Therapists in Artesia, CA

Photo of Christal Vizcarra, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Christal Vizcarra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90701
Life right now can feel especially overwhelming with challenging situations, creating feelings of depression, anxiety, or a sense of feeling lost. I can offer you a safe, supportive, and judgement free environment, helping guide you towards healthier relationships, emotions, and life choices. If you are struggling with life's demands, seeking help is a great way to begin making changes in your life. I work primarily client-centered, which means each person is unique and my goal is to build a specific experience that is best for you.
Life right now can feel especially overwhelming with challenging situations, creating feelings of depression, anxiety, or a sense of feeling lost. I can offer you a safe, supportive, and judgement free environment, helping guide you towards healthier relationships, emotions, and life choices. If you are struggling with life's demands, seeking help is a great way to begin making changes in your life. I work primarily client-centered, which means each person is unique and my goal is to build a specific experience that is best for you.
(562) 268-5748 View (562) 268-5748
Photo of Katie Plumb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Katie Plumb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Artesia, CA 90701
Have you experienced stressors so severe that you cannot seem to move on? You may try to put it out of your mind and avoid triggering things, but you continue to feel stuck reliving those painful and frightening memories. Feeling controlled by your past can make it feel like you are destined to suffer. I have wonderful news though—recovery is possible. Having worked extensively with trauma and Complex-PTSD (C-PTSD), I can say with certainty that there is light at the end of the tunnel. There is nothing more rewarding to me than walking alongside clients as they emerge from the grips of their past.
Have you experienced stressors so severe that you cannot seem to move on? You may try to put it out of your mind and avoid triggering things, but you continue to feel stuck reliving those painful and frightening memories. Feeling controlled by your past can make it feel like you are destined to suffer. I have wonderful news though—recovery is possible. Having worked extensively with trauma and Complex-PTSD (C-PTSD), I can say with certainty that there is light at the end of the tunnel. There is nothing more rewarding to me than walking alongside clients as they emerge from the grips of their past.
(650) 977-2078 View (650) 977-2078
Photo of Ali Zandi, Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Ali Zandi
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Artesia, CA 90701
I am a Licensed Psychologist and Marriage and Family Therapist that provides psychological, cognitive, and neuropsychological testing for children and adults. I conduct testing and evaluations for Psychological Disorders, Autism, Personality Disorders, ADHD, Fitness for Duty, Marital Concerns, and Learning Disorders. Testing involves a combination of state-of-the-art neuropsychological assessment instruments, psychological tests, and a thorough clinical interview.
I am a Licensed Psychologist and Marriage and Family Therapist that provides psychological, cognitive, and neuropsychological testing for children and adults. I conduct testing and evaluations for Psychological Disorders, Autism, Personality Disorders, ADHD, Fitness for Duty, Marital Concerns, and Learning Disorders. Testing involves a combination of state-of-the-art neuropsychological assessment instruments, psychological tests, and a thorough clinical interview.
(714) 786-5785 View (714) 786-5785
Photo of Dr. Ana Gamez, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Ana Gamez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90701
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and bring extensive experience in working with a range of psychological challenges that impact individuals, including trauma, grief, sadness, worry, addiction, anxiety, and depression. My therapeutic approach is rooted in building trust through empathy and fostering a collaborative relationship with each client. Together, we embark on a journey to explore and understand the underlying factors that prompt the decision to seek therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and bring extensive experience in working with a range of psychological challenges that impact individuals, including trauma, grief, sadness, worry, addiction, anxiety, and depression. My therapeutic approach is rooted in building trust through empathy and fostering a collaborative relationship with each client. Together, we embark on a journey to explore and understand the underlying factors that prompt the decision to seek therapy.
(562) 662-8696 View (562) 662-8696
Photo of Alma Ortiz, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Alma Ortiz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with creatives, artist, empaths, visionaries, storytellers, eccentrics and healers who are called to use their unique gifts to attend to their personal wellbeing, heal intergenerational trauma, and are called to be of service to the community and the planet. I provide trauma informed and culturally sensitive therapy to people in the BIPOC community.
I work with creatives, artist, empaths, visionaries, storytellers, eccentrics and healers who are called to use their unique gifts to attend to their personal wellbeing, heal intergenerational trauma, and are called to be of service to the community and the planet. I provide trauma informed and culturally sensitive therapy to people in the BIPOC community.
(562) 526-1287 View (562) 526-1287
Photo of Holly M Hooton, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT115
Holly M Hooton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT115
Verified Verified
Online Only
My volunteering at the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Aids Project led me to a volunteer management career. I went on to work with volunteers in a medical center, humane society, and adult literacy program. I returned to college later in life to pursue a career in counseling. My desire to become a therapist developed over time as I gained more insight into my own life. A failed marriage landed me in therapy, where I was able to deal with my anger and emotional pain. After some years of antidepressant medication and therapy, I gained a new lease on life.
