Therapists in Kentfield, CA

Photo of Ryan Woodring, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kentfield, CA
Ryan Woodring
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
I hope you will consider me a trusted ally in your journey to personal and professional growth. My mission is to provide you with the tools and support needed to create a life filled with joy and fulfillment. I believe in the power of genuine connection and practical guidance to help you navigate through life's challenges with confidence and resilience.
I hope you will consider me a trusted ally in your journey to personal and professional growth. My mission is to provide you with the tools and support needed to create a life filled with joy and fulfillment. I believe in the power of genuine connection and practical guidance to help you navigate through life's challenges with confidence and resilience.
(415) 691-2248 View (415) 691-2248
Photo of Chloe Martin, Psychologist in Kentfield, CA
Chloe Martin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
Not accepting new clients
Living with medical illness can bring stress and suffering on many levels, to the patient and caregivers. I work with my clients, consulting with their medical team as appropriate, to address this suffering in a holistic manner, keeping the client's priorities and definition of quality of life front and center.
Living with medical illness can bring stress and suffering on many levels, to the patient and caregivers. I work with my clients, consulting with their medical team as appropriate, to address this suffering in a holistic manner, keeping the client's priorities and definition of quality of life front and center.
(415) 275-6593 View (415) 275-6593
Photo of Sarah Alexander, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kentfield, CA
Sarah Alexander
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
I hold a deeply calm, present, and nurturing space for your brightest dreams and your darkest wounds. Whatever your concerns, you will feel sincerely heard, held, and guided in a safe and constructive way. You will be supported in discovering and reclaiming hidden or submerged parts of your fullest self, as well as the positive and promising reasons behind the challenges that you face. Together, we will creatively explore new and vital directions for you, internally and dynamically, into the world. My commitment is for your purpose to become more grounded, more meaningful, more genuinely alive.
I hold a deeply calm, present, and nurturing space for your brightest dreams and your darkest wounds. Whatever your concerns, you will feel sincerely heard, held, and guided in a safe and constructive way. You will be supported in discovering and reclaiming hidden or submerged parts of your fullest self, as well as the positive and promising reasons behind the challenges that you face. Together, we will creatively explore new and vital directions for you, internally and dynamically, into the world. My commitment is for your purpose to become more grounded, more meaningful, more genuinely alive.
(415) 801-0119 View (415) 801-0119
Photo of Christina Leone Klein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kentfield, CA
Christina Leone Klein
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, R-PLC
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
I bring a warm, client-centered style to working with my clients. My approach incorporates psychodynamic principles, developmental and attachment theory as well as CBT and ACT strategies and tools. I see it as a true honor to walk with individuals as they discover their own story and begin to experience positive change in their own lives.
I bring a warm, client-centered style to working with my clients. My approach incorporates psychodynamic principles, developmental and attachment theory as well as CBT and ACT strategies and tools. I see it as a true honor to walk with individuals as they discover their own story and begin to experience positive change in their own lives.
(415) 534-4291 View (415) 534-4291
Photo of Stirling Somers, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kentfield, CA
Stirling Somers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
I start with where you are. My approach is pragmatic, dynamic, and solution oriented based on client-centered goals. I truly enjoy working with elementary age children, older teens/young adults and older adults.
I start with where you are. My approach is pragmatic, dynamic, and solution oriented based on client-centered goals. I truly enjoy working with elementary age children, older teens/young adults and older adults.
(415) 548-7313 View (415) 548-7313
Photo of Nancy Haugen, PhD, Psychologist in Kentfield, CA
Nancy Haugen, PhD
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
Therapy only works when there is a "sense of connection". Research discovered that for therapy to be successful, the client needed to have a feeling of connection. There are two parts to that: 1. You feel like the therapist really knows what they are doing. 2. You feel like the therapist REALLY gets who you are. For me, the art in therapy is the ability to listen between the lines to be able to understand the nuances that make you, you. You should know in the first session whether the therapist is the right fit for you.
Therapy only works when there is a "sense of connection". Research discovered that for therapy to be successful, the client needed to have a feeling of connection. There are two parts to that: 1. You feel like the therapist really knows what they are doing. 2. You feel like the therapist REALLY gets who you are. For me, the art in therapy is the ability to listen between the lines to be able to understand the nuances that make you, you. You should know in the first session whether the therapist is the right fit for you.
(415) 991-1215 View (415) 991-1215
Photo of Leila Zwelling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kentfield, CA
Leila Zwelling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
Specializing in women's mental health across the lifespan, with a focus on the reproductive years, relationships, and trauma. Focus areas include infertility & loss; single women childless not by choice; LGBT family building; pregnancy & postpartum. I also work with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety and healing from trauma. While I specialize in women's mental health, I welcome clients who identify throughout the gender identity spectrum.
