Therapists in Falls Church, VA

Photo of Susan Bender, Pre-Licensed Professional in Falls Church, VA
Susan Bender
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
I currently provide individual psychotherapy to children (ages 5 and over), adolescents, and young adults. I use a holistic approach in working with individuals who may struggle with anxiety, depression, social skills, relationships, low self-esteem, emotional regulation, ADHD, executive functioning difficulties, life transitions, and related issues. I also specialize in administering psychological evaluations.
I currently provide individual psychotherapy to children (ages 5 and over), adolescents, and young adults. I use a holistic approach in working with individuals who may struggle with anxiety, depression, social skills, relationships, low self-esteem, emotional regulation, ADHD, executive functioning difficulties, life transitions, and related issues. I also specialize in administering psychological evaluations.
(571) 568-7726 View (571) 568-7726
Photo of Sydney Smedley, Pre-Licensed Professional in Falls Church, VA
Sydney Smedley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22044
Through person-centered and psychoanalytic approaches, my goal is to explore with you how your past experiences may be impacting your current life challenges. Through our work together, I hope to contribute to resolving unfinished conflict while strengthening your innate tools and resources.
Through person-centered and psychoanalytic approaches, my goal is to explore with you how your past experiences may be impacting your current life challenges. Through our work together, I hope to contribute to resolving unfinished conflict while strengthening your innate tools and resources.
(571) 290-2404 View (571) 290-2404
Photo of Dr. Michael L Krass, Psychologist in Falls Church, VA
Dr. Michael L Krass
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
As a psychotherapist with expertise working with and understanding children and adolescents as well as adults, I understand that psychotherapy can be useful for people of all ages. My approach to therapy involves giving people the room to express themselves at the most authentic level possible. By respecting that every person is entirely unique, I approach therapy with an attitude of curiosity that I seek to evoke in those with whom I am working. It is an interest in - as opposed to a fear of - ourselves that leads to greater aliveness and ownership over one's thoughts, feelings, actions and reactions.
As a psychotherapist with expertise working with and understanding children and adolescents as well as adults, I understand that psychotherapy can be useful for people of all ages. My approach to therapy involves giving people the room to express themselves at the most authentic level possible. By respecting that every person is entirely unique, I approach therapy with an attitude of curiosity that I seek to evoke in those with whom I am working. It is an interest in - as opposed to a fear of - ourselves that leads to greater aliveness and ownership over one's thoughts, feelings, actions and reactions.
(703) 957-7916 View (703) 957-7916
Photo of Sonia Vanessa Zorrilla-Zuniga, Licensed Professional Counselor in Falls Church, VA
Sonia Vanessa Zorrilla-Zuniga
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
I specialize in treatment for depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and substance abuse among adults and adolescents. My approach centers around using cognitive behavioral therapy , dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and mindfulness strategies to address issues that are getting in the way of living your best life. I also focus on providing support to individuals or families that are experiencing a major life transition at work, at school, or in a significant relationship.
I specialize in treatment for depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and substance abuse among adults and adolescents. My approach centers around using cognitive behavioral therapy , dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and mindfulness strategies to address issues that are getting in the way of living your best life. I also focus on providing support to individuals or families that are experiencing a major life transition at work, at school, or in a significant relationship.
(571) 581-6552 View (571) 581-6552
Photo of Leecie Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Falls Church, VA
Leecie Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22042
I have worked with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive thoughts and behaviors, self-injury, addictions, and relational breakdown. For the past 15 years, I have primarily focused on crisis intervention and risk assessments, addressing acute situations and helping patients and families navigate the mental-health landscape.
I have worked with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive thoughts and behaviors, self-injury, addictions, and relational breakdown. For the past 15 years, I have primarily focused on crisis intervention and risk assessments, addressing acute situations and helping patients and families navigate the mental-health landscape.
(571) 568-7794 View (571) 568-7794
Photo of Alexandra Roth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Falls Church, VA
Alexandra Roth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
What I'm especially good at is helping people get clarity about their relationships and their boundaries. This means I work well with individuals in difficult marriages, children and parents trying to establish adult bonds, codependent people, and with anyone who wants warmer, happier, more peaceful interactions in their life. If you can't figure out why your relationships go off the rails, I can help. I like to work with adults, teens and parents, couples, minor-attracted persons (pedophiles), LGBTQ folks and people who don't know why they feel bad.
What I'm especially good at is helping people get clarity about their relationships and their boundaries. This means I work well with individuals in difficult marriages, children and parents trying to establish adult bonds, codependent people, and with anyone who wants warmer, happier, more peaceful interactions in their life. If you can't figure out why your relationships go off the rails, I can help. I like to work with adults, teens and parents, couples, minor-attracted persons (pedophiles), LGBTQ folks and people who don't know why they feel bad.
