Therapists in North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ

Photo of Kathleen Hearne, Counselor, LPC
Kathleen Hearne
Counselor, LPC
3 Endorsed
North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ 85085
We all struggle to manage present and past distressing situations that sometimes have unknown affects to our self. When we are in a traumatic situation or overwhelmed by our emotions, we can feel unsure of how to get out of survival mode and back into active living mode. The effects of distressing events and emotions on our whole self can be lasting and many times makes us do things that feel out of our control with long lasting negative effects. Our innate human resilience can allow us to function in daily life yet inside we struggle to know who we are, what we are doing and what we truly feel.
We all struggle to manage present and past distressing situations that sometimes have unknown affects to our self. When we are in a traumatic situation or overwhelmed by our emotions, we can feel unsure of how to get out of survival mode and back into active living mode. The effects of distressing events and emotions on our whole self can be lasting and many times makes us do things that feel out of our control with long lasting negative effects. Our innate human resilience can allow us to function in daily life yet inside we struggle to know who we are, what we are doing and what we truly feel.
(928) 800-8161 View (928) 800-8161
Photo of Chris Nelson - Crossroads Counseling - Chris Nelson, Counselor, Intern
Crossroads Counseling - Chris Nelson
Counselor, Intern
1 Endorsed
North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ 85086
As a therapist, I’m able to focus on deeper conversations and help on a more personal level; to quote Paul Young, I get to “walk on the holy ground of other people’s stories.” I work with people navigating depression, anxiety, relational distress, trauma, major life transitions, and much more. I specialize in working with men wanting to grow into healthier relationships and emotional awareness, adolescents and young adults struggling to cope and build meaningful lives, couples seeking stronger and healthier connections, and those who might benefit from a corrective experience with a grounded and compassionate male therapist.
As a therapist, I’m able to focus on deeper conversations and help on a more personal level; to quote Paul Young, I get to “walk on the holy ground of other people’s stories.” I work with people navigating depression, anxiety, relational distress, trauma, major life transitions, and much more. I specialize in working with men wanting to grow into healthier relationships and emotional awareness, adolescents and young adults struggling to cope and build meaningful lives, couples seeking stronger and healthier connections, and those who might benefit from a corrective experience with a grounded and compassionate male therapist.
(928) 962-5453 View (928) 962-5453
Photo of Dr. Penny Zaddack, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Penny Zaddack
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ 85085
When an individual comes to me for psychotherapy/counseling, I recognize that seeking help is an often difficult first step. I consider it an honor to work with each client and provide a safe environment that enables growth, healing, insight, and hope for the future.
When an individual comes to me for psychotherapy/counseling, I recognize that seeking help is an often difficult first step. I consider it an honor to work with each client and provide a safe environment that enables growth, healing, insight, and hope for the future.
(623) 224-2820 View (623) 224-2820
Photo of Betsy Tismeer, Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, LMFT
Betsy Tismeer
Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, LMFT
North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ 85085
I'm a nurse/psychotherapist with over 45 years professional experience working with families, adults, and children. As a therapist I feel prepared to be your emotional advocate, and to assist you with the challenges you are facing. Building trust in the therapeutic relationship in a non-judgmental, respectful environment is essential. I believe every client situation is unique. I combine an eclectic theoretical approach with professional experience in order to assess, set goals, and implement a treatment plan that is specific to your needs.
I'm a nurse/psychotherapist with over 45 years professional experience working with families, adults, and children. As a therapist I feel prepared to be your emotional advocate, and to assist you with the challenges you are facing. Building trust in the therapeutic relationship in a non-judgmental, respectful environment is essential. I believe every client situation is unique. I combine an eclectic theoretical approach with professional experience in order to assess, set goals, and implement a treatment plan that is specific to your needs.
(928) 440-8675 View (928) 440-8675
Photo of Julie Caldwell, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Julie Caldwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ 85086
