Therapists in Colorado Springs, CO

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Photo of Ali Marino Bass, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Ali Marino Bass
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Online Only
My goal is to provide a safe space for my clients to share their stories and learn to love themselves. I believe that people learn how to act, react, and interact from their families and environment. Sometimes those patterns get in the way of the life they want. In therapy, I guide the client towards healing through providing a balance of nurturance and challenging so my clients can reach their goals.
My goal is to provide a safe space for my clients to share their stories and learn to love themselves. I believe that people learn how to act, react, and interact from their families and environment. Sometimes those patterns get in the way of the life they want. In therapy, I guide the client towards healing through providing a balance of nurturance and challenging so my clients can reach their goals.
(251) 289-9590 View (251) 289-9590
Photo of Nicole J. Dillon, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Nicole J. Dillon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
5 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80905
I work with individuals struggling with low self-esteem, depression, anxiety and disordered thinking. Many of these mental health issues are rooted in past trauma. I have discovered that trauma exposure, including single episode, multiple or repetitive events nearly always have a destructive impact on people and subsequently their personal relationships. Together we will examine the ways you relate to your world, focusing on your individual concerns. We will work to uncover the source of your pain and discover how to effectively connect with yourself and build healthy relationships with the people in your life.
I work with individuals struggling with low self-esteem, depression, anxiety and disordered thinking. Many of these mental health issues are rooted in past trauma. I have discovered that trauma exposure, including single episode, multiple or repetitive events nearly always have a destructive impact on people and subsequently their personal relationships. Together we will examine the ways you relate to your world, focusing on your individual concerns. We will work to uncover the source of your pain and discover how to effectively connect with yourself and build healthy relationships with the people in your life.
(719) 496-8407 View (719) 496-8407
Photo of Justin Wilson, Clinical Social Work Candidate, MSW, LCSW
Justin Wilson
Clinical Social Work Candidate, MSW, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Are you feeling lost in the complexity of life, struggling with depression, anxiety, or relationship trauma? Perhaps you're grappling with low self-worth or interested in deepening your emotional awareness. As a therapist, I value taking the time to understand your unique difficulties, without assumptions or judgment. My role is to offer a space where you can feel truly heard and accepted, allowing us to explore options for reducing suffering.
Are you feeling lost in the complexity of life, struggling with depression, anxiety, or relationship trauma? Perhaps you're grappling with low self-worth or interested in deepening your emotional awareness. As a therapist, I value taking the time to understand your unique difficulties, without assumptions or judgment. My role is to offer a space where you can feel truly heard and accepted, allowing us to explore options for reducing suffering.
(719) 497-5193 View (719) 497-5193
Photo of Dawn Johnson-Richard, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAC
Dawn Johnson-Richard
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAC
Online Only
I’m a registered psychotherapist and Licensed Addiction Counselor committed to supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds in a safe, confidential, and nonjudgmental space. I help clients explore life stressors, trauma, and emotional challenges with compassion and care. I have experience working with individuals, children, and families facing issues such as trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, parenting struggles, and relationship concerns. My background spans in-home, community-based, Telehealth, and outpatient therapy settings.
I’m a registered psychotherapist and Licensed Addiction Counselor committed to supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds in a safe, confidential, and nonjudgmental space. I help clients explore life stressors, trauma, and emotional challenges with compassion and care. I have experience working with individuals, children, and families facing issues such as trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, parenting struggles, and relationship concerns. My background spans in-home, community-based, Telehealth, and outpatient therapy settings.
(833) 854-2606 View (833) 854-2606
Photo of Sherri O'Lonergan, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Sherri O'Lonergan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
My name is Sherri O’Lonergan, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I like to use a client centered approach using an integrative model with the use of cognitive behavioral, internal family systems and somatic tools to help ease the nervous system so the true healing came begin. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma, divorce, family issues and more.
My name is Sherri O’Lonergan, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I like to use a client centered approach using an integrative model with the use of cognitive behavioral, internal family systems and somatic tools to help ease the nervous system so the true healing came begin. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma, divorce, family issues and more.
(303) 529-2890 View (303) 529-2890
Photo of Heather N Foster, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S
Heather N Foster
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80907
Starting therapy is an important yet sometimes challenging step. I aim to meet you where you are in this process, create a safe space for positive growth and provide a level of support tailored to you and your family. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, providing therapy to children and families for the past 25 years. I value working together as a team to create a plan to help you and your child develop skills and abilities to best support everyone's needs.