(703) 997-1274 View (703) 997-1274
Photo of Melissa L Johnson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Falls Church, VA
Melissa L Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
Are you feeling off-balance? Is the chaos of daily life spinning around you - making it impossible to decide and take action? Do you notice yourself ruminating or experiencing intrusive thoughts? Do you tend to overthink the “what-if’s” which diminishes your sense of inner peace? You are not alone. Therapy with me means that you will experience a safe, open and non-judgmental environment that allows you the opportunity to navigate life’s challenges while finding inner-calm and bringing balance back to your life.
Are you feeling off-balance? Is the chaos of daily life spinning around you - making it impossible to decide and take action? Do you notice yourself ruminating or experiencing intrusive thoughts? Do you tend to overthink the “what-if’s” which diminishes your sense of inner peace? You are not alone. Therapy with me means that you will experience a safe, open and non-judgmental environment that allows you the opportunity to navigate life’s challenges while finding inner-calm and bringing balance back to your life.
(571) 536-7285 View (571) 536-7285
Photo of Jessica MacNair, Licensed Professional Counselor in Falls Church, VA
Jessica MacNair
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
As an LPC with 20+ yrs of experience, I feel honored to be able to work with many different clients during what is often a vulnerable time. I bring empathy and compassion to therapy sessions, which may focus on trauma, anxiety, depression, postpartum/perinatal mood disorders, eating disorders, infertility, parenting and addictions. I also work with grief and loss, including pregnancy and child loss. I specialize in navigating relationship crises, infidelity and narcissistic abuse. Many clients are LGBTQ+, and come in for gender affirming care. I am the founder of Falls Church Wellness Center, a mental & physical health facility.
As an LPC with 20+ yrs of experience, I feel honored to be able to work with many different clients during what is often a vulnerable time. I bring empathy and compassion to therapy sessions, which may focus on trauma, anxiety, depression, postpartum/perinatal mood disorders, eating disorders, infertility, parenting and addictions. I also work with grief and loss, including pregnancy and child loss. I specialize in navigating relationship crises, infidelity and narcissistic abuse. Many clients are LGBTQ+, and come in for gender affirming care. I am the founder of Falls Church Wellness Center, a mental & physical health facility.
(571) 449-2731 View (571) 449-2731
Photo of Dan Russo, Resident in Counseling in Falls Church, VA
Dan Russo
Resident in Counseling, MA/MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
What if you could get depression or anxiety to take a backseat in your life. What if your relationships could get to a better place. Have you been noticing things in everyday life are more difficult to manage? You are not alone. We can tackle these challenges together as we explore the change that moves you closer to the life you desire. I can help you restore the balance between mind and body that can ease depression, calm anxious thoughts, and regain safety. I am currently taking new clients and I would love the opportunity to be a part of your healing journey. Book your consultation or first session now using my website link.
What if you could get depression or anxiety to take a backseat in your life. What if your relationships could get to a better place. Have you been noticing things in everyday life are more difficult to manage? You are not alone. We can tackle these challenges together as we explore the change that moves you closer to the life you desire. I can help you restore the balance between mind and body that can ease depression, calm anxious thoughts, and regain safety. I am currently taking new clients and I would love the opportunity to be a part of your healing journey. Book your consultation or first session now using my website link.
(571) 520-5934 View (571) 520-5934
Photo of Julie Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in Falls Church, VA
Julie Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
Julie Brown is a licensed professional counselor and certified substance abuse counselor. She earned her BA from Gettysburg College and her Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Messiah University. She has provided outpatient mental health services settings to adults, adolescents and couples. Julie also has experience in a hospital and partial hospitalization level of care at Inova Hospital System providing group and individual counseling to adults struggling with mental health and substance use problems. Julie has been intensively trained in DBT and works with adults in our Comprehensive DBT program in individual an
Julie Brown is a licensed professional counselor and certified substance abuse counselor. She earned her BA from Gettysburg College and her Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Messiah University. She has provided outpatient mental health services settings to adults, adolescents and couples. Julie also has experience in a hospital and partial hospitalization level of care at Inova Hospital System providing group and individual counseling to adults struggling with mental health and substance use problems. Julie has been intensively trained in DBT and works with adults in our Comprehensive DBT program in individual an
(571) 339-5440 View (571) 339-5440
Photo of Jill Jacobs, Licensed Professional Counselor in Falls Church, VA
Jill Jacobs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22040
My expertise lies in working alongside people through the impact of grief, trauma, and life transitions, and supporting children and their caregivers through early childhood. I believe it is crucial to focus on a person’s strengths and unique experiences when walking with them in their healing process.
My expertise lies in working alongside people through the impact of grief, trauma, and life transitions, and supporting children and their caregivers through early childhood. I believe it is crucial to focus on a person’s strengths and unique experiences when walking with them in their healing process.
