Therapists in Jacksonville, FL
Lisa Lemke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
I have specialized in working with individuals and couples who are interested in a deep, transformative experience that resolves core issues, not just symptoms. My work is unique compared to many other therapists because I go beyond a strictly cognitive approach. I use a holistic approach that includes Psychodynamic (childhood issues), Somatic (body-oriented), Couples Systems, Meditative (Mindful) practices, Life Coaching and HMR (Holographic Memory Resolution) Techniques. HMR is a leading edge mind-body therapy that allows expedient access to past memories and complete resolution of the painful emotions associated with these events without having to relive them.
I have specialized in working with individuals and couples who are interested in a deep, transformative experience that resolves core issues, not just symptoms. My work is unique compared to many other therapists because I go beyond a strictly cognitive approach. I use a holistic approach that includes Psychodynamic (childhood issues), Somatic (body-oriented), Couples Systems, Meditative (Mindful) practices, Life Coaching and HMR (Holographic Memory Resolution) Techniques. HMR is a leading edge mind-body therapy that allows expedient access to past memories and complete resolution of the painful emotions associated with these events without having to relive them.
Amanda Mewhorter
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32223
You just finished another day and you feel yourself riddled with anxiety. You've had anxiety in the past, but now it seems unbearable. It's hard to breath and concentrate, especially when you are wondering when the "next ball is going to drop". Family, friends, and colleagues are talking to you, but all you hear are words because you're already many steps ahead of them in thought. You've heard that you just need to be "more present, less anxious". But you don't know how, or even where to begin. It feels as if the weight of the world is on your shoulders. Sometimes you know why you're anxious, other times you have no idea.
You just finished another day and you feel yourself riddled with anxiety. You've had anxiety in the past, but now it seems unbearable. It's hard to breath and concentrate, especially when you are wondering when the "next ball is going to drop". Family, friends, and colleagues are talking to you, but all you hear are words because you're already many steps ahead of them in thought. You've heard that you just need to be "more present, less anxious". But you don't know how, or even where to begin. It feels as if the weight of the world is on your shoulders. Sometimes you know why you're anxious, other times you have no idea.
Mark Dearing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32223 (Online Only)
New clients are alway welcome! Your first appointment usually occurs within one week, and I can see people weekly if needed. How do I do this? I flex my availability; this includes what days I work, and what hours I work. Caveat; in order to maintain my own positive mental health my availability during evenings is very limited. I tend to not work on Fridays, and only for emergencies on weekends. If I sense that I will not be able to help you, I will tell you. Knowing my own strengths and limitations is healthy and very important to me. All services are provided LIVE (HIPAA)audio/visual link; including EMDR.
New clients are alway welcome! Your first appointment usually occurs within one week, and I can see people weekly if needed. How do I do this? I flex my availability; this includes what days I work, and what hours I work. Caveat; in order to maintain my own positive mental health my availability during evenings is very limited. I tend to not work on Fridays, and only for emergencies on weekends. If I sense that I will not be able to help you, I will tell you. Knowing my own strengths and limitations is healthy and very important to me. All services are provided LIVE (HIPAA)audio/visual link; including EMDR.
G. Susanne McKelvey
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32225
Having issues in your relationship? Feeling overwhelmed by problems with addictions, depression, anxiety or trauma? I understand. In our therapy sessions, I will create a safe space for us to work on solutions to issues you or you and your partner may face. I have a reputation for being an excellent listener, and ability to provide support and feedback at your pace. I work with couples and individuals from diverse backgrounds and sexual orientations. I use a method called Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT) for approaching you and your partner's relationship issues. Let's start a conversation.
Having issues in your relationship? Feeling overwhelmed by problems with addictions, depression, anxiety or trauma? I understand. In our therapy sessions, I will create a safe space for us to work on solutions to issues you or you and your partner may face. I have a reputation for being an excellent listener, and ability to provide support and feedback at your pace. I work with couples and individuals from diverse backgrounds and sexual orientations. I use a method called Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT) for approaching you and your partner's relationship issues. Let's start a conversation.
Alexa Buford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32210
My name is Alexa (Lex) Buford and I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of Palm Harbor, Florida and working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adolescents, teenagers, and adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress, and eating disorders. My approach to therapy is supportive and collaborative. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for teens and adults navigating difficult life transitions, stressors of daily life, social pressures, relationship issues, as well as eating disorders. Many of my clients have depression and anxiety.
