Therapists in Headland, AL

Photo of Leigh Ann Hewes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Leigh Ann Hewes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hello! My name is Leigh Ann Hewes, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 30+ years of experience in the field. Much of my professional experience has been in the medical field, and I've always enjoyed working with older adults, as well as those with chronic health conditions or terminal illnesses (and their families and caregivers). I enjoy getting to know people's "stories" about how they got to where they are, and how I can help them gain peace and happiness in their lives.
Hello! My name is Leigh Ann Hewes, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 30+ years of experience in the field. Much of my professional experience has been in the medical field, and I've always enjoyed working with older adults, as well as those with chronic health conditions or terminal illnesses (and their families and caregivers). I enjoy getting to know people's "stories" about how they got to where they are, and how I can help them gain peace and happiness in their lives.
(334) 471-3599 View (334) 471-3599
Photo of Matthew William Heard, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Matthew William Heard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Serves Area
When seeking therapy it is important to find a therapist you trust, have good rapport with, is knowledgeable of your issues, and has experience treating your current issues. Having been in private practice since 2010 I have worked with a variety of clients from diverse backgrounds. The one thing I have found that people desire to achieve from therapy is hope and solutions to their current problems. Whether it is anxiety, depression, life transitions, parenting, addiction, or any other issue it’s important to understand that you are going through a season, it will change, and there is hope.
When seeking therapy it is important to find a therapist you trust, have good rapport with, is knowledgeable of your issues, and has experience treating your current issues. Having been in private practice since 2010 I have worked with a variety of clients from diverse backgrounds. The one thing I have found that people desire to achieve from therapy is hope and solutions to their current problems. Whether it is anxiety, depression, life transitions, parenting, addiction, or any other issue it’s important to understand that you are going through a season, it will change, and there is hope.
(334) 569-5950 View (334) 569-5950
Photo of Donda Goodson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Donda Goodson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Whether you’re exhausted from trying to manage everything, weighed down by loss, or fighting to keep it together—you don’t have to face it alone. As a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 30 years of experience, I've walked with individuals and families through life’s hardest challenges. I work with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, OCD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, trauma, recovery, and parenting struggles. When desired, my approach blends clinical modalities with Christian faith to bring hope and healing. What matters most is that our therapeutic relationship is built on trust and care so that we can do our best work.
Whether you’re exhausted from trying to manage everything, weighed down by loss, or fighting to keep it together—you don’t have to face it alone. As a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 30 years of experience, I've walked with individuals and families through life’s hardest challenges. I work with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, OCD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, trauma, recovery, and parenting struggles. When desired, my approach blends clinical modalities with Christian faith to bring hope and healing. What matters most is that our therapeutic relationship is built on trust and care so that we can do our best work.
(334) 344-5773 View (334) 344-5773
Photo of Jennifer Compton, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Jennifer Compton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I understand that life can become overwhelming & frustrating at times. At other times, we may just need someone else to talk to. I am here to help others find & use their strengths and abilities to overcome life’s challenges. I will provide Christian therapy in a safe environment & provide an accepting relationship where we can develop a plan that will help you to achieve your goals & become the best version of yourself. As a therapist, I have previously worked with adolescents, adults, couples & families dealing with varying personal & environmental obstacles.
I understand that life can become overwhelming & frustrating at times. At other times, we may just need someone else to talk to. I am here to help others find & use their strengths and abilities to overcome life’s challenges. I will provide Christian therapy in a safe environment & provide an accepting relationship where we can develop a plan that will help you to achieve your goals & become the best version of yourself. As a therapist, I have previously worked with adolescents, adults, couples & families dealing with varying personal & environmental obstacles.
(334) 367-6582 View (334) 367-6582

