Therapists in Exeter, NH

Photo of Aloft Integrated Wellness LLC, Counselor in Exeter, NH
Aloft Integrated Wellness LLC
Counselor, LICSW
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
We have immediate openings for Nutrition Counseling and limited openings for psychotherapy depending on the provider and area of need. Please complete the Request Services form on our websitehttps://www.aloftnh.com/request-services . Aloft Integrated Wellness LLC offers integrated therapeutic and wellness services in a compassionate, informed setting. We are systems thinkers and have designed a space and services to promote adjustment, healing, resilience and joy. Our mission is to bridge the gap between mental health and wellness services. Services include: Psychotherapy, Nutrition Counseling.
We have immediate openings for Nutrition Counseling and limited openings for psychotherapy depending on the provider and area of need. Please complete the Request Services form on our websitehttps://www.aloftnh.com/request-services . Aloft Integrated Wellness LLC offers integrated therapeutic and wellness services in a compassionate, informed setting. We are systems thinkers and have designed a space and services to promote adjustment, healing, resilience and joy. Our mission is to bridge the gap between mental health and wellness services. Services include: Psychotherapy, Nutrition Counseling.
(603) 865-7868 View (603) 865-7868
Photo of Kristen Vogelaar, Pre-Licensed Professional in Exeter, NH
Kristen Vogelaar
Pre-Licensed Professional, MACO
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
I have experience working with a wide range of clients with a diversity of needs and challenges, but all have had this in common: the human need to be understood, accepted, and known. Psychologist Carl Rogers said, “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself, just as I am, then I can change.” The people I work with are no more "broken" than others, though it may feel that way and that's a real experience. I work with people who are ready to embark on their own journey and come to know, understand, love and respect themselves and their experiences on the way, and discover the change that can grow out of that.
I have experience working with a wide range of clients with a diversity of needs and challenges, but all have had this in common: the human need to be understood, accepted, and known. Psychologist Carl Rogers said, “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself, just as I am, then I can change.” The people I work with are no more "broken" than others, though it may feel that way and that's a real experience. I work with people who are ready to embark on their own journey and come to know, understand, love and respect themselves and their experiences on the way, and discover the change that can grow out of that.
(603) 691-2458 View (603) 691-2458
Photo of Sue Schick, Counselor in Exeter, NH
Sue Schick
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
Navigating our way through life can feel challenging at times! Yet we all have unique strengths that we can build upon. As a seasoned therapist it is an honor to work with adolescents, young adults, and adults who may be struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, or challenging life transitions. Offering compassionate therapeutic intervention and support, I provide an opportunity for self exploration, goal setting, and celebration of personal growth and achievement. My scope of services is an integrated blend of Person Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solutions Focused Therapy.
Navigating our way through life can feel challenging at times! Yet we all have unique strengths that we can build upon. As a seasoned therapist it is an honor to work with adolescents, young adults, and adults who may be struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, or challenging life transitions. Offering compassionate therapeutic intervention and support, I provide an opportunity for self exploration, goal setting, and celebration of personal growth and achievement. My scope of services is an integrated blend of Person Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solutions Focused Therapy.
(603) 333-1677 View (603) 333-1677
Photo of Donna McDermott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Exeter, NH
Donna McDermott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
Donna McDermott is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker practicing in the seacoast area of New Hampshire. She graduated from The University of New Hampshire with a masters of social work. Donna is known for providing a safe, non-judgmental and compassionate space for individuals. Donna integrates her professional training with her life experience to help others heal and grow. Her main areas of of focus include depression, anxiety, attachment, divorce and trauma. Donna specializes in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
Donna McDermott is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker practicing in the seacoast area of New Hampshire. She graduated from The University of New Hampshire with a masters of social work. Donna is known for providing a safe, non-judgmental and compassionate space for individuals. Donna integrates her professional training with her life experience to help others heal and grow. Her main areas of of focus include depression, anxiety, attachment, divorce and trauma. Donna specializes in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
(888) 290-2808 View (888) 290-2808
Photo of Deborah Addario, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Exeter, NH
Deborah Addario
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
I work with adopted children and children who are in the foster care system. Treatment focuses on Attachment Theory and addresses trauma, abuse, loss, abandonment, and grief. This is a family centered approach and actively involves the child’s attachment figure(s) in treatment. I work with adolescents who are struggling with peers relationships, conflict with parents, transition issues, anxiety, stress, depression, self worth and self-esteem challenges. I also work with adults who are struggling with mood disorders, relationship difficulties, employment stress, and parenting issues.