My volunteering at the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Aids Project led me to a volunteer management career. I went on to work with volunteers in a medical center, humane society, and adult literacy program. I returned to college later in life to pursue a career in counseling. My desire to become a therapist developed over time as I gained more insight into my own life. A failed marriage landed me in therapy, where I was able to deal with my anger and emotional pain. After some years of antidepressant medication and therapy, I gained a new lease on life.
(323) 205-7088 View (323) 205-7088
Photo of Chelsea Rocha, Counselor, LPCC
Chelsea Rocha
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Chelsea! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and have a School Counseling (Pupil Personnel Services) Credential. I provide mental health services in English and Spanish. I have assisted clients who struggle with grief, anxiety, trauma, depression, substance use, ADHD, suicidal behavior, and attachment disorders. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Person-Centered therapy, and a Humanistic paradigm to guide my treatment with Clients.
Hi there, I'm Chelsea! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and have a School Counseling (Pupil Personnel Services) Credential. I provide mental health services in English and Spanish. I have assisted clients who struggle with grief, anxiety, trauma, depression, substance use, ADHD, suicidal behavior, and attachment disorders. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Person-Centered therapy, and a Humanistic paradigm to guide my treatment with Clients.
(951) 257-9158 View (951) 257-9158
Photo of Tina D. Butler, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Tina D. Butler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Artesia, CA 90701
I focus on harnessing positive energy to help clients create personal success in their lives and relationships. I provide a safe space for clients to explore difficult emotions and identify negative patterns that may be hindering their happiness and success. Together, I work with clients to help them let go of negative patterns and create positive changes in their lives.
I focus on harnessing positive energy to help clients create personal success in their lives and relationships. I provide a safe space for clients to explore difficult emotions and identify negative patterns that may be hindering their happiness and success. Together, I work with clients to help them let go of negative patterns and create positive changes in their lives.
(562) 418-5589 View (562) 418-5589
Photo of April Rose, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
April Rose
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I believe therapy is only successful through a trusting and safe therapeutic relationship. It is my goal to establish that relationship quickly so that progress can be made toward one's goals. Empathy, acceptance, and unconditional positive regard are key to establishing that trust. I have over 20 years of experience working with, teenagers, and adults in a variety of therapeutic settings. I utilize cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, and relational modalities to facilitate change and growth.
I believe therapy is only successful through a trusting and safe therapeutic relationship. It is my goal to establish that relationship quickly so that progress can be made toward one's goals. Empathy, acceptance, and unconditional positive regard are key to establishing that trust. I have over 20 years of experience working with, teenagers, and adults in a variety of therapeutic settings. I utilize cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, and relational modalities to facilitate change and growth.
(323) 205-7088 View (323) 205-7088
Photo of Jeffrey Ly | Porn Addiction Relationships, LPHA, MA, AMFT
Jeffrey Ly | Porn Addiction Relationships
LPHA, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Pornography doesn’t have to destroy the relationships that matter most to you. For many men, turning to Pornhub, OnlyFans, cam sites, or even Instagram creates a growing emotional gap, eroding trust, intimacy and connection. It can leave your partner feeling unwanted and you feeling trapped in a cycle of guilt and shame. Over time, this struggle can lead to heartbreak, divorce, and a future far from the one you envisioned. You do not have to let this define you. It is time to take back control.
Pornography doesn’t have to destroy the relationships that matter most to you. For many men, turning to Pornhub, OnlyFans, cam sites, or even Instagram creates a growing emotional gap, eroding trust, intimacy and connection. It can leave your partner feeling unwanted and you feeling trapped in a cycle of guilt and shame. Over time, this struggle can lead to heartbreak, divorce, and a future far from the one you envisioned. You do not have to let this define you. It is time to take back control.
(562) 600-4237 View (562) 600-4237
Photo of Sufia Mehmood - Sufia Mehmood- Anxiety, Identity, Couples, Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC
Sufia Mehmood- Anxiety, Identity, Couples
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
You deserve a safe, compassionate space to heal and grow. Specializing in South Asian mental health, I support individuals, couples, and families navigating anxiety, trauma, and relationship challenges. I understand the complexities of balancing izzat (family honor), parental expectations, career pressures, and mental health stigma, which can make seeking help feel overwhelming. I also provide a culturally sensitive space for survivors of sexual assault to process their experiences and reclaim their sense of self. You are not alone. I am here to support you in your healing journey, while honoring your roots and existing resilience.