(571) 520-5328 View (571) 520-5328
Photo of Grace Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Falls Church, VA
Grace Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22041  (Online Only)
I believe that therapy is most effective when safety and trust are prioritized in the therapeutic relationship. I intentionally foster safety and trust so that I can provide a space where you grow and achieve your desire outcomes by gaining a deep understanding of self, societal, and trauma imposed limitations that hinder you from showing up in life the way you desire. Your session will become opportunity to explore beliefs and patterns, their origins, their impact, and a way forward. My ideal client is someone that is looking to transcend the imposed labels of life and reclaim their power to live and achieve balance.
I believe that therapy is most effective when safety and trust are prioritized in the therapeutic relationship. I intentionally foster safety and trust so that I can provide a space where you grow and achieve your desire outcomes by gaining a deep understanding of self, societal, and trauma imposed limitations that hinder you from showing up in life the way you desire. Your session will become opportunity to explore beliefs and patterns, their origins, their impact, and a way forward. My ideal client is someone that is looking to transcend the imposed labels of life and reclaim their power to live and achieve balance.
(703) 639-4042 View (703) 639-4042
Photo of Yasmeen Richards, Resident in Counseling in Falls Church, VA
Yasmeen Richards
Resident in Counseling, MS, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
Pregnancy and parenthood are life-changing journeys that don't need to be traveled alone. I blend therapeutic strategies to help you understand your feelings, and the ways that past hurts keep you from parenting in your ideal, unique way. We'll work on the whole you, exploring multiple aspects of your life, like culture, sleep, family, self-care, relationships, career, and more. Together, we'll build the self-confidence you need to effect positive, sustainable change in your life.
Pregnancy and parenthood are life-changing journeys that don't need to be traveled alone. I blend therapeutic strategies to help you understand your feelings, and the ways that past hurts keep you from parenting in your ideal, unique way. We'll work on the whole you, exploring multiple aspects of your life, like culture, sleep, family, self-care, relationships, career, and more. Together, we'll build the self-confidence you need to effect positive, sustainable change in your life.
(571) 200-1827 View (571) 200-1827
Photo of Bethany P Tareen, Psychologist in Falls Church, VA
Bethany P Tareen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
I specialize in working with those ages 4-21 affected by autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, depression, behavioral difficulties, ADHD, and executive dysfunction. I believe in an integrative and collaborative approach to treatment, and strive to create individualized treatment plans that emphasize clients’ strengths to build new skills and improve thought processes. I also specialize in comprehensive psychological assessment and work collaboratively with children, families, and schools in the assessment process to create tailored recommendations to best help the child achieve their greatest potential.
I specialize in working with those ages 4-21 affected by autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, depression, behavioral difficulties, ADHD, and executive dysfunction. I believe in an integrative and collaborative approach to treatment, and strive to create individualized treatment plans that emphasize clients’ strengths to build new skills and improve thought processes. I also specialize in comprehensive psychological assessment and work collaboratively with children, families, and schools in the assessment process to create tailored recommendations to best help the child achieve their greatest potential.
(571) 200-4796 View (571) 200-4796
Photo of Center for Clinical Health Solutions, Licensed Professional Counselor in Falls Church, VA
Center for Clinical Health Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LMHP, LPC
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22043
We are experienced mental health and behavioral health professionals working closely with the families, individuals and couples in processing the undesirable situations and maladaptive behaviors, identifying the dysfunctional coping strategies and substituting it with appropriate skills in a therapeutic setting. We work together to advocate for self and thrive. We open a new horizon for individuals diagnosed under autism spectrum, learning disabilities and Serious Mental Illnesses to fulfill and achieve life long goals. We provide support as it fits your life style and preferences to have successful stand in life.
We are experienced mental health and behavioral health professionals working closely with the families, individuals and couples in processing the undesirable situations and maladaptive behaviors, identifying the dysfunctional coping strategies and substituting it with appropriate skills in a therapeutic setting. We work together to advocate for self and thrive. We open a new horizon for individuals diagnosed under autism spectrum, learning disabilities and Serious Mental Illnesses to fulfill and achieve life long goals. We provide support as it fits your life style and preferences to have successful stand in life.
(571) 620-6019 View (571) 620-6019
Photo of Allison Medina, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Falls Church, VA
Allison Medina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22041  (Online Only)
Hello. I am currently only taking Carefirst BlueCross Blueshield and Aetna insurance. If you have that insurance and want help, please contat me. Life's journey often presents us with challenges, and having a supportive, nonjudgmental listener can make all the difference. As a compassionate therapist, I provide a safe space for individuals navigating various life transitions, whether it's embarking on a new career path, adjusting to a relocation, welcoming a new addition to the family, or navigating the complexities of separation and divorce.
