Therapists in Madison, WI
Claire Schulz Bergman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53704
Do you struggle with self-doubt and overthinking? Do you have a loud inner critic? Have you experienced a major loss? I help individuals gain clarity and feel empowered while navigating major life transitions (death of a loved one, new parents, empty nesters, job or relationship change, infertility, unexpected pregnancy, new health diagnosis). Through caring and purposeful sessions, you will find support, learn mindfulness techniques and thought management strategies that will help you get to know yourself better so that you can make difficult decisions and move forward in your life.
Do you struggle with self-doubt and overthinking? Do you have a loud inner critic? Have you experienced a major loss? I help individuals gain clarity and feel empowered while navigating major life transitions (death of a loved one, new parents, empty nesters, job or relationship change, infertility, unexpected pregnancy, new health diagnosis). Through caring and purposeful sessions, you will find support, learn mindfulness techniques and thought management strategies that will help you get to know yourself better so that you can make difficult decisions and move forward in your life.
Pauquette Center for Psychological Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53704 (Online Only)
The Pauquette Center for Psychological Services is a group of experienced outpatient mental health clinicians who provide services for children, adolescents, adults, families, couples and groups in Wisconsin. We serve a wide variety of patients including individuals with high risk behaviors, adjustment difficulties, grief and loss, chronic mental health concerns, traumatic experiences, and behavioral difficulties.
The Pauquette Center for Psychological Services is a group of experienced outpatient mental health clinicians who provide services for children, adolescents, adults, families, couples and groups in Wisconsin. We serve a wide variety of patients including individuals with high risk behaviors, adjustment difficulties, grief and loss, chronic mental health concerns, traumatic experiences, and behavioral difficulties.
Julie Educate
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53719 (Online Only)
I work with clients ages 8 and up in a telehealth setting. I have worked with clients with presenting symptoms of ADHD, Autism, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, college students, times of transition and adjustment disorder, family conflict, parenting, peer relationships, stress, self-harm, grief, and loss, and I am an LGBTQ+ ally. We will work as a team to explore your goals and try to achieve them with science-based practices.
I work with clients ages 8 and up in a telehealth setting. I have worked with clients with presenting symptoms of ADHD, Autism, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, college students, times of transition and adjustment disorder, family conflict, parenting, peer relationships, stress, self-harm, grief, and loss, and I am an LGBTQ+ ally. We will work as a team to explore your goals and try to achieve them with science-based practices.
Dana Basch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSE, LPC, CT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705
Waitlist for new clients
I believe therapy is a great place to start when you’re feeling stuck and/or wanting to make a change in your life. Therapy is a great way to help you identify the obstacles in your life and give you the courage to meet those obstacles head-on in a safe and supportive environment. The space provided in therapy can also help break out of your old and unproductive ways of coping; this can lead to new and exciting ways to living your life. Your therapy can be brief or long-term, depending on your needs. So, allow me support you as you get unstuck, find your passion, and enjoy your life to its fullest.
I believe therapy is a great place to start when you’re feeling stuck and/or wanting to make a change in your life. Therapy is a great way to help you identify the obstacles in your life and give you the courage to meet those obstacles head-on in a safe and supportive environment. The space provided in therapy can also help break out of your old and unproductive ways of coping; this can lead to new and exciting ways to living your life. Your therapy can be brief or long-term, depending on your needs. So, allow me support you as you get unstuck, find your passion, and enjoy your life to its fullest.
Myrna Solganick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53719
I treat adults who want to make meaningful changes in their lives, or perhaps need a new way to view an old problem. I am a responsive therapist, a real person, not an "mm hmm" therapist. I will listen well, and give feedback, you will not feel you are alone in whatever struggle brings you to my office. Relationships, life changes and transitions, losses - coping - these are some, but by no mean all, of the issues that we might work on together. Seeing a therapist is a positive choice when one feels frustrated or alone.
I treat adults who want to make meaningful changes in their lives, or perhaps need a new way to view an old problem. I am a responsive therapist, a real person, not an "mm hmm" therapist. I will listen well, and give feedback, you will not feel you are alone in whatever struggle brings you to my office. Relationships, life changes and transitions, losses - coping - these are some, but by no mean all, of the issues that we might work on together. Seeing a therapist is a positive choice when one feels frustrated or alone.
Megan Horvath
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53703
Hello! My name is Megan. As a lesbian and AuDHD therapist at LP, providing queer-affirming and neurodivergent-affirming care is a priority to me. While we work together to help you process difficult situations and achieve your goals, I will do my part to ensure that our sessions are a safe and validating space for you to show up with all of your parts. My role is meeting you exactly where you’re at on your healing journey to support and empower you along the way.
