Therapists in Saint Charles, IL

Photo of Buffy Cramer-Hammann, Psychologist in Saint Charles, IL
Buffy Cramer-Hammann
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
For over a decade I have worked with Adult and Adolescent Patients coping with various Life Challenges. I maintain a supportive and collaborative therapeutic relationship with my Patients as they negotiate their identified challenge areas. Specific areas of focus within my practice are Life Stage Challenges; Grief and Loss; Fertility and Postpartum; and Anxiety and Depression. Over the last five years, I have incorporated Animal Assisted Psychotherapy with my Canine Co-therapists. While not all sessions are appropriate for Animal Assisted Psychotherapy, the addition of Canine Co-therapists has been met with positive feedback.
For over a decade I have worked with Adult and Adolescent Patients coping with various Life Challenges. I maintain a supportive and collaborative therapeutic relationship with my Patients as they negotiate their identified challenge areas. Specific areas of focus within my practice are Life Stage Challenges; Grief and Loss; Fertility and Postpartum; and Anxiety and Depression. Over the last five years, I have incorporated Animal Assisted Psychotherapy with my Canine Co-therapists. While not all sessions are appropriate for Animal Assisted Psychotherapy, the addition of Canine Co-therapists has been met with positive feedback.
(630) 560-6740 View (630) 560-6740
Photo of Christine Anderson, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Christine Anderson
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60175
Christine is an experienced therapist who engages clients in the therapeutic process by developing treatment goals based on clients' individual needs. She partners with clients to develop a treatment plan that utilizes the clients' support system which may include their family and other medical providers in order to ensure appropriate treatment goals are set and achieved. Christine enjoys engaging clients in the therapeutic process by giving value to each client's perspective through her client-centered approach. Christine has experience working with adolescents and adults.
Christine is an experienced therapist who engages clients in the therapeutic process by developing treatment goals based on clients' individual needs. She partners with clients to develop a treatment plan that utilizes the clients' support system which may include their family and other medical providers in order to ensure appropriate treatment goals are set and achieved. Christine enjoys engaging clients in the therapeutic process by giving value to each client's perspective through her client-centered approach. Christine has experience working with adolescents and adults.
(815) 600-7887 View (815) 600-7887
Photo of Monica Raye Schaberg, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Monica Raye Schaberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60175
Hello, I am glad you are reaching out for help. I am currently taking clients and have experience with the following: anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, parenting struggles, childhood academic struggles. My goal is to help clients feel heard, understood, and like they have someone in their corner. I want to help clients find ways to manage their mental health in a healthy way.
Hello, I am glad you are reaching out for help. I am currently taking clients and have experience with the following: anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, parenting struggles, childhood academic struggles. My goal is to help clients feel heard, understood, and like they have someone in their corner. I want to help clients find ways to manage their mental health in a healthy way.
(630) 812-7522 View (630) 812-7522
Photo of Courtney Van Acker @ St Charles Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Courtney Van Acker @ St Charles Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
Being able to discuss your current challenges and roadblocks to living as the best version of yourself in a safe, compassionate, comfortable environment is the basis of growth and success in therapy. As a counselor, I strive to provide a space where you are shown unconditional support, encouragement, and help as you navigate your own journey towards healing and restoration. I've worked with individuals struggling with many mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, eating disorders, and relationship problems. I utilize an eclectic approach when working with clients, choosing therapeutic
Being able to discuss your current challenges and roadblocks to living as the best version of yourself in a safe, compassionate, comfortable environment is the basis of growth and success in therapy. As a counselor, I strive to provide a space where you are shown unconditional support, encouragement, and help as you navigate your own journey towards healing and restoration. I've worked with individuals struggling with many mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, eating disorders, and relationship problems. I utilize an eclectic approach when working with clients, choosing therapeutic
(630) 448-8141 View (630) 448-8141
Photo of Maggie Lassar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, IL
Maggie Lassar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174  (Online Only)
My belief is the foundation of therapy is a safe, trusting, and authentic therapeutic relationship. I walk alongside my clients throughout the process of self-exploration and healing. Although therapy can be hard, scary, and extremely messy, my hope is that we can muddle through it together!
My belief is the foundation of therapy is a safe, trusting, and authentic therapeutic relationship. I walk alongside my clients throughout the process of self-exploration and healing. Although therapy can be hard, scary, and extremely messy, my hope is that we can muddle through it together!
(630) 593-0639 View (630) 593-0639
Photo of Karen M Bridwell, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Karen M Bridwell
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60175
