Therapists in Blackhawk, CA

Photo of Robin L Scooler, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Robin L Scooler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Welcome! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. Sometimes life can be tedious and we need someone to listen to our struggles and provide us a safe place to talk without any judgment. My goal is help you understand yourself better and collaborate on ways to work through your problems that are causing distress. I have worked with individuals to overcome and develop strategies to cope with PTSD, anxiety, depression, chronic medical problems, cancer, life transitions, and trauma.
Welcome! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. Sometimes life can be tedious and we need someone to listen to our struggles and provide us a safe place to talk without any judgment. My goal is help you understand yourself better and collaborate on ways to work through your problems that are causing distress. I have worked with individuals to overcome and develop strategies to cope with PTSD, anxiety, depression, chronic medical problems, cancer, life transitions, and trauma.
(925) 320-0373 View (925) 320-0373
Photo of Susan Bray, Psychologist, MA, PhD
Susan Bray
Psychologist, MA, PhD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
When your child is struggling, your whole family suffers. Kids show their emotional turmoil through their behavior, but they can't always tell you what's really wrong. My job is to help you and them get to the root of the problem, and to help come up with solutions that get you and your child back to enjoying family life again. When you've tried everything, or feel like your child just isn't listening, I'm here to help.
When your child is struggling, your whole family suffers. Kids show their emotional turmoil through their behavior, but they can't always tell you what's really wrong. My job is to help you and them get to the root of the problem, and to help come up with solutions that get you and your child back to enjoying family life again. When you've tried everything, or feel like your child just isn't listening, I'm here to help.
(925) 521-6431 View (925) 521-6431
Photo of Ashley Ayala, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Ashley Ayala
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
With 15 years of experience, I help individuals, couples, and families understand how their past experiences, relationships, and stress patterns shape the way they show up today. Many of my clients are high-functioning on the outside—managing careers, parenting, and responsibilities—but internally feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in cycles that no longer serve them. Therapy is a space to slow things down, gain clarity, and begin reshaping the narrative you’ve been carrying so you can live more fully and authentically.
With 15 years of experience, I help individuals, couples, and families understand how their past experiences, relationships, and stress patterns shape the way they show up today. Many of my clients are high-functioning on the outside—managing careers, parenting, and responsibilities—but internally feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in cycles that no longer serve them. Therapy is a space to slow things down, gain clarity, and begin reshaping the narrative you’ve been carrying so you can live more fully and authentically.
(650) 297-7692 View (650) 297-7692
Photo of John Steward - Alamo - Danville Counseling Center, Psychologist, PsyD
Alamo - Danville Counseling Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
Trained at Yale University. Your choice of a Doctor, a Clinical Psychologist, is one of the most important decisions in your life. You are entrusting the Psychologist with your hopes, dreams and solutions. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Steward is committed to you. Problems can be solved. With a brief assessment involving a thorough interview (and testing, if needed) we can determine the key issues and explore the solutions best for you. It is important to have a Psychologist who is well-trained and who cares about you.
Trained at Yale University. Your choice of a Doctor, a Clinical Psychologist, is one of the most important decisions in your life. You are entrusting the Psychologist with your hopes, dreams and solutions. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Steward is committed to you. Problems can be solved. With a brief assessment involving a thorough interview (and testing, if needed) we can determine the key issues and explore the solutions best for you. It is important to have a Psychologist who is well-trained and who cares about you.
(925) 402-1293 View (925) 402-1293