My name is Alexa (Lex) Buford and I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of Palm Harbor, Florida and working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with adolescents, teenagers, and adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress, and eating disorders. My approach to therapy is supportive and collaborative. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for teens and adults navigating difficult life transitions, stressors of daily life, social pressures, relationship issues, as well as eating disorders. Many of my clients have depression and anxiety.
Stephanie LaShae Skinner
Counselor
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32223
Greetings! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has been providing services for over a decade to clients seeking therapy/counseling for an array of concerns. My primary focus has been child & family therapy, but my skill set is also well-suited for a diverse client population. I have provided community & school-based mental health services, crisis intervention, trauma-focused care, and outpatient therapy.
Greetings! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has been providing services for over a decade to clients seeking therapy/counseling for an array of concerns. My primary focus has been child & family therapy, but my skill set is also well-suited for a diverse client population. I have provided community & school-based mental health services, crisis intervention, trauma-focused care, and outpatient therapy.
Pooja Vala
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32210
Pooja Chandrasekhar is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern who has 4 years of experience working with adults and children in a therapeutic capacity to manage depression, anxiety, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), trauma, life stressors, psychosis, and family conflict. Pooja completed her Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology with a minor in Sociology at the University of Florida. She completed her Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of North Florida.
Pooja Chandrasekhar is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern who has 4 years of experience working with adults and children in a therapeutic capacity to manage depression, anxiety, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), trauma, life stressors, psychosis, and family conflict. Pooja completed her Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology with a minor in Sociology at the University of Florida. She completed her Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of North Florida.
Bhumi Mehta
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32225 (Online Only)
Licensed in 40 states. You have and are working hard and should be enjoying the fruits of your labor. However, you feel the challenges of balancing it all - family responsibilities, career aspirations, mundane never-ending tasks- and somewhere in there YOU get lost. Changes in life, even the ones you wanted and worked for can be challenging. You aim for that promotion and now are dealing with additional stress. You have dreamed of family and children, but are struggling to find joy in the midst of it all. It may seem that with each tick of the box, there is more to manage and less to truly enjoy
Licensed in 40 states. You have and are working hard and should be enjoying the fruits of your labor. However, you feel the challenges of balancing it all - family responsibilities, career aspirations, mundane never-ending tasks- and somewhere in there YOU get lost. Changes in life, even the ones you wanted and worked for can be challenging. You aim for that promotion and now are dealing with additional stress. You have dreamed of family and children, but are struggling to find joy in the midst of it all. It may seem that with each tick of the box, there is more to manage and less to truly enjoy
Juliet Robinson
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC, CTP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32223
Accepting clients in Florida and Georgia (Telehealth only) In this ever changing complex world, life brings challenges and distractions. Make yourself a priority and allow me to listen and support you as you are walking your "becoming" journey. If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, having relationship difficulties or parenting skills challenges I am here to heal, recover and grow with you. I know that no single approach is the right one for every individual and so, my aim is to use evidence-based, person-centered and trauma focused approach as techniques in a safe and empathetic space. So let's begin!
Accepting clients in Florida and Georgia (Telehealth only) In this ever changing complex world, life brings challenges and distractions. Make yourself a priority and allow me to listen and support you as you are walking your "becoming" journey. If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, having relationship difficulties or parenting skills challenges I am here to heal, recover and grow with you. I know that no single approach is the right one for every individual and so, my aim is to use evidence-based, person-centered and trauma focused approach as techniques in a safe and empathetic space. So let's begin!
Elsa Juall
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32257
Elsa Juall is a Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern (RCSW-I) with the state of Florida. Elsa has years of experience and a passion for collaborating with families and LGBTQIA+ youth. She specializes in supporting adolescents, adults with LGBTQIA+ identities, and/or those who are suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, coping skills, and major life transitions.
Elsa Juall is a Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern (RCSW-I) with the state of Florida. Elsa has years of experience and a passion for collaborating with families and LGBTQIA+ youth. She specializes in supporting adolescents, adults with LGBTQIA+ identities, and/or those who are suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, coping skills, and major life transitions.
Aeron DeGroat
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MCAP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32246
My ideal client may present with a variety of issues, but ultimately they are motivated to seek change and implement strategies discussed in therapy while in-between sessions. They strive to be open and vulnerable in sessions and are looking to be an active and collaborative part of their therapeutic journey. I believe that we are all experts on our own experience, and a client who is willing to provide feedback on what is working and what isn't can assist in helping them tailor the therapy experience to their individual needs.
