Therapists in Portland, OR

View neighborhoods in Portland
Photo of Dr. Venessa Madrigal in Portland, OR
Dr. Venessa Madrigal
ND
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
Have you had a head injury (or many) and haven’t felt the same since - mentally, emotionally, hormonally? It could be due to post-concussion syndrome. Do you experience chronic mental or cognitive health issues that aren’t helped with talk therapy, medications, or any other treatment you’ve tried? LENS, low energy neurofeedback system, might help! It helps to rewire the brain - stimulates new connections in the brain via neuroplasticity, which allow for long-lasting changes. LENS is great for most chronic mental and brain health conditions for kids and adults. Dr. Madrigal is licensed in OR & WA; in-person appts only in Portland.
Have you had a head injury (or many) and haven’t felt the same since - mentally, emotionally, hormonally? It could be due to post-concussion syndrome. Do you experience chronic mental or cognitive health issues that aren’t helped with talk therapy, medications, or any other treatment you’ve tried? LENS, low energy neurofeedback system, might help! It helps to rewire the brain - stimulates new connections in the brain via neuroplasticity, which allow for long-lasting changes. LENS is great for most chronic mental and brain health conditions for kids and adults. Dr. Madrigal is licensed in OR & WA; in-person appts only in Portland.
(503) 836-9213 View (503) 836-9213
Photo of Abby Ernst, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Abby Ernst
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I work with individuals 16 and older in Oregon and Washington with eating disorders including Anorexia, Bulimia, ARFID, Orthorexia, and Binge Eating Disorder. I also love to work with people with other forms of disordered eating and chronic dieting, anxiety, OCD, body image distress, life transitions, and adulting. I am here to help you weather the storm of your eating disorder, anxiety, body image distress, and/or whatever else you bring to the room. Through my own eating disorder recovery, and helping many clients find theirs, I have learned that no recovery journey is the same.
I work with individuals 16 and older in Oregon and Washington with eating disorders including Anorexia, Bulimia, ARFID, Orthorexia, and Binge Eating Disorder. I also love to work with people with other forms of disordered eating and chronic dieting, anxiety, OCD, body image distress, life transitions, and adulting. I am here to help you weather the storm of your eating disorder, anxiety, body image distress, and/or whatever else you bring to the room. Through my own eating disorder recovery, and helping many clients find theirs, I have learned that no recovery journey is the same.
(971) 545-4568 View (971) 545-4568
Photo of Jolie Krechman, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Jolie Krechman
Psychologist, PhD, LLC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Therapy is an opportunity for personal development in a safe, nonjudgmental, respectful, private, and supportive environment. It is natural to feel overwhelmed at times and it is not a sign of weak character to seek help. Through therapy we can learn to manage our emotions more effectively, improve our relationships and communication, bolster our confidence and self-esteem, and minimize our distress. In my work, I strive to create a comfortable environment in which I can assist clients in identifying thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and recurring patterns of behavior that may be impinging on the capacity to experience and create a fuller, more satisfying life.
Therapy is an opportunity for personal development in a safe, nonjudgmental, respectful, private, and supportive environment. It is natural to feel overwhelmed at times and it is not a sign of weak character to seek help. Through therapy we can learn to manage our emotions more effectively, improve our relationships and communication, bolster our confidence and self-esteem, and minimize our distress. In my work, I strive to create a comfortable environment in which I can assist clients in identifying thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and recurring patterns of behavior that may be impinging on the capacity to experience and create a fuller, more satisfying life.
(503) 446-6135 View (503) 446-6135
Photo of Vanessa Servellón, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Vanessa Servellón
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you needing a space to process emotions and experiences? Are you feeling nervous, anxious or struggling to cope with your worries? Have you experienced trauma in your life and noticing it affecting your life today? Are you wanting to improve your relationship with food and/or your body? Maybe you are wanting to discover more about yourself and how you navigate the world. In sessions, you can learn techniques or coping skills and dedicate time to your emotional wellbeing.
Are you needing a space to process emotions and experiences? Are you feeling nervous, anxious or struggling to cope with your worries? Have you experienced trauma in your life and noticing it affecting your life today? Are you wanting to improve your relationship with food and/or your body? Maybe you are wanting to discover more about yourself and how you navigate the world. In sessions, you can learn techniques or coping skills and dedicate time to your emotional wellbeing.