Photo of Tyra Bennett, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Tyra Bennett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I look for the strengths in each of my clients and support them in applying their natural strengths to help ease life transitions and obstacles. I am collaborative, solution-focused, and practical. I believe that each client is the expert of their lives and I am the expert of tools and interventions that will support you in reaching your goals.
I look for the strengths in each of my clients and support them in applying their natural strengths to help ease life transitions and obstacles. I am collaborative, solution-focused, and practical. I believe that each client is the expert of their lives and I am the expert of tools and interventions that will support you in reaching your goals.
(925) 966-2337 View (925) 966-2337
Photo of Christopher Duerrmeier - Discovery Counseling Center, LMFT, PsyD, AMFT
Discovery Counseling Center
Verified Verified
Serves Area
We are an local non-profit community mental health center with over 50 therapists, psychologists and pre-licensed associates dedicated to providing affordable, high quality, culturally appropriate and accessible counseling services and programs. We support clients with a variety of mental health concerns and work hard to match you with a mental health professional that will meet your needs. This is all done in a safe, caring, and confidential environment which provides a structured and supportive space for individuals to work through psychological issues, develop coping skills, gain insight, and achieve personal growth.
We are an local non-profit community mental health center with over 50 therapists, psychologists and pre-licensed associates dedicated to providing affordable, high quality, culturally appropriate and accessible counseling services and programs. We support clients with a variety of mental health concerns and work hard to match you with a mental health professional that will meet your needs. This is all done in a safe, caring, and confidential environment which provides a structured and supportive space for individuals to work through psychological issues, develop coping skills, gain insight, and achieve personal growth.
(925) 837-0505 View (925) 837-0505
Photo of Elias D Protopsaltis, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Elias D Protopsaltis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Online Only
I understand how challenging it is to come to therapy and speak of subjects that can bring about fear, anxiety and feelings of being judged. Therapy is the safest of environments to bring up topics that have brought about great pain or arrest in one’s life. My hope for you is that therapy becomes a useful tool to transform your life into how you envision it to be. Life is too short not to be lived out to its fullest potential. By working with you, I hope to collaborate in a transformation process where life goals come to fruition.
I understand how challenging it is to come to therapy and speak of subjects that can bring about fear, anxiety and feelings of being judged. Therapy is the safest of environments to bring up topics that have brought about great pain or arrest in one’s life. My hope for you is that therapy becomes a useful tool to transform your life into how you envision it to be. Life is too short not to be lived out to its fullest potential. By working with you, I hope to collaborate in a transformation process where life goals come to fruition.
(510) 399-0987 View (510) 399-0987
Photo of Jonathan Newsum, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jonathan Newsum
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling stuck, continually repeating the same patterns over and over that lead to frustration, disconnection from others, guilt, and hopelessness? Therapy is so much more than symptom management. I focus on helping you to challenge and change old patterns that leave you feeling defeated and stuck so you can begin to heal and thrive. I will help you build the skills necessary to empower you on the path to growth and healing. Whether you need support through a current challenge or are needing to address deeper problems I will be there to help.
Are you feeling stuck, continually repeating the same patterns over and over that lead to frustration, disconnection from others, guilt, and hopelessness? Therapy is so much more than symptom management. I focus on helping you to challenge and change old patterns that leave you feeling defeated and stuck so you can begin to heal and thrive. I will help you build the skills necessary to empower you on the path to growth and healing. Whether you need support through a current challenge or are needing to address deeper problems I will be there to help.
(925) 905-8490 View (925) 905-8490

