Therapists in Malvern, PA

Photo of Illumination Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Malvern, PA
Illumination Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355  (Online Only)
We are passionate about working with adults who struggle with the social, emotional, and behavioral challenges related to the diagnoses of ASD, ADD/ADHD, learning differences, parenting stressors and strategies, coping skills, relationship issues, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, feelings of overwhelming stress, and grief/loss, trauma and PTSD.
We are passionate about working with adults who struggle with the social, emotional, and behavioral challenges related to the diagnoses of ASD, ADD/ADHD, learning differences, parenting stressors and strategies, coping skills, relationship issues, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, feelings of overwhelming stress, and grief/loss, trauma and PTSD.
(610) 510-7455 View (610) 510-7455
Photo of Haley McCarthy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Malvern, PA
Haley McCarthy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have experience in many challenging settings with a variety of age groups and cultures. I have provided individual and family counseling in outpatient clinics as well as school-based counseling for students k-12. I have worked in depth with children, adolescents, young adults as well as adults. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting issues, ADHD, OCD, ODD, and ASD.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have experience in many challenging settings with a variety of age groups and cultures. I have provided individual and family counseling in outpatient clinics as well as school-based counseling for students k-12. I have worked in depth with children, adolescents, young adults as well as adults. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting issues, ADHD, OCD, ODD, and ASD.
(484) 207-5423 View (484) 207-5423
Photo of Jeanne S DiVincenzo, Psychologist in Malvern, PA
Jeanne S DiVincenzo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
I specialize in treating adults and young adults, with a treatment approach that begins with building a safe, caring and trusting therapeutic environment. This facilitates better understanding of self, relationships, and behaviors, and leads to insight into areas of challenge that can be limiting and frustrating. While insight is important, so are “tools” for managing difficult emotions such as anxiety, guilt, and sadness. My goal is to empower patients to recognize how to incorporate their learnings from therapy into day-to-day functioning and long-lasting change.
I specialize in treating adults and young adults, with a treatment approach that begins with building a safe, caring and trusting therapeutic environment. This facilitates better understanding of self, relationships, and behaviors, and leads to insight into areas of challenge that can be limiting and frustrating. While insight is important, so are “tools” for managing difficult emotions such as anxiety, guilt, and sadness. My goal is to empower patients to recognize how to incorporate their learnings from therapy into day-to-day functioning and long-lasting change.
(484) 806-1090 View (484) 806-1090
Photo of Main Line Therapy (Carolyn Smith), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Malvern, PA
Main Line Therapy (Carolyn Smith)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
Therapy is learning about yourself and understanding what your triggers are, where they came from and how to best manage them. It's also about learning strategies that will help you cope with stressors specific to what is going on in your life. Whether you are looking for guidance with anxiety or depression, support in maintaining and managing a difficult relationship, tools to better manage your emotions, help with grieving a loss, confronting a fear or gaining insight, self awareness and confidence, you've found the right place and the results can be life changing.
Therapy is learning about yourself and understanding what your triggers are, where they came from and how to best manage them. It's also about learning strategies that will help you cope with stressors specific to what is going on in your life. Whether you are looking for guidance with anxiety or depression, support in maintaining and managing a difficult relationship, tools to better manage your emotions, help with grieving a loss, confronting a fear or gaining insight, self awareness and confidence, you've found the right place and the results can be life changing.
(610) 644-1555 View (610) 644-1555
Photo of Nancy Buckwalter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Malvern, PA
Nancy Buckwalter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
Not accepting new clients
Need help adjusting to a life change? Choosing to seek help through psychotherapy is a positive and resourceful step toward having the life and relationships you desire. In my 20 years of practice I have had the privilege of partnering with parents who face the challenge of addressing at-risk behavior in their teen and young adult, the parents who have lost their child to substance abuse or suicide, the couples who find ways to reconnect, address intimacy issues and co-parent effectively, the college student who needs support, the teen who feels overwhelmed and the adult who experiences anxiety and depression.
Need help adjusting to a life change? Choosing to seek help through psychotherapy is a positive and resourceful step toward having the life and relationships you desire. In my 20 years of practice I have had the privilege of partnering with parents who face the challenge of addressing at-risk behavior in their teen and young adult, the parents who have lost their child to substance abuse or suicide, the couples who find ways to reconnect, address intimacy issues and co-parent effectively, the college student who needs support, the teen who feels overwhelmed and the adult who experiences anxiety and depression.