(503) 783-8689 View (503) 783-8689
Photo of Angela Keeney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Angela Keeney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
Not accepting new clients
*NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* There are many reasons people seek therapy. Most likely, you're here because you're feeling out of balance in some aspect of your life. You may be looking for better ways to cope with depression or anxiety, change patterns that lead to unhealthy behaviors or relationships, or heal from a difficult or traumatic experience. Therapy can also help you gain insight about yourself, increase your sense of confidence, or help you explore a new life path with courage and intention. My hope is to provide support, tools, and encouragement to help you find greater balance, authenticity, and overall well-being.
*NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* There are many reasons people seek therapy. Most likely, you're here because you're feeling out of balance in some aspect of your life. You may be looking for better ways to cope with depression or anxiety, change patterns that lead to unhealthy behaviors or relationships, or heal from a difficult or traumatic experience. Therapy can also help you gain insight about yourself, increase your sense of confidence, or help you explore a new life path with courage and intention. My hope is to provide support, tools, and encouragement to help you find greater balance, authenticity, and overall well-being.
(503) 406-6598 View (503) 406-6598
Photo of Brianne Copeland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Brianne Copeland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217
Sometimes, as humans, we get wounded in ways that are so deep, they are difficult to name. Perhaps you have lost loved ones along the way, or can't find meaning in your story. Have you ever inventoried your life to discover that it is not what you want it to be? Do you feel haunted by memories? Maybe you engage in self-destructive or numbing behaviors that you wish you could change, but find that making those changes is easier said than done. My goal is to create a trustworthy space where we can work through whatever it is you bring in, on your search for healing, fulfillment, and wholeness.
Sometimes, as humans, we get wounded in ways that are so deep, they are difficult to name. Perhaps you have lost loved ones along the way, or can't find meaning in your story. Have you ever inventoried your life to discover that it is not what you want it to be? Do you feel haunted by memories? Maybe you engage in self-destructive or numbing behaviors that you wish you could change, but find that making those changes is easier said than done. My goal is to create a trustworthy space where we can work through whatever it is you bring in, on your search for healing, fulfillment, and wholeness.
(971) 233-2704 View (971) 233-2704
Photo of Portland Behavioral Therapy, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Portland Behavioral Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211
At Portland Behavioral Therapy, Dr. Conterno utilizes concepts and approaches of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and she has specific training and experience using these therapies to treat anxiety disorders and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Through the integration of mindfulness, Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and other cognitive-behavioral interventions, Dr. Conterno helps her clients learn new skills to more effectively overcome and manage mental health challenges and situational stressors.
At Portland Behavioral Therapy, Dr. Conterno utilizes concepts and approaches of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and she has specific training and experience using these therapies to treat anxiety disorders and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Through the integration of mindfulness, Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), and other cognitive-behavioral interventions, Dr. Conterno helps her clients learn new skills to more effectively overcome and manage mental health challenges and situational stressors.
(971) 999-3247 View (971) 999-3247
Photo of Alison Newey, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Alison Newey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
I specialize in creating a safe and accepting space for the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized groups and cultures. I am passionate about exploring creative approaches to healing, while honoring each individual's unique journey and culture. I've witnessed the power of art-making to build connections and trust when working with people struggling with a variety of issues, including traumatic experiences, depression and anxiety, neurodiversity and everyday stressors to name a few. Art therapy is a powerful tool to help create new meanings of experience and supports self-expression without the use of words.
I specialize in creating a safe and accepting space for the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized groups and cultures. I am passionate about exploring creative approaches to healing, while honoring each individual's unique journey and culture. I've witnessed the power of art-making to build connections and trust when working with people struggling with a variety of issues, including traumatic experiences, depression and anxiety, neurodiversity and everyday stressors to name a few. Art therapy is a powerful tool to help create new meanings of experience and supports self-expression without the use of words.
(971) 251-4113 View (971) 251-4113
Photo of Lorin Jonathan Pritts, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Lorin Jonathan Pritts
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
My goal is to empower those who often find themselves in the margins in our society. My work often focuses on identity issues with LGBTQ individuals, couples or moresomes, and I work with folks in an affirming way that integrates principles of justice and equity. I utilize Narrative and Emotionally Focused systemic approaches in therapy to help my clients celebrate aspects of their identity that are often marginalized by society.
My goal is to empower those who often find themselves in the margins in our society. My work often focuses on identity issues with LGBTQ individuals, couples or moresomes, and I work with folks in an affirming way that integrates principles of justice and equity. I utilize Narrative and Emotionally Focused systemic approaches in therapy to help my clients celebrate aspects of their identity that are often marginalized by society.
