Therapists in 98195

Photo of Lucas Pettengill, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Lucas Pettengill
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Seattle, WA 98195
Life is complex, and every person’s journey is unique. As a therapist, I am here to help you navigate the intricacies of your relationships and personal experiences. I use a blend of proven therapeutic methods, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, and Bowen Family Therapy, to meet you where you are—not where you think you should be. I understand that the path to self-awareness and growth starts with acknowledging your current reality. We’ll work together to uncover the patterns and dynamics that shape your life, allowing you to create a clear and meaningful path f
Life is complex, and every person’s journey is unique. As a therapist, I am here to help you navigate the intricacies of your relationships and personal experiences. I use a blend of proven therapeutic methods, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, and Bowen Family Therapy, to meet you where you are—not where you think you should be. I understand that the path to self-awareness and growth starts with acknowledging your current reality. We’ll work together to uncover the patterns and dynamics that shape your life, allowing you to create a clear and meaningful path f
(425) 332-1068 View (425) 332-1068
Photo of Jummy Iyiola - JMore Counseling Services , Mental Health Counselor, MA, LH
JMore Counseling Services
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LH
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98195
Whether your present life feels unmanageable or past hurtful experiences are still causing you pain, there is hope. Reaching out for help is the first step to making positive changes in your life. As a therapist, I offer you a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore, share, & develop deeper self-awareness. Together, we'll build on your strengths to foster growth & balance. My therapeutic style is conversational and collaborative, focusing on helping you better understand yourself and your situation. My ideal client seeks healing, growth, & a space to explore their feelings, no longer feel “stuck,” & learn practical tools for balance.
Whether your present life feels unmanageable or past hurtful experiences are still causing you pain, there is hope. Reaching out for help is the first step to making positive changes in your life. As a therapist, I offer you a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore, share, & develop deeper self-awareness. Together, we'll build on your strengths to foster growth & balance. My therapeutic style is conversational and collaborative, focusing on helping you better understand yourself and your situation. My ideal client seeks healing, growth, & a space to explore their feelings, no longer feel “stuck,” & learn practical tools for balance.
(206) 944-6275 View (206) 944-6275
Photo of Dr. Richard Trammel - Level 3 Sports Psychology - Richard Trammel, EdD, MS, PGA, L3S-CT
Sports Psychology Expert, Dr. Richard Trammel. I work with athletes who have the desire to take their game to the next level. My typical client performs great in practice, but can't replicate the same performance in competition. My primary focus is building confidence & eliminating Performance Anxiety using a toolbox approach they can implement from DAY 1. I have worked in the following sports: PGA Golf, USTA, NFL, USA Hockey, Basketball, MLB, Fast Pitch Softball, Cheer, Gymnastics, NCAA Sports, Equestrian, Soccer, Boxing/MMA, Volleyball, Track/Field, Lacrosse, Bowling, Pool, E-Sports, Symphony Orchestra, Business Analytics, Stage.
Sports Psychology Expert, Dr. Richard Trammel. I work with athletes who have the desire to take their game to the next level. My typical client performs great in practice, but can't replicate the same performance in competition. My primary focus is building confidence & eliminating Performance Anxiety using a toolbox approach they can implement from DAY 1. I have worked in the following sports: PGA Golf, USTA, NFL, USA Hockey, Basketball, MLB, Fast Pitch Softball, Cheer, Gymnastics, NCAA Sports, Equestrian, Soccer, Boxing/MMA, Volleyball, Track/Field, Lacrosse, Bowling, Pool, E-Sports, Symphony Orchestra, Business Analytics, Stage.
(385) 376-4624 View (385) 376-4624
Photo of Lauren Onderko, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lauren Onderko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Seattle, WA 98195
Many of my clients come to me feeling like they’ve tried everything, yet nothing works long term. I believe healing begins with a strong therapeutic relationship; one built on trust, safety, and collaboration. With experience providing intensive, in-home, and community-based interventions, I take a hands-on practical approach to therapy. Together, we’ll explore new strategies, strengthen resilience and create lasting change. When hope feels distant, I’ll hold it with you until you can hold it again yourself.
