Therapists in Cleveland, TN

Photo of Beth Houle, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cleveland, TN
Beth Houle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37312
Not accepting new clients
Families, relationships and connections with others impact your quality of life, mental health, and physical health. Relationships cause great joy and unfortunately can cause great pain when they are toxic or off track. Are past relationships haunting your current relationship or self-image? Do you have difficulty forming or maintaining relationships with friends or significant others? Suffered abuse or abandonment in a relationship? Experiencing grief from the loss of a loved one? Have you experienced infidelity in your marriage? These difficult experiences can feel like they define you and become overwhelming at times, but there is hope!
Families, relationships and connections with others impact your quality of life, mental health, and physical health. Relationships cause great joy and unfortunately can cause great pain when they are toxic or off track. Are past relationships haunting your current relationship or self-image? Do you have difficulty forming or maintaining relationships with friends or significant others? Suffered abuse or abandonment in a relationship? Experiencing grief from the loss of a loved one? Have you experienced infidelity in your marriage? These difficult experiences can feel like they define you and become overwhelming at times, but there is hope!
(423) 388-4165 View (423) 388-4165
Photo of Claude J Bowden, Pre-Licensed Professional in Cleveland, TN
Claude J Bowden
Pre-Licensed Professional, DMin, MACMHC
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37311
Do you feel misunderstood? I have personally experienced and overcome addiction, marital failure, spiritual uncertainty, and feelings of hopelessness. I understand the fear and anxiety that come with seeing no way out, like you are alone in your despair. My goal is to guide the individual, couple, or family to function effectively. Together we can take steps to achieve what you once believed to be impossible.
Do you feel misunderstood? I have personally experienced and overcome addiction, marital failure, spiritual uncertainty, and feelings of hopelessness. I understand the fear and anxiety that come with seeing no way out, like you are alone in your despair. My goal is to guide the individual, couple, or family to function effectively. Together we can take steps to achieve what you once believed to be impossible.
(423) 454-3209 View (423) 454-3209
Photo of Maddy Morris, Pre-Licensed Professional in Cleveland, TN
Maddy Morris
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37311
Children, adolescents, and young adults who need someone to meet them where they’re at. I enjoy working with a variety of issues, including: anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief/loss, family conflict, and blended family acclimation.
Children, adolescents, and young adults who need someone to meet them where they’re at. I enjoy working with a variety of issues, including: anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, grief/loss, family conflict, and blended family acclimation.
(423) 375-8574 View (423) 375-8574
Photo of Aptitude Behavioral Services, LLC in Cleveland, TN
Aptitude Behavioral Services, LLC
MEd, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37312
Waitlist for new clients
I started Aptitude Behavioral Services, LLC to service school-age children in the East TN area. I love working with children through pre-teen ages and have also worked with a few higher-functioning teenagers. My typical day involves working with families that face challenges with behavior and working directly with children to decrease these behaviors while building skill deficits. I enjoy including family in my sessions and want to empower caregivers and family members so that they are equipped to handle behavioral challenges.
I started Aptitude Behavioral Services, LLC to service school-age children in the East TN area. I love working with children through pre-teen ages and have also worked with a few higher-functioning teenagers. My typical day involves working with families that face challenges with behavior and working directly with children to decrease these behaviors while building skill deficits. I enjoy including family in my sessions and want to empower caregivers and family members so that they are equipped to handle behavioral challenges.
(423) 438-1372 View (423) 438-1372
Photo of J. Trevor Milliron, Psychologist in Cleveland, TN
J. Trevor Milliron
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37311
My practice is exclusively dedicated to serving adults with OCD. I offer an intensive and highly customized approach based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) combined with Exposure/Response Prevention (ERP). Although ERP is the gold standard treatment for OCD, misconceptions about ERP often result in unnecessary fears. The pain of ERP treatment is no greater, and often less, than the pain you are already in. You will find my approach respectful, affirming, and gentle.
My practice is exclusively dedicated to serving adults with OCD. I offer an intensive and highly customized approach based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) combined with Exposure/Response Prevention (ERP). Although ERP is the gold standard treatment for OCD, misconceptions about ERP often result in unnecessary fears. The pain of ERP treatment is no greater, and often less, than the pain you are already in. You will find my approach respectful, affirming, and gentle.
(423) 481-8394 View (423) 481-8394
Photo of Fred J. Smith Jr. in Cleveland, TN
Fred J. Smith Jr.
MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
I love working with people and especially enjoy offering help to the grieving, hurting, confused and overwhelmed. I am a certified facilitator of the Marriage and Pre-Marital program "Prepare/Enrich" and have worked with countless couples to restore, enhance and enrich their marriage relationships. I have worked with hundreds of college students, teens, adolescent's and their parents since April of 1987. I offer a faith-based approach in counseling but likewise respect the wishes of clients that prefer a non-faith, CBT method at my personal office, and work in a clinical setting under supervision at HMS.