My ideal client may present with a variety of issues, but ultimately they are motivated to seek change and implement strategies discussed in therapy while in-between sessions. They strive to be open and vulnerable in sessions and are looking to be an active and collaborative part of their therapeutic journey. I believe that we are all experts on our own experience, and a client who is willing to provide feedback on what is working and what isn't can assist in helping them tailor the therapy experience to their individual needs.
15 Second Videos
Lisa Lemke
Amanda Mewhorter
Pooja Vala
Bhumi Mehta
Juliet Robinson
Liz Overpeck
Every Girl Living
Stephanie Lugo
Aquarius N Cox
Ailyn Penate
Matthew Paul Mewhorter
Allison Gradzki
Maurice Flournoy, Healing Minds Counseling, LLC
Charlotte Osborn
Jamie Kopp
Steven Montesinos
Roseline Oghomwen Shofolu
Noelia Ysern Solá
Cody McCain
Stephanie Peyton
Lauren Delaparte
Sarah Berger
Victoria McNeil-Young
Emem Williams
Peculiar Minds Counseling, LLC
Enitan Counseling and Coaching
Katrina 'katie' Morgan
Hannah Mayderry
Jacob Hatch
Empowered Sol Wellness Center, LLC
Steve Barsky
Rebecca Deloucas
Lori A Cowan
Tyler Olsen
Green Mountain DBT (Michael Nichols LICSW, LCSW)
Skylar Hollabaugh Counseling
Brittany Beattie (Maternal Mental Health)
Thought Wise LLC
Tunisia Brina London
Rachel R. White
Patricia Cross
Stephanie Lincoln
Maria C Inoa
Christian Lamb
Diana Cofsky
Rebecca Sotero
Melanie Mickey
Kimberly Julia
Jasmin Adamson
Heidi Graber
Kaylyn Treuel
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32224 (Online Only)
Accepting NEW clients for online, tele-health appointments! I look forward to being a part of your journey of exploration towards healing. There is no issue or concern too insignificant or too complicated that I can't support you through. Isn't it finally time that you give yourself permission to place yourself and your needs first in life, over others? I believe you absolutely deserve this unselfish gift. I'm here whenever you're ready to begin working on healing, self improvement, restoration of functioning, increased happiness, a sense of control in your life and so much more. Email me now to see if I could be a good fit for you.
Accepting NEW clients for online, tele-health appointments! I look forward to being a part of your journey of exploration towards healing. There is no issue or concern too insignificant or too complicated that I can't support you through. Isn't it finally time that you give yourself permission to place yourself and your needs first in life, over others? I believe you absolutely deserve this unselfish gift. I'm here whenever you're ready to begin working on healing, self improvement, restoration of functioning, increased happiness, a sense of control in your life and so much more. Email me now to see if I could be a good fit for you.
Dina Rachelle Milum
MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32244
Taking the first step is usually the most difficult part. The decision to try therapy takes courage; but can result in the promise of hope for change, insight, a new direction and then finally solutions. I describe my work as insight-oriented, cognitive behavioral, relational and free from blame or guilt. Colleagues and clients have called my style authentic, direct, compassionate and warm. “Dina listened to us and helped us facilitate fair communication. My relationship with my wife is better because we communicate better. Thanks Dina” - JL
Taking the first step is usually the most difficult part. The decision to try therapy takes courage; but can result in the promise of hope for change, insight, a new direction and then finally solutions. I describe my work as insight-oriented, cognitive behavioral, relational and free from blame or guilt. Colleagues and clients have called my style authentic, direct, compassionate and warm. “Dina listened to us and helped us facilitate fair communication. My relationship with my wife is better because we communicate better. Thanks Dina” - JL
Jessica Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32208
Jessica Bailey is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida who has over 10 years of experience working with individuals, ages 14 years old and older, couples, and families seeking help with depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, family dysfunction and violence, and relationship issues.
Jessica Bailey is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida who has over 10 years of experience working with individuals, ages 14 years old and older, couples, and families seeking help with depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, family dysfunction and violence, and relationship issues.