I work with adopted children and children who are in the foster care system. Treatment focuses on Attachment Theory and addresses trauma, abuse, loss, abandonment, and grief. This is a family centered approach and actively involves the child’s attachment figure(s) in treatment. I work with adolescents who are struggling with peers relationships, conflict with parents, transition issues, anxiety, stress, depression, self worth and self-esteem challenges. I also work with adults who are struggling with mood disorders, relationship difficulties, employment stress, and parenting issues.
(603) 932-5696 View (603) 932-5696
Photo of Robyn Powley in Exeter, NH
Robyn Powley
MEd, BCBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter, NH 03833  (Online Only)
Does your child's behavior leave you feeling overwhelmed? Behaviors can leave the whole family feeling stressed and disconnected. With over 30 years of experience in special education, working with families in both schools and homes to navigate a wide range of behaviors- from autism and emotional disorders to typical developmental stages and anxiety. I focus on creating supportive environments for your entire family. Using evidenced based strategies focused on positive reinforcement and replacement behaviors help individuals develop the skills they need to succeed.
Does your child's behavior leave you feeling overwhelmed? Behaviors can leave the whole family feeling stressed and disconnected. With over 30 years of experience in special education, working with families in both schools and homes to navigate a wide range of behaviors- from autism and emotional disorders to typical developmental stages and anxiety. I focus on creating supportive environments for your entire family. Using evidenced based strategies focused on positive reinforcement and replacement behaviors help individuals develop the skills they need to succeed.
(855) 908-6277 View (855) 908-6277
Kathryn Forbes-Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
I have had the privilege of working in the mental health field for over 35 years, providing individual, group and family therapy for children, adolescents and adults as well as consultation to schools, physicians, legal professionals and family courts.
I have had the privilege of working in the mental health field for over 35 years, providing individual, group and family therapy for children, adolescents and adults as well as consultation to schools, physicians, legal professionals and family courts.
(603) 787-5369 x3 View (603) 787-5369 x3
Photo of Dr. Carl G. Hindy, Psychologist in Exeter, NH
Dr. Carl G. Hindy
Psychologist, PhD, HSP
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
Very experienced clinical psychologist -- recently retired from his practice of 35 years in Nashua -- now has a focused practice in Exeter, NH. He sees a small number of individuals and couples. Individual adults facing life stage transitions and changes, adjustments and challenges in life, whether health, career, family, extended families, or friendships is a major focus. Co-author of "If This Is Love, Why Do I Feel So Insecure?" Dr. Hindy also works with couples seeking to improve communications, commitment, boundaries, trust, impulse control, affection, intimacy, and other facets of satisfaction in marriage and relationships.
Very experienced clinical psychologist -- recently retired from his practice of 35 years in Nashua -- now has a focused practice in Exeter, NH. He sees a small number of individuals and couples. Individual adults facing life stage transitions and changes, adjustments and challenges in life, whether health, career, family, extended families, or friendships is a major focus. Co-author of "If This Is Love, Why Do I Feel So Insecure?" Dr. Hindy also works with couples seeking to improve communications, commitment, boundaries, trust, impulse control, affection, intimacy, and other facets of satisfaction in marriage and relationships.
(603) 880-8773 View (603) 880-8773
Photo of Allie Helfrich, Pre-Licensed Professional in Exeter, NH
Allie Helfrich
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
Allie Helfrich is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2021. She has a BA in Psychology from Merrimack College and an MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Plymouth State University. Allie can provide you with a safe environment that feels comfortable, welcoming, and warm. She understands how overwhelming it can be to make this initial step and seek counseling and is here to support you on your journey starting right now. Allie can offer you strategies, skills, and individualized evidence-based techniques that can help you start to feel better.