I love working with people and especially enjoy offering help to the grieving, hurting, confused and overwhelmed. I am a certified facilitator of the Marriage and Pre-Marital program "Prepare/Enrich" and have worked with countless couples to restore, enhance and enrich their marriage relationships. I have worked with hundreds of college students, teens, adolescent's and their parents since April of 1987. I offer a faith-based approach in counseling but likewise respect the wishes of clients that prefer a non-faith, CBT method at my personal office, and work in a clinical setting under supervision at HMS.
(423) 455-0979 View (423) 455-0979
Photo of Virginia Dora Winn-Cooper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland, TN
Virginia Dora Winn-Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37312
Each one of us face moments in life when we could use help in finding our way. Perhaps life's problems have left you feeling helpless and you are not sure how to regain control over your situation. Maybe fear and anxiety have begun to limit the joy and happiness you are able to feel. It might be that you're athletic or work performance has plateaued and you are looking for a mental edge to function at optimal efficiency. Seeking help from a qualified therapist is a great start toward improving your situation.
Each one of us face moments in life when we could use help in finding our way. Perhaps life's problems have left you feeling helpless and you are not sure how to regain control over your situation. Maybe fear and anxiety have begun to limit the joy and happiness you are able to feel. It might be that you're athletic or work performance has plateaued and you are looking for a mental edge to function at optimal efficiency. Seeking help from a qualified therapist is a great start toward improving your situation.
(423) 345-8704 View (423) 345-8704
Photo of Julie Ann Gardenhire, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cleveland, TN
Julie Ann Gardenhire
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, AAMFT
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37311
Not accepting new clients
Life has bumps in the road, and the distress we feel often makes sense within the context of the circumstances we face. My goal, as a licensed marriage and family therapist, is to help individuals, couples, and families identify underlying factors contributing to distress, and to experience healing and peace amid life’s challenges. I seek to help clients integrate faith into their healing process if they desire.
Life has bumps in the road, and the distress we feel often makes sense within the context of the circumstances we face. My goal, as a licensed marriage and family therapist, is to help individuals, couples, and families identify underlying factors contributing to distress, and to experience healing and peace amid life’s challenges. I seek to help clients integrate faith into their healing process if they desire.
(423) 380-1507 View (423) 380-1507
Photo of Kirstee Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cleveland, TN
Kirstee Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, AAMFT
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37311
Waitlist for new clients
Hope, healing and a future are possible. As a couples relationship expert, I specialize in the complex issues of sexual wellness and trauma resolution. I treat a wide range of sexual health concerns from performance anxiety, to infertility, painful sex and affair recovery. I also specialize in complex trauma resolution utilizing EMDR. In particular weight management issues that stem from childhood sexual abuse. Each situation is unique and together we will create a treatment plan that works for you.
Hope, healing and a future are possible. As a couples relationship expert, I specialize in the complex issues of sexual wellness and trauma resolution. I treat a wide range of sexual health concerns from performance anxiety, to infertility, painful sex and affair recovery. I also specialize in complex trauma resolution utilizing EMDR. In particular weight management issues that stem from childhood sexual abuse. Each situation is unique and together we will create a treatment plan that works for you.
(423) 393-2591 View (423) 393-2591
Photo of Daneille Gray, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cleveland, TN
Daneille Gray
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37312  (Online Only)
Giving attention to yourself can be a daunting task when your plate is full. This is compounded when thriving professionally and/or academically, but feeling challenged relationally, emotionally, or dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic event. My goal is to empower each client to cultivate healthier relationships, enhance emotional well-being, and thrive in all aspects of their lives. In our time together, I collaborate with clients in a peaceful, authentic, and nonjudgmental manner as we seek to journey through these numerous concerns.
Giving attention to yourself can be a daunting task when your plate is full. This is compounded when thriving professionally and/or academically, but feeling challenged relationally, emotionally, or dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic event. My goal is to empower each client to cultivate healthier relationships, enhance emotional well-being, and thrive in all aspects of their lives. In our time together, I collaborate with clients in a peaceful, authentic, and nonjudgmental manner as we seek to journey through these numerous concerns.
(423) 380-1403 View (423) 380-1403
Photo of Kristi Byrd, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cleveland, TN
Kristi Byrd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37312
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with children in different capacities throughout my life and have been in the mental health field for over 10 years providing therapy for children, individuals and families. I have worked with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, autism, relationship issues, trauma, self harm and much more. I believe that YOU are the expert in your life, however I know that at times it is helpful to be able to talk to someone else. I strive to empower, encourage and support each person that I work with. I enjoy meeting new people and working to help others create the life they truly desire to live.
