you nurture your inner world, heal your past, and learn how to develop a loving relationship with yourself. Using CBT, DBT, IFS, and Mindfulness, we go to your past to understand your present and change your future. For Teens, I use CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness to help them learn how to manage anxiety, and increase their self-confidence.
Hi there, I'm here to help you bloom into your best self. I'm a person centered therapist who works with Adolescents and Adults. For Adults, I provide you with a safe place to reconnect with your inner child. I can help you nurture your inner world, heal your past, and learn how to develop a loving relationship with yourself. Using CBT, DBT, IFS, and Mindfulness, we go to your past to understand your present and change your future. For Teens, I use CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness to help them learn how to manage anxiety, and increase their self-confidence.
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Photo of Nikki Hughs, Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Nikki Hughs
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
As a Licensed Mental Health Therapist with 15 years of experience, I support individuals, couples, families, and youth. I provide a warm, compassionate, non-judgmental space, guiding clients through healing and growth. My integrative approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and existential therapy, tailoring each session to your unique needs. With a background in correctional settings, I address complex personality patterns and behaviors. Committed to trauma-informed care, I have extensive experience supporting BIPOC and LGBTQI communities, fostering inclusivity and understanding in my practice.
As a Licensed Mental Health Therapist with 15 years of experience, I support individuals, couples, families, and youth. I provide a warm, compassionate, non-judgmental space, guiding clients through healing and growth. My integrative approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and existential therapy, tailoring each session to your unique needs. With a background in correctional settings, I address complex personality patterns and behaviors. Committed to trauma-informed care, I have extensive experience supporting BIPOC and LGBTQI communities, fostering inclusivity and understanding in my practice.
(425) 358-9175 View (425) 358-9175
Photo of Anahi Tapia, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Anahi Tapia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Bellevue, WA 98005
Do you feel like you’re having a hard time? Are you feeling overwhelmed or isolated in your relationships? Hoping to strengthen your connections with loved ones, navigate challenging situations, build resilience, or foster self-reflection? As your therapist, I am here to support you on your journey. With a gentle and compassionate approach, I strive to create a welcoming environment where you feel accepted, seen, and understood. I believe in everyone’s potential for personal growth and in the inherent worth of each person.
Do you feel like you’re having a hard time? Are you feeling overwhelmed or isolated in your relationships? Hoping to strengthen your connections with loved ones, navigate challenging situations, build resilience, or foster self-reflection? As your therapist, I am here to support you on your journey. With a gentle and compassionate approach, I strive to create a welcoming environment where you feel accepted, seen, and understood. I believe in everyone’s potential for personal growth and in the inherent worth of each person.
(425) 380-8483 x001 View (425) 380-8483 x001
Photo of Danielle Brooke Berger - Danielle Berger Psychotherapy, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MHP, MSW
Danielle Berger Psychotherapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MHP, MSW
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Research has shown therapeutic alliance is the foundation for success in therapy. This starts with using a highly collaborative approach and compassionately direct communication. Together, we will create a safe, trusting space to explore what's keeping you stuck, and build the skills necessary for change. Sessions will integrate talk therapy and evidence-based interventions to help you achieve the treatment goals that matter most to you.
Research has shown therapeutic alliance is the foundation for success in therapy. This starts with using a highly collaborative approach and compassionately direct communication. Together, we will create a safe, trusting space to explore what's keeping you stuck, and build the skills necessary for change. Sessions will integrate talk therapy and evidence-based interventions to help you achieve the treatment goals that matter most to you.
(206) 558-9697 View (206) 558-9697
Photo of Elizabeth L Falls, Counselor, MA, LMHC, APTT
Elizabeth L Falls
Counselor, MA, LMHC, APTT
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
We all long for intimate human relationship but for many of us, we can't seem to shake this dull aching loneliness that resides in the pit of our souls. However, the inherent human need for meaningful relationships has remained elusive. Often, it feels easier to isolate than to face the intolerable reality. We have become experts at stifling our needs and desires. But when we enter into the presence of another, when we begin to tell our stories of heartache and pain, healing begins. We need a witness to our grief, someone to join alongside us as we lament. Above all, we need a place to experience belonging.
We all long for intimate human relationship but for many of us, we can't seem to shake this dull aching loneliness that resides in the pit of our souls. However, the inherent human need for meaningful relationships has remained elusive. Often, it feels easier to isolate than to face the intolerable reality. We have become experts at stifling our needs and desires. But when we enter into the presence of another, when we begin to tell our stories of heartache and pain, healing begins. We need a witness to our grief, someone to join alongside us as we lament. Above all, we need a place to experience belonging.
(425) 437-2351 View (425) 437-2351
Photo of Angie Tamayo Montero, Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Angie Tamayo Montero
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Bellevue, WA 98005
As a bilingual and bicultural Spanish speaking therapist I have a passion to work with Latinx community. I believe it is very important to understand a client's background, and belief system from a cultural and social perspective. I have experience supporting people experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, life transitions and parenting challenges. I work with adults, children and their parents/caregivers. People need a space where they can feel listened and safe to tell stories of pain and trauma. But also, a place where someone believes in them and can be an ally in their path to find their authentic self.
