Therapists in Edmonds, WA

Photo of Janelle Jensen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Janelle Jensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Janelle Jensen and I work as a therapist and consultant in the Seattle area. My background includes Social Work and Marriage and Family Therapy, with work experience in adult mental health, aging, memory loss and family caregiver support. If you are an individual or family living with or caring for someone living with dementia or a related condition, I will work with you to provide dementia education, plan for current and future care needs, and offer emotional support to process changing relationships, grief/loss, and stressors related to family caregiving.
Hello! My name is Janelle Jensen and I work as a therapist and consultant in the Seattle area. My background includes Social Work and Marriage and Family Therapy, with work experience in adult mental health, aging, memory loss and family caregiver support. If you are an individual or family living with or caring for someone living with dementia or a related condition, I will work with you to provide dementia education, plan for current and future care needs, and offer emotional support to process changing relationships, grief/loss, and stressors related to family caregiving.
(206) 659-5846 View (206) 659-5846
Photo of Renee Swatz, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Renee Swatz
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026
Renee Swatz is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate in Washington who has been practicing since 2022. Renee uses a variety of techniques to offer each client their own personal experience of healing. She utilizes motivational interviewing, CBT, and DBT to assist clients on their journey. Renee has a gentle approach but does occasionally give homework assignments to help guide a client through strong emotions or to help learn new coping skills. She has experience with depression and depressive disorders, anxiety, and substance use. Renee would love to talk with you.
Renee Swatz is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate in Washington who has been practicing since 2022. Renee uses a variety of techniques to offer each client their own personal experience of healing. She utilizes motivational interviewing, CBT, and DBT to assist clients on their journey. Renee has a gentle approach but does occasionally give homework assignments to help guide a client through strong emotions or to help learn new coping skills. She has experience with depression and depressive disorders, anxiety, and substance use. Renee would love to talk with you.
(425) 970-9850 View (425) 970-9850
Photo of Mark Gaskill, Marriage & Family Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Mark Gaskill
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026
Mark J. Gaskill, LMFT Mark J. Gaskill is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Washington with 28 years of experience. His degrees include a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Old Dominion University, a Master of Family Therapy from Hahnemann University (Drexel) and Post Graduate Training at The Family Therapy Training Program of Philadelphia. Mark believes in being relationship and strength-based while focusing on identifying core process issues that are creating distress. He partners with the individual, couple, or family in a manner to create insight and relief.
Mark J. Gaskill, LMFT Mark J. Gaskill is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Washington with 28 years of experience. His degrees include a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Old Dominion University, a Master of Family Therapy from Hahnemann University (Drexel) and Post Graduate Training at The Family Therapy Training Program of Philadelphia. Mark believes in being relationship and strength-based while focusing on identifying core process issues that are creating distress. He partners with the individual, couple, or family in a manner to create insight and relief.
(425) 217-3285 View (425) 217-3285
Photo of Cynthia Piepenbrok, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Cynthia Piepenbrok
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CCTP, CTMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Many of us, at one time or another, experience a feeling of being overwhelmed by life. There are even phases when everything seems to be going wrong. Anxiety and depression are common responses to the difficulties of life. If you are on here searching for help you are most likely at a point in your life where things feel out of balance.
Many of us, at one time or another, experience a feeling of being overwhelmed by life. There are even phases when everything seems to be going wrong. Anxiety and depression are common responses to the difficulties of life. If you are on here searching for help you are most likely at a point in your life where things feel out of balance.
(425) 310-4582 View (425) 310-4582
Photo of Angeline Johnston, Mental Health Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Angeline Johnston
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
I work with people who are motivated to go deep because working on the surface has not brought results. If you are seeking therapy, it's likely that you are in some sort of pain and are looking to move through and beyond that pain to a place of greater safety and trust. Together we can commit to walking a healing path. We can address your needs for a fulfilling life in the here-and-now while processing old issues that perennially impact your ability to freely and joyfully relate to yourself and others.
I work with people who are motivated to go deep because working on the surface has not brought results. If you are seeking therapy, it's likely that you are in some sort of pain and are looking to move through and beyond that pain to a place of greater safety and trust. Together we can commit to walking a healing path. We can address your needs for a fulfilling life in the here-and-now while processing old issues that perennially impact your ability to freely and joyfully relate to yourself and others.
(425) 215-1218 View (425) 215-1218
Photo of Sadler-Bridges Wellness Group, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Sadler-Bridges Wellness Group
Counselor, LPC, CST, MS
