Therapists in Highland Park, NJ

Photo of Julia Feiring - Neurodiverse Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Highland Park, NJ
Julia Feiring - Neurodiverse Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904  (Online Only)
I am a psychotherapist licensed in New Jersey and Massachusetts. My practice specializes in working with ADHD, Autistic and Neurodivergent adults, teens and their families. This includes those who are self diagnosed, late diagnosed and exploring diagnosis. I have over ten years experience working with a variety of clients including those facing anxiety, depression, infertility, life transitions, parenting, chronic illness, and cultural challenges.
I am a psychotherapist licensed in New Jersey and Massachusetts. My practice specializes in working with ADHD, Autistic and Neurodivergent adults, teens and their families. This includes those who are self diagnosed, late diagnosed and exploring diagnosis. I have over ten years experience working with a variety of clients including those facing anxiety, depression, infertility, life transitions, parenting, chronic illness, and cultural challenges.
(732) 696-4694 View (732) 696-4694
Photo of Jason Wasser, Marriage & Family Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Jason Wasser
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
I have been licensed in Florida since 2005 and now offer services in NJ. I partner with clients who are looking for something different than the "more of the same old school" approach. There is no " how does that make you feel", instead I use a collaborative partnership with you to make effective change and aim to make this process as exciting as possible. I work with individuals, children, couples and families & a wide variety of challenges. My goal is to work with my clients to rapidly achieve their goals and have them "fire me" as soon as possible! Want a taste of how I work, check out my You Winning Life Podcast!
I have been licensed in Florida since 2005 and now offer services in NJ. I partner with clients who are looking for something different than the "more of the same old school" approach. There is no " how does that make you feel", instead I use a collaborative partnership with you to make effective change and aim to make this process as exciting as possible. I work with individuals, children, couples and families & a wide variety of challenges. My goal is to work with my clients to rapidly achieve their goals and have them "fire me" as soon as possible! Want a taste of how I work, check out my You Winning Life Podcast!
(732) 838-6404 View (732) 838-6404
Photo of Jeffrey Pusar, Psychologist in Highland Park, NJ
Jeffrey Pusar
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
My practice specializes in helping people deal with life's increasingly complex challenges with special focus on the psychological demands of finding joy and happiness in one's life. Treatment includes finding one's inner authentic self which gets lost in the face of life's problems. My focus includes helping people cope with emotional isolation and loneliness as well as developing and maintaining one's personal life to find happiness, fulfillment and intimacy in primary relationships. My practice also includes helping women find pleasure and satisfaction in dealing with the impossible balance of work, home and relationship life.
My practice specializes in helping people deal with life's increasingly complex challenges with special focus on the psychological demands of finding joy and happiness in one's life. Treatment includes finding one's inner authentic self which gets lost in the face of life's problems. My focus includes helping people cope with emotional isolation and loneliness as well as developing and maintaining one's personal life to find happiness, fulfillment and intimacy in primary relationships. My practice also includes helping women find pleasure and satisfaction in dealing with the impossible balance of work, home and relationship life.
(732) 852-7034 View (732) 852-7034
Photo of Megan Patterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Megan Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904
My practice is based on the understanding that many clients have suffered overwhelming, traumatic, or adverse childhood experiences regardless of whether they are coming to therapy specifically due to these experiences. With compassion and care, I approach every session from a trauma informed lens. Instead of asking, "What is wrong with you?" I explore, "What have you experienced in your life and how might these symptoms be a response to it?" I am also particularly sensitive to the needs of often undiagnosed adults with ADHD and how trauma and the ADHD brain are interconnected.
My practice is based on the understanding that many clients have suffered overwhelming, traumatic, or adverse childhood experiences regardless of whether they are coming to therapy specifically due to these experiences. With compassion and care, I approach every session from a trauma informed lens. Instead of asking, "What is wrong with you?" I explore, "What have you experienced in your life and how might these symptoms be a response to it?" I am also particularly sensitive to the needs of often undiagnosed adults with ADHD and how trauma and the ADHD brain are interconnected.
(347) 851-1558 View (347) 851-1558
Photo of Ben Madsen, Psychologist in Highland Park, NJ
Ben Madsen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904
I began my career working in public, private, and special education school environments. In each setting, I worked with teachers, parents, administrators and coaches to address the unique needs of students. In private practice, I will work with you and your family to address mental health challenges faced by teens, young adults, and parents. Although I specialize in teens, young adults, and parents, I am capable and prepared to work with clients of all ages.
I began my career working in public, private, and special education school environments. In each setting, I worked with teachers, parents, administrators and coaches to address the unique needs of students. In private practice, I will work with you and your family to address mental health challenges faced by teens, young adults, and parents. Although I specialize in teens, young adults, and parents, I am capable and prepared to work with clients of all ages.