Most personal struggles and relationship issues result from problems with the relationship with the self, rooted in relational injury experienced earlier in life. Therapy involves a dual process of understanding and healing the wounds we have experienced; and healing the relationship with the self. Identifying where we are off in our relationship with ourselves helps us to improve self-esteem; have healthy, fulfilling relationships; and take charge of the areas of our lives that feel unmanageable.
Most personal struggles and relationship issues result from problems with the relationship with the self, rooted in relational injury experienced earlier in life. Therapy involves a dual process of understanding and healing the wounds we have experienced; and healing the relationship with the self. Identifying where we are off in our relationship with ourselves helps us to improve self-esteem; have healthy, fulfilling relationships; and take charge of the areas of our lives that feel unmanageable.
(602) 497-3474 View (602) 497-3474
Photo of Kim Vahjen - Crossroads Counseling - Kim Vahjen, Licensed Professional Counselor, LAC
Crossroads Counseling - Kim Vahjen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LAC
1 Endorsed
North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ 85086
You’ve been trying to stay strong, but the weight of anxiety, chronic illness, or depression is wearing you down. You want to feel like yourself again—to manage emotions, find balance, and feel seen. Whether you’re facing daily stress or the deeper impact of long-term struggles, you’re ready to feel better and live with more ease and clarity.
You’ve been trying to stay strong, but the weight of anxiety, chronic illness, or depression is wearing you down. You want to feel like yourself again—to manage emotions, find balance, and feel seen. Whether you’re facing daily stress or the deeper impact of long-term struggles, you’re ready to feel better and live with more ease and clarity.
(928) 228-4457 View (928) 228-4457
Photo of Jamie L Born - Born Counseling and Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Born Counseling and Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ 85085
You don’t have to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. In fact, if you’re an entrepreneur, executive, or high performer, you know how much pressure comes with the drive for excellence. You're making big decisions, carrying the weight of responsibility, and constantly pushing for growth—personally and professionally. That kind of journey takes more than grit. It takes support.
You don’t have to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. In fact, if you’re an entrepreneur, executive, or high performer, you know how much pressure comes with the drive for excellence. You're making big decisions, carrying the weight of responsibility, and constantly pushing for growth—personally and professionally. That kind of journey takes more than grit. It takes support.
(480) 771-3083 View (480) 771-3083
Photo of Danielle Fragnito, Counselor, LPC
Danielle Fragnito
Counselor, LPC
4 Endorsed
North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ 85085
NOW accepting NEW adult clients and couples for In-person and Telehealth sessions. I have 25+ years of experience providing therapy. I take an open-minded approach to client wellness and consider the client's family traditions, lifestyle, work-life, cultural and spiritual beliefs. My goal is to work together with you to help you reach YOUR desired goal(s). Please feel free to call me/text me at 602-509-3888 or visit my website. I look forward to hearing from you.
NOW accepting NEW adult clients and couples for In-person and Telehealth sessions. I have 25+ years of experience providing therapy. I take an open-minded approach to client wellness and consider the client's family traditions, lifestyle, work-life, cultural and spiritual beliefs. My goal is to work together with you to help you reach YOUR desired goal(s). Please feel free to call me/text me at 602-509-3888 or visit my website. I look forward to hearing from you.
(480) 409-2379 View (480) 409-2379
Photo of Cindy Guzman, Counselor, MS, LAC
Cindy Guzman
Counselor, MS, LAC
7 Endorsed
North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ 85085
Are you feeling overwhelmed and don't know why, I’ve been there. Maybe you’re navigating the weight of trauma, questioning your reality as a result of gaslighting. Maybe you’re a mom who loves deeply, but feels overstimulated, depleted, and like your nervous system never gets a break. Or maybe you’re curious about your triggers and want to understand yourself on a deeper level. Therapy isn’t about “fixing” you. It’s about coming home to yourself, building awareness, and learning how to feel safe again. For me, the heart of this work is the relationship we build together that's rooted in safety, curiosity, compassion, and trust.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and don't know why, I’ve been there. Maybe you’re navigating the weight of trauma, questioning your reality as a result of gaslighting. Maybe you’re a mom who loves deeply, but feels overstimulated, depleted, and like your nervous system never gets a break. Or maybe you’re curious about your triggers and want to understand yourself on a deeper level. Therapy isn’t about “fixing” you. It’s about coming home to yourself, building awareness, and learning how to feel safe again. For me, the heart of this work is the relationship we build together that's rooted in safety, curiosity, compassion, and trust.
