Therapists in Brentwood, TN

Photo of Amanda Harrell, Psychologist in Brentwood, TN
Amanda Harrell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027  (Online Only)
I have had the pleasure of doing therapy and helping my clients achieve their goals since 2002. Some clients have seen me for help with Depression, Anxiety or Bipolar Disorders. Some have had a history of self esteem issues or relationship conflicts with others. I have also worked with clients who are usually "okay" emotionally, but need extra support and assistance as they go through a rough time dealing with a particular stressor in their lives including divorce, grief over a loss or death of a loved one, losing a job, transitioning to retirement or adulthood, etc.
I have had the pleasure of doing therapy and helping my clients achieve their goals since 2002. Some clients have seen me for help with Depression, Anxiety or Bipolar Disorders. Some have had a history of self esteem issues or relationship conflicts with others. I have also worked with clients who are usually "okay" emotionally, but need extra support and assistance as they go through a rough time dealing with a particular stressor in their lives including divorce, grief over a loss or death of a loved one, losing a job, transitioning to retirement or adulthood, etc.
(615) 239-0660 View (615) 239-0660
Photo of Christy Hunt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brentwood, TN
Christy Hunt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, (temp)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Life is not easy and most of us experience painful circumstances from time to time. Sometimes these experiences leave us feeling stuck, lost, or confused, and we may even develop painful symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, or relational distress. Our experiences can affect us, but they do not have to define us. You can heal your wounds and realize just how resilient, capable, and courageous you really are. Your goals are important, and effective treatments are now available with the solutions you have been hoping for.
Life is not easy and most of us experience painful circumstances from time to time. Sometimes these experiences leave us feeling stuck, lost, or confused, and we may even develop painful symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, or relational distress. Our experiences can affect us, but they do not have to define us. You can heal your wounds and realize just how resilient, capable, and courageous you really are. Your goals are important, and effective treatments are now available with the solutions you have been hoping for.
(615) 395-6764 View (615) 395-6764
Photo of Ortencia Johnson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brentwood, TN
Ortencia Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Does your child struggle with ADHD, low self-esteem, and peer issues? Are you a parent where high stress pushes you to perfectionism, overwhelm, or procrastination? Does anxiety, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, or the feeling of not being ENOUGH keep you up at night? Whatever you're going through, it's possible to leverage your strengths and feel confident in your life again. Together, we can create the life of your dreams, without changing who you are or what you've been through. Your work, relationships, and self-confidence are worth it.
Does your child struggle with ADHD, low self-esteem, and peer issues? Are you a parent where high stress pushes you to perfectionism, overwhelm, or procrastination? Does anxiety, PTSD, trauma, anxiety, or the feeling of not being ENOUGH keep you up at night? Whatever you're going through, it's possible to leverage your strengths and feel confident in your life again. Together, we can create the life of your dreams, without changing who you are or what you've been through. Your work, relationships, and self-confidence are worth it.
(615) 552-7476 View (615) 552-7476
Photo of Joe McNulty, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, TN
Joe McNulty
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Informed by attachment theory and IFS, I incorporate effective counseling models to work with couples, families, and individuals. My passion is to help people recover their hearts so they can be who they are made to be and do what they are made to do.
Informed by attachment theory and IFS, I incorporate effective counseling models to work with couples, families, and individuals. My passion is to help people recover their hearts so they can be who they are made to be and do what they are made to do.
(615) 645-2177 View (615) 645-2177
Photo of Justin Forgette, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brentwood, TN
Justin Forgette
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027  (Online Only)
Hey, I am a Christian Licensed Professional Counselor residing in Tennessee. I am a husband and father. I have been counseling for 14+ years, primarily in an Intensive Outpatient Program. I have done a lot of work with adolescents and adults who struggle with addictions. Depression and anxiety are common issues that can be alleviated be utilizing counseling and I enjoy helping individuals work through these issues. I offer supervision to pre-licensed counselors in the state of TN.
Hey, I am a Christian Licensed Professional Counselor residing in Tennessee. I am a husband and father. I have been counseling for 14+ years, primarily in an Intensive Outpatient Program. I have done a lot of work with adolescents and adults who struggle with addictions. Depression and anxiety are common issues that can be alleviated be utilizing counseling and I enjoy helping individuals work through these issues. I offer supervision to pre-licensed counselors in the state of TN.
