Therapists in Royal Oak, MI

Photo of Destiny Dorozan, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Royal Oak, MI
Destiny Dorozan
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
There is only one relationship we are guaranteed to have for our entire lives — and that is our relationship to ourselves. I aim to help you make it compassionate and giving, self expressing, and with appropriate boundaries as needed for you to protect your most authentic Self. I believe that all of our behaviors are adaptive; some we’ve just outgrown and they are no longer serving the best interests of our well-being. But they come from an honest place of having to adapt to circumstances which we did not create.
There is only one relationship we are guaranteed to have for our entire lives — and that is our relationship to ourselves. I aim to help you make it compassionate and giving, self expressing, and with appropriate boundaries as needed for you to protect your most authentic Self. I believe that all of our behaviors are adaptive; some we’ve just outgrown and they are no longer serving the best interests of our well-being. But they come from an honest place of having to adapt to circumstances which we did not create.
(313) 447-0619 View (313) 447-0619
Photo of Catherine Amory, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
Catherine Amory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
It is a big step to get into therapy. It is really important to find a trained therapist who listens and cares. As a therapist, I have expertise treating anxiety, depression, addiction and trauma. My clients are a wide mix of people who are looking to understand themselves better, to cope better, and to make change in their lives. My clients report that I am a kind and experienced therapist. I am also, at heart, a practical person who looks for solutions. I also provide clinical supervision for therapists who are pursuing licensure, want to improve their skills and/or want to get more support for their practice.
It is a big step to get into therapy. It is really important to find a trained therapist who listens and cares. As a therapist, I have expertise treating anxiety, depression, addiction and trauma. My clients are a wide mix of people who are looking to understand themselves better, to cope better, and to make change in their lives. My clients report that I am a kind and experienced therapist. I am also, at heart, a practical person who looks for solutions. I also provide clinical supervision for therapists who are pursuing licensure, want to improve their skills and/or want to get more support for their practice.
(248) 516-0543 View (248) 516-0543
Photo of Lea Dickinson, Counselor in Royal Oak, MI
Lea Dickinson
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48073
Waitlist for new clients
Life is difficult. Grief, loss, trauma and all of the existential concerns of relationships with others, the relationship with yourself and the meaning and purpose for your life and occupations, are all very real emotional problems. Effective therapy addresses these concerns in a way that nothing else can.
Life is difficult. Grief, loss, trauma and all of the existential concerns of relationships with others, the relationship with yourself and the meaning and purpose for your life and occupations, are all very real emotional problems. Effective therapy addresses these concerns in a way that nothing else can.
(248) 970-9703 View (248) 970-9703
Photo of Dr. Patricia Keller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Royal Oak, MI
Dr. Patricia Keller
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure about your next steps? I'm dedicated to helping women navigate life's challenges and transitions, offering counseling, life coaching, and therapeutic support. I’m a licensed professional counselor, working with clients in Michigan, Colorado and South Carolina.
Are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and unsure about your next steps? I'm dedicated to helping women navigate life's challenges and transitions, offering counseling, life coaching, and therapeutic support. I’m a licensed professional counselor, working with clients in Michigan, Colorado and South Carolina.
(248) 617-2156 View (248) 617-2156
Photo of Brontë C Munson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
Brontë C Munson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
You’ve spent most of your life catering to everyone else’s needs. You’ve been disguising yourself so long to be what other people need, you’re unsure of who you are. You’ve begun to recognize the pattern of not saying “no” and ignoring your needs to gain acceptance from others. Yet this only leaves you feeling overwhelmed and insignificant. You want to have deep, meaningful, and authentic relationships, but the fear of setting boundaries prevents you from doing so–leaving you in a shame spiral. Underneath the shame, you’re deeply afraid of being rejected and alone. You’re done being stuck, and you're ready to stop the cycle.
You’ve spent most of your life catering to everyone else’s needs. You’ve been disguising yourself so long to be what other people need, you’re unsure of who you are. You’ve begun to recognize the pattern of not saying “no” and ignoring your needs to gain acceptance from others. Yet this only leaves you feeling overwhelmed and insignificant. You want to have deep, meaningful, and authentic relationships, but the fear of setting boundaries prevents you from doing so–leaving you in a shame spiral. Underneath the shame, you’re deeply afraid of being rejected and alone. You’re done being stuck, and you're ready to stop the cycle.