As a bilingual and bicultural Spanish speaking therapist I have a passion to work with Latinx community. I believe it is very important to understand a client's background, and belief system from a cultural and social perspective. I have experience supporting people experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, life transitions and parenting challenges. I work with adults, children and their parents/caregivers. People need a space where they can feel listened and safe to tell stories of pain and trauma. But also, a place where someone believes in them and can be an ally in their path to find their authentic self.
(425) 584-1514 x1 View (425) 584-1514 x1
Photo of Emily Simpson, Counselor, LMHCA, MS
Emily Simpson
Counselor, LMHCA, MS
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Are you tired of having the same arguments and not sure how to repair your relationship? Maybe you are trying to heal and move forward from an affair or worried about divorce? I help couples heal from pain and disconnection and rediscover the excitement and deep friendship that makes them lovers, not just roommates. Together, we'll uncover the patterns in your arguments and break the cycle so you each learn to express your feelings clearly and listen with deeper understanding. You can repair trust and deepen intimacy. I'll show you how to tune into one another, so with every session, you both feel more supported and connected.
Are you tired of having the same arguments and not sure how to repair your relationship? Maybe you are trying to heal and move forward from an affair or worried about divorce? I help couples heal from pain and disconnection and rediscover the excitement and deep friendship that makes them lovers, not just roommates. Together, we'll uncover the patterns in your arguments and break the cycle so you each learn to express your feelings clearly and listen with deeper understanding. You can repair trust and deepen intimacy. I'll show you how to tune into one another, so with every session, you both feel more supported and connected.
(425) 368-9650 View (425) 368-9650
Photo of D Gregg Mohr, Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP
D Gregg Mohr
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
If you struggle with anger, stress, and/or relationship conflict, I can help you understand what's going on and teach you effective, empowering, and expedient ways of growing stronger through your struggle. Remember, struggling is not the problem, struggling is a part of life, it's about learning to "struggle well." If you're tired of constantly struggling to understand; if the frustration is overwhelming; if your relationship, your job, or even your freedom is on the line, I can help.
If you struggle with anger, stress, and/or relationship conflict, I can help you understand what's going on and teach you effective, empowering, and expedient ways of growing stronger through your struggle. Remember, struggling is not the problem, struggling is a part of life, it's about learning to "struggle well." If you're tired of constantly struggling to understand; if the frustration is overwhelming; if your relationship, your job, or even your freedom is on the line, I can help.
(425) 381-2612 View (425) 381-2612
Photo of Erik Ploof, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Erik Ploof
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Tired of arguing and thinking about divorce? Do you want to be seen, heard & understood in your relationship? Has your marriage been hurt by infidelity or sexual addiction? If you're feeling discouraged about your relationship, it's time to get support. I help couples create a safe space together to explore conflict, deepen their connection, resolve communication problems and repair trust. Your relationship does not have to be this hard. I'll show you how to break old patterns, approach challenges together, and respond in ways that foster connection & enhance intimacy. Together we'll create a plan for your relationship to thrive.
Tired of arguing and thinking about divorce? Do you want to be seen, heard & understood in your relationship? Has your marriage been hurt by infidelity or sexual addiction? If you're feeling discouraged about your relationship, it's time to get support. I help couples create a safe space together to explore conflict, deepen their connection, resolve communication problems and repair trust. Your relationship does not have to be this hard. I'll show you how to break old patterns, approach challenges together, and respond in ways that foster connection & enhance intimacy. Together we'll create a plan for your relationship to thrive.
(425) 287-5575 View (425) 287-5575
Photo of Corie Camara, Psychologist, PsyD
Corie Camara
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you navigating the emotional rollercoaster of infertility or IVF? Maybe you're grieving a pregnancy loss, overwhelmed by anxiety or OCD, or experiencing strain in your relationship. You may be struggling with postpartum or parenting difficulties you didn't expect. Having personal experience with infertility, I understand the challenges and am here to support you through the highs and lows of this journey. I'm can help you with any feelings of guilt, shame, or uncertainty you may be carrying. You can still connect with your partner and learn tools to manage stress. I'll help you feel your best and we'll find your path forward.
Are you navigating the emotional rollercoaster of infertility or IVF? Maybe you're grieving a pregnancy loss, overwhelmed by anxiety or OCD, or experiencing strain in your relationship. You may be struggling with postpartum or parenting difficulties you didn't expect. Having personal experience with infertility, I understand the challenges and am here to support you through the highs and lows of this journey. I'm can help you with any feelings of guilt, shame, or uncertainty you may be carrying. You can still connect with your partner and learn tools to manage stress. I'll help you feel your best and we'll find your path forward.
(425) 842-0434 View (425) 842-0434
Photo of Rick Monce, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Rick Monce
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Bellevue, WA 98005
For the last 15 years I've been working with individuals, couples, and families to help them address the most important issues in their lives. I enjoy helping clients empower themselves by expanding emotional flexibility, building positive communication patterns, and contradicting negative self-concepts and feelings of isolation.
For the last 15 years I've been working with individuals, couples, and families to help them address the most important issues in their lives. I enjoy helping clients empower themselves by expanding emotional flexibility, building positive communication patterns, and contradicting negative self-concepts and feelings of isolation.
(206) 538-2946 View (206) 538-2946

See more therapy options for 98005

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 98005

200+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in 98005 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
82% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
72% Trauma and PTSD
69% Coping Skills
69% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Premera Blue Cross
57% Aetna
57% Regence

How Therapists in 98005 see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 98005?

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.