Therapists in Fountain Valley, CA

Photo of Phanat Rith, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Phanat Rith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Every client is uniquely different, experiencing or having experienced situations and circumstances that can hinder their daily functioning. But clients have shown resiliency, perseverance, and wisdom when they have a safe therapeutic setting to explore their strengths and core beliefs.
Every client is uniquely different, experiencing or having experienced situations and circumstances that can hinder their daily functioning. But clients have shown resiliency, perseverance, and wisdom when they have a safe therapeutic setting to explore their strengths and core beliefs.
(714) 455-1444 View (714) 455-1444
Photo of Karina Kazaryan, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Karina Kazaryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
My name is Karina Kazaryan. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, my goal is to help individuals improve their relationships with loved ones, uncover their strengths, and acquire positive coping skills to lead a healthy life. I have been a psychotherapist since 2005, and during my years as a Therapist, I have worked with families, couples, and individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and parenting problems. I also helped many people who have experienced trauma such as sexual, physical, and emotional abuse.
My name is Karina Kazaryan. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, my goal is to help individuals improve their relationships with loved ones, uncover their strengths, and acquire positive coping skills to lead a healthy life. I have been a psychotherapist since 2005, and during my years as a Therapist, I have worked with families, couples, and individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and parenting problems. I also helped many people who have experienced trauma such as sexual, physical, and emotional abuse.
(714) 360-0151 View (714) 360-0151
Photo of Kathleen Ta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kathleen Ta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hi! My name is Kathleen. I am a bi-cultural Vietnamese American Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California with comprehensive experience as a mental health provider. In my private practice, I help individuals experiencing depression or anxiety, whether newly onset or chronically, develop effective coping skills to utilize in their daily lives and improve their self-esteem. Additionally, I aim to help my clients gain more insight into how their unique social and cultural identities influence their everyday lived experiences and are perhaps linked to their presenting concerns.
Hi! My name is Kathleen. I am a bi-cultural Vietnamese American Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California with comprehensive experience as a mental health provider. In my private practice, I help individuals experiencing depression or anxiety, whether newly onset or chronically, develop effective coping skills to utilize in their daily lives and improve their self-esteem. Additionally, I aim to help my clients gain more insight into how their unique social and cultural identities influence their everyday lived experiences and are perhaps linked to their presenting concerns.
(213) 715-4514 View (213) 715-4514
Photo of Nicholas Siewell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Nicholas Siewell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I have been working as a therapist for about eight years, and I have worked in the mental health field cumulatively for approximately 14 years. I have worked with families, children, adolescents, adults, couples, and the elderly, and I approach therapy through a trauma-informed, client-centered, empowerment and strengths-based lens. I am competent in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Reality Therapy, among others, but my style is more conversational and eclectic.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I have been working as a therapist for about eight years, and I have worked in the mental health field cumulatively for approximately 14 years. I have worked with families, children, adolescents, adults, couples, and the elderly, and I approach therapy through a trauma-informed, client-centered, empowerment and strengths-based lens. I am competent in providing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Reality Therapy, among others, but my style is more conversational and eclectic.
(714) 886-6549 View (714) 886-6549
Photo of Trina Bautista, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Trina Bautista
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
It's easy to feel like you must struggle alone and in silence. Whether you are not feeling like your normal self or are going through a big change, you don't need to do it alone. You might be experiencing different thoughts and emotions you don't understand or be having difficulty in relationships. Maybe you're looking for guidance and support or searching for personal growth. I am here to listen. You deserve to feel heard and understood. I strive to create an atmosphere of safety and belonging, so you can feel comfortable to share about difficult thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a judgement free zone.
It's easy to feel like you must struggle alone and in silence. Whether you are not feeling like your normal self or are going through a big change, you don't need to do it alone. You might be experiencing different thoughts and emotions you don't understand or be having difficulty in relationships. Maybe you're looking for guidance and support or searching for personal growth. I am here to listen. You deserve to feel heard and understood. I strive to create an atmosphere of safety and belonging, so you can feel comfortable to share about difficult thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a judgement free zone.
(714) 519-2377 View (714) 519-2377
Photo of Alejandra Mora Sanchez, Psychologist, LCP
Alejandra Mora Sanchez
Psychologist, LCP
Online Only
My name is Dr. Alejandra Mora-Sanchez, I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist based in Los Angeles, California, working with individuals across the state through telehealth. I am a Hispanic female and provide therapy services fluently in both Spanish and English. I have experience working with individuals and couples dealing with depression, trauma, personal growth challenges, and relationship issues. I work with various treatment modalities including Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Emotionally Focused, in order to fit each client's needs.