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Holley Brock, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTPII
Holley Brock
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTPII
Online Only
I'm thrilled you're considering taking this courageous step towards self-discovery and growth. Engaging in therapy is a journey and I am honored to help you reach your goals. I believe deeply in the transformative power of therapy! I work with clients across a broad range of concerns, with particular expertise in PTSD, soul wounds, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and inner child issues. I am a Christian Therapist and can guide you in your faith. Whether you're struggling with overwhelming stress, navigating life transitions, or seeking to improve your relationships, I'm here to provide compassionate guidance and support.
I'm thrilled you're considering taking this courageous step towards self-discovery and growth. Engaging in therapy is a journey and I am honored to help you reach your goals. I believe deeply in the transformative power of therapy! I work with clients across a broad range of concerns, with particular expertise in PTSD, soul wounds, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and inner child issues. I am a Christian Therapist and can guide you in your faith. Whether you're struggling with overwhelming stress, navigating life transitions, or seeking to improve your relationships, I'm here to provide compassionate guidance and support.
(334) 366-9841 View (334) 366-9841
Photo of Stephanie Epding, Counselor, MA, ALC, NCC
Stephanie Epding
Counselor, MA, ALC, NCC
Dothan, AL 36305
It can be overwhelming to watch your child struggle with big emotions or behaviors that feel out of control. Whether you are navigating a new diagnosis like ADHD or ASD, or managing the daily hurdles of ODD and mood regulation, you don’t have to do it alone. I provide a supportive, structured environment where children and adolescents feel seen, understood, and equipped to grow.
It can be overwhelming to watch your child struggle with big emotions or behaviors that feel out of control. Whether you are navigating a new diagnosis like ADHD or ASD, or managing the daily hurdles of ODD and mood regulation, you don’t have to do it alone. I provide a supportive, structured environment where children and adolescents feel seen, understood, and equipped to grow.
(334) 366-8460 View (334) 366-8460
Photo of April Chapel, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, LMHC
April Chapel
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, LMHC
Online Only
Are you a Christian woman recovering from an emotionally abusive or spiritually distressing relationship? Do you feel stuck in shame, confusion, or unhealthy attachment patterns— but long for peace, clarity, and a secure identity in Christ? I specialize in supporting Christian women as they break free from trauma bonds, challenge shame-based beliefs, and heal from emotional, verbal, spiritual, or narcissistic abuse. Together, we’ll process anger and injustice, strengthen boundaries, and develop acceptance for unchanging realities —while grounding your healing in God's truth and grace. Healing is possible!
Are you a Christian woman recovering from an emotionally abusive or spiritually distressing relationship? Do you feel stuck in shame, confusion, or unhealthy attachment patterns— but long for peace, clarity, and a secure identity in Christ? I specialize in supporting Christian women as they break free from trauma bonds, challenge shame-based beliefs, and heal from emotional, verbal, spiritual, or narcissistic abuse. Together, we’ll process anger and injustice, strengthen boundaries, and develop acceptance for unchanging realities —while grounding your healing in God's truth and grace. Healing is possible!
(334) 980-8492 View (334) 980-8492
Photo of Emalee Ross Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Emalee Ross Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You carry pain that is invisible but impacts you still today. You feel pressure to be perfect, fear disappointing people, walk on eggshells, and try to say things in just the right way. You feel shame about your body and about what you do or don't want. You’re questioning the beliefs you were handed, the way a past relationship left you doubting yourself, and the habit of taking care of everyone else first. Maybe you want space from your past but also want to understand it. You’re unsure if you can trust yourself after years of being told not to. You’re not broken. You adapted to situations that never made room for your whole self.
You carry pain that is invisible but impacts you still today. You feel pressure to be perfect, fear disappointing people, walk on eggshells, and try to say things in just the right way. You feel shame about your body and about what you do or don't want. You’re questioning the beliefs you were handed, the way a past relationship left you doubting yourself, and the habit of taking care of everyone else first. Maybe you want space from your past but also want to understand it. You’re unsure if you can trust yourself after years of being told not to. You’re not broken. You adapted to situations that never made room for your whole self.
(659) 287-7534 View (659) 287-7534
Photo of Veronica Harper, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Veronica Harper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Hi, I am Veronica Harper, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Alabama. My approach to counseling includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and at some point, I may use the eclectic approach. My areas of focus include anger management, depression, anxiety, grief, stress, and self-esteem. I have experience in working with all populations from ages 2-65 to include males, females, male inmates, gender dysphoria, adolescents, couples, and individuals. I have treated clients with suicidal ideations but I'm most comfortable with depression and anxiety.
Hi, I am Veronica Harper, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Alabama. My approach to counseling includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and at some point, I may use the eclectic approach. My areas of focus include anger management, depression, anxiety, grief, stress, and self-esteem. I have experience in working with all populations from ages 2-65 to include males, females, male inmates, gender dysphoria, adolescents, couples, and individuals. I have treated clients with suicidal ideations but I'm most comfortable with depression and anxiety.
(659) 276-3098 View (659) 276-3098