Hello! My name is Megan. As a lesbian and AuDHD therapist at LP, providing queer-affirming and neurodivergent-affirming care is a priority to me. While we work together to help you process difficult situations and achieve your goals, I will do my part to ensure that our sessions are a safe and validating space for you to show up with all of your parts. My role is meeting you exactly where you’re at on your healing journey to support and empower you along the way.
Katherine Pfaff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53718
I provide treatment for depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and trauma-related concerns to adults 18+ through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Narrative Therapy theoretical orientations. I believe past experiences and the stories people have told themselves from these experiences shape their present way of thinking and behaving in the world around them. I collaborate with my clients to examine their unhelpful thoughts and narratives and develop adaptive coping mechanisms to manage their mental health concerns.
I provide treatment for depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and trauma-related concerns to adults 18+ through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Narrative Therapy theoretical orientations. I believe past experiences and the stories people have told themselves from these experiences shape their present way of thinking and behaving in the world around them. I collaborate with my clients to examine their unhelpful thoughts and narratives and develop adaptive coping mechanisms to manage their mental health concerns.
Marisol McElroy Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705 (Online Only)
As a bilingual, bicultural individual, and former police officer, I can understand the difficulty facing trauma, daily challenges, and grief. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, compassion, and meeting you at your comfort level. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage as you are stepping into uncomfortable territory. I am here to support, guide, and empower you through this journey. As a systemic therapist, not only do I see you as an individual but every facet in your life, how they can affect you, and how we can influence them to best achieve your therapy goals.
As a bilingual, bicultural individual, and former police officer, I can understand the difficulty facing trauma, daily challenges, and grief. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, compassion, and meeting you at your comfort level. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage as you are stepping into uncomfortable territory. I am here to support, guide, and empower you through this journey. As a systemic therapist, not only do I see you as an individual but every facet in your life, how they can affect you, and how we can influence them to best achieve your therapy goals.
Zeus Arreguin
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53717
I offer extensive counseling services to individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, anger, relationships and family conflicts. These presenting issues may include marriage and/or relationships, parenting, general life decisions, work conflict, self-identity, self-esteem, substance abuse, suicidal ideation, sexuality and sex addictions. I work with clients to discover the root of the problem, construct a treatment plan and guide their growth through various counseling methods in our work together.
I offer extensive counseling services to individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, anger, relationships and family conflicts. These presenting issues may include marriage and/or relationships, parenting, general life decisions, work conflict, self-identity, self-esteem, substance abuse, suicidal ideation, sexuality and sex addictions. I work with clients to discover the root of the problem, construct a treatment plan and guide their growth through various counseling methods in our work together.
Anna Maunu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53713
As an APSW (Advanced Practice Social Worker) and therapist, I am passionate about providing psychotherapy services to adults including those seeking to overcome struggles related to trauma, anxieties, and identity. I know these issues can diminish your quality of life and I can support you along the way to making positive life changes. Understanding your past experiences, exploring underlying causes, and learning more about yourself can create opportunities for healing. Together we will process thoughts and experiences to assist you in exploring yourself and identifying skills to improve relationships with yourself and others.
As an APSW (Advanced Practice Social Worker) and therapist, I am passionate about providing psychotherapy services to adults including those seeking to overcome struggles related to trauma, anxieties, and identity. I know these issues can diminish your quality of life and I can support you along the way to making positive life changes. Understanding your past experiences, exploring underlying causes, and learning more about yourself can create opportunities for healing. Together we will process thoughts and experiences to assist you in exploring yourself and identifying skills to improve relationships with yourself and others.
Moontree Psychotherapy Center, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, DARTT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53703
It is my belief that we all have tremendous capacity to heal and to change our lives for the better. When people choose therapy, they deserve someone who will listen with a fully present, compassionate, and nonjudgemental viewfinder. People also deserve someone who will provide a safe, kind and sacred space. It is my steadfast commitment to meet you where you are at and help you navigate through life's challenges. You may be living with your own or others' mental illness and/or addiction, dealing with losses and unexpected transitions, feeling overwhelmed, and/or tired of feeling stuck.
It is my belief that we all have tremendous capacity to heal and to change our lives for the better. When people choose therapy, they deserve someone who will listen with a fully present, compassionate, and nonjudgemental viewfinder. People also deserve someone who will provide a safe, kind and sacred space. It is my steadfast commitment to meet you where you are at and help you navigate through life's challenges. You may be living with your own or others' mental illness and/or addiction, dealing with losses and unexpected transitions, feeling overwhelmed, and/or tired of feeling stuck.
