Therapists in Newport Beach, CA

Photo of Shanna Farmer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Shanna Farmer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Shanna Farmer specializes in providing cognitive behavioral therapy to children, adolescents and adults with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders and obsessive compulsive disorder. Shanna is also experienced in working with children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Disruptive Behavior Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Communication Disorders and Learning Disorders. These disorders often co-exist with anxiety and depressive disorders.
Shanna Farmer specializes in providing cognitive behavioral therapy to children, adolescents and adults with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders and obsessive compulsive disorder. Shanna is also experienced in working with children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Disruptive Behavior Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Communication Disorders and Learning Disorders. These disorders often co-exist with anxiety and depressive disorders.
(949) 326-2180 View (949) 326-2180
Photo of Anna Olinova, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Newport Beach, CA
Anna Olinova
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Perhaps you are at a point where something has got to change! You realized that your experience of life can be more full, but you’re not quite sure how to make that happen. You got on Psych Today and despite the doubt, you had a small twinkle of hope that believes that something different… something better is possible for you! As a therapist, I am your partner in growing that small spark into the blazing flame that you have deep inside you. Whether you are living with depression, anxiety, or trauma, I would be honored to support you in expanding your self-confidence and sense of connection and aliveness.
Perhaps you are at a point where something has got to change! You realized that your experience of life can be more full, but you’re not quite sure how to make that happen. You got on Psych Today and despite the doubt, you had a small twinkle of hope that believes that something different… something better is possible for you! As a therapist, I am your partner in growing that small spark into the blazing flame that you have deep inside you. Whether you are living with depression, anxiety, or trauma, I would be honored to support you in expanding your self-confidence and sense of connection and aliveness.
(949) 978-0357 View (949) 978-0357
Photo of Talk Therapy Mental Health Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Talk Therapy Mental Health Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
My approach is client-centered. I help clients who suffer from depression, anxiety and other issues. I have specialty training and numerous certificates in various modalities. I believe people who suffer from depression are dealing with grief and focus treatment accordingly.
My approach is client-centered. I help clients who suffer from depression, anxiety and other issues. I have specialty training and numerous certificates in various modalities. I believe people who suffer from depression are dealing with grief and focus treatment accordingly.
(562) 210-0385 View (562) 210-0385
Photo of Diane L Sagen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Diane L Sagen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
In my office I provide a compassionate and caring listening environment. We work together so that healing and growth can take place at your own rate, and from your own starting place, the place in which you feel safe and comfortable. I treat each client as a person, not as a diagnosis. I have been in practice for 20 years and have worked with men and women who have experienced many difficult issues, including partner abuse, grief and loss and life transitions. The difficult job of facing change is central to healing. I feel that one of the most important factors in growing is to grieve the past to live fully in the present.
In my office I provide a compassionate and caring listening environment. We work together so that healing and growth can take place at your own rate, and from your own starting place, the place in which you feel safe and comfortable. I treat each client as a person, not as a diagnosis. I have been in practice for 20 years and have worked with men and women who have experienced many difficult issues, including partner abuse, grief and loss and life transitions. The difficult job of facing change is central to healing. I feel that one of the most important factors in growing is to grieve the past to live fully in the present.
(714) 941-0061 View (714) 941-0061
Photo of Mari Mora, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Mari Mora
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660  (Online Only)
Things in your life feel off, emotions overwhelm you daily, your relationships suffer, and nothing feels like it can change for the better. Taking action to get help feels hard but you know something needs to change. Therapy is an evidence-based approach that will get to the root of what's going on and allow for meaningful change.
Things in your life feel off, emotions overwhelm you daily, your relationships suffer, and nothing feels like it can change for the better. Taking action to get help feels hard but you know something needs to change. Therapy is an evidence-based approach that will get to the root of what's going on and allow for meaningful change.
(949) 229-5156 View (949) 229-5156
Photo of Raquel S. Ruvalcaba, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Raquel S. Ruvalcaba
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660  (Online Only)
Hello, thank you for considering me as your therapist. Seeking therapy is not easy. But, you are taking the first step in feeling better. I have over 20 years working as a Therapist helping couples and individuals heal. I have extensive experience in treating Trauma related symptoms, Panic attacks, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, and Relationship Problems. Please call me to schedule your intake and Let's gets started today.
Hello, thank you for considering me as your therapist. Seeking therapy is not easy. But, you are taking the first step in feeling better. I have over 20 years working as a Therapist helping couples and individuals heal. I have extensive experience in treating Trauma related symptoms, Panic attacks, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, and Relationship Problems. Please call me to schedule your intake and Let's gets started today.