(732) 314-1008 View (732) 314-1008
Photo of Brett Sheldon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Brett Sheldon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Imagine you're in a brightly lit, comfortable and spacious room with lots of natural light pouring in. It's very easy to see and feel safe. Suddenly the windows go black blocking the sun light, the lights in the room go off and you can't see a thing. The sense of spaciousness gives way to pitch black darkness and you since you can't see you're too scared to move. The first thing you need to do is calm down if you feel fear or anger. If you feel paralyzed you need to start believing in yourself. Once you can think straight, you can start taking steps towards finding a way to create light and dispel the darkness.
Imagine you're in a brightly lit, comfortable and spacious room with lots of natural light pouring in. It's very easy to see and feel safe. Suddenly the windows go black blocking the sun light, the lights in the room go off and you can't see a thing. The sense of spaciousness gives way to pitch black darkness and you since you can't see you're too scared to move. The first thing you need to do is calm down if you feel fear or anger. If you feel paralyzed you need to start believing in yourself. Once you can think straight, you can start taking steps towards finding a way to create light and dispel the darkness.
(848) 244-8171 View (848) 244-8171
Photo of Alexandra Goldstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Alexandra Goldstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904  (Online Only)
When you are overwhelmed with emotions like doubt, anxiety or even emptiness, it may feel as though you are drowning in an ocean of despair. You’ve probably told the closest people in your life about what you’re experiencing, but you fear being a burden to someone else and you can’t seem to shut off the negative thoughts that continue to invade your brain. The worry and loss of control you feel may manifest into eating disorders, OCD, and various anxiety disorders in order to temporarily relieve pain. That's when a mental health professional can help!
When you are overwhelmed with emotions like doubt, anxiety or even emptiness, it may feel as though you are drowning in an ocean of despair. You’ve probably told the closest people in your life about what you’re experiencing, but you fear being a burden to someone else and you can’t seem to shut off the negative thoughts that continue to invade your brain. The worry and loss of control you feel may manifest into eating disorders, OCD, and various anxiety disorders in order to temporarily relieve pain. That's when a mental health professional can help!
(732) 592-5710 View (732) 592-5710
Photo of Elinor Bashe, Psychologist in Highland Park, NJ
Elinor Bashe
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Have you ever said: "No one ever taught me how to be a parent or spouse?" Perhaps navigating the relationships at work is posing a challenge. I help clients look at patterns of communication and behaviors that aren't working and help them understand their origins. Together, we develop an understanding of what is causing the difficulties so that we may address them successfully. I've been a psychologist for 25 years, helping clients enhance their relationships with family members, friends and colleagues. While much of my work is with adults, I am also a child psychologist.
Have you ever said: "No one ever taught me how to be a parent or spouse?" Perhaps navigating the relationships at work is posing a challenge. I help clients look at patterns of communication and behaviors that aren't working and help them understand their origins. Together, we develop an understanding of what is causing the difficulties so that we may address them successfully. I've been a psychologist for 25 years, helping clients enhance their relationships with family members, friends and colleagues. While much of my work is with adults, I am also a child psychologist.
(732) 333-8625 x2 View (732) 333-8625 x2
Photo of Donna Wolfskehl Distefano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Donna Wolfskehl Distefano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
If painful experiences were met with confusing or anxious responses from others or described in manners that did not respond to emotional needs, then a child or individual would likely cope with difficulties by disconnecting from the threatening emotional meanings. We need another at times, or search for a healing process. If you have been struggling with strong feelings or a particular situation, it is time to get help. You can find the way through fears, loss or other struggles. I am here to support you through your struggles, through personal hardships, finding truths or make sense of confusion in your mind or life.
If painful experiences were met with confusing or anxious responses from others or described in manners that did not respond to emotional needs, then a child or individual would likely cope with difficulties by disconnecting from the threatening emotional meanings. We need another at times, or search for a healing process. If you have been struggling with strong feelings or a particular situation, it is time to get help. You can find the way through fears, loss or other struggles. I am here to support you through your struggles, through personal hardships, finding truths or make sense of confusion in your mind or life.
(732) 204-6462 View (732) 204-6462
Photo of Stephanie Field, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Stephanie Field
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Therapy sort of sucks. Who wants to call a stranger and talk about why you're suffering? I promise we won't sit in awkward silence the first time we meet! I will do my best to make therapy as painless as possible. I also offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) for couples and individuals in partnership with the organization Journey Clinical. KAP may be appropriate for treatment resistant depression, trauma, addictions, OCD and anxiety. I provide integration sessions for all psychedelic experiences. My mission is to assist you in restoring happiness and clarity to your life; my style is warm, practical and engaging.