(484) 313-4287 View (484) 313-4287
Photo of Dr. Emily Treat Atwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Malvern, PA
Dr. Emily Treat Atwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355  (Online Only)
Wouldn't it be great if this is the worst you ever feel? What would that be like? Relieving? Scary? Seemingly impossible? Not necessarily. I support individuals, families, and those in relationships to communicate more effectively, gain clarity, and live happier lives. My main clientele includes: couples, parents, adolescents, intergenerational families, and young adult professionals. Together, we focus on cultivating connections, discovering directions, inspiring insight, and uncovering uniqueness.
Wouldn't it be great if this is the worst you ever feel? What would that be like? Relieving? Scary? Seemingly impossible? Not necessarily. I support individuals, families, and those in relationships to communicate more effectively, gain clarity, and live happier lives. My main clientele includes: couples, parents, adolescents, intergenerational families, and young adult professionals. Together, we focus on cultivating connections, discovering directions, inspiring insight, and uncovering uniqueness.
(484) 310-7427 View (484) 310-7427
Photo of Jenny Matlack, Licensed Professional Counselor in Malvern, PA
Jenny Matlack
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malvern, PA 19355
Therapy is a step-by-step process, and I am here to support and guide you. I work well with clients who are open to feedback and willing to work on their personal goals. I have experience working with clients in mental health and substance use outpatient settings, providing group, individual, and family therapy. I have worked with clients with mood disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, PTSD, trauma, recovery from substance use, as well as co-occurring disorders. I work with clients as a team in the therapeutic relationship to help clients achieve their goals in treatment.
Therapy is a step-by-step process, and I am here to support and guide you. I work well with clients who are open to feedback and willing to work on their personal goals. I have experience working with clients in mental health and substance use outpatient settings, providing group, individual, and family therapy. I have worked with clients with mood disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, PTSD, trauma, recovery from substance use, as well as co-occurring disorders. I work with clients as a team in the therapeutic relationship to help clients achieve their goals in treatment.
(484) 228-7686 View (484) 228-7686
Photo of Mary Dougherty-Hunt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Malvern, PA
Mary Dougherty-Hunt
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
Challenges are an inevitable part of life. When you feel lost, unhappy, or experience a significant change in your life, you may seek counseling. Counseling can help you gain a better understanding of your emotions, thoughts, and actions. By doing so, you can respond more effectively to life’s challenges, modify your engagement with distressing emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, enhance your self-esteem, establish better connections with others, improve productivity at work, and achieve a more purposeful and gratifying life.
Challenges are an inevitable part of life. When you feel lost, unhappy, or experience a significant change in your life, you may seek counseling. Counseling can help you gain a better understanding of your emotions, thoughts, and actions. By doing so, you can respond more effectively to life’s challenges, modify your engagement with distressing emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, enhance your self-esteem, establish better connections with others, improve productivity at work, and achieve a more purposeful and gratifying life.
(484) 642-1766 View (484) 642-1766
Photo of Samantha Barrett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Malvern, PA
Samantha Barrett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
My therapeutic approach is client driven, meaning whatever you’re looking to get out of therapy, I’m eager and willing to work toward that goal with you. I strive to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to face your fears and overcome challenges. Previous clients have told me that I am trauma-informed, honest, warm, and not afraid to give a gentle push when necessary.
My therapeutic approach is client driven, meaning whatever you’re looking to get out of therapy, I’m eager and willing to work toward that goal with you. I strive to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to face your fears and overcome challenges. Previous clients have told me that I am trauma-informed, honest, warm, and not afraid to give a gentle push when necessary.
(484) 601-3986 View (484) 601-3986
Photo of Melissa Ferrigno, Licensed Professional Counselor in Malvern, PA
Melissa Ferrigno
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
I help those struggling with anxiety, depression, work/life stress, imbalance, and relationship struggles . Much of my clinical experience has involved working with women through various life stages. I specialize in maternal mental health and the treatment of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. As a mother, I can appreciate this life transition and challenges during pregnancy and the postpartum period. To best support this population, I obtained training through Postpartum Support International (PSI) and received my certification in perinatal mental health.
I help those struggling with anxiety, depression, work/life stress, imbalance, and relationship struggles . Much of my clinical experience has involved working with women through various life stages. I specialize in maternal mental health and the treatment of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. As a mother, I can appreciate this life transition and challenges during pregnancy and the postpartum period. To best support this population, I obtained training through Postpartum Support International (PSI) and received my certification in perinatal mental health.
(484) 528-0102 View (484) 528-0102
Photo of Patrick Dowling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Malvern, PA
Patrick Dowling, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malvern, PA 19355
I want to help you claim your best life! Helping people change has been my life's work for over 20 years. I utilize the best practices that help my clients live the life they want....not to avoid the struggle but to embrace it and triumph. While I have studied various forms of therapy..CBT, DBT, Family systems, etc., what I find most fascinating is the ongoing triumph of the human spirit over adversity. I would love to help you utilize the resources you have to successfully meet your life's challenges. "How can I be Helpful?"