(949) 229-4848 View (949) 229-4848
Photo of Dr. Quan Nguyen - Counseling With Integrative Medicine in Newport Beach, CA
Dr. Quan Nguyen - Counseling With Integrative Medicine
NMD, MPH, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Are you suffering from insomnia, anxiety, depression, chronic fatigue, addiction, ADHD, or autism spectrum disorders? Discover Dr. Quan's holistic, integrative care, offering customized emotional and physical wellness solutions. Leveraging naturopathic therapies, functional diagnostics, holistic counseling, and nutritional guidance, Dr. Quan's approach is designed to understand and manage your unique health needs effectively. Experience compassionate, educational, and empowering treatment to enhance your health and well-being. Join us for a journey to optimal your health with Dr. Quan's personalized, empathetic healthcare approach.
Are you suffering from insomnia, anxiety, depression, chronic fatigue, addiction, ADHD, or autism spectrum disorders? Discover Dr. Quan's holistic, integrative care, offering customized emotional and physical wellness solutions. Leveraging naturopathic therapies, functional diagnostics, holistic counseling, and nutritional guidance, Dr. Quan's approach is designed to understand and manage your unique health needs effectively. Experience compassionate, educational, and empowering treatment to enhance your health and well-being. Join us for a journey to optimal your health with Dr. Quan's personalized, empathetic healthcare approach.
(949) 989-5714 View (949) 989-5714
Photo of Lee R. Blackwell, Psychologist in Newport Beach, CA
Lee R. Blackwell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I work mainly with adults and late adolescents, individually, in couples and in groups. The areas I specialize in are sexual issues (individuals or couples), adults molested as children, emotional intimacy, communication, anxiety, depression, self-awareness, and deep and lasting character change. In my 45 years of practicing counseling and psychotherapy I've worked with a wide variety of people of different ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, religions, and those with physical challenges. I find it immensely rewarding to work with people who are actively seeking to resolve problems through increased self-awareness.
I work mainly with adults and late adolescents, individually, in couples and in groups. The areas I specialize in are sexual issues (individuals or couples), adults molested as children, emotional intimacy, communication, anxiety, depression, self-awareness, and deep and lasting character change. In my 45 years of practicing counseling and psychotherapy I've worked with a wide variety of people of different ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, religions, and those with physical challenges. I find it immensely rewarding to work with people who are actively seeking to resolve problems through increased self-awareness.
(714) 584-4901 View (714) 584-4901
Photo of Danealia Maretka, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Danealia Maretka
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660  (Online Only)
I meet you where you are in the present moment in your journey in life. I will be your guide to assist you in where you are wanting to go. I will assist you in achieving the skills and tools you need to reach your goals. Living your life to the fullest will not be a dream but a reality.
I meet you where you are in the present moment in your journey in life. I will be your guide to assist you in where you are wanting to go. I will assist you in achieving the skills and tools you need to reach your goals. Living your life to the fullest will not be a dream but a reality.
(424) 401-3398 View (424) 401-3398
Photo of T Joshua Tan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
T Joshua Tan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Is anxiety, depression, or trauma holding you back from being your true self? Do you feel stuck in managing difficult life transitions? Now, every little thing becomes super overwhelming. Those negative experiences reopen old wounds and cause new ones. You tried burying your pain hoping it would go away. You feel lonely and tormented. You feel exhausted, stressed, and angry all the time. You wonder how much more you can take. You are unsure of who or where to turn for help. In the midst of this painful journey, you do not have to go through it alone.
Is anxiety, depression, or trauma holding you back from being your true self? Do you feel stuck in managing difficult life transitions? Now, every little thing becomes super overwhelming. Those negative experiences reopen old wounds and cause new ones. You tried burying your pain hoping it would go away. You feel lonely and tormented. You feel exhausted, stressed, and angry all the time. You wonder how much more you can take. You are unsure of who or where to turn for help. In the midst of this painful journey, you do not have to go through it alone.
(949) 229-4798 View (949) 229-4798
Photo of Elisabeth Farnsworth, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Elisabeth Farnsworth
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Are you pregnant, or have you had a baby within the past year, and feel as if you just aren’t “feeling like yourself”? You may be struggling with insomnia, unwanted thoughts, hopelessness, and/or tearfulness and irritability. If so, you are not alone. Up to 25% of postpartum women, as well as women who are pregnant, struggle with Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, or “PMADs”.