Specializing in women's mental health across the lifespan, with a focus on the reproductive years, relationships, and trauma. Focus areas include infertility & loss; single women childless not by choice; LGBT family building; pregnancy & postpartum. I also work with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety and healing from trauma. While I specialize in women's mental health, I welcome clients who identify throughout the gender identity spectrum.
(415) 991-7762 View (415) 991-7762
Photo of Lori Sparrow, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kentfield, CA
Lori Sparrow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
I help anxious clients who want to build healthy relationships and meaningful lives . I specialize in treating anxiety disorders including panic, fear of flying, general anxiety, OCD, and social anxiety, with evidence based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I treat individuals and couples with relationship issues including addiction using Schema therapy, ACT, and Gottman methods. I am a behaviorist and believe changing behaviors is fundamental to changing outcomes. I work with clients on active life skills and narratives to thrive and create meaning and connection. I work with psychiatrists, physicians and support 12 step groups.
I help anxious clients who want to build healthy relationships and meaningful lives . I specialize in treating anxiety disorders including panic, fear of flying, general anxiety, OCD, and social anxiety, with evidence based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I treat individuals and couples with relationship issues including addiction using Schema therapy, ACT, and Gottman methods. I am a behaviorist and believe changing behaviors is fundamental to changing outcomes. I work with clients on active life skills and narratives to thrive and create meaning and connection. I work with psychiatrists, physicians and support 12 step groups.
(415) 712-2208 View (415) 712-2208
Photo of Suzanna de Sanz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kentfield, CA
Suzanna de Sanz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
Therapy provides an opportunity to better understand ourselves and our experiences. You may be feeling stuck in old patterns, ready for a change, but unsure where to start. You may be struggling with new symptoms after a recent life transition or traumatic event. You may just need a space to be yourself and be heard. As a therapist I am direct, compassionate, and practical. My goal is to help clients gain a sense of balance and fulfillment in their lives. I work collaboratively with clients to explore areas of change, gain insight into patterns, develop practical strategies, and improve relationships with self and others.
Therapy provides an opportunity to better understand ourselves and our experiences. You may be feeling stuck in old patterns, ready for a change, but unsure where to start. You may be struggling with new symptoms after a recent life transition or traumatic event. You may just need a space to be yourself and be heard. As a therapist I am direct, compassionate, and practical. My goal is to help clients gain a sense of balance and fulfillment in their lives. I work collaboratively with clients to explore areas of change, gain insight into patterns, develop practical strategies, and improve relationships with self and others.
(415) 870-3347 View (415) 870-3347
Photo of Carly Clifford Bloom, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kentfield, CA
Carly Clifford Bloom
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kentfield, CA 94904
You have tried everything…taken all the yoga classes, lifted all the weights, read one (or two) of Brené Brown’s books, but none of it seems like enough. There is still that thing that keeps coming up and gets in the way of living your best life. Perhaps you are still full of anxiety even though you’re meditating every day. Maybe you’re drinking too much, feel disconnected from life, or just can’t seem to find the right relationship—whatever it is, you feel trapped in this cycle and recognize that you might need some help breaking free. ​Getting to this point is really tough and it's incredibly brave to seek help.
You have tried everything…taken all the yoga classes, lifted all the weights, read one (or two) of Brené Brown’s books, but none of it seems like enough. There is still that thing that keeps coming up and gets in the way of living your best life. Perhaps you are still full of anxiety even though you’re meditating every day. Maybe you’re drinking too much, feel disconnected from life, or just can’t seem to find the right relationship—whatever it is, you feel trapped in this cycle and recognize that you might need some help breaking free. ​Getting to this point is really tough and it's incredibly brave to seek help.
(415) 449-7005 View (415) 449-7005
Photo of Linda Boghrati, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kentfield, CA
Linda Boghrati
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
Personal struggle can be an opportunity. I'm certain you have heard this before. The question is how to find the opportunity in your struggle. Finding answers requires asking the right questions and sometimes those are hard to come up with alone, especially when feeling overwhelmed and unsure of which way to turn. I am committed to creating a welcoming, safe and collaborative environment where we can explore and consider possible solutions. I am dedicated to helping you find your path forward by better understanding your relationship with yourself and with others.
Personal struggle can be an opportunity. I'm certain you have heard this before. The question is how to find the opportunity in your struggle. Finding answers requires asking the right questions and sometimes those are hard to come up with alone, especially when feeling overwhelmed and unsure of which way to turn. I am committed to creating a welcoming, safe and collaborative environment where we can explore and consider possible solutions. I am dedicated to helping you find your path forward by better understanding your relationship with yourself and with others.
(415) 449-8392 View (415) 449-8392
Photo of Patricia F Ross, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kentfield, CA
Patricia F Ross
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kentfield, CA 94904  (Online Only)
