Therapists in Clayton, MO
Empowered Movement
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105 (Online Only)
Life is beautiful but often/sometimes challenging. Some days we feel confident and happy while other days we may feel alone or overwhelmed. The clients I work with are seeking new tools, skills, techniques and interventions to help them feel better, more in control and empowered on a daily basis. I work with adolescents, young adults, adults and elders experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, low self-esteem and more. Everyone deserves to have a safe space, with unconditional support that allows them to be authentically themselves, always.
Life is beautiful but often/sometimes challenging. Some days we feel confident and happy while other days we may feel alone or overwhelmed. The clients I work with are seeking new tools, skills, techniques and interventions to help them feel better, more in control and empowered on a daily basis. I work with adolescents, young adults, adults and elders experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, low self-esteem and more. Everyone deserves to have a safe space, with unconditional support that allows them to be authentically themselves, always.
Meg Meyers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105
Sexual Assault, Childhood Trauma, Intimate Partner Violence are as traumatic as warfare. Those who have experienced these things often battle through life, struggling to make sense of wounds that don't seem to heal even with time. There is hope! Trauma is treatable. Getting treatment can lead to a better quality of life. Many clients with PTSD no longer meet criteria for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder after two years of treatment.
Sexual Assault, Childhood Trauma, Intimate Partner Violence are as traumatic as warfare. Those who have experienced these things often battle through life, struggling to make sense of wounds that don't seem to heal even with time. There is hope! Trauma is treatable. Getting treatment can lead to a better quality of life. Many clients with PTSD no longer meet criteria for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder after two years of treatment.
Tonia Levison
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, R-DMT
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
I would like to take a moment and commend you on taking the first step toward mental health. It takes a lot of courage to get this far and you are doing great. I am glad you have chosen to share some of your time with me and I look forward to getting to know you. My mission is to support moms in their daily struggles. When we meet, I will invite you to sit and get comfortable. Until then I hope you take this moment to take a breath and recognize you are not alone. I am here for you. I am a professional counselor and registered dance/ movement therapist, but more importantly, I am a mother. I have been where you are.
I would like to take a moment and commend you on taking the first step toward mental health. It takes a lot of courage to get this far and you are doing great. I am glad you have chosen to share some of your time with me and I look forward to getting to know you. My mission is to support moms in their daily struggles. When we meet, I will invite you to sit and get comfortable. Until then I hope you take this moment to take a breath and recognize you are not alone. I am here for you. I am a professional counselor and registered dance/ movement therapist, but more importantly, I am a mother. I have been where you are.
Laura Weinstock
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
As a clinical psychologist working with adults, adolescents, and children, I use a variety of empirically supported treatment approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy. The treatment I provide is tailored to meet the unique individual needs of each client or family. Together, we will set specific goals at the beginning of treatment that will guide the process of change. I strive to develop a warm, supportive therapeutic relationship with each client that will facilitate making positive changes. Services are provided in an environment that is caring and professional.
As a clinical psychologist working with adults, adolescents, and children, I use a variety of empirically supported treatment approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy. The treatment I provide is tailored to meet the unique individual needs of each client or family. Together, we will set specific goals at the beginning of treatment that will guide the process of change. I strive to develop a warm, supportive therapeutic relationship with each client that will facilitate making positive changes. Services are provided in an environment that is caring and professional.
James D. Reid, PhD, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
My private practice has focused on helping people cope with stress and conflicts related to gender, sexual orientation, identity, family dynamics, emotional stress, and romantic relationships. I, also, serve as a forensic expert in family-related disputes.
My private practice has focused on helping people cope with stress and conflicts related to gender, sexual orientation, identity, family dynamics, emotional stress, and romantic relationships. I, also, serve as a forensic expert in family-related disputes.
Rebecca Pastor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105
Our symptoms have something to say. Different symptoms bring people into psychotherapy: anxiousness, chronic sadness, creative and artistic block, loneliness, addictions, sexual obsessions. Symptoms are a language, and though they are often labeled as depression or anxiety, the meaning of a symptom is unique to the person who suffers with it. Symptoms are painful, but they are also startlingly creative, personal and specific. Sometimes the body is asked to express the scary, painful things that words cannot. When physical symptoms occur without a medical explanation, we can look to them to help us understand the mental and emotional landscape.
Our symptoms have something to say. Different symptoms bring people into psychotherapy: anxiousness, chronic sadness, creative and artistic block, loneliness, addictions, sexual obsessions. Symptoms are a language, and though they are often labeled as depression or anxiety, the meaning of a symptom is unique to the person who suffers with it. Symptoms are painful, but they are also startlingly creative, personal and specific. Sometimes the body is asked to express the scary, painful things that words cannot. When physical symptoms occur without a medical explanation, we can look to them to help us understand the mental and emotional landscape.