Are you pregnant, or have you had a baby within the past year, and feel as if you just aren’t “feeling like yourself”? You may be struggling with insomnia, unwanted thoughts, hopelessness, and/or tearfulness and irritability. If so, you are not alone. Up to 25% of postpartum women, as well as women who are pregnant, struggle with Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, or “PMADs”.
(949) 806-4311 View (949) 806-4311
Photo of Newport Beach Family Testing & Assessment Center , Psychologist in Newport Beach, CA
Newport Beach Family Testing & Assessment Center
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Welcome to the Gold Standard of testing! Our testing and assessment program provides the most comprehensive psychological assessments to allow individuals to reach their absolute full potential. Whether working with a kiddo, teen, or adult, each assessment is tailored to meet the unique needs of the individual. After a no-cost consultation, our psychologists provide their recommendations for a psychological battery that will address all aspects of cognitive and behavioral functioning. We also provide testing and diagnosis for autism spectrum disorders.
Welcome to the Gold Standard of testing! Our testing and assessment program provides the most comprehensive psychological assessments to allow individuals to reach their absolute full potential. Whether working with a kiddo, teen, or adult, each assessment is tailored to meet the unique needs of the individual. After a no-cost consultation, our psychologists provide their recommendations for a psychological battery that will address all aspects of cognitive and behavioral functioning. We also provide testing and diagnosis for autism spectrum disorders.
(949) 996-9387 View (949) 996-9387
Photo of Addiction Therapy Newport Beach , Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Addiction Therapy Newport Beach
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT , EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Addiction Therapy Newport Beach is an outpatient psychotherapy service for individual seeking help to work on drug and alcohol addiction and underlying issues such as trauma, mood disorders, stress management, relationship problems. We see addiction as the solution and not the problem and thus we focus on the underlying problems that the individuals are dealing with. Maybe you are just exploring your addiction or finishing a rehab program, maybe you have a loved one who struggles with addiction or you just want to continue therapy as additional support, we are here to help you with your needs.
Addiction Therapy Newport Beach is an outpatient psychotherapy service for individual seeking help to work on drug and alcohol addiction and underlying issues such as trauma, mood disorders, stress management, relationship problems. We see addiction as the solution and not the problem and thus we focus on the underlying problems that the individuals are dealing with. Maybe you are just exploring your addiction or finishing a rehab program, maybe you have a loved one who struggles with addiction or you just want to continue therapy as additional support, we are here to help you with your needs.
(714) 266-3754 View (714) 266-3754
Photo of Lisa Swedlow, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Lisa Swedlow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92663  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients: Are you feeling unhappy, stuck, or overwhelmed? Are you struggling with relationship issues, work stress, or challenges with family members? Are you or your loved ones struggling with addiction? Together, we can explore your current behaviors and beliefs and begin to unpack how your experiences from the past may be impeding your ability to live peacefully and purposefully in the present.
Accepting New Clients: Are you feeling unhappy, stuck, or overwhelmed? Are you struggling with relationship issues, work stress, or challenges with family members? Are you or your loved ones struggling with addiction? Together, we can explore your current behaviors and beliefs and begin to unpack how your experiences from the past may be impeding your ability to live peacefully and purposefully in the present.
(949) 303-7515 View (949) 303-7515
Photo of Mailee Doan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Mailee Doan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
3 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I am dedicated to helping clients gain more insight, balance, and happiness in their lives. Together we can uncover underlying reasons for symptomatic behaviors and emotions and address those to learn healthier, more productive and beneficial ways to deal with challenging situations. As a transpersonal therapist, my goal is to help clients gain greater self-knowledge and richer inner lives. Identifying areas of concern and learning ways to heal and triumph adversity can be challenging; however, I believe that together we can produce meaning from them and become resilient.
I am dedicated to helping clients gain more insight, balance, and happiness in their lives. Together we can uncover underlying reasons for symptomatic behaviors and emotions and address those to learn healthier, more productive and beneficial ways to deal with challenging situations. As a transpersonal therapist, my goal is to help clients gain greater self-knowledge and richer inner lives. Identifying areas of concern and learning ways to heal and triumph adversity can be challenging; however, I believe that together we can produce meaning from them and become resilient.
(949) 537-2624 View (949) 537-2624
Photo of Brian Whitley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Brian Whitley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Is there something in your life you would like to be different? Have you tried to make changes only to find yourself in the same painful situations and doing the same things? Are you discouraged and don't know what to do? While making changes can be very difficult, the good news is you can live life differently! I teach individuals and couples tools so they can achieve their goals. With 11 years of experience as a police officer, I have a real-world understanding of issues people commonly face.