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lee Bowman, Psychologist, PsyD
Lee Bowman
Psychologist, PsyD
San Francisco, CA 94101
For myself, I've found therapy to be a deeply safe relationship from which I could gain new perspectives on my challenges and have another set of caring eyes help me to identify my strengths. This is, of course, difficult. But it is also relieving and can lead to immense growth and healing. Therapy can help you experience joy more deeply and approach emotional pain more honestly, and, therefore, productively. It can help you to make choices that lead you closer to yourself and the life you want. I am deeply committed to supporting my clients in their own unique version of this process.
For myself, I've found therapy to be a deeply safe relationship from which I could gain new perspectives on my challenges and have another set of caring eyes help me to identify my strengths. This is, of course, difficult. But it is also relieving and can lead to immense growth and healing. Therapy can help you experience joy more deeply and approach emotional pain more honestly, and, therefore, productively. It can help you to make choices that lead you closer to yourself and the life you want. I am deeply committed to supporting my clients in their own unique version of this process.
(628) 277-3643 View (628) 277-3643
Photo of Anastasiya Lebedeva, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anastasiya Lebedeva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
Specializing in a holistic approach to mental health and wellness. How can we talk about what matters, if talking is too painful? Mindfulness-based movement and expression therapy can help first regulate and calm the nervous system before diving into the analytical work. This makes the process not only more comfortable for you but also more effective. I understand the importance of listening to your own experience first, you already know the answers, I’m just here to guide you to them.
Specializing in a holistic approach to mental health and wellness. How can we talk about what matters, if talking is too painful? Mindfulness-based movement and expression therapy can help first regulate and calm the nervous system before diving into the analytical work. This makes the process not only more comfortable for you but also more effective. I understand the importance of listening to your own experience first, you already know the answers, I’m just here to guide you to them.
(626) 606-9556 View (626) 606-9556
Photo of Noelle Gabrielle Allen-Newman, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Noelle Gabrielle Allen-Newman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling to feel seen by your friends, community, and family? Do you feel stuck in a spiral that makes you feel further from your sense of self? Have you discovered or questioned something about yourself that you need support in exploring? Should life transitions or demands be this difficult and lonely? Does living in your skin feel foreign or shameful? You've tried therapy, you've tried your bestie, you've tried goat yoga, and it still feels like no one gets it. Here, the room is yours. Take up as much space as you need. When's the last time you honored what you needed? Let's explore and honor your story together.
Are you struggling to feel seen by your friends, community, and family? Do you feel stuck in a spiral that makes you feel further from your sense of self? Have you discovered or questioned something about yourself that you need support in exploring? Should life transitions or demands be this difficult and lonely? Does living in your skin feel foreign or shameful? You've tried therapy, you've tried your bestie, you've tried goat yoga, and it still feels like no one gets it. Here, the room is yours. Take up as much space as you need. When's the last time you honored what you needed? Let's explore and honor your story together.
(909) 371-5569 View (909) 371-5569
Photo of Moriah Conant, Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Moriah Conant
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, religious trauma, and chronic mental illnesses. I am passionate about providing competent and inclusive care to individuals who are often marginalized in society in order to increase authentic living, identity integration, and overall well-being. Together we will change patterns, set needed boundaries, Authenticity is an important part of this relationship, so I share that I self-identify as queer, genderfluid, Autistic, and grew up in American Evangelical spaces. If finding a therapist who has similar experiences or identities to you is important, those are some ways I can relate.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, religious trauma, and chronic mental illnesses. I am passionate about providing competent and inclusive care to individuals who are often marginalized in society in order to increase authentic living, identity integration, and overall well-being. Together we will change patterns, set needed boundaries, Authenticity is an important part of this relationship, so I share that I self-identify as queer, genderfluid, Autistic, and grew up in American Evangelical spaces. If finding a therapist who has similar experiences or identities to you is important, those are some ways I can relate.
(310) 984-1364 View (310) 984-1364
Photo of Simon Puente, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Simon Puente
