Therapists in Dallas, TX

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Photo of Tatianna Chin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dallas, TX
Tatianna Chin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75231
Life can sometimes lead you to situations that you could never imagine you would be in. You can often think “What do I do next? where do we go from here”? The pressures of “where do I want to be vs. where am I expected to be” can become overwhelming. Are you currently in a relationship that feels “stuck” and suffering in communication? Are you newly engaged and want to make sure your relationship is rooted in healthy communication, transparency, and trust? I work with clients who may feel these things and are opened to taking the next step to explore solutions. Therapy with me can make life feel hopeful again.
Life can sometimes lead you to situations that you could never imagine you would be in. You can often think “What do I do next? where do we go from here”? The pressures of “where do I want to be vs. where am I expected to be” can become overwhelming. Are you currently in a relationship that feels “stuck” and suffering in communication? Are you newly engaged and want to make sure your relationship is rooted in healthy communication, transparency, and trust? I work with clients who may feel these things and are opened to taking the next step to explore solutions. Therapy with me can make life feel hopeful again.
(214) 441-7309 View (214) 441-7309
Photo of JoAngeli Kasper, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
JoAngeli Kasper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75202  (Online Only)
I am a first-generation, Latinx, Mexican American female. As someone who has struggled, fought, and overcome, I consider it a privilege to assist others in finding their way through their journey. I am a dancer, an artist, a creator, a mother, a wife, a survivor, a counselor, and a Ph.D. student in marriage and family therapy- aspects that assist me in the creative connection that I believe therapy to be. Counseling is an art form in that a person is given permission to gain access to what is most personal, private, and possibly broken within.
I am a first-generation, Latinx, Mexican American female. As someone who has struggled, fought, and overcome, I consider it a privilege to assist others in finding their way through their journey. I am a dancer, an artist, a creator, a mother, a wife, a survivor, a counselor, and a Ph.D. student in marriage and family therapy- aspects that assist me in the creative connection that I believe therapy to be. Counseling is an art form in that a person is given permission to gain access to what is most personal, private, and possibly broken within.
(214) 617-1764 View (214) 617-1764
Photo of Diana Chavez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Diana Chavez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204  (Online Only)
Listening, empowering, and being present with my clients is what I am passionate about. I have about 7 years of counseling and clinical experience. I received my Masters in Social Work in 2014 from Hunter College in NYC. My clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents, and individuals all ages including geriatrics. I will help guide you and assist you in coming up with strategies to help conquer your life goals and overcome challenges. Creating a safe space and being non-judgmental is extremely important to me when working with my clients.
Listening, empowering, and being present with my clients is what I am passionate about. I have about 7 years of counseling and clinical experience. I received my Masters in Social Work in 2014 from Hunter College in NYC. My clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents, and individuals all ages including geriatrics. I will help guide you and assist you in coming up with strategies to help conquer your life goals and overcome challenges. Creating a safe space and being non-judgmental is extremely important to me when working with my clients.
(469) 382-4229 View (469) 382-4229
Photo of Ella Maffei, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Ella Maffei
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254  (Online Only)
Hello there! My name is Ella Maffei and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I have been practicing for approximately five years.
Hello there! My name is Ella Maffei and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I have been practicing for approximately five years.
(469) 702-8597 View (469) 702-8597
Photo of Christopher Seals, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Christopher Seals
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75246  (Online Only)
Maybe you are struggling with something in your life. You might be dealing with stress and anxiety or another mental struggle like depression or substance use. You might be feeling secluded, isolated, or even marginalized and are seeking to learn how to cope and grow in a healthy way. If this sounds like you I am excited to try to help you address these struggles in an empowering way and help you find your spark again! If this sounds like you please don't be afraid to reach out and take that first step for yourself. I am here to answer any questions you may have.
Maybe you are struggling with something in your life. You might be dealing with stress and anxiety or another mental struggle like depression or substance use. You might be feeling secluded, isolated, or even marginalized and are seeking to learn how to cope and grow in a healthy way. If this sounds like you I am excited to try to help you address these struggles in an empowering way and help you find your spark again! If this sounds like you please don't be afraid to reach out and take that first step for yourself. I am here to answer any questions you may have.
(214) 367-6824 View (214) 367-6824
Photo of Ashley Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Ashley Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206
Throughout my experience as a counselor, I have noticed that our shame is the foundational and often times our biggest barrier to success. My approach is to help client's identify and replace these shame-based thoughts and become more aware of how these thoughts impact the way they see themselves, others, and the world around them. Once you can view your authentic self as someone that is worthy, goals can be clearly defined, progress can be made, and healing can be obtainable. While this isn't the only consideration in counseling, it is one of great importance.