I want to help you claim your best life! Helping people change has been my life's work for over 20 years. I utilize the best practices that help my clients live the life they want....not to avoid the struggle but to embrace it and triumph. While I have studied various forms of therapy..CBT, DBT, Family systems, etc., what I find most fascinating is the ongoing triumph of the human spirit over adversity. I would love to help you utilize the resources you have to successfully meet your life's challenges. "How can I be Helpful?"
(610) 643-4893 View (610) 643-4893
Photo of Victoria A Morgan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Malvern, PA
Victoria A Morgan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I work with older teens, college students and young adults by partnering to help remove barriers interfering with quality of life. Many of the clients I have worked successfully with present with problems relating to depression, anxiety, self-esteem, adjustment disorder and ADHD.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I work with older teens, college students and young adults by partnering to help remove barriers interfering with quality of life. Many of the clients I have worked successfully with present with problems relating to depression, anxiety, self-esteem, adjustment disorder and ADHD.
(610) 572-7364 View (610) 572-7364
Photo of Dr. Dawn N. Sheehan, Psychologist in Malvern, PA
Dr. Dawn N. Sheehan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
Not accepting new clients
I strongly believe that each of my patients possesses the intellectual and emotional capacity required to meet the internal and external challenges of life with increased insight and drive necessary to achieve their ultimate goals.
I strongly believe that each of my patients possesses the intellectual and emotional capacity required to meet the internal and external challenges of life with increased insight and drive necessary to achieve their ultimate goals.
(610) 379-3012 View (610) 379-3012
Photo of Anna Pierce Frederick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Malvern, PA
Anna Pierce Frederick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
I am a compassionate clinical social worker who believes in the ability of human beings to change their lives and behaviors. My biggest strength is in creating a safe environment where my clients feel comfortable revealing their deepest feelings and fears without judgement. I see the role of the therapist as being a facilitator; helping clients to explore their concerns or symptoms in order to gain insight into their lives and relationships.
I am a compassionate clinical social worker who believes in the ability of human beings to change their lives and behaviors. My biggest strength is in creating a safe environment where my clients feel comfortable revealing their deepest feelings and fears without judgement. I see the role of the therapist as being a facilitator; helping clients to explore their concerns or symptoms in order to gain insight into their lives and relationships.
(484) 218-4243 View (484) 218-4243
Photo of Paul Duncan Gushurst, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Malvern, PA
Paul Duncan Gushurst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
Paul Gushurst graduated Phi Betta Kappa from the University of Mary Washington with a BS in Psychology and from Virginia Commonwealth University with a Master’s degree in Social Work. He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist with over 14 years of experience working with emotionally and behaviorally challenged children and their families. He also has over 8 years of experience working with adults and seniors who are dealing with many of the common mental health issues including: anxiety, mood disorders (depression and bipolar); trauma, and anger. Paul is also skilled in working with couples.
Paul Gushurst graduated Phi Betta Kappa from the University of Mary Washington with a BS in Psychology and from Virginia Commonwealth University with a Master’s degree in Social Work. He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist with over 14 years of experience working with emotionally and behaviorally challenged children and their families. He also has over 8 years of experience working with adults and seniors who are dealing with many of the common mental health issues including: anxiety, mood disorders (depression and bipolar); trauma, and anger. Paul is also skilled in working with couples.
(484) 255-8292 View (484) 255-8292
Photo of Ali Wilburn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Malvern, PA
Ali Wilburn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Malvern, PA 19355
.Are life's pressures wearing you down? Have you lost energy for people or activities you once enjoyed? Are you feeling stuck and unsure of how to change your current life situation? Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, a difficult childhood, relationship issues, low self-esteem, or something else, change is possible. Therapy sessions begin with relationship building as you share the concerns that led you to therapy. I want to hear your story and understand the life circumstances that brought you to your current situation. We will then work together to create a plan for therapy that feels right for you.
.Are life's pressures wearing you down? Have you lost energy for people or activities you once enjoyed? Are you feeling stuck and unsure of how to change your current life situation? Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, a difficult childhood, relationship issues, low self-esteem, or something else, change is possible. Therapy sessions begin with relationship building as you share the concerns that led you to therapy. I want to hear your story and understand the life circumstances that brought you to your current situation. We will then work together to create a plan for therapy that feels right for you.