There are varieties of reasons why people seek counseling, but no matter what the motivation, I believe they want and need to be accepted right where they are. I approach each person's unique story from a nonjudgmental position, as I seek to understand their perspective in an effort to help them overcome their challenges. Developing a therapeutic relationship is important as the client and I work together in deciding, developing, and pursuing agreed upon objectives. I consider it a privilege to serve others and help them for a time on their life's journey.
There are varieties of reasons why people seek counseling, but no matter what the motivation, I believe they want and need to be accepted right where they are. I approach each person's unique story from a nonjudgmental position, as I seek to understand their perspective in an effort to help them overcome their challenges. Developing a therapeutic relationship is important as the client and I work together in deciding, developing, and pursuing agreed upon objectives. I consider it a privilege to serve others and help them for a time on their life's journey.
(224) 365-8317 View (224) 365-8317
Photo of Erin Lowry, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Charles, IL
Erin Lowry
Pre-Licensed Professional, BSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
Waitlist for new clients
Quite honestly, life can suck. It can feel like you are carrying the weight of the world and you’ve only had 2 hours of sleep. Therapy is not just solving those immediate problems, but working to create lifelong stability through coping skills and tools. Whether you have relational stress with a loved one, or just general life stress and anxiety, therapy can be a great way to work through all that. I work with clients to create healthy, lifelong coping skills and release unwanted burdens from their lives. I will help you cut out the toxic individuals in your life and build rock-solid boundaries to keep ‘em out.
Quite honestly, life can suck. It can feel like you are carrying the weight of the world and you’ve only had 2 hours of sleep. Therapy is not just solving those immediate problems, but working to create lifelong stability through coping skills and tools. Whether you have relational stress with a loved one, or just general life stress and anxiety, therapy can be a great way to work through all that. I work with clients to create healthy, lifelong coping skills and release unwanted burdens from their lives. I will help you cut out the toxic individuals in your life and build rock-solid boundaries to keep ‘em out.
(630) 354-0327 View (630) 354-0327
Photo of Samantha La Rocco, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Samantha La Rocco
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60175
I received my Master’s Degree in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Throughout my years of experience in the field I have learned the importance of trusting the therapeutic process. One of my main goals as a Licensed Professional Counselor is to make therapy a safe place where you feel seen and heard. I value an integrative approach to therapy to best meet your individual unique needs wherever you are in your personal healing journey. Healing is not a linear process. Asking for help can be difficult, however this could be the start of the best chapter of your journey.
I received my Master’s Degree in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Throughout my years of experience in the field I have learned the importance of trusting the therapeutic process. One of my main goals as a Licensed Professional Counselor is to make therapy a safe place where you feel seen and heard. I value an integrative approach to therapy to best meet your individual unique needs wherever you are in your personal healing journey. Healing is not a linear process. Asking for help can be difficult, however this could be the start of the best chapter of your journey.
(630) 407-1825 View (630) 407-1825
Photo of Sarah Anne Creasor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, IL
Sarah Anne Creasor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
Taking the first step takes a lot of courage. Wherever you are on your journey to a more authentic, healthy you, I can help. My warm, caring approach combines compassion, trust, and strength-based practices to provide a safe, judgment-free environment for individuals and families to learn and grow. Together, we can set short/long term goals, identify negative thought and behavior patterns, develop a variety of coping skills, and gain new insight with each session. I provide services to children, adolescents, and adults. I also offer group sessions. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, mood disorders etc.
Taking the first step takes a lot of courage. Wherever you are on your journey to a more authentic, healthy you, I can help. My warm, caring approach combines compassion, trust, and strength-based practices to provide a safe, judgment-free environment for individuals and families to learn and grow. Together, we can set short/long term goals, identify negative thought and behavior patterns, develop a variety of coping skills, and gain new insight with each session. I provide services to children, adolescents, and adults. I also offer group sessions. My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, mood disorders etc.
(331) 260-9699 x702 View (331) 260-9699 x702
Photo of Carol Elendt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Carol Elendt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60175
Waitlist for new clients
It takes courage to begin therapy, and I would be honored to step into this process with you. My desire is to provide empathic therapy for adults, adolescents, and children who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma symptoms, or relationship issues. For people experiencing loss, you will find a safe space to grieve. I enjoy working with clients who have diverse beliefs and also offer a Christian perspective for those seeking a faith-focused therapist.
It takes courage to begin therapy, and I would be honored to step into this process with you. My desire is to provide empathic therapy for adults, adolescents, and children who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma symptoms, or relationship issues. For people experiencing loss, you will find a safe space to grieve. I enjoy working with clients who have diverse beliefs and also offer a Christian perspective for those seeking a faith-focused therapist.