My name is Dr. Alejandra Mora-Sanchez, I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist based in Los Angeles, California, working with individuals across the state through telehealth. I am a Hispanic female and provide therapy services fluently in both Spanish and English. I have experience working with individuals and couples dealing with depression, trauma, personal growth challenges, and relationship issues. I work with various treatment modalities including Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Emotionally Focused, in order to fit each client's needs.
(714) 503-8799 View (714) 503-8799
Joan David
Psychologist, PhD
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
At Clarity Psychological Services, we believe that everyone is an individual so treatment is designed with that in mind. We also feel that therapy should be meaningful to the client and that the client leaves treatment with the tools that they need in order to have quality and balance in their lives.
At Clarity Psychological Services, we believe that everyone is an individual so treatment is designed with that in mind. We also feel that therapy should be meaningful to the client and that the client leaves treatment with the tools that they need in order to have quality and balance in their lives.
(714) 593-2355 View (714) 593-2355
Photo of Yani Chu, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Yani Chu
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
You’re insightful, self-aware, and others often see you as “the strong one.” But lately, you may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected—like you’re moving through life on autopilot. You may be carrying the weight of complex trauma, unresolved grief, or the invisible burden of being the one who “keeps it together.” Whether you're navigating military life, adapting across cultures as a first-generation immigrant, or facing the intergenerational impact of trauma, you're not looking for surface-level solutions. You want to feel your feelings more deeply—not just analyze them-and live more boldly, with authenticity and purpose.
You’re insightful, self-aware, and others often see you as “the strong one.” But lately, you may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected—like you’re moving through life on autopilot. You may be carrying the weight of complex trauma, unresolved grief, or the invisible burden of being the one who “keeps it together.” Whether you're navigating military life, adapting across cultures as a first-generation immigrant, or facing the intergenerational impact of trauma, you're not looking for surface-level solutions. You want to feel your feelings more deeply—not just analyze them-and live more boldly, with authenticity and purpose.
(714) 640-6613 View (714) 640-6613
Photo of Ashley Kathryn Ledda, Psychologist, PsyD
Ashley Kathryn Ledda
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
Some of our greatest needs as human beings are to feel heard and understood. This is something that we all deserve, but unfortunately do not always experience. Therapy allows this to happen in a safe and nonjudgmental way. My number one priority is for the people I work with to feel safe and supported. I meet my clients where they are, and follow their lead so that they leave our sessions feeling like their most immediate needs and concerns were addressed.
Some of our greatest needs as human beings are to feel heard and understood. This is something that we all deserve, but unfortunately do not always experience. Therapy allows this to happen in a safe and nonjudgmental way. My number one priority is for the people I work with to feel safe and supported. I meet my clients where they are, and follow their lead so that they leave our sessions feeling like their most immediate needs and concerns were addressed.
(714) 584-6710 View (714) 584-6710
Photo of Sunah Kim, Psychologist, PsyD
Sunah Kim
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
My view of the human condition stems from a Zen concept of "suffering" and "transience of life." I believe that suffering is an inescapable human condition and yet a basis for growth. We all go through the phrases where we feel lost, helpless, or defeated by life challenges erroneously believing suffering will never end. In these moments, therapy can help. As a therapist, I regard my role as a guide in your life journey just like the Sherpas for climbers in the Himalayas. The goal of therapy is to get mobilized, explore the meaning and purpose of your life, and eventually get back on track to pursue what you truly value in life.
My view of the human condition stems from a Zen concept of "suffering" and "transience of life." I believe that suffering is an inescapable human condition and yet a basis for growth. We all go through the phrases where we feel lost, helpless, or defeated by life challenges erroneously believing suffering will never end. In these moments, therapy can help. As a therapist, I regard my role as a guide in your life journey just like the Sherpas for climbers in the Himalayas. The goal of therapy is to get mobilized, explore the meaning and purpose of your life, and eventually get back on track to pursue what you truly value in life.
(310) 928-9196 View (310) 928-9196
Photo of Grant Robinson, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Grant Robinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
Life is fucking hard. The stress never ending is seems! Do racing and overwhelming thoughts keep you feeling stuck? Are you frustrated that everything else you have tried up to this point have made no improvements? You deserve some professional help and support! Finding a healthy balance in all aspects of life is exhausting, and I can support you in fostering the change you want to see in your life. If you or a loved one is having difficulty with their anxiety, depression, focus, or major life transitions, pick up that phone and call me. Start making healthy and effective changes today and create the life you have always deserved.
