Therapists in Ventura County, CA

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Photo of Amanda Marie Coleman, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Amanda Marie Coleman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Ojai, CA 93023
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling ready to journey within? My goal in the therapeutic work is to gently provide support as you peer into your innermost intricacies. You may be suffering from shame that enhances your anxiety, depression that isolates you from the connection you desire, or a frame of mind that keeps you stuck from the dreams you want to achieve. You may have faced many adversities in your life experience and need the support of a therapist to help you find better meaning in life and change the course. My goal as your therapist is to provide you support and tools that will empower you to show up in the world in the way you have dreamed.
Are you feeling ready to journey within? My goal in the therapeutic work is to gently provide support as you peer into your innermost intricacies. You may be suffering from shame that enhances your anxiety, depression that isolates you from the connection you desire, or a frame of mind that keeps you stuck from the dreams you want to achieve. You may have faced many adversities in your life experience and need the support of a therapist to help you find better meaning in life and change the course. My goal as your therapist is to provide you support and tools that will empower you to show up in the world in the way you have dreamed.
(805) 394-3822 View (805) 394-3822
Photo of Sherry Norris, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sherry Norris
Marriage & Family Therapist
Ventura, CA 93003
I am committed to guiding you to meet your goals, while offering excellent therapy and support. I look forward to meeting you and getting to know you as we embark on your sacred journey together. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a sacred and collaborative partnership. It begins with the therapist creating a safe and empathic environment of warmth and compassion. My therapeutic approach draws from multiple modalities, as I consider myself to be eclectic, tailoring my approach to fit your specific needs. I believe in beginning where you are, with no agenda.
I am committed to guiding you to meet your goals, while offering excellent therapy and support. I look forward to meeting you and getting to know you as we embark on your sacred journey together. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a sacred and collaborative partnership. It begins with the therapist creating a safe and empathic environment of warmth and compassion. My therapeutic approach draws from multiple modalities, as I consider myself to be eclectic, tailoring my approach to fit your specific needs. I believe in beginning where you are, with no agenda.
(747) 279-4540 View (747) 279-4540
Photo of Seraphina Geiter - Seraphim Psychology, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Seraphim Psychology
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Ojai, CA 93023
What you seek is also seeking you" - Rumi In a world that seems to be ever more divided, unsafe, and chaotic, it can sometimes feel hard to believe that the peace and fulfillment you want can be found. And yet you are worthy of it. We have the right and power to alchemize suffering into strength, joy, wisdom, and peace. Let therapy unlock the wisdom your heart holds for finding the sense of self, relationships, and life you long for. The world is waiting for you. "Because you are alive, everything is possible." -Thich Nhat Hanh
What you seek is also seeking you" - Rumi In a world that seems to be ever more divided, unsafe, and chaotic, it can sometimes feel hard to believe that the peace and fulfillment you want can be found. And yet you are worthy of it. We have the right and power to alchemize suffering into strength, joy, wisdom, and peace. Let therapy unlock the wisdom your heart holds for finding the sense of self, relationships, and life you long for. The world is waiting for you. "Because you are alive, everything is possible." -Thich Nhat Hanh
(805) 669-9283 View (805) 669-9283
Photo of Aline Ferreira, Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT, MA
Aline Ferreira
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT, MA
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist fluent in Spanish, Portuguese, and English, I have used a humanistic approach to meet my clients where they are. I provide a safe and nurturing environment for them to grow at their own pace. They might be navigating significant life transitions such as marriage, divorce, single parenthood, or the complexities of blending families. They may be dealing with issues related to self-esteem, identity, anxiety, or depression. These clients often need support in understanding their emotions, developing resilience, and finding their authentic selves.
As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist fluent in Spanish, Portuguese, and English, I have used a humanistic approach to meet my clients where they are. I provide a safe and nurturing environment for them to grow at their own pace. They might be navigating significant life transitions such as marriage, divorce, single parenthood, or the complexities of blending families. They may be dealing with issues related to self-esteem, identity, anxiety, or depression. These clients often need support in understanding their emotions, developing resilience, and finding their authentic selves.
(805) 590-9997 View (805) 590-9997
Photo of Cristina Morelli, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Cristina Morelli
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am dedicated to supporting individuals who are seeking positive change in their lives. If you’re considering therapy, you've already taken a significant and commendable step. Reaching out for help can be daunting, and I applaud your courage in doing so. You might be facing self-doubt, overwhelming stress, low motivation, or feeling stuck in a rut. Perhaps you’re eager to set achievable goals to improve your life and relationships but aren’t sure where to begin. I’m here to guide you through this journey and help you create the path forward.