(630) 592-4866 x206 View (630) 592-4866 x206
Photo of Dr. Melissa Sharp and Associates, Psychologist in Saint Charles, IL
Dr. Melissa Sharp and Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
Our practice is comprised of sensitive, caring professionals who will treat you with compassion and respect. Our mission is to help our clients create positive and lasting changes. Let us help you to confidently and effectively address life challenges. Together we'll explore emotional road-blocks and unhealthy attitudes, such as anger, fear, guilt, and blame. If you are feeling "stuck" we can help you eliminate problematic emotions, thoughts, or behaviors that have been obstructing you from moving forward. The healing process can include gaining new awareness, processing emotions, and new "meaning" construction.
Our practice is comprised of sensitive, caring professionals who will treat you with compassion and respect. Our mission is to help our clients create positive and lasting changes. Let us help you to confidently and effectively address life challenges. Together we'll explore emotional road-blocks and unhealthy attitudes, such as anger, fear, guilt, and blame. If you are feeling "stuck" we can help you eliminate problematic emotions, thoughts, or behaviors that have been obstructing you from moving forward. The healing process can include gaining new awareness, processing emotions, and new "meaning" construction.
(630) 716-9961 View (630) 716-9961
Photo of Nanette Thomas Shepardson @ St. Charles Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Nanette Thomas Shepardson @ St. Charles Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
Is it about not being heard, the inability to say what we really mean, or our failure to listen sufficiently that causes us the most distress in our relationships with others? Some might say it’s a combination of all the above. To be fully heard and listened to, to have the ability to speak our truth without dismissal, is all about feeling understood and accepted by others.
Is it about not being heard, the inability to say what we really mean, or our failure to listen sufficiently that causes us the most distress in our relationships with others? Some might say it’s a combination of all the above. To be fully heard and listened to, to have the ability to speak our truth without dismissal, is all about feeling understood and accepted by others.
(630) 749-9789 View (630) 749-9789
Photo of Michelle Gomberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, IL
Michelle Gomberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
I believe that everyone does the best they can with the resources they have. However, when bad things happen, people often find themselves stuck in roles and situations they do not want to be in. I can help you re-discover your true self and be a leader in your own life. I have over 15 years of experience counseling adults and couples.
I believe that everyone does the best they can with the resources they have. However, when bad things happen, people often find themselves stuck in roles and situations they do not want to be in. I can help you re-discover your true self and be a leader in your own life. I have over 15 years of experience counseling adults and couples.
(630) 756-5313 View (630) 756-5313
Photo of Tanya Gluzerman, Psychologist in Saint Charles, IL
Tanya Gluzerman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60175
I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and families in outpatient, residential, and school settings. I provide psychotherapy as well as psychological testing if needed. I completed my post-doctoral training working with children and adolescents on the Autistic Spectrum including those with sensory integration issues, co-morbid ADHD, and learning disorders. What makes me unique is that I have also worked with children and adolescents with emotional and behavioral disorders (e.g., anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ODD, OCD, ADHD, conduct disorder, and PTSD). I am particularly interested in women's issues and family therapy. I am also fluent in Polish.
I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and families in outpatient, residential, and school settings. I provide psychotherapy as well as psychological testing if needed. I completed my post-doctoral training working with children and adolescents on the Autistic Spectrum including those with sensory integration issues, co-morbid ADHD, and learning disorders. What makes me unique is that I have also worked with children and adolescents with emotional and behavioral disorders (e.g., anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ODD, OCD, ADHD, conduct disorder, and PTSD). I am particularly interested in women's issues and family therapy. I am also fluent in Polish.
(630) 984-6691 View (630) 984-6691
Photo of St. Charles Counseling in Saint Charles, IL
St. Charles Counseling
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
St. Charles Counseling is a private practice located in St. Charles, Illinois. We have been serving the Fox Valley area since 2005. We place a focus on clinical excellence and making the most significant impact possible - in the lives of those we serve as individuals, as a couple or with their families.
St. Charles Counseling is a private practice located in St. Charles, Illinois. We have been serving the Fox Valley area since 2005. We place a focus on clinical excellence and making the most significant impact possible - in the lives of those we serve as individuals, as a couple or with their families.
(331) 260-0978 View (331) 260-0978
Photo of Amy E Ford, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Charles, IL
Amy E Ford
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60175
Therapy looks different for everyone, and together we will identify your strengths, work through your areas of concern, and collaborate on goals as you heal. I have experience working with individuals from elementary school through adulthood. I specialize in anxiety and stress management, depression, trauma, women's issues, and students with needs related to the educational environment. Through a personalized approach, you will become empowered with the tools and skills needed to grow into a healthier space.