Many of my clients come to me feeling like they’ve tried everything, yet nothing works long term. I believe healing begins with a strong therapeutic relationship; one built on trust, safety, and collaboration. With experience providing intensive, in-home, and community-based interventions, I take a hands-on practical approach to therapy. Together, we’ll explore new strategies, strengthen resilience and create lasting change. When hope feels distant, I’ll hold it with you until you can hold it again yourself.
(831) 221-9180 View (831) 221-9180
Photo of Erin Kelly, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Erin Kelly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Serves Area
Does it feel like your emotions are controlling you rather than the other way around? Do you have a sense that some of your past experiences are affecting your current life, but you aren’t sure what to do or how to fix it? Do you want to feel more balanced and at ease? I offer treatments that can help. Whether you are struggling with work, academics, friendships, or intimate relationships, focused, goal-oriented therapy can provide the foundation for creating the life you want.
Does it feel like your emotions are controlling you rather than the other way around? Do you have a sense that some of your past experiences are affecting your current life, but you aren’t sure what to do or how to fix it? Do you want to feel more balanced and at ease? I offer treatments that can help. Whether you are struggling with work, academics, friendships, or intimate relationships, focused, goal-oriented therapy can provide the foundation for creating the life you want.
(509) 774-5412 View (509) 774-5412
Photo of Kelli Lovins, Mental Health Counselor License, MA, LMHC
Kelli Lovins
Mental Health Counselor License, MA, LMHC
Serves Area
I work with teens (16 and up), young adults, and adults to help them navigate the challenges life throws at them. Whether it's relationships, insecurities, past experiences, work stress, or the challenges of the day-to-day living, I believe you have the strengths within yourself to overcome those challenges. My role in the therapeutic relationship is to help you build those strengths.
I work with teens (16 and up), young adults, and adults to help them navigate the challenges life throws at them. Whether it's relationships, insecurities, past experiences, work stress, or the challenges of the day-to-day living, I believe you have the strengths within yourself to overcome those challenges. My role in the therapeutic relationship is to help you build those strengths.
(425) 610-7221 View (425) 610-7221
Photo of Maryfaith Cressman - Mindful Springs Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mindful Springs Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Now Accepting New Clients! Do you struggle with the pressure to excel - academically, socially, or personally - while trying to balance your own mental health? Do you feel exhausted by high expectations, self-doubt, or the stress of keeping up appearances? Do you struggle with connecting to your own internal voice and wisdom amongst the noise of external pressures and expectations? Are you wondering if life is supposed to feel more fulfilling than it does right now? Are you tired of sitting on your therapist's couch talking about your childhood?
Now Accepting New Clients! Do you struggle with the pressure to excel - academically, socially, or personally - while trying to balance your own mental health? Do you feel exhausted by high expectations, self-doubt, or the stress of keeping up appearances? Do you struggle with connecting to your own internal voice and wisdom amongst the noise of external pressures and expectations? Are you wondering if life is supposed to feel more fulfilling than it does right now? Are you tired of sitting on your therapist's couch talking about your childhood?
(206) 761-1344 View (206) 761-1344
Photo of Angelina (Yuqian) Li, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Angelina (Yuqian) Li
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Serves Area
Our bodies and psyche can hold unconscious patterns. Often people will seek therapy when patterns that once aided in survival become a hindrance to their growth. You might find yourself in dilemmas where you are overachieving but still believe you aren’t good enough. You might feel “other” or invisible even when you authentically share yourself. You might feel overwhelmed but not know how to talk about it or believe that no one will listen. While each person is unique, these are some of the reasons that bring people to therapy.
Our bodies and psyche can hold unconscious patterns. Often people will seek therapy when patterns that once aided in survival become a hindrance to their growth. You might find yourself in dilemmas where you are overachieving but still believe you aren’t good enough. You might feel “other” or invisible even when you authentically share yourself. You might feel overwhelmed but not know how to talk about it or believe that no one will listen. While each person is unique, these are some of the reasons that bring people to therapy.