Therapy sort of sucks. Who wants to call a stranger and talk about why you're suffering? I promise we won't sit in awkward silence the first time we meet! I will do my best to make therapy as painless as possible. I also offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) for couples and individuals in partnership with the organization Journey Clinical. KAP may be appropriate for treatment resistant depression, trauma, addictions, OCD and anxiety. I provide integration sessions for all psychedelic experiences. My mission is to assist you in restoring happiness and clarity to your life; my style is warm, practical and engaging.
(973) 988-2653 View (973) 988-2653
Perspectives Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Are you or your loved one experiencing difficulty managing emotions, chaotic relationships, overwhelming stress, or high risk behaviors? Have other treatments been unsuccessful? We offer evidenced based treatments designed to help you gain control of your life and adopt healthy and balanced thinking/behaviors. Individuals will gain greater awareness of self, ability to manage emotions, improve relationships, and build a life worth living. We offer a safe environment, personalized treatment plans, and are dedicated to helping you reach your personal goals.
Are you or your loved one experiencing difficulty managing emotions, chaotic relationships, overwhelming stress, or high risk behaviors? Have other treatments been unsuccessful? We offer evidenced based treatments designed to help you gain control of your life and adopt healthy and balanced thinking/behaviors. Individuals will gain greater awareness of self, ability to manage emotions, improve relationships, and build a life worth living. We offer a safe environment, personalized treatment plans, and are dedicated to helping you reach your personal goals.
(732) 831-7534 View (732) 831-7534
Photo of David Patrick Munck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
David Patrick Munck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC-I, ICGC-C
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
C.G. Jung stated, "In many cases in therapy the patient who has come to us has a story that is not told, and which as a rule no one knows of. To my mind, therapy only really begins after the investigation of that wholly personal story. It is the patient's secret, the rock against which s/he is shattered." My practice involves creating a client/therapist relationship and environment where this wholly personal story can be explored and brought to consciousness. I work to create a safe, accepting, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space that will bring wholeness and meaning to the suffering that every human experiences.
C.G. Jung stated, "In many cases in therapy the patient who has come to us has a story that is not told, and which as a rule no one knows of. To my mind, therapy only really begins after the investigation of that wholly personal story. It is the patient's secret, the rock against which s/he is shattered." My practice involves creating a client/therapist relationship and environment where this wholly personal story can be explored and brought to consciousness. I work to create a safe, accepting, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space that will bring wholeness and meaning to the suffering that every human experiences.
(732) 537-8533 View (732) 537-8533
Photo of Candice Covington- Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Candice Covington- Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
"Aging is Inevitable but Growth is a Function of Choice." These are trying times and making time for yourself and your needs may be the first step towards growth, change, and a peace of mind. I have been treating individuals,couples, and families for over 20 years in a variety of settings including in-home based therapies, private community clinics, outpatient hospital based clinics, and private practice. The first step can be the most difficult. The fit between therapist and client is critical.
"Aging is Inevitable but Growth is a Function of Choice." These are trying times and making time for yourself and your needs may be the first step towards growth, change, and a peace of mind. I have been treating individuals,couples, and families for over 20 years in a variety of settings including in-home based therapies, private community clinics, outpatient hospital based clinics, and private practice. The first step can be the most difficult. The fit between therapist and client is critical.
(732) 333-8582 View (732) 333-8582
Hilary Chaya Drucker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904  (Online Only)
I focus on helping clients of all ages and backgrounds heal their pain, overcome their challenges, develop their strengths, resources and resilience and accomplish their goals. I provide a positive, integrative, comprehensive approach, treating a broad range of mood, behavioral and relationship challenges. I have 30 years experience with children and adults in individual, couples, family and parent/child modalities.
I focus on helping clients of all ages and backgrounds heal their pain, overcome their challenges, develop their strengths, resources and resilience and accomplish their goals. I provide a positive, integrative, comprehensive approach, treating a broad range of mood, behavioral and relationship challenges. I have 30 years experience with children and adults in individual, couples, family and parent/child modalities.
(732) 943-0496 View (732) 943-0496
Photo of Stanley Messer, Psychologist in Highland Park, NJ
Stanley Messer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
I work with your internal struggles, unsatisfactory relationships, and traumas from the present or past. These difficulties often result in anxiety, depression, somatic symptoms or some form of problematic behavior. Any of these challenges can be holding you back from living a fulfilling life.
I work with your internal struggles, unsatisfactory relationships, and traumas from the present or past. These difficulties often result in anxiety, depression, somatic symptoms or some form of problematic behavior. Any of these challenges can be holding you back from living a fulfilling life.
(732) 858-5401 View (732) 858-5401
Photo of Doug Martinson, Counselor in Highland Park, NJ
Doug Martinson
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904  (Online Only)