(971) 800-2364 View (971) 800-2364
Photo of Andrea R Shepherd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Andrea R Shepherd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I’m Andrea and I'm glad you're here. I work with adolescents and adults to treat a variety of mental and behavioral health conditions including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, poor self-esteem, family conflict, challenging behaviors, ADHD, cognitive distortions, and pre and postpartum mental health. I have nearly a decade of experience as a therapist in high levels of psychiatric care for children, adolescents and their families. In my most recent employment experience I have found great joy working with parents in various stages providing support and coaching with current evidenced based research interventions.
Hello! I’m Andrea and I'm glad you're here. I work with adolescents and adults to treat a variety of mental and behavioral health conditions including (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, poor self-esteem, family conflict, challenging behaviors, ADHD, cognitive distortions, and pre and postpartum mental health. I have nearly a decade of experience as a therapist in high levels of psychiatric care for children, adolescents and their families. In my most recent employment experience I have found great joy working with parents in various stages providing support and coaching with current evidenced based research interventions.
(503) 966-3645 View (503) 966-3645
Photo of Lacey Burnett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Lacey Burnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
I have experience in addressing a wide range of concerns and diagnoses, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, chronic health struggles, self-esteem, stress management, and ADHD. My goal is to empower my clients with tools and insights that can facilitate positive change and enhance their overall quality of life.
I have experience in addressing a wide range of concerns and diagnoses, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, chronic health struggles, self-esteem, stress management, and ADHD. My goal is to empower my clients with tools and insights that can facilitate positive change and enhance their overall quality of life.
(503) 739-9366 View (503) 739-9366
Photo of Amanda Zucker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Amanda Zucker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Are you feeling lost as you navigate challenging transitions in your life? Is your world shifting as you make choices around parenthood, parenting, co-parenting, career and or relationship changes? All while the outside world keeps spinning and feels loud and overwhelming? Are you struggling with loss and grief? Are you feeling stuck, fearful or unsure of how to move through this part of your life? You're not alone. I'm an art therapist and licensed professional counselor and it's my honor to support clients through these difficult moments in their life using authentic connection, creative practices and nervous system regulation.
Are you feeling lost as you navigate challenging transitions in your life? Is your world shifting as you make choices around parenthood, parenting, co-parenting, career and or relationship changes? All while the outside world keeps spinning and feels loud and overwhelming? Are you struggling with loss and grief? Are you feeling stuck, fearful or unsure of how to move through this part of your life? You're not alone. I'm an art therapist and licensed professional counselor and it's my honor to support clients through these difficult moments in their life using authentic connection, creative practices and nervous system regulation.
(503) 461-1331 View (503) 461-1331
Photo of Deborah Ranker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Deborah Ranker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in helping adults improve their relationships with themselves and others. I offer proactive individual counseling to uproot and transcend negative self-beliefs, insecurities, and past traumas that leave you feeling stuck and overwhelmed. In my practice I support people with issues relating to: anxiety, depression, people-pleasing, codependency, extreme empathy, self-judgement, spiritual abuse recovery, trauma, grief, and relationship dissatisfaction. I support clients to cultivate self-compassion, develop healthy coping skills, learn effective communication tools, and build confidence to change patterns and heal.
I specialize in helping adults improve their relationships with themselves and others. I offer proactive individual counseling to uproot and transcend negative self-beliefs, insecurities, and past traumas that leave you feeling stuck and overwhelmed. In my practice I support people with issues relating to: anxiety, depression, people-pleasing, codependency, extreme empathy, self-judgement, spiritual abuse recovery, trauma, grief, and relationship dissatisfaction. I support clients to cultivate self-compassion, develop healthy coping skills, learn effective communication tools, and build confidence to change patterns and heal.
(503) 664-9584 View (503) 664-9584
Photo of Luke Colbourn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Luke Colbourn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself trying hard to overcome difficulties in your life, but end up feeling stuck, wondering “Why can’t I change this”? You might feel like your old patterns have control over you. It’s frustrating to commit to change and yet seem to make little progress. It might be time to try something different.
Do you find yourself trying hard to overcome difficulties in your life, but end up feeling stuck, wondering “Why can’t I change this”? You might feel like your old patterns have control over you. It’s frustrating to commit to change and yet seem to make little progress. It might be time to try something different.