Is there something in your life you would like to be different? Have you tried to make changes only to find yourself in the same painful situations and doing the same things? Are you discouraged and don't know what to do? While making changes can be very difficult, the good news is you can live life differently! I teach individuals and couples tools so they can achieve their goals. With 11 years of experience as a police officer, I have a real-world understanding of issues people commonly face.
(949) 613-5810 View (949) 613-5810
Photo of Stuart Stock-Tucker, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Stuart Stock-Tucker
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, MS, CTRS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92663
I am here to help you manage your anxiety, help you battle addiction, cope with traumatic experiences, and discover your identity. It is not only important to me that I help increase your self-esteem, but to help you improve your self-worth and confidence.
I am here to help you manage your anxiety, help you battle addiction, cope with traumatic experiences, and discover your identity. It is not only important to me that I help increase your self-esteem, but to help you improve your self-worth and confidence.
(949) 832-7181 View (949) 832-7181
Photo of Constantine (Costa) Vasilomanolakis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Constantine (Costa) Vasilomanolakis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
My focus is working with teens, adolescents, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, electronics/gaming addiction, anger, trauma and loss. Often, teens, adolescents and adults who are suffering have difficulty communicating with others, which in-term affects relationships with parents, friends, partners, and other important individuals. Teens and adolescents are also prone to depression and anxiety at this developmental stage, causing low self-esteem, isolating themselves from friends/family, angry/violent outbursts and significant mood swings. This may be difficult to endure alone, and that's where I come in.
My focus is working with teens, adolescents, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, electronics/gaming addiction, anger, trauma and loss. Often, teens, adolescents and adults who are suffering have difficulty communicating with others, which in-term affects relationships with parents, friends, partners, and other important individuals. Teens and adolescents are also prone to depression and anxiety at this developmental stage, causing low self-esteem, isolating themselves from friends/family, angry/violent outbursts and significant mood swings. This may be difficult to endure alone, and that's where I come in.
(424) 252-3681 View (424) 252-3681
Photo of Cheryl Graybill Dale, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Cheryl Graybill Dale
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Are you looking for a place to begin healing? Have you tried many other things, only to feel disappointed that life's challenges continue to be more complex than you thought? An effective therapy process creates space and understanding for the purpose of transforming life's struggles and disappointments. In the process, a renewed capacity for more satisfying relationships, greater effectiveness, resiliency and coping skills begin to emerge. Life becomes meaningful and purposeful. In a professional, caring environment, I seek to uncover the patterns and difficulties of the past and create an environment where healing and recovery can take place.
Are you looking for a place to begin healing? Have you tried many other things, only to feel disappointed that life's challenges continue to be more complex than you thought? An effective therapy process creates space and understanding for the purpose of transforming life's struggles and disappointments. In the process, a renewed capacity for more satisfying relationships, greater effectiveness, resiliency and coping skills begin to emerge. Life becomes meaningful and purposeful. In a professional, caring environment, I seek to uncover the patterns and difficulties of the past and create an environment where healing and recovery can take place.
(714) 759-2300 View (714) 759-2300
Photo of Dr. Ben Culhane, Psychologist in Newport Beach, CA
Dr. Ben Culhane
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I offer a free 15-minute, phone consultation because finding the right therapist is just as important as your therapy itself. Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Are you feeling there is something wrong with you or that you're not enough. Do you struggle knowing what you want? Put an end to lifelong patterns and become who you were meant to be. Couples: Are feeling like you don't matter? Like you can't get it right with each other? Do you want to communicate better? If you're ready to move past old patterns and have a deeper connection, reach out. I've helped hundreds of couples feel connected again, or for the 1st time.
I offer a free 15-minute, phone consultation because finding the right therapist is just as important as your therapy itself. Are you struggling with depression or anxiety? Are you feeling there is something wrong with you or that you're not enough. Do you struggle knowing what you want? Put an end to lifelong patterns and become who you were meant to be. Couples: Are feeling like you don't matter? Like you can't get it right with each other? Do you want to communicate better? If you're ready to move past old patterns and have a deeper connection, reach out. I've helped hundreds of couples feel connected again, or for the 1st time.
(909) 323-0731 View (909) 323-0731

See more therapy options for Newport Beach

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Newport Beach, CA

1,000+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Newport Beach, CA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
90% Depression
84% Relationship Issues
77% Self Esteem
71% Trauma and PTSD
68% Coping Skills
68% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

55% Aetna
55% Cigna and Evernorth
42% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Newport Beach, CA see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
20% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Newport Beach?

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.