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
Now Accepting A limited Number of New Clients! Highly Trained Couples Therapist, Board Certified Sex Therapist, Fertility Counselor. Now offering EMDR. I am excited that you have taken the first step towards finding a therapist to help you navigate your current life situation. I am a relational and emotionally focused therapist who will work collaboratively with you to listen to, understand, explore, and move past whatever you feel is holding you back from living your most authentic and fulfilling life. I am a skilled couples therapist who has trained with master therapists under both the EFT and Gottman traditions.
Now Accepting A limited Number of New Clients! Highly Trained Couples Therapist, Board Certified Sex Therapist, Fertility Counselor. Now offering EMDR. I am excited that you have taken the first step towards finding a therapist to help you navigate your current life situation. I am a relational and emotionally focused therapist who will work collaboratively with you to listen to, understand, explore, and move past whatever you feel is holding you back from living your most authentic and fulfilling life. I am a skilled couples therapist who has trained with master therapists under both the EFT and Gottman traditions.
(425) 364-6944 View (425) 364-6944
Photo of Paula S Best, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Paula S Best
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
I am a relational psychotherapist primarily working with adults and older adolescents. My work predominantly revolves around establishing and sustaining a safe and secure place for you to work with your fears and desires. We will work with the specific issues that brought you into therapy as well as look at the relationships with the important people in your life. These relationships likely contribute to your greatest fears and deepest desires.
I am a relational psychotherapist primarily working with adults and older adolescents. My work predominantly revolves around establishing and sustaining a safe and secure place for you to work with your fears and desires. We will work with the specific issues that brought you into therapy as well as look at the relationships with the important people in your life. These relationships likely contribute to your greatest fears and deepest desires.
(206) 922-8544 View (206) 922-8544
Photo of Collin Mcfadden, Marriage & Family Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Collin Mcfadden
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
I work well with patients suffering from symptoms that they feel no one has the capability to treat. Many of my patients come to me after they have been to other therapists and have not found relief. My patients come to me for a psychotherapeutic experience different from the usual. The patients who are a good fit for my services are sensitive, intuitive, creative, and have had difficulty reconciling their personality with their personal experiences and the world around them. I am especially skilled at working with acute mental health issues. I have worked at Harborview Medical Center and Fairfax Behavioral Health.
I work well with patients suffering from symptoms that they feel no one has the capability to treat. Many of my patients come to me after they have been to other therapists and have not found relief. My patients come to me for a psychotherapeutic experience different from the usual. The patients who are a good fit for my services are sensitive, intuitive, creative, and have had difficulty reconciling their personality with their personal experiences and the world around them. I am especially skilled at working with acute mental health issues. I have worked at Harborview Medical Center and Fairfax Behavioral Health.
(206) 535-1431 View (206) 535-1431
Photo of Kailyn Haberman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Kailyn Haberman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
I have experience and training helping individuals through eating disorders, trauma & PTSD, depression, and anxiety, as well as experience working with a wide range of psychological concerns, including self-esteem issues, self-harm behaviors, body dysmorphia, perfectionism, and life transitions.
I have experience and training helping individuals through eating disorders, trauma & PTSD, depression, and anxiety, as well as experience working with a wide range of psychological concerns, including self-esteem issues, self-harm behaviors, body dysmorphia, perfectionism, and life transitions.
(425) 517-3019 View (425) 517-3019
Photo of Valentinya Germer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Valentinya Germer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
I work with youth, age 13+, and adults across the lifespan. I'm passionate about LGBTQIA+ and gender affirming mental health therapy, I support folks in navigating and exploring relationship to self and others (sex and body positive, ethical non-monogamy and poly affirming), anxiety, depression, trauma, family of origin, disability, chronic-illness, grief, substance use, life transitions and challenges. I have an intersectional, anti-oppressive approach to therapy— highlighting how our relationship to ourselves, community, environment, and historical legacies impact and affect each other.
I work with youth, age 13+, and adults across the lifespan. I'm passionate about LGBTQIA+ and gender affirming mental health therapy, I support folks in navigating and exploring relationship to self and others (sex and body positive, ethical non-monogamy and poly affirming), anxiety, depression, trauma, family of origin, disability, chronic-illness, grief, substance use, life transitions and challenges. I have an intersectional, anti-oppressive approach to therapy— highlighting how our relationship to ourselves, community, environment, and historical legacies impact and affect each other.
(425) 490-5466 View (425) 490-5466
Photo of Kaji S Martinez, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Kaji S Martinez
Counselor, MA, MHP, CMHS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