Starting therapy is an important yet sometimes challenging step. I aim to meet you where you are in this process, create a safe space for positive growth and provide a level of support tailored to you and your family. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, providing therapy to children and families for the past 25 years. I value working together as a team to create a plan to help you and your child develop skills and abilities to best support everyone's needs.
(719) 626-8950 View (719) 626-8950
Photo of Mark Searle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Mark Searle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or like life is extra hard lately? Many of my clients experience anxiety—often tied to the challenges of today’s world—and sometimes it’s accompanied by sadness or low mood. I provide a safe, judgment-free space where I will help explore difficult emotions, improve your relationships, and shift unhelpful patterns. Using a strengths-based, empowering approach, I’ll help you build on the skills you already have and develop new tools to navigate life more effectively.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or like life is extra hard lately? Many of my clients experience anxiety—often tied to the challenges of today’s world—and sometimes it’s accompanied by sadness or low mood. I provide a safe, judgment-free space where I will help explore difficult emotions, improve your relationships, and shift unhelpful patterns. Using a strengths-based, empowering approach, I’ll help you build on the skills you already have and develop new tools to navigate life more effectively.
(719) 454-2376 View (719) 454-2376
Photo of Caitlin Risk, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Caitlin Risk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Colorado Springs, CO 80907
I am a light-hearted therapist specializing in counseling for teen girls and young women. Get support to help build boundaries, work on relationships, increase self-esteem learn coping skills to deal with anxiety & stress, talk through life changes & challenges, big decisions, small decisions, or anything else. We can also work on self-image, managing time & sleep, talking through family changes or social struggles. Prepare to go to start college with better mental health. For career counseling: Maybe you are not fulfilled or have a different dream or have no direction.... career counseling is a process that can help bring clarity.
I am a light-hearted therapist specializing in counseling for teen girls and young women. Get support to help build boundaries, work on relationships, increase self-esteem learn coping skills to deal with anxiety & stress, talk through life changes & challenges, big decisions, small decisions, or anything else. We can also work on self-image, managing time & sleep, talking through family changes or social struggles. Prepare to go to start college with better mental health. For career counseling: Maybe you are not fulfilled or have a different dream or have no direction.... career counseling is a process that can help bring clarity.
(719) 224-0432 View (719) 224-0432
Photo of Dr. Max Ziegenhagen, Marriage & Family Therapist, DMFT
Dr. Max Ziegenhagen
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMFT
5 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80920
You’re thoughtful, self-aware, maybe even successful—but still stuck. You’ve done therapy, read the books, and worked hard to heal, but something isn’t clicking. You want more than insight—you want change. You’re craving clarity, connection, and a deeper sense of peace in your relationships, identity, and purpose. You don’t need fixing, you need a space that gets it—and helps you move forward, fully and honestly.
You’re thoughtful, self-aware, maybe even successful—but still stuck. You’ve done therapy, read the books, and worked hard to heal, but something isn’t clicking. You want more than insight—you want change. You’re craving clarity, connection, and a deeper sense of peace in your relationships, identity, and purpose. You don’t need fixing, you need a space that gets it—and helps you move forward, fully and honestly.
(719) 888-5337 View (719) 888-5337
Photo of Jennifer Ayers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, MSW
Jennifer Ayers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, MSW
Colorado Springs, CO 80928
Navigating life’s challenges can feel exhausting, especially when you’ve been holding it together for everyone else. I work with adults dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship stress who are ready for change. With 10+ years’ experience—including a major NY psychiatric hospital and 6 years in private practice—I offer a grounded, compassionate space. I use CBT, DBT, psychodynamic therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and Motivational Interviewing to build coping skills and help you move toward the life you want.
Navigating life’s challenges can feel exhausting, especially when you’ve been holding it together for everyone else. I work with adults dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship stress who are ready for change. With 10+ years’ experience—including a major NY psychiatric hospital and 6 years in private practice—I offer a grounded, compassionate space. I use CBT, DBT, psychodynamic therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and Motivational Interviewing to build coping skills and help you move toward the life you want.
(719) 416-5930 View (719) 416-5930
Photo of Austin Eliasson, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC, ADDC
Austin Eliasson
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC, ADDC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Clients often are seeking help when life feels overwhelming, confusing, or stagnant. They are commonly struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, substance use, or difficulties with major life transitions. I work collaboratively with clients to help make sense of their experience, build coping skills, and take steps toward meaningful change.
Clients often are seeking help when life feels overwhelming, confusing, or stagnant. They are commonly struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, substance use, or difficulties with major life transitions. I work collaboratively with clients to help make sense of their experience, build coping skills, and take steps toward meaningful change.