(248) 460-9492 View (248) 460-9492
Photo of Ariana Castillo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
Ariana Castillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, MPH, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Do you find yourself constantly putting the needs of others before your own? Are you struggling to assert your boundaries and prioritize yourself? Do you feel like you always show up for everyone else, but no one asks how you are doing? Or how you’re really doing? You're not alone. I know embracing change can be nerve-wracking, and I am here to support you through every part of owning your authenticity. It can be challenging to find the balance between caring for others and caring for yourself. However, prioritizing yourself isn’t selfish. In fact, it’s an act of self-love and self-preservation.
Do you find yourself constantly putting the needs of others before your own? Are you struggling to assert your boundaries and prioritize yourself? Do you feel like you always show up for everyone else, but no one asks how you are doing? Or how you’re really doing? You're not alone. I know embracing change can be nerve-wracking, and I am here to support you through every part of owning your authenticity. It can be challenging to find the balance between caring for others and caring for yourself. However, prioritizing yourself isn’t selfish. In fact, it’s an act of self-love and self-preservation.
(248) 949-2268 View (248) 949-2268
Photo of Ana M Tester, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
Ana M Tester
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I'm Ana and I might be your next (or first ever!) therapist. My practice focus tends to be on anxiety (including anxiety disorders), self esteem building, PTSD, C-PTSD, ADHD, trauma cycle breaking, relationship issues, emotional abuse/neglect recovery, depression, and other mood disorders. I try to use humor in my practice, when appropriate, and I strive to build a strong and meaningful rapport with all of my clients and each relationship is unique! I am a strong advocate for social justice and a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello! I'm Ana and I might be your next (or first ever!) therapist. My practice focus tends to be on anxiety (including anxiety disorders), self esteem building, PTSD, C-PTSD, ADHD, trauma cycle breaking, relationship issues, emotional abuse/neglect recovery, depression, and other mood disorders. I try to use humor in my practice, when appropriate, and I strive to build a strong and meaningful rapport with all of my clients and each relationship is unique! I am a strong advocate for social justice and a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community.
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Photo of Kandice Moss, Licensed Professional Counselor in Royal Oak, MI
Kandice Moss
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BC-DMT, IMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Life can be overwhelming; from the chaotic daily stressors, to life changing transitions. Are you wondering how to tackle these challenging situations? Do you know something is "off" with your energy, but not quite sure what it is or how to access it?
Life can be overwhelming; from the chaotic daily stressors, to life changing transitions. Are you wondering how to tackle these challenging situations? Do you know something is "off" with your energy, but not quite sure what it is or how to access it?
(248) 301-0713 View (248) 301-0713
Photo of Amanda Myers-Kramp, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Royal Oak, MI
Amanda Myers-Kramp
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA TLLP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48073
Waitlist for new clients
Being human and existing in this world is a highly complex experience. We have overwhelming and contradicting emotions. We have painful and confusing past experiences. We have challenging decisions to make, and we grieve various types of death and loss throughout our lifespan. It is for this reason I believe effective therapy is eclectic, employing humanistic, existential, and psychodynamic approaches.
Being human and existing in this world is a highly complex experience. We have overwhelming and contradicting emotions. We have painful and confusing past experiences. We have challenging decisions to make, and we grieve various types of death and loss throughout our lifespan. It is for this reason I believe effective therapy is eclectic, employing humanistic, existential, and psychodynamic approaches.
(248) 965-5073 View (248) 965-5073
Photo of Vickie Novell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
Vickie Novell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, IECMH-E
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Early Childhood is an amazing, complex time. Whether planning to grow your family, are currently pregnant, or planning an adoption, you may experience a mixture of joy, confusion, sadness, and worry. As an attachment therapist, I specialize in supporting caregivers through pregnancy and caring for newborns, infants, toddlers, or preschoolers. Whether you are looking for support for the challenges of pregnancy and parenting, or your child is struggling emotionally, has developmental/behavioral concerns, or has experienced stressors such divorce, trauma, I am here to support your family to grow and thrive.
Early Childhood is an amazing, complex time. Whether planning to grow your family, are currently pregnant, or planning an adoption, you may experience a mixture of joy, confusion, sadness, and worry. As an attachment therapist, I specialize in supporting caregivers through pregnancy and caring for newborns, infants, toddlers, or preschoolers. Whether you are looking for support for the challenges of pregnancy and parenting, or your child is struggling emotionally, has developmental/behavioral concerns, or has experienced stressors such divorce, trauma, I am here to support your family to grow and thrive.
(947) 203-3438 View (947) 203-3438
Photo of Molly Schwarb, Art Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
Molly Schwarb
Art Therapist, MS, ATR
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Afraid of doing art? Rest at ease, art therapy is not based on talent or skills. Art making in a therapeutic setting is about expression and the insight gained through processing your art work with an art therapist.