Nadiia Petrenko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
What if there is another way? What if you embraced your inner truth and dared to pursue your dreams? What if instead of falling you learned how to fly? Let’s redefine what is possible. As your therapist my goal is to help you work through whatever is in the way to the life you’ve always envisioned, tapping into your unrestrained potential. The “work through” part is not just talk therapy; it will include incorporating EMDR therapy, IFS (parts work), attachment theory, ACT somatic approach - all of which are wholistic methods that allow to attend and process on three levels: body, emotions, and mind.
What if there is another way? What if you embraced your inner truth and dared to pursue your dreams? What if instead of falling you learned how to fly? Let’s redefine what is possible. As your therapist my goal is to help you work through whatever is in the way to the life you’ve always envisioned, tapping into your unrestrained potential. The “work through” part is not just talk therapy; it will include incorporating EMDR therapy, IFS (parts work), attachment theory, ACT somatic approach - all of which are wholistic methods that allow to attend and process on three levels: body, emotions, and mind.
Amy Ziegler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, JD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105
Not accepting new clients
My clients are experiencing conflict, emotional abuse, anxiety, addiction, depression, or grief. I see individuals and couples who are ready to change or are looking for help sorting out what to do. Some have been hurt deeply by a breach of trust. Others are dealing with devastating adult or childhood trauma. Through my training and professional background as an attorney and counselor, I help them find a path to recovery. Clients gain clarity and insight, and learn to manage anxiety, depression, grief, fear and traumatic memories. I am formally trained in CBT, EMDR, DBT and have taught couples counseling at the graduate level.
My clients are experiencing conflict, emotional abuse, anxiety, addiction, depression, or grief. I see individuals and couples who are ready to change or are looking for help sorting out what to do. Some have been hurt deeply by a breach of trust. Others are dealing with devastating adult or childhood trauma. Through my training and professional background as an attorney and counselor, I help them find a path to recovery. Clients gain clarity and insight, and learn to manage anxiety, depression, grief, fear and traumatic memories. I am formally trained in CBT, EMDR, DBT and have taught couples counseling at the graduate level.
Kris Banda
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
Our various identities and relational experience influences how we connect with others. I offer a space to explore your life experiences, support your progress in learning and gaining skills, and empower you to live a life where your needs are met in a way that stays true to your personal values. My therapeutic approach is grounded on decolonizing therapy with the goal towards liberation, for ourselves and our communities.
Our various identities and relational experience influences how we connect with others. I offer a space to explore your life experiences, support your progress in learning and gaining skills, and empower you to live a life where your needs are met in a way that stays true to your personal values. My therapeutic approach is grounded on decolonizing therapy with the goal towards liberation, for ourselves and our communities.
Kimberly Elder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105 (Online Only)
Congratulations on making the decision to bring positive change into your life! I have experience working with a wide range of clinical issues including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, self-esteem, PTSD, first responder trauma, post-partum depression, family conflicts, pre-marital counseling, polyamorous relationships, domestic violence, multiple personality disorder (DID), Asperger’s Disorder, relationship issues, identity crisis, LGBT specific problems and concerns, grief and loss, as well as people struggling with bipolar disorder. I also have experience in paranormal psychology. All sessions are telehealth/online!
Congratulations on making the decision to bring positive change into your life! I have experience working with a wide range of clinical issues including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, self-esteem, PTSD, first responder trauma, post-partum depression, family conflicts, pre-marital counseling, polyamorous relationships, domestic violence, multiple personality disorder (DID), Asperger’s Disorder, relationship issues, identity crisis, LGBT specific problems and concerns, grief and loss, as well as people struggling with bipolar disorder. I also have experience in paranormal psychology. All sessions are telehealth/online!
Dr Robin L Turner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, D CSW, Psa, PsyD
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
My life's work is to help individuals understand intimately themselves through psychotherapy. To utilize the deeper levels of the self, achieve richer relationships,and an appreciation for who they are. Primary, to successful therapy is the relationship between the client and therapist. My work: Children,Adolescents and Adults. Child/Adolescents-self esteem,depression anxiety, relationship, family issues, school issues. Adults: depression, anxiety, relationship,gender issues,grief. Psychotherapist/Psychoanalyst, child, adolescent and adult and seniors. Faculty member/the St. Louis Psychoanalytic Institute(president 2010-2013), Asst. Clinical professor, Dept. of Psychiatry, St. Louis Universityjoint appt./Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital.