(206) 312-3868 View (206) 312-3868
Photo of Katherine Perrow, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Katherine Perrow
Counselor, MA, LMHC
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Therapy is a unique and personal journey that can lead to tremendous healing. Using your personal goals and values as a guiding force in our work together, we will create a safe space for you to feel known and empowered. My therapeutic approach focuses on amplifying your strengths and helping you live your purpose each and every day. My background includes work with adults and adolescents struggling with anxiety, grief and loss, eating disorders, trauma, and the perinatal time period. I love working with individuals who find themselves navigating changing seasons of life, as well.
Therapy is a unique and personal journey that can lead to tremendous healing. Using your personal goals and values as a guiding force in our work together, we will create a safe space for you to feel known and empowered. My therapeutic approach focuses on amplifying your strengths and helping you live your purpose each and every day. My background includes work with adults and adolescents struggling with anxiety, grief and loss, eating disorders, trauma, and the perinatal time period. I love working with individuals who find themselves navigating changing seasons of life, as well.
(206) 312-5346 View (206) 312-5346
Photo of Katie Nickol, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Katie Nickol
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Serves Area
Life can feel heavy when you’re carrying too much - stress, loss, anxiety, or old wounds that still shape the present. Whether you’re moving through grief, navigating a major life transition, or healing from trauma, therapy can help you reconnect with yourself and find steadiness again. I offer a compassionate, grounded space to explore what’s been difficult and to identify what you most need, right now.
Life can feel heavy when you’re carrying too much - stress, loss, anxiety, or old wounds that still shape the present. Whether you’re moving through grief, navigating a major life transition, or healing from trauma, therapy can help you reconnect with yourself and find steadiness again. I offer a compassionate, grounded space to explore what’s been difficult and to identify what you most need, right now.
(360) 526-8438 View (360) 526-8438
Photo of Hayley Birdwell, Counselor
Hayley Birdwell
Counselor
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As humans, we are relational beings. Relationships with friends, family, significant others, and most of all ourselves are what bring meaning to our lives. I am here to help you enhance your relationship with yourself and with others in order to create more joy and fulfillment. Together, we will work through the problems that are manifesting in your life and explore them on a deeper level. I will help you develop skills to manage the aspects of life you cannot control, and I will help you find the courage and motivation to take the reins on the things that you can.
As humans, we are relational beings. Relationships with friends, family, significant others, and most of all ourselves are what bring meaning to our lives. I am here to help you enhance your relationship with yourself and with others in order to create more joy and fulfillment. Together, we will work through the problems that are manifesting in your life and explore them on a deeper level. I will help you develop skills to manage the aspects of life you cannot control, and I will help you find the courage and motivation to take the reins on the things that you can.
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Photo of David M Johnson, Counselor, EdD, LMHC
David M Johnson
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you experiencing anxiety or depression? Perhaps you are suffering the aftermath of trauma, from years ago or recently. You might be having difficulty seeing yourself positively. Are you plagued with shame? Maybe you are having difficulties in important relationships. Grief might be overshadowing gratification in your life. You might want to set new goals for the new phase of life you are living. My decades of training and experience address all aspects of emotional, thought and personality issues.
Are you experiencing anxiety or depression? Perhaps you are suffering the aftermath of trauma, from years ago or recently. You might be having difficulty seeing yourself positively. Are you plagued with shame? Maybe you are having difficulties in important relationships. Grief might be overshadowing gratification in your life. You might want to set new goals for the new phase of life you are living. My decades of training and experience address all aspects of emotional, thought and personality issues.
(206) 899-4692 View (206) 899-4692
Photo of Dr. Chris Brubaker, MD, PhD
Dr. Chris Brubaker