Photo of Andrea Douglas, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Andrea Douglas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Taking the first step toward therapy takes courage, and I want to honor you for being here. My role is to walk alongside you as we explore the challenges you're facing and create space for growth and healing. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, life changes, relationship concerns, and issues related to self-worth and acceptance. My style is collaborative and tailored—this is your journey, and we'll shape it together based on your goals, values, and pace. When you're ready, I’m here to support you in a space where you can feel heard, respected, and fully yourself.
Taking the first step toward therapy takes courage, and I want to honor you for being here. My role is to walk alongside you as we explore the challenges you're facing and create space for growth and healing. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, life changes, relationship concerns, and issues related to self-worth and acceptance. My style is collaborative and tailored—this is your journey, and we'll shape it together based on your goals, values, and pace. When you're ready, I’m here to support you in a space where you can feel heard, respected, and fully yourself.
(334) 490-9678 View (334) 490-9678
Photo of Joseph Easley. The Right Direction, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Joseph Easley. The Right Direction
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Dothan, AL 36305
Many people are having trouble coping with day to day life issues. Life can become more challenging than we expect. It is during our challenging times when we must have the courage to get the help we need. It is time to change and learn to live a happier, more comfortable, and healthier life. We, The Right Direction Counseling, LLC, wants to partner with you to help you live the best life possible. The Right Direction provides a safe, private, and non-judgmental environment to help restore and rebuild self-esteem.
Many people are having trouble coping with day to day life issues. Life can become more challenging than we expect. It is during our challenging times when we must have the courage to get the help we need. It is time to change and learn to live a happier, more comfortable, and healthier life. We, The Right Direction Counseling, LLC, wants to partner with you to help you live the best life possible. The Right Direction provides a safe, private, and non-judgmental environment to help restore and rebuild self-esteem.
(334) 490-7436 View (334) 490-7436
Photo of Jennifer Guffin, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Jennifer Guffin
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Online Only
Online therapy for overwhelmed parents, anxious minds, and deep feelers. You don’t have to hold everything together. I offer virtual therapy across Alabama from a space that meets you where you are—especially when you’re quietly overwhelmed from trying to do everything “right.” Maybe you’re adjusting to life after a difficult birth, stuck in cycles of anxiety, or carrying painful stories you’ve never had space to unpack. Our work together will be steady, honest, and deeply supportive. I offer a space where you don’t have to explain the weight you’re carrying—just show up as you are.
Online therapy for overwhelmed parents, anxious minds, and deep feelers. You don’t have to hold everything together. I offer virtual therapy across Alabama from a space that meets you where you are—especially when you’re quietly overwhelmed from trying to do everything “right.” Maybe you’re adjusting to life after a difficult birth, stuck in cycles of anxiety, or carrying painful stories you’ve never had space to unpack. Our work together will be steady, honest, and deeply supportive. I offer a space where you don’t have to explain the weight you’re carrying—just show up as you are.
(334) 641-4054 View (334) 641-4054
Photo of Dr. Rachel E. Swope, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MS, LICSW-S, PIP
Dr. Rachel E. Swope
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MS, LICSW-S, PIP
1 Endorsed
Dothan, AL 36303
Have you been through years of therapy with multiple therapists? Does it feel like weekly 50-minute sessions just haven't been enough to help you live the life you want and deserve? Do you still feel stuck despite your efforts? Perhaps you really need help and you don't want to spend months or years in weekly therapy to feel better so you can live the life you want.
Have you been through years of therapy with multiple therapists? Does it feel like weekly 50-minute sessions just haven't been enough to help you live the life you want and deserve? Do you still feel stuck despite your efforts? Perhaps you really need help and you don't want to spend months or years in weekly therapy to feel better so you can live the life you want.
View
Photo of Emily Pritchett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Emily Pritchett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Ariton, AL 36311
Hey! You know, there are times in our lives when we ALL need a little extra support. You don't have to go through life alone. None of us have perfect lives and sometimes it takes an objective 3rd party to help you see things in a different light or even to simply have someone talk to. I'd love to be that person for you! If you're willing to allow me to help you meet YOUR goals and address YOUR needs, you can make the progress you are looking for! You can also find me at mindwarriorwellness.com. Please either send an email or leave a message to ensure a callback.
Hey! You know, there are times in our lives when we ALL need a little extra support. You don't have to go through life alone. None of us have perfect lives and sometimes it takes an objective 3rd party to help you see things in a different light or even to simply have someone talk to. I'd love to be that person for you! If you're willing to allow me to help you meet YOUR goals and address YOUR needs, you can make the progress you are looking for! You can also find me at mindwarriorwellness.com. Please either send an email or leave a message to ensure a callback.
(334) 248-5306 View (334) 248-5306
Photo of Savannah E. Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Savannah E. Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Serves Area
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing specific issues to include anxiety, depression, trauma, or temporary life stressors. My experience includes working with adults and children struggling with mental health and substance abuse. I have experience serving veterans and addressing their mental health needs. I welcome those from all backgrounds and beliefs and believe I can be helpful in your journey to healing.