Throughout my experience as a counselor, I have noticed that our shame is the foundational and often times our biggest barrier to success. My approach is to help client's identify and replace these shame-based thoughts and become more aware of how these thoughts impact the way they see themselves, others, and the world around them. Once you can view your authentic self as someone that is worthy, goals can be clearly defined, progress can be made, and healing can be obtainable. While this isn't the only consideration in counseling, it is one of great importance.
(972) 737-0762 View (972) 737-0762
Photo of Avery Bush, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Avery Bush
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
It's getting harder and harder to make space for our own well-being in an age of fast-pace and high demands. Maybe you're right at the edge of what you can manage or feel completely underwater. Maybe your anxiety is through the roof, or you're struggling to get out of bed. Perhaps you don't like the way you're coping with life, or grief seems to have taken up a permanent residence in your life. Maybe you're all too familiar with the word "burnout," but you don't know what to do about it. Perhaps you feel like you should be better by now, or that old wound shouldn't still hurt, but it still hurts anyway.
It's getting harder and harder to make space for our own well-being in an age of fast-pace and high demands. Maybe you're right at the edge of what you can manage or feel completely underwater. Maybe your anxiety is through the roof, or you're struggling to get out of bed. Perhaps you don't like the way you're coping with life, or grief seems to have taken up a permanent residence in your life. Maybe you're all too familiar with the word "burnout," but you don't know what to do about it. Perhaps you feel like you should be better by now, or that old wound shouldn't still hurt, but it still hurts anyway.
(214) 225-8914 View (214) 225-8914
Photo of Tessa Knickerbocker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Tessa Knickerbocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, Tessa K, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75218  (Online Only)
We all have a story that impacts who we are today. Part of your journey to discovery and healing is telling that story. I provide a safe, caring, and non-judgmental environment for my clients to share, explore, and process life's events on their path to growth and healing. No two people are alike and the work we do will reflect that. My approach is a collaborative process that will help guide you, move you forward, and identify obstacles that are keeping you from creating genuine, lasting change. My view of the therapeutic relationship is not limited to just the client but is a holistic picture of the entire family system.
We all have a story that impacts who we are today. Part of your journey to discovery and healing is telling that story. I provide a safe, caring, and non-judgmental environment for my clients to share, explore, and process life's events on their path to growth and healing. No two people are alike and the work we do will reflect that. My approach is a collaborative process that will help guide you, move you forward, and identify obstacles that are keeping you from creating genuine, lasting change. My view of the therapeutic relationship is not limited to just the client but is a holistic picture of the entire family system.
(214) 367-6543 View (214) 367-6543
Photo of Laura Elizabeth Forrester, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Laura Elizabeth Forrester
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206  (Online Only)
Hello! I believe in the value of connection and authenticity. My therapeutic approach comes from a deep-seeded belief that all humans are worthy of love and compassion. I believe that each person needs different things and it is my hope to be available to you to offer guidance, support, empathy, compassion, and acceptance without judgement. I deeply value diversity and inclusivity, and connecting with my clients is of the utmost importance to me. My goal is to be present for my clients and for them to feel safe in sharing their stories with me.
Hello! I believe in the value of connection and authenticity. My therapeutic approach comes from a deep-seeded belief that all humans are worthy of love and compassion. I believe that each person needs different things and it is my hope to be available to you to offer guidance, support, empathy, compassion, and acceptance without judgement. I deeply value diversity and inclusivity, and connecting with my clients is of the utmost importance to me. My goal is to be present for my clients and for them to feel safe in sharing their stories with me.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Tammie Greggains, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Tammie Greggains
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254  (Online Only)
Hello, I am a Nationally Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, in the state of Texas. I have worked in the mental health field for over 14 years. I have worked in the school system as a school counselor and in private practice to help youth and adolescents, individuals and families.
Hello, I am a Nationally Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, in the state of Texas. I have worked in the mental health field for over 14 years. I have worked in the school system as a school counselor and in private practice to help youth and adolescents, individuals and families.
(469) 373-7320 View (469) 373-7320
Photo of Christina Wise, Psychologist in Dallas, TX
Christina Wise
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75231
Dr. Wise has gathered invaluable insights over years of partnering with couples and families. Relationships are not static. To flourish, partners consistently reflect on themselves, family, and partnership. Therapy provides an opportunity to increase insight, understanding, and connection. All services operate from the premise that there is no right way to navigate parenting, relationships, and family. Instead, our work with families aims to support clients' ability to make decisions that honor their values and beliefs. As a result, clients become more connected in their intimate relationship and more closely aligned as parents.