I have worked with children in different capacities throughout my life and have been in the mental health field for over 10 years providing therapy for children, individuals and families. I have worked with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, autism, relationship issues, trauma, self harm and much more. I believe that YOU are the expert in your life, however I know that at times it is helpful to be able to talk to someone else. I strive to empower, encourage and support each person that I work with. I enjoy meeting new people and working to help others create the life they truly desire to live.
(423) 436-9727 View (423) 436-9727
Photo of Courtney Liljekvist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cleveland, TN
Courtney Liljekvist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37312
I work with children (ages 4-12), adolescents, families, and adults. My goal is to offer a safe space to those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, suicidality, low self-esteem, family conflict, or attachment issues. While I like to draw from multiple approaches, including: attachment work, play therapy, mindfulness practices, art therapy, CBT, and family therapy. I ultimately tailor my approach to the needs of the person. Coming to therapy takes a significant step of bravery and I strive to create an environment that promotes acceptance and growth.
I work with children (ages 4-12), adolescents, families, and adults. My goal is to offer a safe space to those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, suicidality, low self-esteem, family conflict, or attachment issues. While I like to draw from multiple approaches, including: attachment work, play therapy, mindfulness practices, art therapy, CBT, and family therapy. I ultimately tailor my approach to the needs of the person. Coming to therapy takes a significant step of bravery and I strive to create an environment that promotes acceptance and growth.
(423) 561-9914 View (423) 561-9914
Photo of Hanna Marino, Pre-Licensed Professional in Cleveland, TN
Hanna Marino
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MFT-I, AAMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I am so glad you're here! I work with LGBTQ+, Couples, Individuals & Families through a variety of life hardships. If you’re dealing with Trauma/PTSD, religious trauma, spirituality issues, communication, life transitions, conflict, sexual concerns, sexuality, anxiety, anger, teenage struggles, self-esteem/identity, or any other issues, you deserve a safe space to process through them. When you come to my office you will not simply get a trained professional, but a human who feels deeply with other humans. "Know all the theories, master all the techniques, but as you touch a human soul be another human soul". - Carl Jung.
Hello! I am so glad you're here! I work with LGBTQ+, Couples, Individuals & Families through a variety of life hardships. If you’re dealing with Trauma/PTSD, religious trauma, spirituality issues, communication, life transitions, conflict, sexual concerns, sexuality, anxiety, anger, teenage struggles, self-esteem/identity, or any other issues, you deserve a safe space to process through them. When you come to my office you will not simply get a trained professional, but a human who feels deeply with other humans. "Know all the theories, master all the techniques, but as you touch a human soul be another human soul". - Carl Jung.
(423) 919-9397 View (423) 919-9397
Photo of Lauren Finch, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Cleveland, TN
Lauren Finch
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, MFT-I, AAMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37312
Connection to ourselves and others gives us a sense of who we are. Feeling disconnected from ourselves can inhibit our intimacy with others. When we take relational risks, shame often lurks in the dark telling us to remain alone would be better - but I want to offer you and your relationships hope that it does not have to always be this way. If you are ready for the hard work, there is hope for you and your relationships.
Connection to ourselves and others gives us a sense of who we are. Feeling disconnected from ourselves can inhibit our intimacy with others. When we take relational risks, shame often lurks in the dark telling us to remain alone would be better - but I want to offer you and your relationships hope that it does not have to always be this way. If you are ready for the hard work, there is hope for you and your relationships.
(423) 454-3969 View (423) 454-3969
Photo of Julianna Ainsley Schau, Pre-Licensed Professional in Cleveland, TN
Julianna Ainsley Schau
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37311
My previous experience focused on children's mental health, however, I also have experience with ages across the spectrum. An important aspect of counseling is willingness to be involved in the process. This can be difficult, however, together we can work to meet the goals you hope to achieve.
My previous experience focused on children's mental health, however, I also have experience with ages across the spectrum. An important aspect of counseling is willingness to be involved in the process. This can be difficult, however, together we can work to meet the goals you hope to achieve.
(423) 501-2445 View (423) 501-2445
Photo of Crystal Fawley, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Cleveland, TN
Crystal Fawley
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, MFT
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37311
Choosing to pursue therapy is courageous. Life throws curve balls, often forcing us to face challenges which seem impossible to navigate. Obstacles such as trauma, infidelity, life transitions (birth, divorce, facing an empty nest, etc.), anxiety, or depression, can feel daunting. I am privileged to hear your story and I am honored to sit with you as we sort through your specific situation and move toward healing.
Choosing to pursue therapy is courageous. Life throws curve balls, often forcing us to face challenges which seem impossible to navigate. Obstacles such as trauma, infidelity, life transitions (birth, divorce, facing an empty nest, etc.), anxiety, or depression, can feel daunting. I am privileged to hear your story and I am honored to sit with you as we sort through your specific situation and move toward healing.