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hello, my name is Simon Puente. I am a licensed clinical social worker in California. I have been a mental health therapist since 2013 and have helped many people with a variety of problems including depression, anxiety, and interpersonal and relational issues. My training and work experience have been in the use of cognitive behavioral therapy therapy. I also use Rogerian person-centered therapy, behavioral activation, and motivational interviewing in my work with my clients.
Hello, my name is Simon Puente. I am a licensed clinical social worker in California. I have been a mental health therapist since 2013 and have helped many people with a variety of problems including depression, anxiety, and interpersonal and relational issues. My training and work experience have been in the use of cognitive behavioral therapy therapy. I also use Rogerian person-centered therapy, behavioral activation, and motivational interviewing in my work with my clients.
(747) 977-6814 View (747) 977-6814
Photo of Fox Eros Maclachlan - Fox Eros, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Fox Eros
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Hello, my name is Fox Eros and I have a passion for working with queer / LGBTQ+ identified clients, polyamory and I am a sex-positive Sex Therapist. I also work with topics on intimacy, loss, self-worth, shame & stress; and all relationships styles from monogamy, open relationships & CNM non-monogamy. I am an inclusive affirming Therapist who brings warmth & compassion to my work. I believe deeply in the power and responsibility of being a therapist. Providing a safe affirming space for healing and growth is not just my priority— it is the foundation of how I honor and advocate for wellness.
Hello, my name is Fox Eros and I have a passion for working with queer / LGBTQ+ identified clients, polyamory and I am a sex-positive Sex Therapist. I also work with topics on intimacy, loss, self-worth, shame & stress; and all relationships styles from monogamy, open relationships & CNM non-monogamy. I am an inclusive affirming Therapist who brings warmth & compassion to my work. I believe deeply in the power and responsibility of being a therapist. Providing a safe affirming space for healing and growth is not just my priority— it is the foundation of how I honor and advocate for wellness.
(310) 933-4091 View (310) 933-4091
Photo of Paul W. Thomas, Psychologist, PhD
Paul W. Thomas
Psychologist, PhD
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94105
You have the innate ability to uncover, identify, explore, and ultimately change unwanted or problematic thoughts or behaviors. My style is personal, collaborative, and responsive to your needs. I start from the premise that you are the expert on yourself. Therapy is a safe and empowering space to pursue the best version of yourself. I walk alongside you throughout the process, lending support, offering validation, teaching skills, and providing accountability.
You have the innate ability to uncover, identify, explore, and ultimately change unwanted or problematic thoughts or behaviors. My style is personal, collaborative, and responsive to your needs. I start from the premise that you are the expert on yourself. Therapy is a safe and empowering space to pursue the best version of yourself. I walk alongside you throughout the process, lending support, offering validation, teaching skills, and providing accountability.
(415) 980-8373 View (415) 980-8373
Photo of Sarah Oliphant, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Sarah Oliphant
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Healing isn’t a straight line, and you don’t have to walk it alone. I support clients working through trauma, anxiety, and relationship struggles by creating a safe, supportive space for real, lasting change. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, confident, and connected to yourself and the life you’re building. My approach is warm, collaborative, and centered around your individual journey. I blend DBT and CBT in a way that supports you in processing the past, managing emotions, and building tools that actually fit your life. Together, we’ll move at your pace, focusing on meaningful growth!
Healing isn’t a straight line, and you don’t have to walk it alone. I support clients working through trauma, anxiety, and relationship struggles by creating a safe, supportive space for real, lasting change. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, confident, and connected to yourself and the life you’re building. My approach is warm, collaborative, and centered around your individual journey. I blend DBT and CBT in a way that supports you in processing the past, managing emotions, and building tools that actually fit your life. Together, we’ll move at your pace, focusing on meaningful growth!
(925) 255-7371 View (925) 255-7371
Photo of Esther Castillo, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Esther Castillo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi, I’m Esther! If you're motivated to change and ready to take steps toward recovery, then let's work together to find guidance, strength, and a voice to overcome challenges that interfere with your daily life. I have more than 18 years of experience working with clients who are navigating trauma, addiction, or stigma-related challenges. I provide telehealth care for individuals of all backgrounds, and I’m fluent in Spanish. Our first session will include a brief introduction, then we’ll explore what’s bringing you in so I can build a plan tailored just for you.