(719) 624-8615 View (719) 624-8615
Photo of La Tasha Bruner-Hill, DNP, FNP-C, CMDP
La Tasha Bruner-Hill
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80910
My name is Dr. La Tasha Bruner-Hill, I am a certified Family Nurse Practitioner and a Certified Mood Disorder Professional (CMDP). I know and have experienced providers who have not listened to my concerns and treated me like a number. You are more than a number or diagnosis, you MATTER! I believe in treating the whole person, both physical and mental health. I am passionate about creating health equity for the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) and underserved populations. My approach to care is listening to you, understanding your mental and physical health care needs, and partnering with you to achieve your goals.
My name is Dr. La Tasha Bruner-Hill, I am a certified Family Nurse Practitioner and a Certified Mood Disorder Professional (CMDP). I know and have experienced providers who have not listened to my concerns and treated me like a number. You are more than a number or diagnosis, you MATTER! I believe in treating the whole person, both physical and mental health. I am passionate about creating health equity for the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) and underserved populations. My approach to care is listening to you, understanding your mental and physical health care needs, and partnering with you to achieve your goals.
(719) 224-0054 View (719) 224-0054
Photo of Danielle Dickey - Danielle, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, NCC, EMDR-T
Danielle
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, NCC, EMDR-T
5 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
I work best with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, PTSD, or life transitions who are ready to heal and grow. I am deeply committed to guiding clients toward recognizing and embracing their personal strengths, believing in the inherent resilience and untapped potential in each person. I focus on supporting individuals, including women, young adults, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those in the perinatal period, in understanding emotions, building self-compassion, and developing strategies to manage challenges. Together, we work toward fostering self-awareness, improving relationships, and creating balance in mind and body.
I work best with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, PTSD, or life transitions who are ready to heal and grow. I am deeply committed to guiding clients toward recognizing and embracing their personal strengths, believing in the inherent resilience and untapped potential in each person. I focus on supporting individuals, including women, young adults, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those in the perinatal period, in understanding emotions, building self-compassion, and developing strategies to manage challenges. Together, we work toward fostering self-awareness, improving relationships, and creating balance in mind and body.
(719) 350-6850 View (719) 350-6850
Photo of Peter J Marsh - Eleven Six Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, SRT, EMDR
Eleven Six Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, SRT, EMDR
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
Using evidence-based therapeutic models, clients learn to identify anxious thoughts tied to their core beliefs. By replacing the anxious thoughts with what is true about them, relief from anxiety occurs. I validate people’s experiences while helping them uncover the truth about their inherent value and worth in order to re-frame their problems and discover solutions to them. I focus on what clients believe about themselves and how they shape their behavior emphasizing solutions not problems. Together with the client, we re-frame perceptions in light of discovered truth creating new perceptions that influence our feelings
Using evidence-based therapeutic models, clients learn to identify anxious thoughts tied to their core beliefs. By replacing the anxious thoughts with what is true about them, relief from anxiety occurs. I validate people’s experiences while helping them uncover the truth about their inherent value and worth in order to re-frame their problems and discover solutions to them. I focus on what clients believe about themselves and how they shape their behavior emphasizing solutions not problems. Together with the client, we re-frame perceptions in light of discovered truth creating new perceptions that influence our feelings
(719) 323-6407 View (719) 323-6407
Photo of Jennifer Rudge, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, NCC
Jennifer Rudge
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, NCC
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
I am a conditionally licensed therapist dedicated to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can show up exactly as you are. I work collaboratively with clients to explore what's feeling heavy, uncover patterns that no longer serve them, and to build tools to support healing and resilience. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, stress, life transitions, or simply feeling stuck, I'm here to help you slow down, breathe and reconnect with your strengths. My goal is for you to feel supported, empowered, and heard as we navigate this journey together. I work with a variety of clients and offer both individual and couples therapy.
I am a conditionally licensed therapist dedicated to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can show up exactly as you are. I work collaboratively with clients to explore what's feeling heavy, uncover patterns that no longer serve them, and to build tools to support healing and resilience. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, stress, life transitions, or simply feeling stuck, I'm here to help you slow down, breathe and reconnect with your strengths. My goal is for you to feel supported, empowered, and heard as we navigate this journey together. I work with a variety of clients and offer both individual and couples therapy.