Liz Overpeck
Counselor
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32246 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I empower my clients to identify and amplify the strengths within themselves and their world that they may have lost touch with or perhaps have not yet discovered. In our sessions together, you'll experience a healthy balance of acceptance and empathy paired with therapeutic challenges towards growth. I like to collaborate with my clients so that their treatment is individualized to their unique goals, culture, and strengths. I offer cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solutions focused therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and Christian spiritual integration for clients seeking faith based therapy.
I empower my clients to identify and amplify the strengths within themselves and their world that they may have lost touch with or perhaps have not yet discovered. In our sessions together, you'll experience a healthy balance of acceptance and empathy paired with therapeutic challenges towards growth. I like to collaborate with my clients so that their treatment is individualized to their unique goals, culture, and strengths. I offer cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solutions focused therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and Christian spiritual integration for clients seeking faith based therapy.
Aisha Burgess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, L, C, S, W
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256 (Online Only)
I have over 7 years of experience working with clients to address concerns stemming from anxiety, depression, and various stage of life concerns. My clinical area of focus involves Anxiety Disorders, Depression, and Stress Management.
I have over 7 years of experience working with clients to address concerns stemming from anxiety, depression, and various stage of life concerns. My clinical area of focus involves Anxiety Disorders, Depression, and Stress Management.
Mike Tubtim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256 (Online Only)
A sense of healing, empowerment, control, and newly found self-confidence are amongst the best feelings that we can experience in life. Stressors, trauma, toxicity, and confusion can take all of those things away from us. We are all capable of losing a sense of hope, meaning, and regulation. We can feel angry, sad, bitter, and lost and sometimes not know exactly why. I do believe everyone has the potential to conquer their demons and if you're in a position where you are ready for change and long term recovery then I would like to be there to support that feeling and offer guidance towards a better life.
A sense of healing, empowerment, control, and newly found self-confidence are amongst the best feelings that we can experience in life. Stressors, trauma, toxicity, and confusion can take all of those things away from us. We are all capable of losing a sense of hope, meaning, and regulation. We can feel angry, sad, bitter, and lost and sometimes not know exactly why. I do believe everyone has the potential to conquer their demons and if you're in a position where you are ready for change and long term recovery then I would like to be there to support that feeling and offer guidance towards a better life.
Lisa Bishop
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32210 (Online Only)
Lisa is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) has years experience in helping clients of all ages. She specializes in treating stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, low self-esteem, confidence, grief, anxiety, and depression.
Lisa is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) has years experience in helping clients of all ages. She specializes in treating stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, low self-esteem, confidence, grief, anxiety, and depression.
Marie Greco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32218
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, in the state of Florida, with over 10 years of experience working with children, teens and families. My passion is helping children and adolescents reach their goals, feel better, and improve short term and long term functioning. My focus is working with individuals who have experienced a trauma(s), have trouble adjusting to life changes, display behavioral problems at home or in school, live with a chronic illness, struggle with substance abuse, have low self esteem, anxiety, depression and/or difficulty regulating their moods.
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, in the state of Florida, with over 10 years of experience working with children, teens and families. My passion is helping children and adolescents reach their goals, feel better, and improve short term and long term functioning. My focus is working with individuals who have experienced a trauma(s), have trouble adjusting to life changes, display behavioral problems at home or in school, live with a chronic illness, struggle with substance abuse, have low self esteem, anxiety, depression and/or difficulty regulating their moods.
Mara's Lighthouse Counseling Center
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32225 (Online Only)
My ideal client encompasses individuals ranging from adolescence to adulthood, demonstrating a readiness to actively participate in therapeutic interventions. The client’s focus lies on achieving an overall enhancement in daily experiences and employing various coping strategies. The ultimate objectives includes reducing anxiety and depressive symptoms, returning to a more comfortable level of functioning, and refining aspects such as self-care, time management, and social skills.
My ideal client encompasses individuals ranging from adolescence to adulthood, demonstrating a readiness to actively participate in therapeutic interventions. The client’s focus lies on achieving an overall enhancement in daily experiences and employing various coping strategies. The ultimate objectives includes reducing anxiety and depressive symptoms, returning to a more comfortable level of functioning, and refining aspects such as self-care, time management, and social skills.
See more therapy options for Jacksonville
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Jacksonville, FL
1,000+
Average cost per session
$125
Therapists in Jacksonville, FL who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
76% | Self Esteem |
75% | Coping Skills |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Relationship Issues |
67% | Stress |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
87% | Aetna |
83% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
79% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Jacksonville, FL see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
16% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Jacksonville?
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.