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a psychiatrist (MD) who specializes in depth-oriented psychotherapy and medicine management for adults, children, and seniors. You know your life and feelings best, and it's important that you're in charge, always. My hope is to listen well so we can talk or use medicine in a way that feels safe and actually helps. I work with most psychiatric issues. Some common ones are stress, anxiety, depression, family and relationship troubles, and personality disorders.
I am a psychiatrist (MD) who specializes in depth-oriented psychotherapy and medicine management for adults, children, and seniors. You know your life and feelings best, and it's important that you're in charge, always. My hope is to listen well so we can talk or use medicine in a way that feels safe and actually helps. I work with most psychiatric issues. Some common ones are stress, anxiety, depression, family and relationship troubles, and personality disorders.
(206) 558-9243 View (206) 558-9243
Photo of Averi Basso, Pre-Licensed Professional
Averi Basso
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You're someone who is a high achiever, but still find yourself overwhelmed, feeling anxious, and highly self-critical. It can feel difficult to move out of these feelings and achieve what you work so hard for. But you're ready to make a change. You're ready to ease those feelings and work through your anxiety. You're ready to break free from your critical thoughts. Most of all, you're ready to make a positive, lasting change to your quality of life! I want to help you get there.
You're someone who is a high achiever, but still find yourself overwhelmed, feeling anxious, and highly self-critical. It can feel difficult to move out of these feelings and achieve what you work so hard for. But you're ready to make a change. You're ready to ease those feelings and work through your anxiety. You're ready to break free from your critical thoughts. Most of all, you're ready to make a positive, lasting change to your quality of life! I want to help you get there.
(509) 519-4098 View (509) 519-4098
Photo of Zachary G. Shaeffer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, MDiv
Zachary G. Shaeffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, MDiv
Serves Area
Are you feeling down and depressed? Is anxiety getting in the way of your life? Therapy can help you to cope with heightened anxiety, depression, loneliness, and lack of purpose. I offer in person and virtual therapy to best meet your needs. Therapy provides a safe place to ask the questions that scare us, to find connection and healing, to feel good and be authentic, and take charge of our lives. I support clients' efforts to gain insight into the sources of their challenges and pain, find connection, make positive changes in relationships, identify strengths and resources, cope with personal history, and take charge of their life.
Are you feeling down and depressed? Is anxiety getting in the way of your life? Therapy can help you to cope with heightened anxiety, depression, loneliness, and lack of purpose. I offer in person and virtual therapy to best meet your needs. Therapy provides a safe place to ask the questions that scare us, to find connection and healing, to feel good and be authentic, and take charge of our lives. I support clients' efforts to gain insight into the sources of their challenges and pain, find connection, make positive changes in relationships, identify strengths and resources, cope with personal history, and take charge of their life.
(206) 558-9085 View (206) 558-9085
Photo of Alex Kerney, Counselor, LMHCA
Alex Kerney
Counselor, LMHCA
Serves Area
Alexandra Kerney, LMHCA, graduated from Central Washington University with a B.A. in Psychology and graduated from Seattle Pacific University with an M.Ed. in School Counseling. Alex uses evidence-based practices and strength-based approaches when working with child, adolescent, and young adult clients, and enjoys helping people overcome depression, anxiety, peer conflicts, low self-esteem, and bullying.
Alexandra Kerney, LMHCA, graduated from Central Washington University with a B.A. in Psychology and graduated from Seattle Pacific University with an M.Ed. in School Counseling. Alex uses evidence-based practices and strength-based approaches when working with child, adolescent, and young adult clients, and enjoys helping people overcome depression, anxiety, peer conflicts, low self-esteem, and bullying.
(206) 966-4877 View (206) 966-4877
Photo of Brooke Lather, Counselor, Brooke Lather, LMHC
Brooke Lather
Counselor, Brooke Lather, LMHC
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
You bring your whole self here — your hopes, fears, dreams, struggles, and the places where you feel stuck. My first commitment is to meet all of it with compassion. Healing begins with trust, and trust begins with feeling truly seen. Together, we'll explore the patterns and beliefs that may be limiting you in your life, approach them with curiosity rather than judgment, and work toward something more authentic and free.