Do you suffer from depression, anxiety, relationship or job-related issues? Psychotherapy can be extremely helpful. For 25 years I've worked with people struggling with these problems as well as substance abuse, recovery, women's issues and aging. "Patricia Ross is one of the smartest, warmest, most thoughtful, present, and trustworthy therapists it's been my pleasure to teach. She is real. From her experiences in living (as a wife, mother, musician, and lifelong learner) she has gained a significant measure of wisdom. I have referred patients to her before and will do so again." David Wallin, PhD (Author of Attachment in Psychotherapy)
Do you suffer from depression, anxiety, relationship or job-related issues? Psychotherapy can be extremely helpful. For 25 years I've worked with people struggling with these problems as well as substance abuse, recovery, women's issues and aging. "Patricia Ross is one of the smartest, warmest, most thoughtful, present, and trustworthy therapists it's been my pleasure to teach. She is real. From her experiences in living (as a wife, mother, musician, and lifelong learner) she has gained a significant measure of wisdom. I have referred patients to her before and will do so again." David Wallin, PhD (Author of Attachment in Psychotherapy)
(415) 702-0932 View (415) 702-0932
Photo of Renee Spencer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kentfield, CA
Renee Spencer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Kentfield, CA 94904  (Online Only)
You may be educated, even outwardly successful, but struggle to feel good about yourself, have difficulties with close relationships or just want more out of life. I believe it's human to struggle and that we all can benefit from self exploration. You stand to gain, and so does your partner, children, friends, even co-workers when you're bringing more of your best self to the game. My style is active and I bring humor and compassion to help you develop solutions as well as grow from your struggles. A seasoned therapist, my approach is flexible and practical, tailored to meet your needs. I'm LGBTQIA sensitive and welcoming.
You may be educated, even outwardly successful, but struggle to feel good about yourself, have difficulties with close relationships or just want more out of life. I believe it's human to struggle and that we all can benefit from self exploration. You stand to gain, and so does your partner, children, friends, even co-workers when you're bringing more of your best self to the game. My style is active and I bring humor and compassion to help you develop solutions as well as grow from your struggles. A seasoned therapist, my approach is flexible and practical, tailored to meet your needs. I'm LGBTQIA sensitive and welcoming.
(415) 429-3431 View (415) 429-3431
Photo of Caroline Hoeveler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kentfield, CA
Caroline Hoeveler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
I provide psychotherapy to people who would like to find healing, happiness and peace in the midst of life’s challenges. Critical elements of my approach are deep and persistent compassion, acceptance, collaboration and partnership. My goal is to help you develop strategies and coping skills, cultivate new attitudes and increase insight while all along holding space to honor your journey and inner strengths. This is done by exploring the functions behind emotions, thoughts, behaviors and beliefs, all of which are valid and important, but can be difficult to interpret in the chaos of everyday life.
I provide psychotherapy to people who would like to find healing, happiness and peace in the midst of life’s challenges. Critical elements of my approach are deep and persistent compassion, acceptance, collaboration and partnership. My goal is to help you develop strategies and coping skills, cultivate new attitudes and increase insight while all along holding space to honor your journey and inner strengths. This is done by exploring the functions behind emotions, thoughts, behaviors and beliefs, all of which are valid and important, but can be difficult to interpret in the chaos of everyday life.
(415) 903-1504 View (415) 903-1504
Photo of Melissa Perry, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kentfield, CA
Melissa Perry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kentfield, CA 94904  (Online Only)
Welcome! I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and grief. Healing isn't easy, but with the right support and information, you can learn how to encourage your own healing and begin to feel better. In addition to traditional in-office sessions, I work remotely and outdoors. I value the process of helping my clients prioritize themselves and their needs as they navigate difficult times and connect to a stronger sense of well-being.
Welcome! I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and grief. Healing isn't easy, but with the right support and information, you can learn how to encourage your own healing and begin to feel better. In addition to traditional in-office sessions, I work remotely and outdoors. I value the process of helping my clients prioritize themselves and their needs as they navigate difficult times and connect to a stronger sense of well-being.
(415) 687-2327 View (415) 687-2327
Photo of Diane Hough, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kentfield, CA
Diane Hough
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94914
I have been licensed as a Marriage Family Therapist and life coach for over 27 years. I see a client's issues in the context of the unfolding of the whole person. Making life changes can be a powerfully transformative experience. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to my clients needs and interests, depending on whether you are more interested counseling or coaching, individual or couple's work. I offer a complimentary phone con to determine whether we may be a good fit. I offer a nonjudgmental and safe space to explore your concerns while also wanting to get you results. My style is supportive, and direct.
I have been licensed as a Marriage Family Therapist and life coach for over 27 years. I see a client's issues in the context of the unfolding of the whole person. Making life changes can be a powerfully transformative experience. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to my clients needs and interests, depending on whether you are more interested counseling or coaching, individual or couple's work. I offer a complimentary phone con to determine whether we may be a good fit. I offer a nonjudgmental and safe space to explore your concerns while also wanting to get you results. My style is supportive, and direct.