Hello. I am currently only taking Carefirst BlueCross Blueshield and Aetna insurance. If you have that insurance and want help, please contat me. Life's journey often presents us with challenges, and having a supportive, nonjudgmental listener can make all the difference. As a compassionate therapist, I provide a safe space for individuals navigating various life transitions, whether it's embarking on a new career path, adjusting to a relocation, welcoming a new addition to the family, or navigating the complexities of separation and divorce.
(571) 596-6207 View (571) 596-6207
Photo of Lindsey Karl, Licensed Professional Counselor in Falls Church, VA
Lindsey Karl
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
I am a compassionate & dedicated therapist specializing in child & adolescent care. My mission is to create a supportive, safe, & empowered environment in which children can foster emotional well-being. I view therapy through a proactive lens, placing an emphasis on personal growth, self-improvement, & resiliency to help children develop the skills and insights needed to navigate life’s challenges more effectively. I am passionate about providing comprehensive & personalized care. My approach is rooted in empathy, active listening, & a commitment to tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of each individual.
I am a compassionate & dedicated therapist specializing in child & adolescent care. My mission is to create a supportive, safe, & empowered environment in which children can foster emotional well-being. I view therapy through a proactive lens, placing an emphasis on personal growth, self-improvement, & resiliency to help children develop the skills and insights needed to navigate life’s challenges more effectively. I am passionate about providing comprehensive & personalized care. My approach is rooted in empathy, active listening, & a commitment to tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of each individual.
(571) 568-7830 View (571) 568-7830
Photo of Danille S. Drake, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Falls Church, VA
Danille S. Drake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
Stress and related symptoms can to be best addressed for the purpose strengthening coping skills, gaining relief from painful emotional symptoms, improving personal relationships and work productivity. I provide a safe, private environment to talk things over and feel understood as a unique individual, in order to change ways of coping that haven't been working. I help gain insight into feelings and behaviors that get in your way, preventing the past from interfering in the present and replacing self-destructive patterns of behavior with opportunity for a more satisfying life. I offer ketamine assisted therapy as well.
Stress and related symptoms can to be best addressed for the purpose strengthening coping skills, gaining relief from painful emotional symptoms, improving personal relationships and work productivity. I provide a safe, private environment to talk things over and feel understood as a unique individual, in order to change ways of coping that haven't been working. I help gain insight into feelings and behaviors that get in your way, preventing the past from interfering in the present and replacing self-destructive patterns of behavior with opportunity for a more satisfying life. I offer ketamine assisted therapy as well.
(301) 852-6544 View (301) 852-6544
Photo of Olya Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Falls Church, VA
Olya Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, IFS CER, IFIO
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
Parenting, being a teenager, and being in a relationship can be some of the most fulfilling and challenging parts of life! I specialize in helping people, who are in strained relationships or struggling with trauma and other things that are private, find a new path. Life is full of difficulties, but often underneath it all is a lack of connection and belonging. I make it safe for teens and parents, adults and couples to get unstuck and talk about the real stuff that makes it difficult to live a satisfied life and thrive.
Parenting, being a teenager, and being in a relationship can be some of the most fulfilling and challenging parts of life! I specialize in helping people, who are in strained relationships or struggling with trauma and other things that are private, find a new path. Life is full of difficulties, but often underneath it all is a lack of connection and belonging. I make it safe for teens and parents, adults and couples to get unstuck and talk about the real stuff that makes it difficult to live a satisfied life and thrive.
(703) 215-3890 View (703) 215-3890
Photo of Phyllis (Martin) Fortunato, Licensed Professional Counselor in Falls Church, VA
Phyllis (Martin) Fortunato
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
I am available for tele-therapy sessions at this time using a secure platform. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Northern Virginia for 20 years, I attend to many areas of mental health including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career problems, grief, trauma, and life phases that are challenging. I have a collaborative, pragmatic, respectful counseling style that promotes self reflection, understanding and tolerance.
I am available for tele-therapy sessions at this time using a secure platform. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Northern Virginia for 20 years, I attend to many areas of mental health including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career problems, grief, trauma, and life phases that are challenging. I have a collaborative, pragmatic, respectful counseling style that promotes self reflection, understanding and tolerance.
(703) 794-2167 View (703) 794-2167

See more therapy options for Falls Church

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Falls Church, VA

500+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Falls Church, VA who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
87% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
74% Self Esteem
67% Stress
64% Coping Skills
62% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% BlueCross and BlueShield
64% CareFirst
53% Anthem | Elevance

How Therapists in Falls Church, VA see their clients

74% In Person and Online
26% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Falls Church?

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.