Hi, I’m Esther! If you're motivated to change and ready to take steps toward recovery, then let's work together to find guidance, strength, and a voice to overcome challenges that interfere with your daily life. I have more than 18 years of experience working with clients who are navigating trauma, addiction, or stigma-related challenges. I provide telehealth care for individuals of all backgrounds, and I’m fluent in Spanish. Our first session will include a brief introduction, then we’ll explore what’s bringing you in so I can build a plan tailored just for you.
(442) 200-2619 View (442) 200-2619
Photo of Loren Richards Farese, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, RYT
Loren Richards Farese
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, RYT
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
I work with individuals and couples struggling internally or relationally, and who seek insight and change in their patterns. I work with a mindfulness towards the way we are shaped by our families of origin, culture, faith, community, and bigger systems. I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, self-confidence, sexual abuse, trauma, and attachment based trauma including CPTSD. I am particularly attentive to evolutionary and ecopsychology, sexual and somatic empowerment, parenthood, and nontraditional relationship styles. Clients I work with are often seeking ease, clarity, balance, and self-acceptance.
I work with individuals and couples struggling internally or relationally, and who seek insight and change in their patterns. I work with a mindfulness towards the way we are shaped by our families of origin, culture, faith, community, and bigger systems. I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, self-confidence, sexual abuse, trauma, and attachment based trauma including CPTSD. I am particularly attentive to evolutionary and ecopsychology, sexual and somatic empowerment, parenthood, and nontraditional relationship styles. Clients I work with are often seeking ease, clarity, balance, and self-acceptance.
(415) 466-8569 View (415) 466-8569
Photo of Mellissa Tonne, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Mellissa Tonne
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Livermore, CA 94551
Therapy with me is all about empowering you to feel safe, confident, and secure in who you are. I have a passion for supporting women and couples throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period, working with couples on relationship challenges, as well as with parents on behavior challenges and coparenting. I also support children, teens, and adults through life transitions. I work with anxiety, depression, major life changes, identity and purpose, grief, relationship issues, neurodivergence, motherhood, women's issues, and the lasting effects of trauma.
Therapy with me is all about empowering you to feel safe, confident, and secure in who you are. I have a passion for supporting women and couples throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period, working with couples on relationship challenges, as well as with parents on behavior challenges and coparenting. I also support children, teens, and adults through life transitions. I work with anxiety, depression, major life changes, identity and purpose, grief, relationship issues, neurodivergence, motherhood, women's issues, and the lasting effects of trauma.
(925) 856-4210 View (925) 856-4210
Photo of Dr. Ariel Place - Dr. Ariel Place - Neurocatalyst Center, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PsyD, LPCC, CEO
Dr. Ariel Place - Neurocatalyst Center
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PsyD, LPCC, CEO
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with veterans, first responders, and individuals navigating high-stress, high-stakes circumstances, including trauma exposure, work-related injury, and court involvement. Many clients appear composed on the outside while privately carrying overwhelm, hypervigilance, self-doubt, or emotional exhaustion. You may be impacted by a critical incident, prolonged stress, the cumulative weight of responsibility, or family court. You’re seeking clarity, relief, and a way to move forward without white-knuckling through each day—so you can feel more regulated, present, and grounded in your work, relationships, and daily life.
I work with veterans, first responders, and individuals navigating high-stress, high-stakes circumstances, including trauma exposure, work-related injury, and court involvement. Many clients appear composed on the outside while privately carrying overwhelm, hypervigilance, self-doubt, or emotional exhaustion. You may be impacted by a critical incident, prolonged stress, the cumulative weight of responsibility, or family court. You’re seeking clarity, relief, and a way to move forward without white-knuckling through each day—so you can feel more regulated, present, and grounded in your work, relationships, and daily life.
(916) 237-9130 View (916) 237-9130

See more therapy options for Blackhawk

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Blackhawk, CA

< 10

Therapists in Blackhawk, CA who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
88% Family Conflict
88% Marriage Counseling
75% Grief
75% Behavioral Issues
75% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

20 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
50% Cigna and Evernorth
50% Oxford

How Therapists in Blackhawk, CA see their clients

50% In Person and Online
50% Online Only

Gender breakdown

50% Female
50% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Blackhawk?

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.