You deserve a safe, compassionate space to heal and grow. Specializing in South Asian mental health, I support individuals, couples, and families navigating anxiety, trauma, and relationship challenges. I understand the complexities of balancing izzat (family honor), parental expectations, career pressures, and mental health stigma, which can make seeking help feel overwhelming. I also provide a culturally sensitive space for survivors of sexual assault to process their experiences and reclaim their sense of self. You are not alone. I am here to support you in your healing journey, while honoring your roots and existing resilience.
(818) 714-8363 View (818) 714-8363
Photo of Joyce La Bianco, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Joyce La Bianco
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Graduate of Chapman University and the California State University of Fullerton, this California Based therapist has over 18 years of experience working in the mental health field. I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management, Feelings of Self Worth, and ADHD. In addition, I have experience working with those inflicted with a Persistent Mental Illness. Origins of self-limiting beliefs, which often affect how we feel about ourselves, are explored. Using a Mindful, Holistic and Cognitive Behavioral approach, therapeutic services aim to empower and propel clients toward living a happy and fulfilling life.
Graduate of Chapman University and the California State University of Fullerton, this California Based therapist has over 18 years of experience working in the mental health field. I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management, Feelings of Self Worth, and ADHD. In addition, I have experience working with those inflicted with a Persistent Mental Illness. Origins of self-limiting beliefs, which often affect how we feel about ourselves, are explored. Using a Mindful, Holistic and Cognitive Behavioral approach, therapeutic services aim to empower and propel clients toward living a happy and fulfilling life.
(951) 724-4391 View (951) 724-4391
Photo of Sylvia Petitt, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Sylvia Petitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Sylvia Petitt, LMFT. I am licensed in California with 19 years of professional work experience. I have worked in the public mental health sector and focused on the treatment of the chronically mentally ill and treatment of chemical dependency. I have been trained in various evidence-based practices, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focus therapy, Matrix, dialectal behavioral therapy, Seeking Safety, and EMDR.
My name is Sylvia Petitt, LMFT. I am licensed in California with 19 years of professional work experience. I have worked in the public mental health sector and focused on the treatment of the chronically mentally ill and treatment of chemical dependency. I have been trained in various evidence-based practices, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focus therapy, Matrix, dialectal behavioral therapy, Seeking Safety, and EMDR.
(661) 402-3422 View (661) 402-3422
Photo of Sunayana Kaviya, Marriage & Family Therapist, MPhil, MS, LMFT
Sunayana Kaviya
Marriage & Family Therapist, MPhil, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in helping individuals navigate a range of relationship issues—whether romantic, familial, or interpersonal—along with anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, trauma, PTSD, grief/loss, identity concerns, and low self-esteem. I specialize in life transitions, identity formation, and I am particularly attuned to the unique experiences and strengths of immigrant families in the United States, helping them embrace their identity and navigate their journey with confidence and resilience.
I specialize in helping individuals navigate a range of relationship issues—whether romantic, familial, or interpersonal—along with anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, trauma, PTSD, grief/loss, identity concerns, and low self-esteem. I specialize in life transitions, identity formation, and I am particularly attuned to the unique experiences and strengths of immigrant families in the United States, helping them embrace their identity and navigate their journey with confidence and resilience.
(805) 866-4070 View (805) 866-4070
Photo of Susan Sosa, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Susan Sosa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Susan! I have been a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist for 20 years. My clinical experience has been working with adults, adolescents, and children providing individual, couple, & group psychotherapy. Psychotherapy refers to different techniques and methods used to help people who are experiencing difficulties with their emotions, thoughts, or behaviors. Although there are different types of psychotherapy, each relies on communication as the basic tool for bringing about change in a person's feelings and behaviors.
Hi there, I'm Susan! I have been a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist for 20 years. My clinical experience has been working with adults, adolescents, and children providing individual, couple, & group psychotherapy. Psychotherapy refers to different techniques and methods used to help people who are experiencing difficulties with their emotions, thoughts, or behaviors. Although there are different types of psychotherapy, each relies on communication as the basic tool for bringing about change in a person's feelings and behaviors.
(213) 566-7186 View (213) 566-7186
Photo of Bernadette Guidry, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Bernadette Guidry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with many years of experience. I specialize in depth psychotherapy and the treatment of trauma with mindfulness, somatic awareness and compassionate presence. My area of focus includes managing anxiety, depression, life transitions, authentic self expression, PTSD and healing from life and relational trauma. The process of helping people to unfold more of who they really are and step more fully into living the lives they long for is a deep commitment and my life's work.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with many years of experience. I specialize in depth psychotherapy and the treatment of trauma with mindfulness, somatic awareness and compassionate presence. My area of focus includes managing anxiety, depression, life transitions, authentic self expression, PTSD and healing from life and relational trauma. The process of helping people to unfold more of who they really are and step more fully into living the lives they long for is a deep commitment and my life's work.