Are you in a relationship or going through a break up that is causing stress to your life?Do you want to know once and for all if this relationship is worth investing in? You might even feel on edge or irritable. It’s crazy how lonely you can feel in a relationship. You might find yourself lying awake at night and dwelling. Sometimes we can think to ourselves, how the heck did I get here! Are you ready to set personal goals around life and relationships? I get that life can get really exhausting and you want someone to finally get you. You want and need support to gain the confidence you deserve to thrive.
Are you in a relationship or going through a break up that is causing stress to your life?Do you want to know once and for all if this relationship is worth investing in? You might even feel on edge or irritable. It’s crazy how lonely you can feel in a relationship. You might find yourself lying awake at night and dwelling. Sometimes we can think to ourselves, how the heck did I get here! Are you ready to set personal goals around life and relationships? I get that life can get really exhausting and you want someone to finally get you. You want and need support to gain the confidence you deserve to thrive.
(206) 736-4782 View (206) 736-4782
Photo of Empowering Minds PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Empowering Minds PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026  (Online Only)
My passion is to empower others to build self-confidence through therapy. Through self-confidence, you can learn how to care for yourself in ways that help you grow using self-compassion and maintain your mental health.
My passion is to empower others to build self-confidence through therapy. Through self-confidence, you can learn how to care for yourself in ways that help you grow using self-compassion and maintain your mental health.
(425) 528-8960 View (425) 528-8960
Photo of Jeanette Thorson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Jeanette Thorson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
Welcome to LiveWell Counseling. I enjoy working with adults and couples at various stages of their lives by helping them recognize their strengths and needs in order to solve problems and build stronger relationships. My approach to therapy is curious and client-centered, with an emphasis on the role that emotions, beliefs, and narratives play in shaping identity and behavior. In addition to helping people work through difficult issues, I also enjoy working with individuals who are interested in therapy as a process for facilitating personal growth and wholeness.
Welcome to LiveWell Counseling. I enjoy working with adults and couples at various stages of their lives by helping them recognize their strengths and needs in order to solve problems and build stronger relationships. My approach to therapy is curious and client-centered, with an emphasis on the role that emotions, beliefs, and narratives play in shaping identity and behavior. In addition to helping people work through difficult issues, I also enjoy working with individuals who are interested in therapy as a process for facilitating personal growth and wholeness.
(206) 736-0787 View (206) 736-0787
Photo of Julie Hanson, Counselor in Edmonds, WA
Julie Hanson
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026
Are you sometimes overwhelmed by your feelings, as though they are in control of your life? Do you find yourself running into the same frustrations in your life or relationships and confused about how to make meaningful change to those patterns? I help clients heal and move beyond difficult emotions and life experiences. Perhaps you are finding yourself stuck at a crossroads. I help clients discover what will bring them happiness and peace and then take the steps of realizing that vision.
Are you sometimes overwhelmed by your feelings, as though they are in control of your life? Do you find yourself running into the same frustrations in your life or relationships and confused about how to make meaningful change to those patterns? I help clients heal and move beyond difficult emotions and life experiences. Perhaps you are finding yourself stuck at a crossroads. I help clients discover what will bring them happiness and peace and then take the steps of realizing that vision.
(425) 954-3816 View (425) 954-3816
Photo of Patricia T Spangler, Psychologist in Edmonds, WA
Patricia T Spangler
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026
Not accepting new clients
Are you struggling with memories of a traumatic event, anxiety, low mood, irritability, hyper-alertness, sleeplessness, or bad dreams? After a trauma, some people have trouble re-engaging with their lives and their loved ones. When the world just doesn't seem to make sense any more, it can be hard to reach out. Recovering from trauma can be challenging, but there are therapeutic techniques that can help. Finding the right approach and the right therapist are essential to alleviating traumatic stress symptoms and to helping you reconnect with family, friends, work, and life.
Are you struggling with memories of a traumatic event, anxiety, low mood, irritability, hyper-alertness, sleeplessness, or bad dreams? After a trauma, some people have trouble re-engaging with their lives and their loved ones. When the world just doesn't seem to make sense any more, it can be hard to reach out. Recovering from trauma can be challenging, but there are therapeutic techniques that can help. Finding the right approach and the right therapist are essential to alleviating traumatic stress symptoms and to helping you reconnect with family, friends, work, and life.
(240) 712-5192 View (240) 712-5192
Photo of Dr. Laura Rogstad, Psychologist in Edmonds, WA
Dr. Laura Rogstad
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
There are many barriers to creating meaningful change in our lives. It can feel difficult and overwhelming to identify what keeps us stuck. We may find it challenging to acknowledge our own limitations, accept our emotions, and build on our strengths. My goal is to join you in exploring your values and creating action steps towards a more fulfilling life.
There are many barriers to creating meaningful change in our lives. It can feel difficult and overwhelming to identify what keeps us stuck. We may find it challenging to acknowledge our own limitations, accept our emotions, and build on our strengths. My goal is to join you in exploring your values and creating action steps towards a more fulfilling life.
(206) 451-7245 View (206) 451-7245