I am dedicated to supporting individuals who are seeking positive change in their lives. If you’re considering therapy, you've already taken a significant and commendable step. Reaching out for help can be daunting, and I applaud your courage in doing so. You might be facing self-doubt, overwhelming stress, low motivation, or feeling stuck in a rut. Perhaps you’re eager to set achievable goals to improve your life and relationships but aren’t sure where to begin. I’m here to guide you through this journey and help you create the path forward.
(805) 316-7130 View (805) 316-7130
Photo of Carl Hess, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Carl Hess
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
Carl Hess is an Associate Marriage and Family therapist offering in-person sessions in the city of Ventura. Carl works with individuals, families, and couples, helping to improve relationships and to discover the path to more rich and meaningful lives. Carl employs knowledge of a wide range of treatment modalities to create individualized treatment plans with practical solutions for life's challenges.
Carl Hess is an Associate Marriage and Family therapist offering in-person sessions in the city of Ventura. Carl works with individuals, families, and couples, helping to improve relationships and to discover the path to more rich and meaningful lives. Carl employs knowledge of a wide range of treatment modalities to create individualized treatment plans with practical solutions for life's challenges.
(805) 387-6926 View (805) 387-6926
Photo of Elise Baumann, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Elise Baumann
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
You’re ambitious, driven, and always striving for more—but beneath the surface, anxiety, self-doubt, and perfectionism are running the show. You’re juggling career goals, relationships, and personal growth, yet you constantly feel like you’re falling short. You want to set boundaries, trust yourself, and feel more confident—but the thought of slowing down to process everything feels overwhelming. You know deep down that taking care of your mental health is key to long-term success, but where do you start? That's where I come in... Therapy with me is a mix of deep insight, real talk, and tangible growth.
You’re ambitious, driven, and always striving for more—but beneath the surface, anxiety, self-doubt, and perfectionism are running the show. You’re juggling career goals, relationships, and personal growth, yet you constantly feel like you’re falling short. You want to set boundaries, trust yourself, and feel more confident—but the thought of slowing down to process everything feels overwhelming. You know deep down that taking care of your mental health is key to long-term success, but where do you start? That's where I come in... Therapy with me is a mix of deep insight, real talk, and tangible growth.
(805) 472-4142 View (805) 472-4142
Photo of Cynthia L Cash-Silver, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Cynthia L Cash-Silver
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Westlake Village, CA 91361
As a former teacher and director of a school for the past 30 years, including working with youth on probation, I feel that I can offer knowledgeable perspectives on parenting as well as offering mandated clients classes in both parenting and anger management.My classes have been court accepted. I also offer a calm, warm, and safe environment for couples, individuals and children. I care about families and I am aware of how each individual can affect the whole. I believe that we are like snowflakes in that we each experience our very individualized perception of experience.
As a former teacher and director of a school for the past 30 years, including working with youth on probation, I feel that I can offer knowledgeable perspectives on parenting as well as offering mandated clients classes in both parenting and anger management.My classes have been court accepted. I also offer a calm, warm, and safe environment for couples, individuals and children. I care about families and I am aware of how each individual can affect the whole. I believe that we are like snowflakes in that we each experience our very individualized perception of experience.
(804) 557-0960 View (804) 557-0960
Photo of Andre Jackson, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Andre Jackson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hello, my name is Andre Jackson. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. The goal is to be empathetic and support growth. It is OK to rethink the purpose and make changes that we care to. I am a non-judgmental human being creating a supportive environment to promote mindfulness and understanding. My style is relational and engaging (and so humor healed the world). I strive to meet you where you are at. My focuses are Personal Growth, Building Esteem, Military Families, Trauma, Suicidal Ideation, Vocational Stress, Anxiety, Family, Teens
Hello, my name is Andre Jackson. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. The goal is to be empathetic and support growth. It is OK to rethink the purpose and make changes that we care to. I am a non-judgmental human being creating a supportive environment to promote mindfulness and understanding. My style is relational and engaging (and so humor healed the world). I strive to meet you where you are at. My focuses are Personal Growth, Building Esteem, Military Families, Trauma, Suicidal Ideation, Vocational Stress, Anxiety, Family, Teens
(805) 262-9154 View (805) 262-9154
Photo of Samantha Dalene Garfinkel, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Samantha Dalene Garfinkel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
There are times when we experience phases of anxiety, depression, stress and exhaustion and wonder how to feel “better.” I bring unconditional, positive regard and active listening along with skills to help you and/or your loved one(s) move through those challenging times. I have experience working with individuals with substance abuse, survivors of trauma, shame, adolescence, adults, depression, anxiety and emotional disturbances. My goal is to support you and/or your loved one(s) during the healing process and assist in developing new patterns of behavior and thoughts.