Allie Helfrich is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2021. She has a BA in Psychology from Merrimack College and an MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Plymouth State University. Allie can provide you with a safe environment that feels comfortable, welcoming, and warm. She understands how overwhelming it can be to make this initial step and seek counseling and is here to support you on your journey starting right now. Allie can offer you strategies, skills, and individualized evidence-based techniques that can help you start to feel better.
(603) 605-0517 View (603) 605-0517
Photo of Barbara Dugan, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Exeter, NH
Barbara Dugan
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MDiv, MLADC, RYT, DOT/SAP
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
Not accepting new clients
Our answers live inside us. But do we trust them enough to embrace them and take action? Change often means we have to get past some difficult attachments, challenges, emotions and memories. Rather than being led by a sense of fear and defensiveness, change asks us to get curious and courageous. Chances are if you are searching here, you are looking for some help taking action and sorting some things out for yourself. Welcome to the Olympics of Healing.
Our answers live inside us. But do we trust them enough to embrace them and take action? Change often means we have to get past some difficult attachments, challenges, emotions and memories. Rather than being led by a sense of fear and defensiveness, change asks us to get curious and courageous. Chances are if you are searching here, you are looking for some help taking action and sorting some things out for yourself. Welcome to the Olympics of Healing.
(603) 383-5379 View (603) 383-5379
Photo of Jane C. Woodward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Exeter, NH
Jane C. Woodward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, and welcome to my profile! I would love to meet you. You may be seeking help for yourself or your teen, and have lots of questions, or be ready to jump in and get at it. If you need to speak of the unspeakable in your life, or remain stuck on issues after trying a number of strategies, let's talk. Together we can heal many things, and improve most things a great deal. You may want the science and evidence-based best practices, or support for spirituality and finding the meaning of your experience, or both. All are welcome here.
Hello, and welcome to my profile! I would love to meet you. You may be seeking help for yourself or your teen, and have lots of questions, or be ready to jump in and get at it. If you need to speak of the unspeakable in your life, or remain stuck on issues after trying a number of strategies, let's talk. Together we can heal many things, and improve most things a great deal. You may want the science and evidence-based best practices, or support for spirituality and finding the meaning of your experience, or both. All are welcome here.
(603) 803-4149 View (603) 803-4149
Photo of Family Counseling Associates (NH) in Exeter, NH
Family Counseling Associates (NH)
Not Verified Not Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
***OFFERING TELEHEALTH and OFFICE VISITS! Family Counseling Associates is proud to provide the highest level of care through our outpatient counseling services. Whether you would benefit from individual therapy, couples or family therapy, or therapy for your child, we are here to help. Family Counseling Associates is a comprehensive counseling center providing mental health care for Bedford NH and Exeter NH.
***OFFERING TELEHEALTH and OFFICE VISITS! Family Counseling Associates is proud to provide the highest level of care through our outpatient counseling services. Whether you would benefit from individual therapy, couples or family therapy, or therapy for your child, we are here to help. Family Counseling Associates is a comprehensive counseling center providing mental health care for Bedford NH and Exeter NH.
(603) 483-3730 View (603) 483-3730
Joseph Lawrence Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Exeter, NH 03833  (Online Only)
Joe received his MSW from Smith College in 1981 and has over 35 years of experience providing clinical and consultative services in educational, public and private settings. As a founding partner of Coastal Counseling, he helped to bring together a group of highly trained clinicians from various disciplines who work collaboratively to provide a range of clinical services for clients of all ages.
Joe received his MSW from Smith College in 1981 and has over 35 years of experience providing clinical and consultative services in educational, public and private settings. As a founding partner of Coastal Counseling, he helped to bring together a group of highly trained clinicians from various disciplines who work collaboratively to provide a range of clinical services for clients of all ages.