Life is fucking hard. The stress never ending is seems! Do racing and overwhelming thoughts keep you feeling stuck? Are you frustrated that everything else you have tried up to this point have made no improvements? You deserve some professional help and support! Finding a healthy balance in all aspects of life is exhausting, and I can support you in fostering the change you want to see in your life. If you or a loved one is having difficulty with their anxiety, depression, focus, or major life transitions, pick up that phone and call me. Start making healthy and effective changes today and create the life you have always deserved.
(424) 368-9975 View (424) 368-9975
Photo of Irene Y Lu - Lotus Circle Counseling Services, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, LMFT
Lotus Circle Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, LMFT
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
Not accepting new clients
Life is difficult. We all make our own path through life; using our wits, smarts, failed attempts, guidance and triumphs. There are no SOPs, no formula to follow, and definitely no easy answers. The right choice for one may be the wrong decision for another. Managing our emotional life is even more complex and if not tougher. Whether it's relationships with family, friends, co-workers; or facing anxiety, depression, addiction, grief & loss, self-doubt etc, here at Lotus Circle Counseling Services, we would like to invite you to a space where you could feel safe to talk things out.
Life is difficult. We all make our own path through life; using our wits, smarts, failed attempts, guidance and triumphs. There are no SOPs, no formula to follow, and definitely no easy answers. The right choice for one may be the wrong decision for another. Managing our emotional life is even more complex and if not tougher. Whether it's relationships with family, friends, co-workers; or facing anxiety, depression, addiction, grief & loss, self-doubt etc, here at Lotus Circle Counseling Services, we would like to invite you to a space where you could feel safe to talk things out.
(714) 203-6605 View (714) 203-6605
Photo of Deborah L Wieland, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Deborah L Wieland
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
5 Endorsed
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
Are you stressed out by your circumstances. You are not alone as an EMDR Christian Therapist I'll help you in your journey to make sense of the confusion, hurt, and pain in your life. I specialize in those struggling with trauma, substance abuse, dual diagnosis, anger, anxiety and depression. I provide Individual therapy for adults in person or via telehealth. I believe healing starts with genuine compassion, to listen & support the pain of others. sufficit unum lumen intenebris means a single light suffices in the darkness, therapy can bring light to your darkened world.
Are you stressed out by your circumstances. You are not alone as an EMDR Christian Therapist I'll help you in your journey to make sense of the confusion, hurt, and pain in your life. I specialize in those struggling with trauma, substance abuse, dual diagnosis, anger, anxiety and depression. I provide Individual therapy for adults in person or via telehealth. I believe healing starts with genuine compassion, to listen & support the pain of others. sufficit unum lumen intenebris means a single light suffices in the darkness, therapy can bring light to your darkened world.
(714) 793-0724 View (714) 793-0724
Photo of Sara Kolsin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sara Kolsin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
“What is to give light must endure burning.” ― Victor Frankl. Everyone needs someone to hear them. I am here to lend an ear, be present when life gets tough, and assist you in finding coping skills to weather any storm successfully. Life can be confusing and stressful and we all need a helping hand in becoming the best version of ourselves. My practice consists of working with teenage and adult individuals that want to become stronger, feel better about themselves, and want to move past their past. I truly believe that our past holds us hostage and prevents us from being in, and enjoying, the present moments in life.
“What is to give light must endure burning.” ― Victor Frankl. Everyone needs someone to hear them. I am here to lend an ear, be present when life gets tough, and assist you in finding coping skills to weather any storm successfully. Life can be confusing and stressful and we all need a helping hand in becoming the best version of ourselves. My practice consists of working with teenage and adult individuals that want to become stronger, feel better about themselves, and want to move past their past. I truly believe that our past holds us hostage and prevents us from being in, and enjoying, the present moments in life.
(626) 240-5488 View (626) 240-5488
Photo of Ashley Pearson, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFTI
Ashley Pearson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFTI
Online Only
I have a great deal of experience working with children and adolescents who have anger, anxiety, bullying, and low self-esteem issues. I also work with couples who are experiencing relationship and marital issues, children having difficulty in making adjustments as a result of divorce, and individuals in abusive relationships or having been victims of abuse. I have experience and enjoy working with parents of children who have been diagnosed with autism, teaching constructive and effective support techniques through the use of Applied Behavioral Analysis.
I have a great deal of experience working with children and adolescents who have anger, anxiety, bullying, and low self-esteem issues. I also work with couples who are experiencing relationship and marital issues, children having difficulty in making adjustments as a result of divorce, and individuals in abusive relationships or having been victims of abuse. I have experience and enjoy working with parents of children who have been diagnosed with autism, teaching constructive and effective support techniques through the use of Applied Behavioral Analysis.
(657) 385-8345 View (657) 385-8345