Dr. Wise has gathered invaluable insights over years of partnering with couples and families. Relationships are not static. To flourish, partners consistently reflect on themselves, family, and partnership. Therapy provides an opportunity to increase insight, understanding, and connection. All services operate from the premise that there is no right way to navigate parenting, relationships, and family. Instead, our work with families aims to support clients' ability to make decisions that honor their values and beliefs. As a result, clients become more connected in their intimate relationship and more closely aligned as parents.
(469) 701-4900 View (469) 701-4900
Photo of Amy Wright, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Amy Wright
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75230
There are many reasons why you might be searching for a therapist. You might find life overwhelming right now and need a place to process through the feelings of chaos. Maybe you are experiencing conflict in a meaningful relationship or in your own marriage. Perhaps you are in a place where you are ready to grow or find deeper connection. Setting aside time during your week to open yourself up to me is something I treat with great respect and confidentiality.
There are many reasons why you might be searching for a therapist. You might find life overwhelming right now and need a place to process through the feelings of chaos. Maybe you are experiencing conflict in a meaningful relationship or in your own marriage. Perhaps you are in a place where you are ready to grow or find deeper connection. Setting aside time during your week to open yourself up to me is something I treat with great respect and confidentiality.
(469) 283-6086 View (469) 283-6086
Photo of Melissa Ann Roush, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Melissa Ann Roush
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254  (Online Only)
You are aching to live a more authentic, fulfilling and empowered life, yet you are struggling to know how to proceed. I get it. I have been there. We build lives on foundations based in old programs, expectations, and beliefs and then when we feel the call for something more, we can feel stuck, anxious, or guilt. The life we built no longer suits us and we need help navigating change as we rebuild. Perhaps a relationship, a career, a midlife awakening (or pandemic) has triggered a longing for something more meaningful or fulfilling. Or maybe, something less- less drama, less stress, less anxiety, less soul sucking.
You are aching to live a more authentic, fulfilling and empowered life, yet you are struggling to know how to proceed. I get it. I have been there. We build lives on foundations based in old programs, expectations, and beliefs and then when we feel the call for something more, we can feel stuck, anxious, or guilt. The life we built no longer suits us and we need help navigating change as we rebuild. Perhaps a relationship, a career, a midlife awakening (or pandemic) has triggered a longing for something more meaningful or fulfilling. Or maybe, something less- less drama, less stress, less anxiety, less soul sucking.
(972) 362-9981 View (972) 362-9981
Photo of Kaylah Hunter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Kaylah Hunter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
Waitlist for new clients
“When you’re not used to being confident, confidence can feel like arrogance. When you’re used to being passive, assertiveness feels like aggression. When you’re not used to getting your needs met, prioritizing yourself feels selfish. Your comfort zone is not a good benchmark.” - Dr. Vassilia
“When you’re not used to being confident, confidence can feel like arrogance. When you’re used to being passive, assertiveness feels like aggression. When you’re not used to getting your needs met, prioritizing yourself feels selfish. Your comfort zone is not a good benchmark.” - Dr. Vassilia
(817) 904-4001 View (817) 904-4001
Photo of Nakissa Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Nakissa Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243
Do you ever ache from sadness, hopelessness, and worrying all the time? Well, it does not have to consume you. A lot of people are dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, body image, relationship problems, infertility, parenting & more issues that need to be addressed. Any of the above mentioned conditions can weigh us down, but we all just want to be weightless & free of these burdens. Having someone on your side to listen, empathize, and address your needs honestly is the key. I love what I do and can't get enough of my clients. So please reach out and we can make anything possible together.
Do you ever ache from sadness, hopelessness, and worrying all the time? Well, it does not have to consume you. A lot of people are dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, body image, relationship problems, infertility, parenting & more issues that need to be addressed. Any of the above mentioned conditions can weigh us down, but we all just want to be weightless & free of these burdens. Having someone on your side to listen, empathize, and address your needs honestly is the key. I love what I do and can't get enough of my clients. So please reach out and we can make anything possible together.
(214) 393-5979 View (214) 393-5979
Photo of Molly Shute, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Molly Shute
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204
I know that life can get overwhelming and we all seek different ways to feel better. Sometimes those choices are good and sometimes not so good. Trust me! I am not going to judge. Whether you are struggling in your relationship, feel overly dependent on someone/something, have a difficult relationship with food, or you feel overwhelmed and anxious with anything in your life, I'm here to help. You are not alone. I want to help encourage you along the way while helping you experience the growth needed for you to find the happiness you are searching for.