(629) 348-3481 View (629) 348-3481
Photo of Kaye Bradley Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, TN
Kaye Bradley Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Do you feel like you just need a little help? Maybe you are holding a tired head in your hands saying “what is happening with me?” My belief is that sharing your precious inner thoughts and emotions in a safe setting is a worthy effort. I can help to make sense of it alongside you. I work with those in recovery from narcissistic and traumatic abuse, those trying to change their "people pleasing" behaviors, and with those seeking growth and awareness during major life transitions. You may find that after the first session you feel great relief. In person/ Video sessions are available for anyone living in TN.
Do you feel like you just need a little help? Maybe you are holding a tired head in your hands saying “what is happening with me?” My belief is that sharing your precious inner thoughts and emotions in a safe setting is a worthy effort. I can help to make sense of it alongside you. I work with those in recovery from narcissistic and traumatic abuse, those trying to change their "people pleasing" behaviors, and with those seeking growth and awareness during major life transitions. You may find that after the first session you feel great relief. In person/ Video sessions are available for anyone living in TN.
(615) 208-5098 View (615) 208-5098
Photo of Ellie Bender, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brentwood, TN
Ellie Bender
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I am honored to connect with you and embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Talking together in a safe space, our sessions will be a sanctuary where you can freely express your thoughts, emotions, and concerns without judgment. I will listen attentively, with an open heart and mind, eager to understand your unique experiences, strengths, and aspirations. As moments of discomfort and vulnerability arise along the way, I assure you that you will never face them alone. I am here to support you every step of the way, offering guidance, encouragement, and a genuine belief in your capacity for growth and healing.
I am honored to connect with you and embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Talking together in a safe space, our sessions will be a sanctuary where you can freely express your thoughts, emotions, and concerns without judgment. I will listen attentively, with an open heart and mind, eager to understand your unique experiences, strengths, and aspirations. As moments of discomfort and vulnerability arise along the way, I assure you that you will never face them alone. I am here to support you every step of the way, offering guidance, encouragement, and a genuine belief in your capacity for growth and healing.
(629) 276-7527 View (629) 276-7527
Lisa Wascher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Do you feel like the crazy one in the relationship or have been told you are? Do you feel like no matter what you do or say things never get better and your partner is an empty well? You may be experiencing narcissistic abuse, and I can help you gain strength/insight in the challenges you may face.Perhaps, you have lost a loved one or a precious pet and feeling heartbroken or lost?
Do you feel like the crazy one in the relationship or have been told you are? Do you feel like no matter what you do or say things never get better and your partner is an empty well? You may be experiencing narcissistic abuse, and I can help you gain strength/insight in the challenges you may face.Perhaps, you have lost a loved one or a precious pet and feeling heartbroken or lost?
(629) 400-6448 View (629) 400-6448
Photo of Katelyn Sager, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brentwood, TN
Katelyn Sager
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Immediate availability. Welcome to a space where you're encouraged to embrace your authentic self, even if you're feeling disconnected from your own life. You are enough. My approach revolves around honoring your comfort and safety while processing emotions. By ensuring you feel at ease every step of the way, we allow our minds and bodies to navigate through challenges more effectively. Together, we'll explore coping mechanisms that resonate with you, alongside trauma-informed techniques such as Sandtray and S.A.F.E. EMDR. These tools will guide us in uncovering the roots of your frustrations and charting a path forward.
Immediate availability. Welcome to a space where you're encouraged to embrace your authentic self, even if you're feeling disconnected from your own life. You are enough. My approach revolves around honoring your comfort and safety while processing emotions. By ensuring you feel at ease every step of the way, we allow our minds and bodies to navigate through challenges more effectively. Together, we'll explore coping mechanisms that resonate with you, alongside trauma-informed techniques such as Sandtray and S.A.F.E. EMDR. These tools will guide us in uncovering the roots of your frustrations and charting a path forward.
(629) 263-7468 View (629) 263-7468
Photo of Daniel Moore, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brentwood, TN
Daniel Moore
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I love a few things: motorcycles, basketball, coffee, great books..... and water. I'm alive on the water, fishing rod in hand, my prize unseen beneath me, prowling the deep. I love counseling for the same reason. Searching the depths of the self in order to find, catch, and admire what lies beneath the surface of awareness. My world came crashing down when I was 19. Pain, fear, confusion, and anger were my constant companions for a long season. I began my own journey of healing with a gifted and caring therapist. It was beautiful and terrifying. And helpful.
I love a few things: motorcycles, basketball, coffee, great books..... and water. I'm alive on the water, fishing rod in hand, my prize unseen beneath me, prowling the deep. I love counseling for the same reason. Searching the depths of the self in order to find, catch, and admire what lies beneath the surface of awareness. My world came crashing down when I was 19. Pain, fear, confusion, and anger were my constant companions for a long season. I began my own journey of healing with a gifted and caring therapist. It was beautiful and terrifying. And helpful.