Afraid of doing art? Rest at ease, art therapy is not based on talent or skills. Art making in a therapeutic setting is about expression and the insight gained through processing your art work with an art therapist.
(248) 780-1273 View (248) 780-1273
Photo of Elizabeth Herring, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
Elizabeth Herring
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Not accepting new clients
You may find that life is not how you imagined, or how you would like it to be. Often when we have experienced difficulties in our lives, they stick around and make it hard for us to move on, whether in relationship, jobs, or in our emotional well-being. As a therapist, I offer an accepting and non-judgmental setting where, together, we can work to address depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, communication difficulties, job performance, and any other part of your life where you want improvement. I will help you with achieving the quality of life that you desire and deserve.
You may find that life is not how you imagined, or how you would like it to be. Often when we have experienced difficulties in our lives, they stick around and make it hard for us to move on, whether in relationship, jobs, or in our emotional well-being. As a therapist, I offer an accepting and non-judgmental setting where, together, we can work to address depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, communication difficulties, job performance, and any other part of your life where you want improvement. I will help you with achieving the quality of life that you desire and deserve.
(248) 504-0357 View (248) 504-0357
Photo of Madeline Tucker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
Madeline Tucker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
Do you feel you are playing a role in your own life and are ready to be the main character? You have been waiting, sitting with your thoughts and may even imagine yourself in a different relationship or environment. You have been going through the motions for so long, you have forgotten that you are: capable, independent and resilient. Perhaps you have been relying on others opinions and emotions, over your own instincts. You often strive for perfectionism and feel the need to maintain control.
Do you feel you are playing a role in your own life and are ready to be the main character? You have been waiting, sitting with your thoughts and may even imagine yourself in a different relationship or environment. You have been going through the motions for so long, you have forgotten that you are: capable, independent and resilient. Perhaps you have been relying on others opinions and emotions, over your own instincts. You often strive for perfectionism and feel the need to maintain control.
(248) 940-1972 View (248) 940-1972
Photo of Cory Schoenherr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
Cory Schoenherr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MBA, LMSW
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48073
I have been in private practice for over 30 years. I specialize in individual therapy for the treatment of anxiety, poor self esteem and depression. My patients would tell you that I am actively involved in their treatment... They are right! You will get real feedback, have more awareness of solutions and feel better; I talk to you and give you information! My approach in working with patients is practical and insight oriented. I talk with patients about their situations and offer direct advice. I deal with a wide range of problem areas including depression, anxiety and relationship issues. I have been told,"I say it like it is!"
I have been in private practice for over 30 years. I specialize in individual therapy for the treatment of anxiety, poor self esteem and depression. My patients would tell you that I am actively involved in their treatment... They are right! You will get real feedback, have more awareness of solutions and feel better; I talk to you and give you information! My approach in working with patients is practical and insight oriented. I talk with patients about their situations and offer direct advice. I deal with a wide range of problem areas including depression, anxiety and relationship issues. I have been told,"I say it like it is!"
(313) 791-8994 View (313) 791-8994
Photo of Jillian Kraydich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
Jillian Kraydich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
Jillian Kraydich is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of Michigan who has extensive experience partnering with adolescents, adults, couples and families seeking support for anxiety, depression, adjustment, grief and relationship/family issues. She also has vast hospital, emergency and crisis experience. Jillian believes in collaborating with clients to form a strong therapeutic alliance. She individualizes therapy and assists her clients in working toward achieving their ultimate goals and healing.
Jillian Kraydich is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of Michigan who has extensive experience partnering with adolescents, adults, couples and families seeking support for anxiety, depression, adjustment, grief and relationship/family issues. She also has vast hospital, emergency and crisis experience. Jillian believes in collaborating with clients to form a strong therapeutic alliance. She individualizes therapy and assists her clients in working toward achieving their ultimate goals and healing.
(248) 218-9446 View (248) 218-9446
Photo of Kel Weller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Royal Oak, MI
Kel Weller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
I work with couples experiencing relationship and marital issues including communication difficulties, parenting issues, sexual issues, and struggles involving sexual identity. I treat adults in individual therapy, couple's therapy, family therapy and group therapy. I also provide LGBT Affirmative Therapy for couples and families. I work with gay, bisexual, lesbian and straight parents who are struggling with parenting issues.
I work with couples experiencing relationship and marital issues including communication difficulties, parenting issues, sexual issues, and struggles involving sexual identity. I treat adults in individual therapy, couple's therapy, family therapy and group therapy. I also provide LGBT Affirmative Therapy for couples and families. I work with gay, bisexual, lesbian and straight parents who are struggling with parenting issues.