Photo of Megan O'Laughlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Megan O'Laughlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
There are so many challenges arising in the world, especially right now. If you're a sensitive person you've probably been feeling particularly overwhelmed or even checked out, and uncertain about your life path. Therapy can help you better understand what's coming up and what you can do, offering life-long skills and strategies. It can be tough to stay grounded and focused if you are struggling with anxiety, past traumas, or an eating disorder. Working as a team, we'll identify approaches to help you achieve your goals while staying true to your most important values.
There are so many challenges arising in the world, especially right now. If you're a sensitive person you've probably been feeling particularly overwhelmed or even checked out, and uncertain about your life path. Therapy can help you better understand what's coming up and what you can do, offering life-long skills and strategies. It can be tough to stay grounded and focused if you are struggling with anxiety, past traumas, or an eating disorder. Working as a team, we'll identify approaches to help you achieve your goals while staying true to your most important values.
(206) 803-3568 View (206) 803-3568
Photo of Ken Nichols-Hoppe, Psychologist in Edmonds, WA
Ken Nichols-Hoppe
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in helping people work toward a better life. When working with individuals or couples, teens or elders, my style is supportive yet direct. My mission is to help my clients (both individuals and couples) develop life skills and solve problems –- thereby improving their lives and their relationships. We can best accomplish this via a nurturing, active, and goal-oriented counseling process. As we develop a trusting and collaborative relationship, I will help you work through many issues, including relationship and marital problems, anxiety, depression and anger - as well as personality patterns and work-related issues.
I specialize in helping people work toward a better life. When working with individuals or couples, teens or elders, my style is supportive yet direct. My mission is to help my clients (both individuals and couples) develop life skills and solve problems –- thereby improving their lives and their relationships. We can best accomplish this via a nurturing, active, and goal-oriented counseling process. As we develop a trusting and collaborative relationship, I will help you work through many issues, including relationship and marital problems, anxiety, depression and anger - as well as personality patterns and work-related issues.
(425) 780-5994 View (425) 780-5994
Photo of Colleen C. Holbrook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Colleen C. Holbrook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CMHS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
Are you feeling anxious, depressed or in a battle with your body? Do you have trouble identifying your needs, establishing boundaries or settling limits. Do you put everyone else first? Are you frustrated by the challenges of ADHD? Are you a parent confused by your child's behavior? Are you someone who has experienced abuse and neglect growing up? Have you been able to move past the pain of grief and loss? Are you feeling disrespected and overlooked in your life? My clients are able to open up about their lives, their secrets and struggles in a warm, safe environment free of judgement where there is trust and understanding.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed or in a battle with your body? Do you have trouble identifying your needs, establishing boundaries or settling limits. Do you put everyone else first? Are you frustrated by the challenges of ADHD? Are you a parent confused by your child's behavior? Are you someone who has experienced abuse and neglect growing up? Have you been able to move past the pain of grief and loss? Are you feeling disrespected and overlooked in your life? My clients are able to open up about their lives, their secrets and struggles in a warm, safe environment free of judgement where there is trust and understanding.
(206) 457-3540 View (206) 457-3540
Photo of Jessica Wong Life Healing Therapy And Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Edmonds, WA
Jessica Wong Life Healing Therapy And Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020
Waitlist for new clients
Please email to join the waitlist. Life can be meaningful even when painful events happen. I believe the path out of suffering is when we pass through our struggles, instead of running away from them. I am honored to be your secure emotional support through your personal and relational struggles. I hold a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and work with a broad spectrum of challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance addiction. I help my clients improve their self-esteem, process grief, and heal from painful events. My clients often find strength, relief, acceptance, and growth from working with me.
Please email to join the waitlist. Life can be meaningful even when painful events happen. I believe the path out of suffering is when we pass through our struggles, instead of running away from them. I am honored to be your secure emotional support through your personal and relational struggles. I hold a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and work with a broad spectrum of challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance addiction. I help my clients improve their self-esteem, process grief, and heal from painful events. My clients often find strength, relief, acceptance, and growth from working with me.
(425) 217-3170 View (425) 217-3170

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Edmonds, WA

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Edmonds, WA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
87% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
67% Grief
66% Trauma and PTSD
66% Stress

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

81% Premera
62% Regence
55% First Choice Health | FCH

How Therapists in Edmonds, WA see their clients

69% In Person and Online
31% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Edmonds?

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.