My life's work is to help individuals understand intimately themselves through psychotherapy. To utilize the deeper levels of the self, achieve richer relationships,and an appreciation for who they are. Primary, to successful therapy is the relationship between the client and therapist. My work: Children,Adolescents and Adults. Child/Adolescents-self esteem,depression anxiety, relationship, family issues, school issues. Adults: depression, anxiety, relationship,gender issues,grief. Psychotherapist/Psychoanalyst, child, adolescent and adult and seniors. Faculty member/the St. Louis Psychoanalytic Institute(president 2010-2013), Asst. Clinical professor, Dept. of Psychiatry, St. Louis Universityjoint appt./Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital.
15 Second Videos
Empowered Movement
Meg Meyers
Karen Banks
Emergence Psychological Services
Sam Buettner
Libby Ryan
Jordan Cantrell
Kristen Craren
Sarah Rapisardo
Michael Salinas
Katy Stevener
Andrea M Onukwue/Freed Mind Consulting LLC
Julie Geeting
Rebecca Mercurio
Brenda Lee Casey
Chiwoo Choi
Grace Downes
Elise Harowitz (Ringenberg)
Conscious Momma Therapy
Melanie Maria Smith
James Keeton
Linda M. Murphy
McKayla Kagie
Adrienne Skarin
Kate O'Brien
Michelle De Villar
Jessica Good
Megan R Garza
Open Arms Wellness Therapy and Counseling
Goal Driven Counseling
Robert Hackleman LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105
I can help by providing tools to escape feeling anxious, depressed, fearful, overworked, underappreciated, or overwhelmed. It has been reported that the single most important factor in determining the success of therapy is not the therapeutic model the practitioner uses, rather it is the therapeutic relationship. Knowing this, I strive to make you feel comfortable and begin to trust the therapeutic process. As we explore problems and dilemmas, you will gain new insights and perspectives.
I can help by providing tools to escape feeling anxious, depressed, fearful, overworked, underappreciated, or overwhelmed. It has been reported that the single most important factor in determining the success of therapy is not the therapeutic model the practitioner uses, rather it is the therapeutic relationship. Knowing this, I strive to make you feel comfortable and begin to trust the therapeutic process. As we explore problems and dilemmas, you will gain new insights and perspectives.
Betsy Douglass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
If you are experiencing the pain of difficult personal circumstances or troubled relationships, I can offer you and/or your significant other support, guidance, and professional expertise. I help clients discover their own strengths, see their problems in a new way, and offer them practical support in their efforts to change. We look at past relationships and families of origin as a means to understanding or changing behaviors in the present. I work with individuals, couples and families, from pre-adolescence on.
If you are experiencing the pain of difficult personal circumstances or troubled relationships, I can offer you and/or your significant other support, guidance, and professional expertise. I help clients discover their own strengths, see their problems in a new way, and offer them practical support in their efforts to change. We look at past relationships and families of origin as a means to understanding or changing behaviors in the present. I work with individuals, couples and families, from pre-adolescence on.
Grace Nguyen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105
On paper, your life looks great. In reality, you wake up after another sleepless night spent overanalyzing a chat with a coworker. You open your calendar and panic. Weeks ago, you agreed to a party tonight that you had no interest in going to, just so you didn't disappoint your friend. Now, you start scouring your mind for excuses to back out. After landing on a decent (yet untrue) excuse you go to text your friend and are met by a crushing number of unread texts that have accumulated for weeks. It’s exhausting keeping up with everyone AND juggling work, never-ending to-do lists and adulting. You wonder why everything feels so hard.
On paper, your life looks great. In reality, you wake up after another sleepless night spent overanalyzing a chat with a coworker. You open your calendar and panic. Weeks ago, you agreed to a party tonight that you had no interest in going to, just so you didn't disappoint your friend. Now, you start scouring your mind for excuses to back out. After landing on a decent (yet untrue) excuse you go to text your friend and are met by a crushing number of unread texts that have accumulated for weeks. It’s exhausting keeping up with everyone AND juggling work, never-ending to-do lists and adulting. You wonder why everything feels so hard.
Peggy Levinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
With a professional style that blends warmth and caring, Peggy brings in-depth treatment skills and 40 years of experience to her work . A family systems and psychodynamically trained therapist, she devises systems of treatment based on the individual needs of her patients. Peggy has offered workshops at universities and hospitals across the Midwest, including Washington University and the United Way. From her initial work at a New York hospital to her current private practice, Peggy has shown genuine commitment to helping her clients reach their full potential, emphasizing the connection between body, mind, and spirit.