You bring your whole self here — your hopes, fears, dreams, struggles, and the places where you feel stuck. My first commitment is to meet all of it with compassion. Healing begins with trust, and trust begins with feeling truly seen. Together, we'll explore the patterns and beliefs that may be limiting you in your life, approach them with curiosity rather than judgment, and work toward something more authentic and free.
(206) 759-2848 View (206) 759-2848
Photo of Lexi Ryan, Pre-Licensed Professional, LCMHC
Lexi Ryan
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCMHC
Serves Area
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, don’t know where to start? That’s okay! I am here to help you take the first step and be there to help you along the way. Life can be difficult and you do not need to carry everything on your own. If you’ve been trying to manage everything on your own and it no longer feels sustainable, you’re not alone. I work with individuals and couples of all ages who are seeking relief, clarity, and meaningful change. I offer a direct client centered approach, you know yourself the best and I am here to help you see and understand the patterns that exist in your life.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, don’t know where to start? That’s okay! I am here to help you take the first step and be there to help you along the way. Life can be difficult and you do not need to carry everything on your own. If you’ve been trying to manage everything on your own and it no longer feels sustainable, you’re not alone. I work with individuals and couples of all ages who are seeking relief, clarity, and meaningful change. I offer a direct client centered approach, you know yourself the best and I am here to help you see and understand the patterns that exist in your life.
(425) 470-6713 View (425) 470-6713
Photo of Jeanette Ashworth, Counselor, MS, NCC, LMHC
Jeanette Ashworth
Counselor, MS, NCC, LMHC
Serves Area
Do you want to feel deeply listened to and understood, experience stress reduction, more hope and happiness, overcome fears or challenges, find greater meaning, or purpose? Compassionate, respectful care for Individuals, Parents, and Families for ADHD, Autism Spectrum, "AudHD," Life Transitions in work, college/school, or relationships, IDD, Anxiety, life purpose/meaning, Women's Issues, caregiver stress, depression, grief, burn-out, health, and more.
Do you want to feel deeply listened to and understood, experience stress reduction, more hope and happiness, overcome fears or challenges, find greater meaning, or purpose? Compassionate, respectful care for Individuals, Parents, and Families for ADHD, Autism Spectrum, "AudHD," Life Transitions in work, college/school, or relationships, IDD, Anxiety, life purpose/meaning, Women's Issues, caregiver stress, depression, grief, burn-out, health, and more.
(425) 264-8693 View (425) 264-8693
Photo of Liz Rivelin, Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS
Liz Rivelin
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Crikey! What do all those therapist letters actually mean? If you’ve been scanning these profiles and wondering about LMHC, LICSW, LMFT, SUDP, CCTP, or CMHS—you’re not alone. LMHC (mental health), LICSW (person + systems), LMFT (relationships), SUDP (substance use). An “A” means Associate—newer, supervised, often with fresh training. Psychologists do assessments such as adhd; psychiatrists prescribe. The letters matter far less than the relationship: feeling safe, understood, and genuinely connected is what actually makes therapy work. Give me a call for a free 15 minute consult and you can see if I feel like a good fit.
Crikey! What do all those therapist letters actually mean? If you’ve been scanning these profiles and wondering about LMHC, LICSW, LMFT, SUDP, CCTP, or CMHS—you’re not alone. LMHC (mental health), LICSW (person + systems), LMFT (relationships), SUDP (substance use). An “A” means Associate—newer, supervised, often with fresh training. Psychologists do assessments such as adhd; psychiatrists prescribe. The letters matter far less than the relationship: feeling safe, understood, and genuinely connected is what actually makes therapy work. Give me a call for a free 15 minute consult and you can see if I feel like a good fit.
(425) 470-6362 View (425) 470-6362

See more therapy options for 98195

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 98195

100+

Average cost per session

$159

Therapists in 98195 who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
88% Depression
78% Trauma and PTSD
76% Stress
75% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
62% Grief

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

67% Aetna
62% Regence
58% Premera Blue Cross

How Therapists in 98195 see their clients

53% Online Only
47% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

81% Female
16% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 98195?

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.