Photo of Adriana Gutierrez, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Adriana Gutierrez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi! I am Adriana Gutierrez, Licensed Marriage and family therapist who is passionate about bringing therapy services through an integrative and holistic approach. I want to join you in supporting the work towards finding balance from day-to-day stressors to addressing life-altering events that challenge our sense of self. In my years of experience, I have trained and treated from parent-infant dynamics to children, teenagers, adults, couples, and families. I have extensive training and experience in trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Hi! I am Adriana Gutierrez, Licensed Marriage and family therapist who is passionate about bringing therapy services through an integrative and holistic approach. I want to join you in supporting the work towards finding balance from day-to-day stressors to addressing life-altering events that challenge our sense of self. In my years of experience, I have trained and treated from parent-infant dynamics to children, teenagers, adults, couples, and families. I have extensive training and experience in trauma, anxiety, and depression.
(714) 497-2160 View (714) 497-2160
Photo of Tracy Mason - Orange Coast Psychological Associates, P.C., PsyD
Orange Coast Psychological Associates, P.C.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
Founded in 2008, Orange Coast Psychological Associates consists of a highly trained multidisciplinary group of independently practicing Clinical Psychologists; each of who bring a unique level of skill, expertise and clinical experience. We provide a range of psychological services and assessment to children, adolescents and adults.
Founded in 2008, Orange Coast Psychological Associates consists of a highly trained multidisciplinary group of independently practicing Clinical Psychologists; each of who bring a unique level of skill, expertise and clinical experience. We provide a range of psychological services and assessment to children, adolescents and adults.
(714) 643-8386 View (714) 643-8386
Photo of Sara Estrada, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Sara Estrada
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
With a strong foundation and value of social justice principles, I work collaboratively with clients, acknowledging the impact of systemic issues on mental health. I facilitate discussions on privilege, oppression, and intersectionality, aiming to empower clients to live their preferred narratives. I am dedicated to fostering an inclusive and equitable therapeutic environment. By acknowledging and discussing systemic issues, privilege, and oppression, I hope to empower clients to understand the broader context of their experiences. This can lead to increased self-awareness and agency in navigating the complexities of their lives.
With a strong foundation and value of social justice principles, I work collaboratively with clients, acknowledging the impact of systemic issues on mental health. I facilitate discussions on privilege, oppression, and intersectionality, aiming to empower clients to live their preferred narratives. I am dedicated to fostering an inclusive and equitable therapeutic environment. By acknowledging and discussing systemic issues, privilege, and oppression, I hope to empower clients to understand the broader context of their experiences. This can lead to increased self-awareness and agency in navigating the complexities of their lives.
(657) 837-0742 View (657) 837-0742
Photo of Meagan Nicholson, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Meagan Nicholson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
I am committed to creating a nurturing and supportive environment where healing can unfold. I am here to guide you every step of the way as you embark on your journey towards self-empowerment. Through my compassionate approach, I strive to be a steadfast companion on your path to healing. Together, we will delve into the depths of your emotions, experiences, and challenges, providing guidance and support. ​My goal is to help you come home to yourself. Through my therapeutic techies and personalized approach, I will guide you to reconnect with your inner self, fostering self-acceptance, self-love, and empowerment.
I am committed to creating a nurturing and supportive environment where healing can unfold. I am here to guide you every step of the way as you embark on your journey towards self-empowerment. Through my compassionate approach, I strive to be a steadfast companion on your path to healing. Together, we will delve into the depths of your emotions, experiences, and challenges, providing guidance and support. ​My goal is to help you come home to yourself. Through my therapeutic techies and personalized approach, I will guide you to reconnect with your inner self, fostering self-acceptance, self-love, and empowerment.
(657) 255-8147 View (657) 255-8147
Photo of Chula Tran, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Chula Tran
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
I am dedicated to helping teens struggling with trauma and self-harm behavior. My experience working with Orange Unified School District, running groups from grade 6-12 for students struggling with emotional and behavioral problems has given me unique insight into not only helping teens, but also working with the families, schools, and community to provide more effective treatment. I have partnered with Western Youth Services in helping at risk teens and low income families in helping adolescents to overcome academic barriers and families cope with serious defiance and drug use.
I am dedicated to helping teens struggling with trauma and self-harm behavior. My experience working with Orange Unified School District, running groups from grade 6-12 for students struggling with emotional and behavioral problems has given me unique insight into not only helping teens, but also working with the families, schools, and community to provide more effective treatment. I have partnered with Western Youth Services in helping at risk teens and low income families in helping adolescents to overcome academic barriers and families cope with serious defiance and drug use.
(714) 699-9187 View (714) 699-9187
1

See more therapy options for Fountain Valley

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Fountain Valley, CA

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Fountain Valley, CA who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
87% Depression
77% Self Esteem
73% Relationship Issues
72% Grief
66% Trauma and PTSD
66% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
69% Cigna and Evernorth
53% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Fountain Valley, CA see their clients

66% In Person and Online
34% Online Only

Gender breakdown

73% Female
27% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Fountain Valley?

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.