(415) 312-0744 View (415) 312-0744
Photo of Robert P. Reiser, Psychologist in Kentfield, CA
Robert P. Reiser
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
I provide compassionate and caring evidence based treatment using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I treat problems including generalized anxiety disorder, depression, panic, PTSD and OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I work primarily with adults, older adults, adolescents (ages 16+) and their families. Cognitive therapy is active, directive, and structured- each session focuses on a specific set of problems. I am especially interested in helping young adults who are experiencing more complex and serious mental illnesses (such as bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders) and their families.
I provide compassionate and caring evidence based treatment using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I treat problems including generalized anxiety disorder, depression, panic, PTSD and OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I work primarily with adults, older adults, adolescents (ages 16+) and their families. Cognitive therapy is active, directive, and structured- each session focuses on a specific set of problems. I am especially interested in helping young adults who are experiencing more complex and serious mental illnesses (such as bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders) and their families.
(415) 967-5270 View (415) 967-5270
Photo of Maia J Newman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kentfield, CA
Maia J Newman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
I'm Maia Newman, a seasoned licensed therapist working with individuals and couples determined to improve their lives. I can help you with all of your relationship concerns; from being single and seeking a relationship to adjusting from a divorce or the loss of a partner. If you are in a relationship I can assist you with keeping passion alive over time, improving communication, negotiating life transitions and role changes, aligning parenting, healing after an affair, or separating from your partner if that is the healthiest option. I have successfully helped many couples in times of crisis to stay together.
I'm Maia Newman, a seasoned licensed therapist working with individuals and couples determined to improve their lives. I can help you with all of your relationship concerns; from being single and seeking a relationship to adjusting from a divorce or the loss of a partner. If you are in a relationship I can assist you with keeping passion alive over time, improving communication, negotiating life transitions and role changes, aligning parenting, healing after an affair, or separating from your partner if that is the healthiest option. I have successfully helped many couples in times of crisis to stay together.
(650) 485-3914 View (650) 485-3914
Photo of Herb Kessner, Counselor in Kentfield, CA
Herb Kessner
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Kentfield, CA 94904
Making a career change can be a powerful and transforming experience. I offer a wide range of personal testing, action planning, career counseling and professional development In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere. I have a highly personalized approach tailored to each of our client's individual needs, to help them attain the personal growth & success they're striving for. My combination of long business experience, psychological insight and career counseling provides you with the tools you need to discover your strengths, develop your action plan and achieve your next steps.
Making a career change can be a powerful and transforming experience. I offer a wide range of personal testing, action planning, career counseling and professional development In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere. I have a highly personalized approach tailored to each of our client's individual needs, to help them attain the personal growth & success they're striving for. My combination of long business experience, psychological insight and career counseling provides you with the tools you need to discover your strengths, develop your action plan and achieve your next steps.
(415) 849-3723 View (415) 849-3723
Photo of Thom Kessler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kentfield, CA
Thom Kessler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kentfield, CA 94904
Whether your decision to make changes involves freedom from painful limiting beliefs, release from repetitive relationship patterns, or transformation through sincere self-examination, I help people to fully realize the person they are destined to become. I work with adults, couples, teens, and families, helping them to successfully attain short-term goals and craft long-range solutions by utilizing a variety of approaches matched to their specific needs or expressed desires as they learn new ways to address life's challenges. As a level 3 Gottman couples therapist, I work with couples utilizing John Gottman's evidence-based theory.
Whether your decision to make changes involves freedom from painful limiting beliefs, release from repetitive relationship patterns, or transformation through sincere self-examination, I help people to fully realize the person they are destined to become. I work with adults, couples, teens, and families, helping them to successfully attain short-term goals and craft long-range solutions by utilizing a variety of approaches matched to their specific needs or expressed desires as they learn new ways to address life's challenges. As a level 3 Gottman couples therapist, I work with couples utilizing John Gottman's evidence-based theory.
(415) 454-8931 View (415) 454-8931

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Kentfield, CA

100+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in Kentfield, CA who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
90% Depression
85% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
69% Grief
67% Parenting
58% Family Conflict

Average years in practice

18 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

57% Other
39% Aetna
26% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Kentfield, CA see their clients

87% In Person and Online
13% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Kentfield?

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.