(602) 833-5797 View (602) 833-5797
Photo of Riley Monahan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Riley Monahan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
2 Endorsed
North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ 85085
You look like you have it together but inside, you’re overwhelmed, frustrated, or running on fumes. Maybe you’re driven, successful, but still feel like something’s missing. You’re tired of repeating the same patterns in relationships, stuck in self-doubt, or trying to outrun the past. You’re not afraid to start, you just need someone who gets it. You want change, not surface-level fixes. You’re craving insight, clarity, and the freedom to be who you are without apology. You’re ready for real work with someone who’s sharp, grounded, and will challenge you. If that’s you, you’re in the right place.
You look like you have it together but inside, you’re overwhelmed, frustrated, or running on fumes. Maybe you’re driven, successful, but still feel like something’s missing. You’re tired of repeating the same patterns in relationships, stuck in self-doubt, or trying to outrun the past. You’re not afraid to start, you just need someone who gets it. You want change, not surface-level fixes. You’re craving insight, clarity, and the freedom to be who you are without apology. You’re ready for real work with someone who’s sharp, grounded, and will challenge you. If that’s you, you’re in the right place.
(520) 436-2596 View (520) 436-2596
Photo of John Byron Gassaway, Psychologist, PsyD
John Byron Gassaway
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ 85085
Focusing on peak performance and maximizing functioning leads to happiness, feeling content, and reduced negative self-impressions. Regardless of whether your performing in athletics, the arts, medicine, or human interaction, it is important to recognize both what is working to optimize performance (building consistency) and what is holding you back (mitigating challenges and overcoming difficulties). Focusing on the core competencies of self-awareness (knowing what is going on in your mind and performance) and self-management (how to take control of your true potential through mindset, behavior, and engagement) goals are realized.
Focusing on peak performance and maximizing functioning leads to happiness, feeling content, and reduced negative self-impressions. Regardless of whether your performing in athletics, the arts, medicine, or human interaction, it is important to recognize both what is working to optimize performance (building consistency) and what is holding you back (mitigating challenges and overcoming difficulties). Focusing on the core competencies of self-awareness (knowing what is going on in your mind and performance) and self-management (how to take control of your true potential through mindset, behavior, and engagement) goals are realized.
(602) 652-2338 View (602) 652-2338
Photo of Lisa Geiser, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Lisa Geiser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
5 Endorsed
North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ 85086
I'm here for all of it. Therapy, for me, is a space where every part of you is welcome-the overwhelmed parts, the guarded parts, the tired-from-holding-it-all-together parts. I know how risky it can feel to let someone in and allow yourself to be truly seen. Many of the patterns we carry were built out of necessity; they once helped us feel safe, even if they now keep us feeling stuck.
I'm here for all of it. Therapy, for me, is a space where every part of you is welcome-the overwhelmed parts, the guarded parts, the tired-from-holding-it-all-together parts. I know how risky it can feel to let someone in and allow yourself to be truly seen. Many of the patterns we carry were built out of necessity; they once helped us feel safe, even if they now keep us feeling stuck.
(480) 568-3391 View (480) 568-3391
Photo of Angela Bonner, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CFRA
Angela Bonner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CFRA
North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ 85085
*ONLY ACCEPTING FIRST RESPONDERS AT THIS TIME* Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, and/or unresolved trauma? Are your coping skills no longer working or do you find them doing more harm than good? When one is so overwhelmed by their problems it can be very difficult to find the solution to the problem. We as humans will look at the same old situation with old ideas and old perspectives. It can be helpful to get a FRESH, NEUTRAL perspective to that old situation. Together, we can break the dysfunctional cycles of self-doubt, negative self-talk, low self-esteem among other areas of difficulties.