15 Second Videos
Jennifer Yelk
Siri Peterson
Nancy Feingold
Alison Einbender
Donald L Schade
Mimi E Porat
Jay White
Behavioral Health Clinic Online
Bobby Walker, Therapist & Certified Sex Therapist
Sara Beth Austin
Brittany Aceto
Open Space LLC
Alison Kilkelly
Mary Heim
Karla Angel
Bobbie Harte Shaw
Patti Bee
Stephanie Hall
Stone In Harmony LLC
Daniel Goldman
Anne Patricia Maxwell
Ian Nelson-Johnson
Deanna Houck
Discover You Counseling and Personal Wellness
Peter C Jackson
Erica Baumer
Donal Grant MacCoon
Donald Bialkowski
Vicky Frue
Nicole Podolak |Certified Clinical Trauma Professional
Amberly Stevens
Cassandra N Quick
Henry Steinberger
Julia Appelbaum Rhodes
Kal Wogahn
Trisha O'Bryant
Sara Beth Austin | Anxiety And Burnout Therapist
Greenbush Psychotherapy LLC | Jessica Brooks, PhD
Heather Meggers-Wright
Jackie Ma
Jennifer Reckner
Julia Leah Hughes
Sarah Kasten
Carissa Weber
Sarah Farris
Meg Jelen
David C Low
Margo Florez
Christen R Brockner
Teralyn Sell
Rachel Ellis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53719
Do you find yourself numbing because life feels too overwhelming? Or maybe you're using alcohol or other substances to cope with stress more than you'd like? If so, you are not alone! We can work together to identify areas of stress and anxiety and process past traumas that are standing in your way of living the life you want. Together, we can create new habits and work to remove the barriers that are standing in the way of where you want to go.
Do you find yourself numbing because life feels too overwhelming? Or maybe you're using alcohol or other substances to cope with stress more than you'd like? If so, you are not alone! We can work together to identify areas of stress and anxiety and process past traumas that are standing in your way of living the life you want. Together, we can create new habits and work to remove the barriers that are standing in the way of where you want to go.
Jason C Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53704
Although I see clients from 10 yo to 100 yo, my expertise lies with connecting with disengaged youth and struggling adults who may find themselves battling a variety of concerns related to Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Anger and Grief.
Although I see clients from 10 yo to 100 yo, my expertise lies with connecting with disengaged youth and struggling adults who may find themselves battling a variety of concerns related to Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Anger and Grief.
Kendall Ferguson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP-IT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53715 (Online Only)
A large portion of my practice is with complex trauma (developmental, sexual/interpersonal, intergenerational), codependent relationships, shame and perfectionism, and attachment. As a body-based psychotherapist who has worked with trauma for nearly ten years ranging from community mental health and crisis intervention to victim advocacy, I am passionate about understanding and guiding how we as humans heal from trauma.
A large portion of my practice is with complex trauma (developmental, sexual/interpersonal, intergenerational), codependent relationships, shame and perfectionism, and attachment. As a body-based psychotherapist who has worked with trauma for nearly ten years ranging from community mental health and crisis intervention to victim advocacy, I am passionate about understanding and guiding how we as humans heal from trauma.
Sarah Rosencrans Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53705
Positive change is possible when a person is provided the tailored support needed to draw upon their own strengths and insight. There is value in knowing and treating the whole person and I focus on the diverse set of characteristics and circumstances that can both create life challenges and be better understood to overcome personal obstacles. Skill building to address mental health needs, increasing confidence and self-esteem, and creating targeted goals are primary elements of my practice. Initial Consult: https://app2.luminello.com/sarahrobinsonlcsw/form
Positive change is possible when a person is provided the tailored support needed to draw upon their own strengths and insight. There is value in knowing and treating the whole person and I focus on the diverse set of characteristics and circumstances that can both create life challenges and be better understood to overcome personal obstacles. Skill building to address mental health needs, increasing confidence and self-esteem, and creating targeted goals are primary elements of my practice. Initial Consult: https://app2.luminello.com/sarahrobinsonlcsw/form
Jennifer Yelk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53719
Choosing a therapist can be difficult. You want someone you can trust and who has the experience to help with your needs. I am qualified to treat most conditions that cause people distress. Some areas of special interest include LGBTQ+, healthcare workers, anxiety (OCD, phobias, general anxiety), phobias, stress, work-life balance, depression, trauma, relationships, parenting, boundary-setting, and developing assertiveness. I am a strong LGBTQAI+ ally and have experience and special training working with LGBTQAI+ couples and individuals. Hablo español y hago terápia en español. Tengo experiencia con gente de todas partes.