Hello! Taking the first step into therapy can be a difficult one, and I want to commend you for taking that first step. We all face many different stressors in our lives. Between work, school, our friends and families and other relationships, it can become overwhelming to deal with it all. As we learn and grow, we may also discover new emotions or parts of ourselves that we are unfamiliar with, or we may recognize issues and struggles we have pushed off for far too long.
Hello! Taking the first step into therapy can be a difficult one, and I want to commend you for taking that first step. We all face many different stressors in our lives. Between work, school, our friends and families and other relationships, it can become overwhelming to deal with it all. As we learn and grow, we may also discover new emotions or parts of ourselves that we are unfamiliar with, or we may recognize issues and struggles we have pushed off for far too long.
(732) 652-9466 View (732) 652-9466
Photo of Kenneth Marcus Lipman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Highland Park, NJ
Kenneth Marcus Lipman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CH, ACS
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
I have been in practice for over 30 years, working with couples, individuals, children and families. I use many therapeutic tools depending on my clients' individual needs. These include: helping clients look at the negative things they tell themselves; discover how their problem(s) arose, which often ends a cycle of shame and self-blame; learn the interpersonal skills they lack and then devise homework assignments to practice new skills. I often use hypnosis to address issues on a deeper level than our conscious will. Finally I help my couples and families to understand and change destructive patterns of interaction.
I have been in practice for over 30 years, working with couples, individuals, children and families. I use many therapeutic tools depending on my clients' individual needs. These include: helping clients look at the negative things they tell themselves; discover how their problem(s) arose, which often ends a cycle of shame and self-blame; learn the interpersonal skills they lack and then devise homework assignments to practice new skills. I often use hypnosis to address issues on a deeper level than our conscious will. Finally I help my couples and families to understand and change destructive patterns of interaction.
(908) 420-0897 View (908) 420-0897
Fran Ackerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
For over 30 years I have worked with individuals and their families to assist them in feeling better about themselves and their lives. My specialty includes working with individuals who struggle with depression, past trauma and loss and bereavement. I work with families to hep them to improve their communication and relationship. A large part of my work with families has been with adolescents and their parents. I have extensive experience working in the Jewish and orthodox Jewish community. I am available to work with you and help you to make the changes you want to make in your life.
For over 30 years I have worked with individuals and their families to assist them in feeling better about themselves and their lives. My specialty includes working with individuals who struggle with depression, past trauma and loss and bereavement. I work with families to hep them to improve their communication and relationship. A large part of my work with families has been with adolescents and their parents. I have extensive experience working in the Jewish and orthodox Jewish community. I am available to work with you and help you to make the changes you want to make in your life.
(732) 372-0871 View (732) 372-0871
Photo of Yohselyn Daniel Burns, Counselor in Highland Park, NJ
Yohselyn Daniel Burns
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904
You may be feeling deep sadness, a sense of worthlessness, pain, or have experienced loss of some sort. Perhaps you feel alone and afraid. You are looking for someone to connect with and receive the support and guidance. To know that it's going to be ok. You need to heal and increase happiness and connection in your life. In therapy you will find a renewed sense of wellbeing, fulfillment, skills to manage your emotions and resolve your problems, and will no longer feel disconnected.
You may be feeling deep sadness, a sense of worthlessness, pain, or have experienced loss of some sort. Perhaps you feel alone and afraid. You are looking for someone to connect with and receive the support and guidance. To know that it's going to be ok. You need to heal and increase happiness and connection in your life. In therapy you will find a renewed sense of wellbeing, fulfillment, skills to manage your emotions and resolve your problems, and will no longer feel disconnected.
(848) 272-2953 View (848) 272-2953
Photo of Melissa Kopel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Melissa Kopel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904  (Online Only)
The most important part of my practice is providing a space for clients to feel safe, seen, and heard. I work with clients to explore their experiences and collaboratively develop ways to enhance their lives. My clients are primarily adults and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, and difficulties with transitions and in their relationships.
The most important part of my practice is providing a space for clients to feel safe, seen, and heard. I work with clients to explore their experiences and collaboratively develop ways to enhance their lives. My clients are primarily adults and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, and difficulties with transitions and in their relationships.
(609) 676-2207 View (609) 676-2207

See more therapy options for Highland Park

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Highland Park, NJ

100+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Highland Park, NJ who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
86% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
70% Self Esteem
64% Trauma and PTSD
63% Grief
62% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

64% Aetna
48% Cigna and Evernorth
48% Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield

How Therapists in Highland Park, NJ see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
25% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Highland Park?

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.