There are times when we experience phases of anxiety, depression, stress and exhaustion and wonder how to feel “better.” I bring unconditional, positive regard and active listening along with skills to help you and/or your loved one(s) move through those challenging times. I have experience working with individuals with substance abuse, survivors of trauma, shame, adolescence, adults, depression, anxiety and emotional disturbances. My goal is to support you and/or your loved one(s) during the healing process and assist in developing new patterns of behavior and thoughts.
(805) 749-2631 View (805) 749-2631
Photo of Kristi T Grizard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kristi T Grizard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
I provide a nurturing and supportive therapeutic environment for my clients, with a focus on providing guidance, establishing safety and promoting self-empowerment. I have experience working with a range of children that encounter various challenges such as autism, developmental disabilities, ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and selective mutism. My clinical experience includes providing counseling in the schools (k-12), working at a child development center, and working at a community based mental health outpatient facility. I look forward to helping you and your child on the therapeutic journey.
I provide a nurturing and supportive therapeutic environment for my clients, with a focus on providing guidance, establishing safety and promoting self-empowerment. I have experience working with a range of children that encounter various challenges such as autism, developmental disabilities, ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and selective mutism. My clinical experience includes providing counseling in the schools (k-12), working at a child development center, and working at a community based mental health outpatient facility. I look forward to helping you and your child on the therapeutic journey.
(805) 329-3543 View (805) 329-3543
Photo of Karyn Preston, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, APCC, PharmD
Karyn Preston
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, APCC, PharmD
3 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93063
Life can be overwhelming, leaving us feeling stuck, confused, and struggling. But there is hope; you don't have to face it alone. Deep-seated wounds from the past can affect many areas of our lives. Healing is hard to do alone, and I'm here to help. I understand that we are more than physical–we have complex dimensions, including mental, emotional, sexual, relational, and spiritual parts that may need support and healing.
Life can be overwhelming, leaving us feeling stuck, confused, and struggling. But there is hope; you don't have to face it alone. Deep-seated wounds from the past can affect many areas of our lives. Healing is hard to do alone, and I'm here to help. I understand that we are more than physical–we have complex dimensions, including mental, emotional, sexual, relational, and spiritual parts that may need support and healing.
(805) 590-5087 View (805) 590-5087
Photo of Oriana Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Oriana Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
I work with individuals and families who are experiencing challenges related to substance use, mood changes, relational/attachment difficulties, and general life transitions. I support and celebrate all identities, relationship orientations, and bodies! My work is grounded in Liberation psychology and I believe in meeting individuals where they are at, and that building safety and support is a community effort that sometimes starts within the therapeutic relationship and grows outward. You can book with me via my website
I work with individuals and families who are experiencing challenges related to substance use, mood changes, relational/attachment difficulties, and general life transitions. I support and celebrate all identities, relationship orientations, and bodies! My work is grounded in Liberation psychology and I believe in meeting individuals where they are at, and that building safety and support is a community effort that sometimes starts within the therapeutic relationship and grows outward. You can book with me via my website
(805) 749-5018 View (805) 749-5018
Photo of Teva Johnstone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Teva Johnstone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
I specialize in the treatment of OCD, anxiety, and related conditions on the OCD spectrum. I use Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) treatment to help you grow in courage and ability to tolerate uncertainty. I help people stop ruminating and engaging in compulsive avoidance. People who come to see me often feel stuck in self-defeating patters as they have watched their lives gradually get smaller due to fear, overthinking, perfectionism, depression, and stress. OCD treatment is guided by your values and goals and is an active approach to recovery. Together we will face what troubles you and move through it.
I specialize in the treatment of OCD, anxiety, and related conditions on the OCD spectrum. I use Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) treatment to help you grow in courage and ability to tolerate uncertainty. I help people stop ruminating and engaging in compulsive avoidance. People who come to see me often feel stuck in self-defeating patters as they have watched their lives gradually get smaller due to fear, overthinking, perfectionism, depression, and stress. OCD treatment is guided by your values and goals and is an active approach to recovery. Together we will face what troubles you and move through it.
(805) 567-7605 View (805) 567-7605
Photo of Estrella Ramirez-Robles, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Estrella Ramirez-Robles
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hello, my name is Estrella Ramirez-Robles. I am an LA native who loves everything Dodgers, Lakers, and Chargers (yes still a Chargers fan even though Rams won the Super Bowl), and who does not shy away from trying new foods, exploring the world, and saying NO to things that will not make me happy. I am a coffee lover, professional dog snuggler, and someone who is an introvert at heart but an extrovert by profession.
Hello, my name is Estrella Ramirez-Robles. I am an LA native who loves everything Dodgers, Lakers, and Chargers (yes still a Chargers fan even though Rams won the Super Bowl), and who does not shy away from trying new foods, exploring the world, and saying NO to things that will not make me happy. I am a coffee lover, professional dog snuggler, and someone who is an introvert at heart but an extrovert by profession.