*ONLY ACCEPTING FIRST RESPONDERS AT THIS TIME* Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, and/or unresolved trauma? Are your coping skills no longer working or do you find them doing more harm than good? When one is so overwhelmed by their problems it can be very difficult to find the solution to the problem. We as humans will look at the same old situation with old ideas and old perspectives. It can be helpful to get a FRESH, NEUTRAL perspective to that old situation. Together, we can break the dysfunctional cycles of self-doubt, negative self-talk, low self-esteem among other areas of difficulties.
(623) 866-4684 View (623) 866-4684
Photo of Denise Decker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Denise Decker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ 85086
Feeling Stuck? Your Metabolic Health May Be Affecting Your Mental Health. We often think of mental health as something that exists only in the mind — but emerging research shows a powerful connection between metabolic health and our emotional well-being. Insulin resistance, blood sugar swings, oxidative stress, chronic stress, inflammation, and sleep disruption can all influence mood, motivation, focus, and emotional regulation. Many people discover that when their metabolic health improves, their clarity, stability, and overall resilience improve as well.
Feeling Stuck? Your Metabolic Health May Be Affecting Your Mental Health. We often think of mental health as something that exists only in the mind — but emerging research shows a powerful connection between metabolic health and our emotional well-being. Insulin resistance, blood sugar swings, oxidative stress, chronic stress, inflammation, and sleep disruption can all influence mood, motivation, focus, and emotional regulation. Many people discover that when their metabolic health improves, their clarity, stability, and overall resilience improve as well.
(928) 382-3466 View (928) 382-3466
Photo of Angie Boswell, MSW, LMSW, CBC, SBHP
Angie Boswell
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ 85085
Are you grieving your past, present and future? Do you feel like you are trying to find peace or resolution? Have you stopped caring for yourself because you are caring for others? I help those grieving their loss of physical capacity due to unexpected health conditions, caregivers who find their roles rapidly changing, and military members and their family members facing transition due to deployment, role changes and service related injuries. I work with individuals who need support finding meaning, safety and acceptance with their present moment while honoring their journey- helping you find meaning and purpose in the now.
Are you grieving your past, present and future? Do you feel like you are trying to find peace or resolution? Have you stopped caring for yourself because you are caring for others? I help those grieving their loss of physical capacity due to unexpected health conditions, caregivers who find their roles rapidly changing, and military members and their family members facing transition due to deployment, role changes and service related injuries. I work with individuals who need support finding meaning, safety and acceptance with their present moment while honoring their journey- helping you find meaning and purpose in the now.
(480) 690-9557 View (480) 690-9557
Photo of Krista Borgwardt, Counselor, LIMHP, LICSW, LPC
Krista Borgwardt
Counselor, LIMHP, LICSW, LPC
3 Endorsed
North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ 85085
Are your life experiences challenging, painful and/or overwhelming? Struggling with your self-worth? Concerned about sex issues with a partner? We'll focus on you learning to identify and heal from painful experiences that prevent you from living your best quality of life. In a safe, nurturing and non-judgmental environment we will address your healing, strength discovery and relationships. Everyone is unique, so I use a holistic approach to work closely with you to create a customized treatment plan. I am here to help you fully recover and have a better relationship with yourself and others.
Are your life experiences challenging, painful and/or overwhelming? Struggling with your self-worth? Concerned about sex issues with a partner? We'll focus on you learning to identify and heal from painful experiences that prevent you from living your best quality of life. In a safe, nurturing and non-judgmental environment we will address your healing, strength discovery and relationships. Everyone is unique, so I use a holistic approach to work closely with you to create a customized treatment plan. I am here to help you fully recover and have a better relationship with yourself and others.
(402) 532-0048 View (402) 532-0048
Photo of Jordyn Oleson - Christian Counseling Care, Counselor
Christian Counseling Care
Counselor
3 Endorsed
North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ 85085