(971) 252-7174 View (971) 252-7174
Photo of Zaheeda Virani, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Zaheeda Virani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Hello! I'm Dr. Zaheeda Virani, a licensed psychologist with Aspire Psychology. I have current openings for therapy and ADHD assessment for children and adolescents age 9-16. My goal is to help my patients find their sense of belonging in the world while maintaining true to their values, cultural identities, and personal self.
Hello! I'm Dr. Zaheeda Virani, a licensed psychologist with Aspire Psychology. I have current openings for therapy and ADHD assessment for children and adolescents age 9-16. My goal is to help my patients find their sense of belonging in the world while maintaining true to their values, cultural identities, and personal self.
(971) 257-1155 x1 View (971) 257-1155 x1
Photo of Ally Willis, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Ally Willis
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
Now Accepting New Clients! You are taking the time to make mental health a priority, and that is something to be proud of. I look forward to walking beside you while you navigate life while working towards your goals and aspirations. I think about your problems from a holistic perspective because I believe that everyone contributes to the problem. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming roadblocks along the way.
Now Accepting New Clients! You are taking the time to make mental health a priority, and that is something to be proud of. I look forward to walking beside you while you navigate life while working towards your goals and aspirations. I think about your problems from a holistic perspective because I believe that everyone contributes to the problem. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming roadblocks along the way.
(503) 212-6351 View (503) 212-6351
Photo of Krista Diane Ryan, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Krista Diane Ryan
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, QMHP-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
We are all wired to seek connection, love, belonging, and to be understood. Our internal messaging often tells us we are not good enough to receive these things because of the dominant culture we are in. In therapy, we can work together toward the belief that you are enough. Here, LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies will find a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore who you are, realize your full potential, find meaning, and increase serenity and joy.
We are all wired to seek connection, love, belonging, and to be understood. Our internal messaging often tells us we are not good enough to receive these things because of the dominant culture we are in. In therapy, we can work together toward the belief that you are enough. Here, LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies will find a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore who you are, realize your full potential, find meaning, and increase serenity and joy.
(503) 487-5774 View (503) 487-5774
Photo of Saren E Craig, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Saren E Craig
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I value advocacy surrounding social justice issues and center of experiences of oppression, especially regarding LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities when discussing mental health. I love the empowering work I do with my clients.
I value advocacy surrounding social justice issues and center of experiences of oppression, especially regarding LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities when discussing mental health. I love the empowering work I do with my clients.
(971) 306-5456 View (971) 306-5456
Photo of Ruth Tessema, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Ruth Tessema
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Not accepting new clients
You may find yourself struggling with the demands of society along with personal stressors. I specialize in helping people understand the ways trauma, especially complex trauma, impacts their lives, their relationships, and their sense of Self. With support, one can build resilience after experiencing tremendous grief and trauma. As your counselor I aim to provide safe and therapeutic support as you garner skills to face difficult roadblocks that might otherwise seem too overwhelming to tackle or unconsciously hidden. Some of these obstacles can cause anxiety, anger, depression, insecurities, and conflicts with relationships.
You may find yourself struggling with the demands of society along with personal stressors. I specialize in helping people understand the ways trauma, especially complex trauma, impacts their lives, their relationships, and their sense of Self. With support, one can build resilience after experiencing tremendous grief and trauma. As your counselor I aim to provide safe and therapeutic support as you garner skills to face difficult roadblocks that might otherwise seem too overwhelming to tackle or unconsciously hidden. Some of these obstacles can cause anxiety, anger, depression, insecurities, and conflicts with relationships.
(971) 274-5782 View (971) 274-5782
Photo of Jeff Whritenour, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Jeff Whritenour
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
I assist adults and couples with psycho-spiritual practices, relationships, parenting, life transitions, anxiety/depression, and loss. My practice is oriented toward psychological and spiritual integration. Through a combination of mindfulness, somatic and systems therapies, clients develop deeper relationship with all aspects of themself. Together, we'll help you access more Love and appreciation for parts of yourself you may judge harshly; and look for guidance from the Wisdom that you already embody.
I assist adults and couples with psycho-spiritual practices, relationships, parenting, life transitions, anxiety/depression, and loss. My practice is oriented toward psychological and spiritual integration. Through a combination of mindfulness, somatic and systems therapies, clients develop deeper relationship with all aspects of themself. Together, we'll help you access more Love and appreciation for parts of yourself you may judge harshly; and look for guidance from the Wisdom that you already embody.
(503) 567-4975 View (503) 567-4975

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

54% PacificSource
47% Aetna
38% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
21% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

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.