(805) 515-3635 View (805) 515-3635
Photo of Ronald Cummings, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Ronald Cummings
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hi, my name is Ronald Cummings. I have been doing therapy for around a decade now. Before this, I also worked at a sober living home, a detox, and as a public school teacher for middle school. I see my clients as able to fix the situation they are in and a vital part of the therapeutic process. I like to work with a variety of clients and with a variety of mental health issues. I do have a background in dealing with anxiety from personal experience as well.
Hi, my name is Ronald Cummings. I have been doing therapy for around a decade now. Before this, I also worked at a sober living home, a detox, and as a public school teacher for middle school. I see my clients as able to fix the situation they are in and a vital part of the therapeutic process. I like to work with a variety of clients and with a variety of mental health issues. I do have a background in dealing with anxiety from personal experience as well.
(805) 600-0234 View (805) 600-0234
Photo of Gina Albani, Psychologist, PsyD
Gina Albani
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
Feeling stuck? Do you find yourself repeating patterns, perhaps feeling frustrated and unsure about how to step out of them? Is this impacting self-confidence and self-esteem? I work with clients to explore both the unhelpful and helpful patterns in their lives. By discovering your emotional responses, or if needed, learning first how to identify your emotions, we can examine what your feelings are telling you about your decisions and experiences in your relationships and daily life.
Feeling stuck? Do you find yourself repeating patterns, perhaps feeling frustrated and unsure about how to step out of them? Is this impacting self-confidence and self-esteem? I work with clients to explore both the unhelpful and helpful patterns in their lives. By discovering your emotional responses, or if needed, learning first how to identify your emotions, we can examine what your feelings are telling you about your decisions and experiences in your relationships and daily life.
View
Photo of Jonathan Vera Monteverdi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, DSTT, CCTP
Jonathan Vera Monteverdi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, DSTT, CCTP
1 Endorsed
Westlake Village, CA 91361
Do you struggle with mental health challenges, challenges in your relationship, loss of sense of self, and/or addiction that affects your sense of fulfillment? Do you feel overwhelmed, numb, wanting more out of life, and disconnected with others and yourself? Are you concerned how your disconnection with yourself and presenting issues creates limitations in your life? Now more than ever, people are feeling overwhelmed and wanting to disconnect and distract themselves from life demands and their stressors, leaving them wanting more. I believe there is hope and change that can happen in everyone no matter the struggles.
Do you struggle with mental health challenges, challenges in your relationship, loss of sense of self, and/or addiction that affects your sense of fulfillment? Do you feel overwhelmed, numb, wanting more out of life, and disconnected with others and yourself? Are you concerned how your disconnection with yourself and presenting issues creates limitations in your life? Now more than ever, people are feeling overwhelmed and wanting to disconnect and distract themselves from life demands and their stressors, leaving them wanting more. I believe there is hope and change that can happen in everyone no matter the struggles.
(805) 608-2872 View (805) 608-2872
Photo of Cynthia D Weston, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Cynthia D Weston
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Sometimes beginning the process of therapy can be a little scary. The gifts that can be discovered through the challenge may inspire, transform, generate, and insight a new outlook on one's future. I have great compassion for those that want to make changes in their life. Family, child (play therapy), teens and individul, along with groups are all a part of my practice. Helping to discover your ultimate truth and having healthy, intimate, communicative, and nurturing relationships can bring freedom to your world and that is the goal.
Sometimes beginning the process of therapy can be a little scary. The gifts that can be discovered through the challenge may inspire, transform, generate, and insight a new outlook on one's future. I have great compassion for those that want to make changes in their life. Family, child (play therapy), teens and individul, along with groups are all a part of my practice. Helping to discover your ultimate truth and having healthy, intimate, communicative, and nurturing relationships can bring freedom to your world and that is the goal.
(818) 527-4510 View (818) 527-4510
Photo of Christie Limcaco, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Christie Limcaco
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Westlake Village, CA 91362
Human beings are complex and unique. We go through challenges that we cannot always see our way though on our own. My experience and interest includes working with children, adolescents, individuals and families on a variety of different issues; including depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, multi-cultural families and trauma.
Human beings are complex and unique. We go through challenges that we cannot always see our way though on our own. My experience and interest includes working with children, adolescents, individuals and families on a variety of different issues; including depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, multi-cultural families and trauma.
(818) 942-6917 View (818) 942-6917

See more therapy options for Ventura County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Ventura County, CA

2,000+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Ventura County, CA who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
88% Depression
74% Relationship Issues
70% Self Esteem
69% Coping Skills
64% Stress
63% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
71% Cigna and Evernorth
66% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Ventura County, CA see their clients

53% In Person and Online
47% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
19% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Ventura County?

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.