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing specific issues to include anxiety, depression, trauma, or temporary life stressors. My experience includes working with adults and children struggling with mental health and substance abuse. I have experience serving veterans and addressing their mental health needs. I welcome those from all backgrounds and beliefs and believe I can be helpful in your journey to healing.
(334) 308-2292 View (334) 308-2292
Photo of Leslie S Darnell - Lilac and Raven Psychology LLC, Psychologist, PsyD
Lilac and Raven Psychology LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life is the ultimate teacher, and in my case, it sparked my passion for helping and guiding people who have experienced trauma, struggling with chronic pain, sleep and/or other mental health conditions. After serving two decades in military medicine pivoting to becoming a psychologist as my second career post-retirement seemed to be a natural choice, given my desire to help others and the growing need that I saw every day. My hope is to be able to help make the lives of others better through care and compassion that fits their needs and goals. Human beings are not one size fits all so why should therapy be?
Life is the ultimate teacher, and in my case, it sparked my passion for helping and guiding people who have experienced trauma, struggling with chronic pain, sleep and/or other mental health conditions. After serving two decades in military medicine pivoting to becoming a psychologist as my second career post-retirement seemed to be a natural choice, given my desire to help others and the growing need that I saw every day. My hope is to be able to help make the lives of others better through care and compassion that fits their needs and goals. Human beings are not one size fits all so why should therapy be?
(256) 578-7590 View (256) 578-7590
Photo of Rebecca L Clayton, Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC
Rebecca L Clayton
Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Dothan, AL 36303
I enjoy working with adults, children and adolescents. I believe that the central healing factor of effective therapy is a strong therapeutic connection or relationship between the client and the therapist. My goal in therapy is to offer a safe, warm haven to the client where they feel accepted and free to express the issues that brought them to therapy. I use an eclectic approach to therapy using a variety of theories and methods to approach the needs of the individual client.
I enjoy working with adults, children and adolescents. I believe that the central healing factor of effective therapy is a strong therapeutic connection or relationship between the client and the therapist. My goal in therapy is to offer a safe, warm haven to the client where they feel accepted and free to express the issues that brought them to therapy. I use an eclectic approach to therapy using a variety of theories and methods to approach the needs of the individual client.
(334) 468-5258 View (334) 468-5258
Photo of Caitlin M Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Caitlin M Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming when you’re carrying the weight of trauma, navigating difficult relationships, or adjusting to big changes. I work with adolescents, teens, adults, and families who are struggling with challenges such as trauma, abandonment, adoption and foster care experiences, life transitions, and the strain that relationships can bring.
Life can feel overwhelming when you’re carrying the weight of trauma, navigating difficult relationships, or adjusting to big changes. I work with adolescents, teens, adults, and families who are struggling with challenges such as trauma, abandonment, adoption and foster care experiences, life transitions, and the strain that relationships can bring.
(334) 550-4155 View (334) 550-4155
Photo of Shavon Rich, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Shavon Rich
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Dothan, AL 36305
Hello, my name is Shavon Rich, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 16 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, and families. My approach to therapy is compassionate and client-centered, focusing on helping individuals navigate trauma, life transitions, and emotional challenges. I specialize in providing support and guidance to those experiencing difficult life events, with a strong emphasis on fostering resilience and hope. I typically work with adolescents, adults, and families who are navigating life transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.
Hello, my name is Shavon Rich, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 16 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, and families. My approach to therapy is compassionate and client-centered, focusing on helping individuals navigate trauma, life transitions, and emotional challenges. I specialize in providing support and guidance to those experiencing difficult life events, with a strong emphasis on fostering resilience and hope. I typically work with adolescents, adults, and families who are navigating life transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.
(256) 559-3153 View (256) 559-3153
Photo of Tony A Watkins, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Tony A Watkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Dothan, AL 36303
Tony specializes in helping those who have lost hope. As a retired ordained pastor, Tony has the knowledge and personal understanding of God to integrate the spiritual and emotional concerns of life. Tony fully respects the desire of those who do not wish to integrate the spiritual aspect of life in their counseling. Tony works with each individual to understand the specific needs and goals for counseling in order to insure he/she receives the very best that Tony has to provide as a therapist.
Tony specializes in helping those who have lost hope. As a retired ordained pastor, Tony has the knowledge and personal understanding of God to integrate the spiritual and emotional concerns of life. Tony fully respects the desire of those who do not wish to integrate the spiritual aspect of life in their counseling. Tony works with each individual to understand the specific needs and goals for counseling in order to insure he/she receives the very best that Tony has to provide as a therapist.
(256) 217-9161 View (256) 217-9161

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Headland, AL

< 10

Therapists in Headland, AL who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Grief
100% Family Conflict
100% Social Anxiety
100% Health Anxiety

Average years in practice

28 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% Aetna
75% BlueCross and BlueShield
75% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Headland, AL see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Headland?

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.