(615) 671-4919 View (615) 671-4919
Photo of Hailey Mercer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, TN
Hailey Mercer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Hey all, I’m Hailey! I’ve got lots of experience with children, teens, and families during their times of struggle. I am excited to play a part in your mental health journey, as you are the expert of your own life. I am passionate about working with those experiencing depression, anxiety, suicidality concerns, grief, and trauma. I aim to build new ways of thinking about our so called “problems”, and giving them new meanings. Often, setbacks or struggles in life are just an opportunity for a comeback- for growth. I hope to help you find greater understanding, a listening ear, and be a part of problem solving if/when you need it.
Hey all, I’m Hailey! I’ve got lots of experience with children, teens, and families during their times of struggle. I am excited to play a part in your mental health journey, as you are the expert of your own life. I am passionate about working with those experiencing depression, anxiety, suicidality concerns, grief, and trauma. I aim to build new ways of thinking about our so called “problems”, and giving them new meanings. Often, setbacks or struggles in life are just an opportunity for a comeback- for growth. I hope to help you find greater understanding, a listening ear, and be a part of problem solving if/when you need it.
(629) 283-2789 View (629) 283-2789
Photo of Caitlin Coile, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brentwood, TN
Caitlin Coile
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
People start to heal the moment they feel heard. That is my goal in sitting with clients - to move towards healing by hearing their stories, strifes, and successes. I incorporate multiple modalities of treatment to give each client a unique experience that meets their specific needs. My hope is to join my clients in achieving meaningful and deep healing, identifying resources for continued growth, and developing secure attachments in their relationships. I am passionate about working with individuals and families of all ages who are processing through life transitions, identity, relationship issues, trauma, and grief and loss.
People start to heal the moment they feel heard. That is my goal in sitting with clients - to move towards healing by hearing their stories, strifes, and successes. I incorporate multiple modalities of treatment to give each client a unique experience that meets their specific needs. My hope is to join my clients in achieving meaningful and deep healing, identifying resources for continued growth, and developing secure attachments in their relationships. I am passionate about working with individuals and families of all ages who are processing through life transitions, identity, relationship issues, trauma, and grief and loss.
(615) 471-7684 View (615) 471-7684
Photo of Lindsay Sechser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, TN
Lindsay Sechser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
My heart is to work with those who are feeling overwhelmed by life, those who are seeking hope and healing from trauma, or those who are feeling isolated and looking for help finding their place to belong. My goal is to come alongside my clients and create a space where they feel comfortable and safe to be able to work through any obstacle they may be facing.
My heart is to work with those who are feeling overwhelmed by life, those who are seeking hope and healing from trauma, or those who are feeling isolated and looking for help finding their place to belong. My goal is to come alongside my clients and create a space where they feel comfortable and safe to be able to work through any obstacle they may be facing.
(615) 270-0351 View (615) 270-0351
Photo of Laura Deneen, Counselor in Brentwood, TN
Laura Deneen
Counselor, LPC, MHSP, CEDS-S, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I am passionate about working with clients presenting with eating disorders, and co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and other women's issues. In my practice, I use a treatment model that is evidence-based and eclectic, as I believe each client's needs vary. These models include, but are not limited to, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy. Beginning the journey to recovery from an eating disorder is difficult and one that requires courage-I strive to create an environment that is built on a foundation of trust for this process.
I am passionate about working with clients presenting with eating disorders, and co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and other women's issues. In my practice, I use a treatment model that is evidence-based and eclectic, as I believe each client's needs vary. These models include, but are not limited to, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy. Beginning the journey to recovery from an eating disorder is difficult and one that requires courage-I strive to create an environment that is built on a foundation of trust for this process.
(615) 247-6945 View (615) 247-6945
Photo of Stephanie Insko, Psychologist in Brentwood, TN
Stephanie Insko
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I began working in the field over 20 years ago, in university counseling centers across the South. Now in private practice, I see adolescents-middle age adults. I strive to join my clients at the point in their process where old patterns are no longer working and collaborate with them to find new ones. I like to set goals together that provide a roadmap for the course of our work, and I challenge my clients to work on things not only in session, but also in their everyday lives. I view therapy as a temporary stop along life’s path; a realignment that sends my clients back out there as healthier and happier versions of themselves.
I began working in the field over 20 years ago, in university counseling centers across the South. Now in private practice, I see adolescents-middle age adults. I strive to join my clients at the point in their process where old patterns are no longer working and collaborate with them to find new ones. I like to set goals together that provide a roadmap for the course of our work, and I challenge my clients to work on things not only in session, but also in their everyday lives. I view therapy as a temporary stop along life’s path; a realignment that sends my clients back out there as healthier and happier versions of themselves.