(657) 300-3734 View (657) 300-3734
Photo of Meisha Vella, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Meisha Vella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I will walk with you as we explore your history, patterns, and struggles; and help you to learn and practice new coping skills. This includes learning the "go to" responses of your nervous system and how you can resource yourself more so you can live the life you want. Healing is sacred; it involves mind, body, and spirit. My approach integrates self-compassion, neuro-physiologically informed care, mindfulness, and cultural humility. In our work together, you can expect curiosity, empathy, hope, and laughter. Ultimately, I hope that our relationship can be a source of support, calm, and understanding.
I will walk with you as we explore your history, patterns, and struggles; and help you to learn and practice new coping skills. This includes learning the "go to" responses of your nervous system and how you can resource yourself more so you can live the life you want. Healing is sacred; it involves mind, body, and spirit. My approach integrates self-compassion, neuro-physiologically informed care, mindfulness, and cultural humility. In our work together, you can expect curiosity, empathy, hope, and laughter. Ultimately, I hope that our relationship can be a source of support, calm, and understanding.
(562) 608-1555 View (562) 608-1555
Photo of Wendy L Selevitch - Soultenders, Inc, Psychologist, PhD
Soultenders, Inc
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have a special interest in working with couples and families and in doing Dream Work with my individual clients. Much of the therapeutic work I do is based on the theories of Carl Jung, Joseph Campbell, & James Hillman. However, I do balance my practice using other therapeutic techniques from other theorists as well. It is not so important for me to apply a certain theory or my own beliefs on a client but instead it is my intention to really understand my clients' own personal beliefs and expectations of therapy. This aids in
I have a special interest in working with couples and families and in doing Dream Work with my individual clients. Much of the therapeutic work I do is based on the theories of Carl Jung, Joseph Campbell, & James Hillman. However, I do balance my practice using other therapeutic techniques from other theorists as well. It is not so important for me to apply a certain theory or my own beliefs on a client but instead it is my intention to really understand my clients' own personal beliefs and expectations of therapy. This aids in
(626) 498-2187 View (626) 498-2187
Photo of Stacey L. Prothro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Stacey L. Prothro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in anxiety, depression, narcissistic abuse, toxic relationships, trauma, grief, PTSD. I'm a narcissistic abuse survivor/thriver and a Certified Narcissistic Abuse Treatment Clinician (NATC). I serve victims/survivors in trauma recovery. As a compassionate and trustworthy therapist, I will help you get on the path to healing and recovery of your mind, body, and spirit. You are not alone; I am here for you.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, narcissistic abuse, toxic relationships, trauma, grief, PTSD. I'm a narcissistic abuse survivor/thriver and a Certified Narcissistic Abuse Treatment Clinician (NATC). I serve victims/survivors in trauma recovery. As a compassionate and trustworthy therapist, I will help you get on the path to healing and recovery of your mind, body, and spirit. You are not alone; I am here for you.
(562) 376-5144 View (562) 376-5144
Photo of Kelsey Chang-Kim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kelsey Chang-Kim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I believe in a collaborative, Strengths-based, Psychodynamic approach that starts with searching for the root of what you're struggling with. Once we understand ourselves and our contexts better, we are more equipped to find resolutions or relief in the here and now. We will work towards your goals in a way that feels productive yet not overwhelming. Throughout our time, I will tailor my approach to best fit you and your goals. I strongly believe that we all have the inner resources it takes to gain control over our thoughts and emotions—we just need to unlock the toolkit and integrate it into our daily lives, and I'm here to help!
I believe in a collaborative, Strengths-based, Psychodynamic approach that starts with searching for the root of what you're struggling with. Once we understand ourselves and our contexts better, we are more equipped to find resolutions or relief in the here and now. We will work towards your goals in a way that feels productive yet not overwhelming. Throughout our time, I will tailor my approach to best fit you and your goals. I strongly believe that we all have the inner resources it takes to gain control over our thoughts and emotions—we just need to unlock the toolkit and integrate it into our daily lives, and I'm here to help!
(562) 539-4618 View (562) 539-4618
1

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Artesia, CA

40+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Artesia, CA who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
91% Depression
80% Coping Skills
78% Stress
73% Relationship Issues
64% Grief
64% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% Aetna
85% Cigna and Evernorth
85% Blue Cross

How Therapists in Artesia, CA see their clients

77% Online Only
23% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Artesia?

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.