With a professional style that blends warmth and caring, Peggy brings in-depth treatment skills and 40 years of experience to her work . A family systems and psychodynamically trained therapist, she devises systems of treatment based on the individual needs of her patients. Peggy has offered workshops at universities and hospitals across the Midwest, including Washington University and the United Way. From her initial work at a New York hospital to her current private practice, Peggy has shown genuine commitment to helping her clients reach their full potential, emphasizing the connection between body, mind, and spirit.
Akoma Healing & Consultation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105 (Online Only)
My clinical experience in the St. Louis area ranges from working with adults in inpatient treatment centers for mental health and substance abuse to non-profit community case management and trauma therapy. I specialize in working with survivors impacted by sexual, domestic, and community violence. As well as those diagnosed with mental illnesses such as anxiety, PTSD, and those impacted by grief.
My clinical experience in the St. Louis area ranges from working with adults in inpatient treatment centers for mental health and substance abuse to non-profit community case management and trauma therapy. I specialize in working with survivors impacted by sexual, domestic, and community violence. As well as those diagnosed with mental illnesses such as anxiety, PTSD, and those impacted by grief.
Karen Banks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63117
I work with clients experiencing emotional, cultural, sexual health, and relationship concerns. We spend time processing your situation and feelings and finding solutions that work for you. I recognize each client is an individual and treat them as such. Let's work together to help you walk in your truth. I've completed all 3 levels of Gottman Method Couples Therapy training, Treating Affairs & Trauma, Couples and Addiction Recovery, CBT for Insomnia, and am enrolled in Sex Therapy Certification through SHA. I also enjoy working with people in poly and ethically non-monogamous relationships and individuals in the kink community.
I work with clients experiencing emotional, cultural, sexual health, and relationship concerns. We spend time processing your situation and feelings and finding solutions that work for you. I recognize each client is an individual and treat them as such. Let's work together to help you walk in your truth. I've completed all 3 levels of Gottman Method Couples Therapy training, Treating Affairs & Trauma, Couples and Addiction Recovery, CBT for Insomnia, and am enrolled in Sex Therapy Certification through SHA. I also enjoy working with people in poly and ethically non-monogamous relationships and individuals in the kink community.
Beth Vaccaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
I am an experienced therapist working from a psychodynamic perspective. That means I want to not only understand what issue or problem brings you to my office, but understand its origin and history. I also believe the greatest healing in therapy occurs in the connection and relationship between you and me.
I am an experienced therapist working from a psychodynamic perspective. That means I want to not only understand what issue or problem brings you to my office, but understand its origin and history. I also believe the greatest healing in therapy occurs in the connection and relationship between you and me.
Tabor Burke
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105
Relationships are hard, whether that relationship is with you, the people who matter to you or a co-parent or an ex. I serve adults with a variety of relationship issues, including co-parenting, divorce, family reunification, or parenting. I help couples and family members reconnect. I work with co-parents to help them reduce conflict and put their children first. I help parents with children of higher needs reconnect with themselves and their children. Or I can just help you on your own journey to repairing or establishing relationships. Whatever your goal, I hope you will invest in you and your path to feeling better.
Relationships are hard, whether that relationship is with you, the people who matter to you or a co-parent or an ex. I serve adults with a variety of relationship issues, including co-parenting, divorce, family reunification, or parenting. I help couples and family members reconnect. I work with co-parents to help them reduce conflict and put their children first. I help parents with children of higher needs reconnect with themselves and their children. Or I can just help you on your own journey to repairing or establishing relationships. Whatever your goal, I hope you will invest in you and your path to feeling better.
Wellness Alliance Counseling & Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
At Wellness Alliance Counseling & Psychotherapy, we specialize in brief and long-term therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. We believe everyone possess within themselves the potential for transformation, growth, and healing, and have experience helping clients address a variety of concerns: anxiety, depression, family of origin issues, identity development, LGBTQ+ issues, healthy relationships, career concerns, women's issues, eating and body image concerns, substance use, trauma, and living with chronic illness.
At Wellness Alliance Counseling & Psychotherapy, we specialize in brief and long-term therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. We believe everyone possess within themselves the potential for transformation, growth, and healing, and have experience helping clients address a variety of concerns: anxiety, depression, family of origin issues, identity development, LGBTQ+ issues, healthy relationships, career concerns, women's issues, eating and body image concerns, substance use, trauma, and living with chronic illness.
See more therapy options for Clayton
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Clayton, MO
200+
Average cost per session
$140
Therapists in Clayton, MO who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
85% | Relationship Issues |
73% | Self Esteem |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
66% | Grief |
65% | Stress |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
71% | Aetna |
69% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
66% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Clayton, MO see their clients
85% | In Person and Online | |
15% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
18% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Clayton?
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
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.
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.
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.