Therapy looks different for everyone, and together we will identify your strengths, work through your areas of concern, and collaborate on goals as you heal. I have experience working with individuals from elementary school through adulthood. I specialize in anxiety and stress management, depression, trauma, women's issues, and students with needs related to the educational environment. Through a personalized approach, you will become empowered with the tools and skills needed to grow into a healthier space.
(630) 626-8823 View (630) 626-8823
Photo of Katey Kollereb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, IL
Katey Kollereb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174  (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with adolescents, children, and young adults with various stressors in their lives. I have a school background so I can help navigate those systems. I enjoy working with clients who wants to work on their mindfulness techniques as it relates to anxiety and depression. I also have background and experience in working with students who are on the Autism Spectrum.
I have a passion for working with adolescents, children, and young adults with various stressors in their lives. I have a school background so I can help navigate those systems. I enjoy working with clients who wants to work on their mindfulness techniques as it relates to anxiety and depression. I also have background and experience in working with students who are on the Autism Spectrum.
(630) 557-8198 View (630) 557-8198
Photo of Cheryl Davidson, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Cheryl Davidson
Counselor, MA , LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
l work with persons dealing with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief and Loss, Bipolar Disorder, Anger Management, Stress Management, Self Esteem, Relationship Communications, Co-Dependency, and Divorce. The therapeutic strategies that I utilize are evidence-based such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Along with client input, I help you to develop coping strategies and new skills to mitigate current stressors, improve self-compassion, cultivate a sense of self-value and increase resiliency.
l work with persons dealing with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief and Loss, Bipolar Disorder, Anger Management, Stress Management, Self Esteem, Relationship Communications, Co-Dependency, and Divorce. The therapeutic strategies that I utilize are evidence-based such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Along with client input, I help you to develop coping strategies and new skills to mitigate current stressors, improve self-compassion, cultivate a sense of self-value and increase resiliency.
(630) 394-8620 View (630) 394-8620
Photo of Jackie Harvel, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Jackie Harvel
Counselor, LCPC, CCTP, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
As a trained EMDR therapist, I understand the importance of educating clients about mental health and brain functioning in order to find the most beneficial therapeutic approaches for treatment. I specialize in treating couples and individuals with (complex) trauma, attachment issues, depression and areas managing anxiety, self-esteem, life transitions, and relational issues. Together, we work on identifying ways to improve self-worth, repair and maintain healthy relationships, and heal from past traumas.
As a trained EMDR therapist, I understand the importance of educating clients about mental health and brain functioning in order to find the most beneficial therapeutic approaches for treatment. I specialize in treating couples and individuals with (complex) trauma, attachment issues, depression and areas managing anxiety, self-esteem, life transitions, and relational issues. Together, we work on identifying ways to improve self-worth, repair and maintain healthy relationships, and heal from past traumas.
(773) 234-2699 View (773) 234-2699
Photo of Katie Siadak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, IL
Katie Siadak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
I believe that therapy works best as a process of uncovering our truest selves. Oftentimes life hands us burdens of stress, anxiety, grief, trauma, and pain that weigh us down and make it difficult to encounter the world in ways that we would like. I believe each individual has a unique and important story to tell, and I find joy in walking alongside clients as they begin to peel away the layers of life’s burdens to uncover the light of their authentic selves. I strive to offer a safe space for clients to author a personal narrative that feels genuine, and I operate from a gentle, trauma-informed, strengths-based perspective.
I believe that therapy works best as a process of uncovering our truest selves. Oftentimes life hands us burdens of stress, anxiety, grief, trauma, and pain that weigh us down and make it difficult to encounter the world in ways that we would like. I believe each individual has a unique and important story to tell, and I find joy in walking alongside clients as they begin to peel away the layers of life’s burdens to uncover the light of their authentic selves. I strive to offer a safe space for clients to author a personal narrative that feels genuine, and I operate from a gentle, trauma-informed, strengths-based perspective.
(630) 526-7037 View (630) 526-7037

See more therapy options for Saint Charles

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Saint Charles, IL

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Saint Charles, IL who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
90% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
71% Coping Skills
70% Trauma and PTSD
64% Grief

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

98% BlueCross and BlueShield
71% Aetna
64% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Saint Charles, IL see their clients

86% In Person and Online
14% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Saint Charles?

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.