(719) 662-8710 View (719) 662-8710
Photo of Brett Skyba, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Brett Skyba
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I am a licensed mental health Counselor based in Jacksonville, Florida. My statewide clients range in age from teens to seniors and have challenges with anxiety, stress, and depression. I aim to help clients mirror their actual selves with their ideal selves. My Approach to therapy is client, but I mostly use person-centered therapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy. I also believe in a Holistic approach, which incorporates the total person.
I am a licensed mental health Counselor based in Jacksonville, Florida. My statewide clients range in age from teens to seniors and have challenges with anxiety, stress, and depression. I aim to help clients mirror their actual selves with their ideal selves. My Approach to therapy is client, but I mostly use person-centered therapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy. I also believe in a Holistic approach, which incorporates the total person.
(720) 828-7393 View (720) 828-7393
Photo of Wendy C Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Wendy C Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
To be allowed the opportunity to walk with clients when their stories are difficult is a gift that I do not take for granted. Our stories are real and changing with plot twists we often don’t like or understand. That is why I do this kind of work. I believe in the values of hope, creativity, authenticity, respect, and trust. All are important pieces in healthy relationships and in the management of our stories. I believe in nurturing dynamic relationships with self, others, and nature—relationships that allow you to be who you are and find your purpose.
To be allowed the opportunity to walk with clients when their stories are difficult is a gift that I do not take for granted. Our stories are real and changing with plot twists we often don’t like or understand. That is why I do this kind of work. I believe in the values of hope, creativity, authenticity, respect, and trust. All are important pieces in healthy relationships and in the management of our stories. I believe in nurturing dynamic relationships with self, others, and nature—relationships that allow you to be who you are and find your purpose.
(719) 642-6328 View (719) 642-6328
Photo of Mari Moxley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mari Moxley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
I work with people who have some awareness of their patterns but still feel stuck in how to move forward. Things can make sense, but not shift, especially in relationships, burnout, or transitions. I approach therapy as a partnership. We make sense of your experiences together and find small, meaningful ways to shift patterns over time. I draw from narrative and solution-focused work and keep sessions both reflective and active. I offer flexibility, from video calls to walks in the park, so the work can feel more natural and connected to your life.
I work with people who have some awareness of their patterns but still feel stuck in how to move forward. Things can make sense, but not shift, especially in relationships, burnout, or transitions. I approach therapy as a partnership. We make sense of your experiences together and find small, meaningful ways to shift patterns over time. I draw from narrative and solution-focused work and keep sessions both reflective and active. I offer flexibility, from video calls to walks in the park, so the work can feel more natural and connected to your life.
(719) 752-5810 View (719) 752-5810
Photo of Jody Libengood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Jody Libengood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
Accepting new clients! Change (v). "to become different without permanently losing one's former characteristics or essence." Whether you are going through a change, or you want to change yourself or your relationships, I can help. I work with individuals and couples. I serve as a guide, helping clarify what you want and leading you toward your goals. I have 20 years experience and have a Gottman method certifcate in relationship counseling.
Accepting new clients! Change (v). "to become different without permanently losing one's former characteristics or essence." Whether you are going through a change, or you want to change yourself or your relationships, I can help. I work with individuals and couples. I serve as a guide, helping clarify what you want and leading you toward your goals. I have 20 years experience and have a Gottman method certifcate in relationship counseling.
(719) 938-1798 View (719) 938-1798
Photo of Ray Herndon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ray Herndon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Colorado Springs, CO 80920
I appreciate the courage it takes to go or continue the journey of self-discovery. On that journey, it is necessary to face the dark parts of ourselves that we would want to keep hidden. The fact that you want to face them reveals a great deal about you. Let me come alongside you on this journey of self-discovery and healing. I work best with those who are ready to face the deepest, darkest parts of themselves but need some help getting there and bringing it to the light. If that is you, let’s get to work. I have a Biblical foundation as an approach to therapy.
I appreciate the courage it takes to go or continue the journey of self-discovery. On that journey, it is necessary to face the dark parts of ourselves that we would want to keep hidden. The fact that you want to face them reveals a great deal about you. Let me come alongside you on this journey of self-discovery and healing. I work best with those who are ready to face the deepest, darkest parts of themselves but need some help getting there and bringing it to the light. If that is you, let’s get to work. I have a Biblical foundation as an approach to therapy.
(720) 794-4992 View (720) 794-4992

See more therapy options for Colorado Springs

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Colorado Springs, CO

2,000+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in Colorado Springs, CO who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
77% Trauma and PTSD
69% Relationship Issues
68% Self Esteem
67% Stress
62% Grief

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% Aetna
82% Cigna and Evernorth
79% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Colorado Springs, CO see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
20% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Colorado Springs?

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.