(248) 213-8494 View (248) 213-8494
Photo of Johanna Champagne, Licensed Professional Counselor in Royal Oak, MI
Johanna Champagne
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients for day time appointments... Lets face it: seeking out a therapist can be a daunting task. One of the most important parts of therapy is the therapeutic relationship. What I offer is non-judgmental, validating, genuine, and honest. I offer a space for you to explore and express your emotions, traumas, and behaviors free of judgements or bias. We will work together to come up with solutions and skills to help you feel better and find balance, and hope. It is my belief that everyone can find meaning and fulfillment in their lives, no matter how difficult it may seem.
Accepting new clients for day time appointments... Lets face it: seeking out a therapist can be a daunting task. One of the most important parts of therapy is the therapeutic relationship. What I offer is non-judgmental, validating, genuine, and honest. I offer a space for you to explore and express your emotions, traumas, and behaviors free of judgements or bias. We will work together to come up with solutions and skills to help you feel better and find balance, and hope. It is my belief that everyone can find meaning and fulfillment in their lives, no matter how difficult it may seem.
(248) 292-3298 View (248) 292-3298
Photo of Chelsea Peraino Smoots, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
Chelsea Peraino Smoots
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, LMSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Therapy is simply a tool to utilize to find a path to a healthier, more stable future. We cannot navigate our future without understanding the impact of our past. We cannot adjust our behaviors without delving into our inner thoughts. My compassion and down-to-earth style of communication, accompanied by my emphasis on accountability and self-motivation, create for a comforting yet effective method of therapy. I provide adult individual therapy. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, dual diagnoses, trauma, domestic violence and sexual assault, substance abuse, and grief/loss.
Therapy is simply a tool to utilize to find a path to a healthier, more stable future. We cannot navigate our future without understanding the impact of our past. We cannot adjust our behaviors without delving into our inner thoughts. My compassion and down-to-earth style of communication, accompanied by my emphasis on accountability and self-motivation, create for a comforting yet effective method of therapy. I provide adult individual therapy. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, dual diagnoses, trauma, domestic violence and sexual assault, substance abuse, and grief/loss.
(248) 450-5326 View (248) 450-5326
Photo of Aaron Goldner, Psychologist in Royal Oak, MI
Aaron Goldner
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, PLLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with children (12+), teens and adults with anxiety/panic disorders, depression, ADD/ADHD, Learning Disabilities, low self-esteem, and relationships/finding a life partner (adults). I am a fairly unique therapist because I have personally experienced and overcome these issues. This helps me better understand each client's needs so they achieve their goals faster and more effectively. Clients have described me as insightful; able to read people and emotions, and find causes for what they are feeling. That I have a great sense of humor, am easy to talk to and create a comfortable environment.
I specialize in working with children (12+), teens and adults with anxiety/panic disorders, depression, ADD/ADHD, Learning Disabilities, low self-esteem, and relationships/finding a life partner (adults). I am a fairly unique therapist because I have personally experienced and overcome these issues. This helps me better understand each client's needs so they achieve their goals faster and more effectively. Clients have described me as insightful; able to read people and emotions, and find causes for what they are feeling. That I have a great sense of humor, am easy to talk to and create a comfortable environment.
(248) 455-6194 View (248) 455-6194
Photo of Chelsea Zuteck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Royal Oak, MI
Chelsea Zuteck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48073
In the hardest moments of life, it makes sense to seek support — someone to help shoulder the pain and guide you through. If you are feeling overwhelmed by relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, or trauma, counseling is a safe space where you can be seen and heard without judgment. As your therapist, I will be a compassionate guide to walk beside you as you take steps toward healing, learn to work through conflict or trauma in healthy ways, and start to understand your own story.
In the hardest moments of life, it makes sense to seek support — someone to help shoulder the pain and guide you through. If you are feeling overwhelmed by relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, or trauma, counseling is a safe space where you can be seen and heard without judgment. As your therapist, I will be a compassionate guide to walk beside you as you take steps toward healing, learn to work through conflict or trauma in healthy ways, and start to understand your own story.
(248) 916-0246 View (248) 916-0246

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Royal Oak, MI

500+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Royal Oak, MI who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
92% Depression
81% Relationship Issues
81% Self Esteem
75% Coping Skills
72% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% BlueCross and BlueShield
65% Blue Care Network
58% Aetna

How Therapists in Royal Oak, MI see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Royal Oak?

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.