(610) 915-8442 View (610) 915-8442
Photo of Lorin Carlson Healy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Malvern, PA
Lorin Carlson Healy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RN, BCD
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
Feelings of chronic sadness, anxiety, and worry, can lead to difficulty getting the most out of your life. Having successfully helped adults and families for over twenty five years in practice and training in NYC, I now specialize in anxiety, panic disorders, depression, marital and family conflicts, and adjustments to loss, grief and trauma. I'm a seasoned clinician, both a nurse and clinical social worker, with expertise and clinical training in mental health and health care. We will work together to understand patterns, to gain mastery, self-awareness, and increased sense of direction.
Feelings of chronic sadness, anxiety, and worry, can lead to difficulty getting the most out of your life. Having successfully helped adults and families for over twenty five years in practice and training in NYC, I now specialize in anxiety, panic disorders, depression, marital and family conflicts, and adjustments to loss, grief and trauma. I'm a seasoned clinician, both a nurse and clinical social worker, with expertise and clinical training in mental health and health care. We will work together to understand patterns, to gain mastery, self-awareness, and increased sense of direction.
(610) 486-5974 View (610) 486-5974
Photo of Stephanie Brooks Pirozzi | Meyerbrook Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor in Malvern, PA
Stephanie Brooks Pirozzi | Meyerbrook Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
“You’ve always had the power, you just had to learn it for yourself.” These famous words echo a universal truth; no matter what your life experience, personal power lies at the heart of who you are. As a holistic, strength-based therapist, I understand how all aspects of self - mind, body and essence - work together to access inner wisdom and inspire the best version of you. I work with adolescents, adults and families in the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, grief and relational problems to help identify and dismantle disruptive thought and behavior patterns that get the way of living your best life.
“You’ve always had the power, you just had to learn it for yourself.” These famous words echo a universal truth; no matter what your life experience, personal power lies at the heart of who you are. As a holistic, strength-based therapist, I understand how all aspects of self - mind, body and essence - work together to access inner wisdom and inspire the best version of you. I work with adolescents, adults and families in the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, grief and relational problems to help identify and dismantle disruptive thought and behavior patterns that get the way of living your best life.
(484) 218-5445 View (484) 218-5445
Photo of Cyndie Westrich, Licensed Professional Counselor in Malvern, PA
Cyndie Westrich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC, CCATP
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355
As a woman, life pulls you in many different directions. Pleasing everyone leaves you feeling overwhelmed especially after loss or sudden change. Worry, fear, guilt, & obligation spiral. Life hits a tipping point: You need time to yourself, but you feel guilty & yet continuing to avoid how you feel, only makes things worse. Now you're at a turning point. I specialize in helping women, who feel anxious & depressed from major life challenges, transitions, trauma & losses, move forward with renewed confidence & hope. With 30 years of experience, I collaborate with you to decrease anxiety & help you reach your personal goals.
As a woman, life pulls you in many different directions. Pleasing everyone leaves you feeling overwhelmed especially after loss or sudden change. Worry, fear, guilt, & obligation spiral. Life hits a tipping point: You need time to yourself, but you feel guilty & yet continuing to avoid how you feel, only makes things worse. Now you're at a turning point. I specialize in helping women, who feel anxious & depressed from major life challenges, transitions, trauma & losses, move forward with renewed confidence & hope. With 30 years of experience, I collaborate with you to decrease anxiety & help you reach your personal goals.
(610) 329-1684 View (610) 329-1684
Photo of Steve Shapiro, Psychologist in Malvern, PA
Steve Shapiro
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Malvern, PA 19355
Are you in emotional pain and ready for a change? Are anxiety, depression, self-defeating behavior or relationship issues standing between you and your happiness or personal goals? My aim is to help you begin healing as quickly as possible, even when the issues are long-standing. As a therapist, I am actively engaged in the process and collaborate to help you remove barriers and learn to use your innate capacities for growth. Together, we will explore the present and seek out transformational processes, rather than focus on the past or simply relive old wounds as a more traditional approach might.
Are you in emotional pain and ready for a change? Are anxiety, depression, self-defeating behavior or relationship issues standing between you and your happiness or personal goals? My aim is to help you begin healing as quickly as possible, even when the issues are long-standing. As a therapist, I am actively engaged in the process and collaborate to help you remove barriers and learn to use your innate capacities for growth. Together, we will explore the present and seek out transformational processes, rather than focus on the past or simply relive old wounds as a more traditional approach might.
(610) 688-4940 View (610) 688-4940

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Malvern, PA

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Malvern, PA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
68% Stress
65% Coping Skills
63% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

77% Highmark
69% Aetna
59% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Malvern, PA see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
20% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Malvern?

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.