I know that life can get overwhelming and we all seek different ways to feel better. Sometimes those choices are good and sometimes not so good. Trust me! I am not going to judge. Whether you are struggling in your relationship, feel overly dependent on someone/something, have a difficult relationship with food, or you feel overwhelmed and anxious with anything in your life, I'm here to help. You are not alone. I want to help encourage you along the way while helping you experience the growth needed for you to find the happiness you are searching for.
(214) 740-4864 View (214) 740-4864
Photo of Rosalinda Weisz, Counselor in Dallas, TX
Rosalinda Weisz
Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75244
Rosalinda Weisz believes that what makes us suffer is what we do not know about ourselves. Being aware of those hidden parts of ourselves allows us to make better choices, based on reality and without the distortions triggered by painful experiences and irrational beliefs. Mrs. Weisz believes that every person is a unique individual and she strives to understand and respect the particular world view offered by every patient in a gentle, honest and positive manner. The most important factor in every treatment is the development of a patient-therapist relationship that offers a safe context for change.
Rosalinda Weisz believes that what makes us suffer is what we do not know about ourselves. Being aware of those hidden parts of ourselves allows us to make better choices, based on reality and without the distortions triggered by painful experiences and irrational beliefs. Mrs. Weisz believes that every person is a unique individual and she strives to understand and respect the particular world view offered by every patient in a gentle, honest and positive manner. The most important factor in every treatment is the development of a patient-therapist relationship that offers a safe context for change.
(972) 348-0244 View (972) 348-0244
Photo of Brian Kennedy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Brian Kennedy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219
Accepting New Clients. I assist clients with various issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, substance use, and trauma. I am an an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist who believes individuals want to live a more manageable life and are doing the best they can with the tools that they have. I can provide you with the tools to do that. Change can be difficult, but the process can be easier when with someone by your side to help you through it. I want to support you as you work to overcome whatever struggles life has thrown at you.
Accepting New Clients. I assist clients with various issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, substance use, and trauma. I am an an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist who believes individuals want to live a more manageable life and are doing the best they can with the tools that they have. I can provide you with the tools to do that. Change can be difficult, but the process can be easier when with someone by your side to help you through it. I want to support you as you work to overcome whatever struggles life has thrown at you.
(469) 283-6290 View (469) 283-6290
Photo of Caroline Bryan, LPC Intern in Dallas, TX
Caroline Bryan
LPC Intern, MA, LPC-A, MT-BC, NICU-MT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75206  (Online Only)
If you feel like there's a lot going on in the world, whether in your personal life or in our many communities at large, I'd like to provide you with a safe, nonjudgmental, real, and affirming space for you to just be. My approach is trauma-informed, CBT, person-centered, identity empowering, relational, and engages expression and the arts. Our process will be collaborative and interactive to whatever goals you define for yourself. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, or relational stressors, I can help you explore your needs, motivations, and interests while supporting you in finding control within your life's story.
If you feel like there's a lot going on in the world, whether in your personal life or in our many communities at large, I'd like to provide you with a safe, nonjudgmental, real, and affirming space for you to just be. My approach is trauma-informed, CBT, person-centered, identity empowering, relational, and engages expression and the arts. Our process will be collaborative and interactive to whatever goals you define for yourself. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, or relational stressors, I can help you explore your needs, motivations, and interests while supporting you in finding control within your life's story.
(469) 772-6382 View (469) 772-6382
Photo of Michelle Spurgeon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Michelle Spurgeon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75218
Clients I work with may be trying to find their footing after overwhelming experiences, traumatic experiences, experiencing anxiety, or a big change. So much is different, but there are moments when it feels hard- harder than you hoped it would be by now. You’ve wondered how much those challenges have impacted who you are, how you feel, and how you connect in relationships. Even if you’ve found ways to get by- it doesn’t have to keep being this hard. I want to come alongside you on this journey and discover how much better it can become.
Clients I work with may be trying to find their footing after overwhelming experiences, traumatic experiences, experiencing anxiety, or a big change. So much is different, but there are moments when it feels hard- harder than you hoped it would be by now. You’ve wondered how much those challenges have impacted who you are, how you feel, and how you connect in relationships. Even if you’ve found ways to get by- it doesn’t have to keep being this hard. I want to come alongside you on this journey and discover how much better it can become.
(214) 954-6349 View (214) 954-6349

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Dallas, TX

3,000+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in Dallas, TX who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
75% Self Esteem
71% Relationship Issues
70% Coping Skills
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Aetna
77% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
73% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Dallas, TX see their clients

53% In Person and Online
47% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a therapist in Dallas?

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.