(423) 401-6750 View (423) 401-6750
Photo of Anchor Family Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland, TN
Anchor Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37312
Waitlist for new clients
My passion for working with individuals (children, adolescents, and adults of all ages) is rooted in my faith in God. I utilize skills, tools, and techniques in a modern "human to human" approach to help my clients find their hope and passion for life. Whether you have abuse & trauma, anxiety, ADHD, child and adolescent issues, depression, divorce recovery, mood disorder, eating disorder, addiction or substance use, grief & loss, parenting struggles, self-esteem, or social skills, assisting you in finding hope, I consider a divine appointment.
My passion for working with individuals (children, adolescents, and adults of all ages) is rooted in my faith in God. I utilize skills, tools, and techniques in a modern "human to human" approach to help my clients find their hope and passion for life. Whether you have abuse & trauma, anxiety, ADHD, child and adolescent issues, depression, divorce recovery, mood disorder, eating disorder, addiction or substance use, grief & loss, parenting struggles, self-esteem, or social skills, assisting you in finding hope, I consider a divine appointment.
(423) 375-8676 View (423) 375-8676
Photo of Andrea Chase, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cleveland, TN
Andrea Chase
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, ESQ
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37311
Andrea is the co-founder & co-executive director of Solomon Family Solutions, a nonprofit child & family welfare agency. She is passionate about helping parents & children overcome & heal from abuse while navigating the court system. Andrea is a TN licensed professional counselor with a mental health services provider designation, a licensed CA Attorney and was a fellow at Family Violence Appellate Project (FVAP). Andrea is a doctoral candidate pursuing her PhD in Forensic Psychology with an emphasis in Victimology. Her dissertation focuses on biological fathers that murder their children during divorce & child custody disputes.
Andrea is the co-founder & co-executive director of Solomon Family Solutions, a nonprofit child & family welfare agency. She is passionate about helping parents & children overcome & heal from abuse while navigating the court system. Andrea is a TN licensed professional counselor with a mental health services provider designation, a licensed CA Attorney and was a fellow at Family Violence Appellate Project (FVAP). Andrea is a doctoral candidate pursuing her PhD in Forensic Psychology with an emphasis in Victimology. Her dissertation focuses on biological fathers that murder their children during divorce & child custody disputes.
(423) 205-6745 View (423) 205-6745
Photo of Meredith Vining Parker in Cleveland, TN
Meredith Vining Parker
MA
Verified Verified
Cleveland, TN 37311  (Online Only)
I am a Masters Level therapist with 17+ years experience. I work with older children through senior adults, marriage/family/parenting issues, and mental health disorders, such as Depression and Anxiety. As a former teacher, I have a unique combination of experiences that contribute to my success in working with youth. When counseling school age children, I involve the client's entire environment (parents, teachers, etc.) to develop a comprehensive plan in treating the whole client. I am a member of the AACC.
I am a Masters Level therapist with 17+ years experience. I work with older children through senior adults, marriage/family/parenting issues, and mental health disorders, such as Depression and Anxiety. As a former teacher, I have a unique combination of experiences that contribute to my success in working with youth. When counseling school age children, I involve the client's entire environment (parents, teachers, etc.) to develop a comprehensive plan in treating the whole client. I am a member of the AACC.
(423) 381-8950 View (423) 381-8950
Photo of Ivorie Mayes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cleveland, TN
Ivorie Mayes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, TN 37312
As a therapist with nine years of experience working with families and children; I currently am a Therapist at Divergent Roads Counseling. My mission is to lead you toward peace, ensuring you feel heard and understood. With a focus on children, I've spent the past five years addressing concerns such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Let's equip you with the skills to confidently navigate life's challenges. Taking this significant step towards therapy is crucial, and I'm here to support you. I accept self-pay clients, and for insurance inquiries, please call to check eligibility. Excited to assist you on your journey.
As a therapist with nine years of experience working with families and children; I currently am a Therapist at Divergent Roads Counseling. My mission is to lead you toward peace, ensuring you feel heard and understood. With a focus on children, I've spent the past five years addressing concerns such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Let's equip you with the skills to confidently navigate life's challenges. Taking this significant step towards therapy is crucial, and I'm here to support you. I accept self-pay clients, and for insurance inquiries, please call to check eligibility. Excited to assist you on your journey.
(423) 460-8966 View (423) 460-8966

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Cleveland, TN

100+

Average cost per session

$100

Therapists in Cleveland, TN who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
80% Relationship Issues
78% Depression
78% Trauma and PTSD
73% Self Esteem
71% Stress
69% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Cigna and Evernorth
68% Aetna
57% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Cleveland, TN see their clients

91% In Person and Online
9% Online Only

Gender breakdown

74% Female
26% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Cleveland?

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.