Taking a holistic approach as a counselor in trauma, her goal is to help clients gain skills and coping mechanisms. So that most sensitive topics become testimonials. Turning what can be the worst situations to go through, into building blocks of who you become. Her passion is helping clients with a wide range of needs. Her personal background includes experiences with surviving extensive domestic violence involving the court systems, sexual assault, PTSD, childhood trauma, complex family scenarios, divorced parents, and helping all ages develop self helping skills to navigate life's challenges as they come.
Taking a holistic approach as a counselor in trauma, her goal is to help clients gain skills and coping mechanisms. So that most sensitive topics become testimonials. Turning what can be the worst situations to go through, into building blocks of who you become. Her passion is helping clients with a wide range of needs. Her personal background includes experiences with surviving extensive domestic violence involving the court systems, sexual assault, PTSD, childhood trauma, complex family scenarios, divorced parents, and helping all ages develop self helping skills to navigate life's challenges as they come.
(520) 337-9278 View (520) 337-9278
Photo of Carly Riethmann - Crossroads Counseling - Carly Riethmann, Counselor, MS, LAC
Crossroads Counseling - Carly Riethmann
Counselor, MS, LAC
North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ 85086
I am currently accepting new clients! I believe in meeting my clients where they are in their journey, and providing a safe and nonjudgmental space for exploration and healing. I am trained in CBT and DBT and my goal is to empower my clients to discover their strengths and build resilience. I have experience working with adolescents and young adults as well as in anxiety, trauma, depression, and self-esteem and body positivity.
I am currently accepting new clients! I believe in meeting my clients where they are in their journey, and providing a safe and nonjudgmental space for exploration and healing. I am trained in CBT and DBT and my goal is to empower my clients to discover their strengths and build resilience. I have experience working with adolescents and young adults as well as in anxiety, trauma, depression, and self-esteem and body positivity.
(480) 637-2233 View (480) 637-2233
Photo of Lauren Jack, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MC
Lauren Jack
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MC
1 Endorsed
North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ 85086
Have you ever noticed that the same themes keep coming up, preventing you from living the life you want to live. Perhaps you feel stuck and need guidance to break free from your limiting cycle. As a therapist, my greatest reward is helping my clients make connections and insights that cultivate lasting change and foster strong relationships. I offer my clients a professional atmosphere that includes compassion and insight guiding my clients to make meaningful connections. As one client stated "Lauren possesses a unique quality to be able to guided our therapy so that every session was important and productive."
Have you ever noticed that the same themes keep coming up, preventing you from living the life you want to live. Perhaps you feel stuck and need guidance to break free from your limiting cycle. As a therapist, my greatest reward is helping my clients make connections and insights that cultivate lasting change and foster strong relationships. I offer my clients a professional atmosphere that includes compassion and insight guiding my clients to make meaningful connections. As one client stated "Lauren possesses a unique quality to be able to guided our therapy so that every session was important and productive."
(602) 359-3333 View (602) 359-3333
Photo of Tara Dorman, Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC
Tara Dorman
Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC
6 Endorsed
North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ 85086
Throughout life we will all experience difficulties and need someone to guide and support us through these times. I am no stranger to this and I know how much courage and strength it takes to reach out for help. Whatever situation you are in, I would love to help you find relief and healing.
Throughout life we will all experience difficulties and need someone to guide and support us through these times. I am no stranger to this and I know how much courage and strength it takes to reach out for help. Whatever situation you are in, I would love to help you find relief and healing.
(480) 400-0787 View (480) 400-0787

See more therapy options for North Gateway, Phoenix

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ

80+

Average cost per session

$140

Therapists in North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ who prioritize treating:

98% Anxiety
87% Depression
77% Trauma and PTSD
76% Stress
71% Self Esteem
64% Life Transitions
63% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

95% Aetna
67% Cigna and Evernorth
65% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in North Gateway, Phoenix, AZ see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in North Gateway, Phoenix?

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.