Choosing a therapist can be difficult. You want someone you can trust and who has the experience to help with your needs. I am qualified to treat most conditions that cause people distress. Some areas of special interest include LGBTQ+, healthcare workers, anxiety (OCD, phobias, general anxiety), phobias, stress, work-life balance, depression, trauma, relationships, parenting, boundary-setting, and developing assertiveness. I am a strong LGBTQAI+ ally and have experience and special training working with LGBTQAI+ couples and individuals. Hablo español y hago terápia en español. Tengo experiencia con gente de todas partes.
Jeannie Lindskog
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, PSC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53718 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself suffering from more stress and anxiety than usual? I offer exclusively online therapy sessions. I work with clients to raise their self-awareness, understanding and acceptance, in order to facilitate the changes they desire. I work with adults and adolescents around issues of depression, anxiety, stress, loss, family and marital relationships . I have over 30 years of experience and my clinical background spans across age, gender, racial/ethnic groups, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status. I offer empathy, experience and a non-judgmental approach in the therapeutic relationship.
Do you find yourself suffering from more stress and anxiety than usual? I offer exclusively online therapy sessions. I work with clients to raise their self-awareness, understanding and acceptance, in order to facilitate the changes they desire. I work with adults and adolescents around issues of depression, anxiety, stress, loss, family and marital relationships . I have over 30 years of experience and my clinical background spans across age, gender, racial/ethnic groups, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status. I offer empathy, experience and a non-judgmental approach in the therapeutic relationship.
Elephant in the Room Counseling LLC w Kelsey Card
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS-LMFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705
Intimacy is often a difficult topic to talk about, but one that affects many individuals and relationships. My role is to help you bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be. Together we will collaborate to create realistic, attainable goals and a therapy plan that is the best fit for you. Being a systemically trained therapist means that I look not only at who is sitting in front of me, but all of the things affecting you, and how those impact your experiences and interactions. I am also a Prepare and Enrich Certified Facilitator as well as have an Opioid Training Certificate. Evening appointments available.
Intimacy is often a difficult topic to talk about, but one that affects many individuals and relationships. My role is to help you bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be. Together we will collaborate to create realistic, attainable goals and a therapy plan that is the best fit for you. Being a systemically trained therapist means that I look not only at who is sitting in front of me, but all of the things affecting you, and how those impact your experiences and interactions. I am also a Prepare and Enrich Certified Facilitator as well as have an Opioid Training Certificate. Evening appointments available.
Jennifer E Sampson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705 (Online Only)
Are you looking for answers? Has it been difficult getting to this point? There is hope for change and growth. I will work collaboratively with you to develop and implement strategies to improved your mental health and functioning in a safe, supportive, and judgement-free environment. My therapeutic philosophy is that everyone has the internal capacity to heal and grow with appropriate support and guidance.
Are you looking for answers? Has it been difficult getting to this point? There is hope for change and growth. I will work collaboratively with you to develop and implement strategies to improved your mental health and functioning in a safe, supportive, and judgement-free environment. My therapeutic philosophy is that everyone has the internal capacity to heal and grow with appropriate support and guidance.
David C Lee
Psychologist, PhD, JD
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705
Your best journeys can begin here. I provide effective, focused, and practical guidance in psychotherapy to help attain goals, self-improvement, resolve conflicts, and deal with a variety of life issues ranging from depression, anxiety, phobias and sexual identity to relationships (couples, marriage), career, and life transitions. I also provide dispute mediation services. I have a personable, affirming, and mentoring therapy style and an appreciation for individual experiences, styles and needs. My honest, direct, and warm approach also facilitates trusting and effective therapeutic relationships. I provide EMDR, Cognitive-Behavioral, and various Client-Centered methods. West-side Madison location.
Your best journeys can begin here. I provide effective, focused, and practical guidance in psychotherapy to help attain goals, self-improvement, resolve conflicts, and deal with a variety of life issues ranging from depression, anxiety, phobias and sexual identity to relationships (couples, marriage), career, and life transitions. I also provide dispute mediation services. I have a personable, affirming, and mentoring therapy style and an appreciation for individual experiences, styles and needs. My honest, direct, and warm approach also facilitates trusting and effective therapeutic relationships. I provide EMDR, Cognitive-Behavioral, and various Client-Centered methods. West-side Madison location.
See more therapy options for Madison
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Madison, WI
700+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Madison, WI who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
84% | Depression |
75% | Relationship Issues |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Self Esteem |
65% | Stress |
65% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
53% | Quartz |
51% | Other |
50% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Therapists in Madison, WI see their clients
72% | In Person and Online | |
28% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Madison?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.