(615) 933-2314 View (615) 933-2314
Photo of Kari L Needham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Brentwood, TN
Kari L Needham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Not accepting new clients
I am passionate about walking with those who endeavor to change painful life patterns, heal from difficult life experiences and restore broken relationships.
I am passionate about walking with those who endeavor to change painful life patterns, heal from difficult life experiences and restore broken relationships.
(615) 374-7959 View (615) 374-7959
Photo of Nate A De Graaf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, TN
Nate A De Graaf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
For the past 20 years I have been committed to assisting individuals, couples, adolescents and athletes through life's difficult situations. I have a strong background in working directly with general psychiatry, so most of my experience is in mood disorders, crisis management, grief therapy and co-occurring disorders such as addiction. My passion is in teaching clients strengths-based techniques to improve coping abilities and quality of life.
For the past 20 years I have been committed to assisting individuals, couples, adolescents and athletes through life's difficult situations. I have a strong background in working directly with general psychiatry, so most of my experience is in mood disorders, crisis management, grief therapy and co-occurring disorders such as addiction. My passion is in teaching clients strengths-based techniques to improve coping abilities and quality of life.
(615) 338-6654 View (615) 338-6654
Photo of Marten Fadelle, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brentwood, TN
Marten Fadelle
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT, Temp L, TN 2096
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Are you making one or more of these statements or asking one or more of these questions? Something needs to change. Something just doesn’t feel right. I hate this. I can’t do this anymore. Now what do I do? What was I thinking? Who am I? Why can’t I just…?! Perhaps it’s another, equally frustrating statement or confusing question? Perhaps you are saying ‘we’ rather than ‘I’? Whatever the context, I want to acknowledge that you are in a hard place and that hard places are part of the human condition. Seeking help is a courageous act! Confusion, fear, anger, sadness, grief – however you are feeling – make sense and I can help.
Are you making one or more of these statements or asking one or more of these questions? Something needs to change. Something just doesn’t feel right. I hate this. I can’t do this anymore. Now what do I do? What was I thinking? Who am I? Why can’t I just…?! Perhaps it’s another, equally frustrating statement or confusing question? Perhaps you are saying ‘we’ rather than ‘I’? Whatever the context, I want to acknowledge that you are in a hard place and that hard places are part of the human condition. Seeking help is a courageous act! Confusion, fear, anger, sadness, grief – however you are feeling – make sense and I can help.
(629) 205-0567 View (629) 205-0567
Photo of Angela Alexander, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brentwood, TN
Angela Alexander
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
I desire to understand my clients' longings, while offering support and guidance on a wide range of issues commonly encountered, such as career transitions, relationship dynamics, parenting struggles, aging parents, self-esteem concerns, and navigating societal expectations.
I desire to understand my clients' longings, while offering support and guidance on a wide range of issues commonly encountered, such as career transitions, relationship dynamics, parenting struggles, aging parents, self-esteem concerns, and navigating societal expectations.
(629) 276-3611 View (629) 276-3611
Photo of Dr. Stacy Jagger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, TN
Dr. Stacy Jagger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT-S, DMin
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Dr. Stacy Jagger is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor (RPT-S), and an AAMFT Approved Supervisor with her Doctorate in Ministry. But she’s not just a book-trained therapist, as her story attests. She is a speaker, author, transformational coach, mentor, visionary. She’s the founder of Music City Family Therapy and the inventor of the Mountain Method, her proprietary treatment protocol for working with the whole family when the primary concern is their children’s well-being. Stacy also regularly appears on Nashville’s WSMV and WKRN television stations.
Dr. Stacy Jagger is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor (RPT-S), and an AAMFT Approved Supervisor with her Doctorate in Ministry. But she’s not just a book-trained therapist, as her story attests. She is a speaker, author, transformational coach, mentor, visionary. She’s the founder of Music City Family Therapy and the inventor of the Mountain Method, her proprietary treatment protocol for working with the whole family when the primary concern is their children’s well-being. Stacy also regularly appears on Nashville’s WSMV and WKRN television stations.
(615) 823-7726 View (615) 823-7726

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Brentwood, TN

700+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Brentwood, TN who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
84% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
74% Self Esteem
69% Trauma and PTSD
65% Grief
65% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

73% Cigna and Evernorth
70% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
65% Aetna

How Therapists in Brentwood, TN see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Brentwood?

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.