(603) 945-8710 x4 View (603) 945-8710 x4
Photo of Alissa Dillon, Counselor in Exeter, NH
Alissa Dillon
Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
I am accepting new patients! Now licensed in Vermont for telehealth! I specialize in the treatment of grief, trauma & loss, whether it be a person, pet, job, a marriage, etc. All losses have a large impact on our lives. Let me help you cope with your grief, and heal the pain from a trauma. It's time you live the life that you deserve. Fees are $150 per session, 24 hr cancellation required to avoid a $75 fee To set up an appointment with me, please visit www.timetohealme.com and complete the forms. I look forward to working with you! I treat Veterans and First Responders for Free, even if you have insurance.
I am accepting new patients! Now licensed in Vermont for telehealth! I specialize in the treatment of grief, trauma & loss, whether it be a person, pet, job, a marriage, etc. All losses have a large impact on our lives. Let me help you cope with your grief, and heal the pain from a trauma. It's time you live the life that you deserve. Fees are $150 per session, 24 hr cancellation required to avoid a $75 fee To set up an appointment with me, please visit www.timetohealme.com and complete the forms. I look forward to working with you! I treat Veterans and First Responders for Free, even if you have insurance.
(978) 857-6549 View (978) 857-6549
Photo of Jennifer Cogan, Counselor in Exeter, NH
Jennifer Cogan
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or sad? Perhaps you are grieving a loss. Therapy is a way to learn to cope better, discover new skills, improve your relationships and communication, and change your thinking or behaviors. It is also helpful in processing grief after experiencing a loss in your life.
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or sad? Perhaps you are grieving a loss. Therapy is a way to learn to cope better, discover new skills, improve your relationships and communication, and change your thinking or behaviors. It is also helpful in processing grief after experiencing a loss in your life.
(603) 945-5458 View (603) 945-5458
Photo of Lauren Drinker, LCMHC, Counselor in Exeter, NH
Lauren Drinker, LCMHC
Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
Not accepting new clients
I feel honored and privileged to do this work and assist my clients in meeting their goals. I am experienced working with clients to improve mood, behavior and relationships. My focus is to identify the sources and patterns that stand between my patients and the outcomes they would like to see in their lives. Collaboratively, we develop a plan to overcome challenges and meet personal goals. Together, we can work to identify and overcome the challenges in your life too. See my website for full details. www.laurendrinker.com.
I feel honored and privileged to do this work and assist my clients in meeting their goals. I am experienced working with clients to improve mood, behavior and relationships. My focus is to identify the sources and patterns that stand between my patients and the outcomes they would like to see in their lives. Collaboratively, we develop a plan to overcome challenges and meet personal goals. Together, we can work to identify and overcome the challenges in your life too. See my website for full details. www.laurendrinker.com.
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Photo of Cara Casey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Exeter, NH
Cara Casey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
Cara Casey is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in New Hampshire. Cara has experience in treating children, adolescents, young adults, and families struggling with a range of emotional and behavioral challenges. She specializes in working with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Bereavement, Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and Conduct Disorders. She has worked in outpatient community mental health, residential treatment programs, and within multiple school districts. Cara also taught seminars for the Child Impact Program to support parents going through divorce.
Cara Casey is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in New Hampshire. Cara has experience in treating children, adolescents, young adults, and families struggling with a range of emotional and behavioral challenges. She specializes in working with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Bereavement, Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and Conduct Disorders. She has worked in outpatient community mental health, residential treatment programs, and within multiple school districts. Cara also taught seminars for the Child Impact Program to support parents going through divorce.
(603) 420-2130 View (603) 420-2130
Photo of Bianca Staudt, Pre-Licensed Professional in Exeter, NH
Bianca Staudt
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
Chances are, if you are reading this, you are longing for change. When you feel ready to embark on the journey towards self-awareness and connection, it can be helpful to have a therapist to walk by your side. I have specialized experience with women's mental health, self-esteem, end of life/grief, life transitions, & trauma. As a pre-licensed clinician, I receive regular supervision from Doug Stephens, Ed., LICSW.
Chances are, if you are reading this, you are longing for change. When you feel ready to embark on the journey towards self-awareness and connection, it can be helpful to have a therapist to walk by your side. I have specialized experience with women's mental health, self-esteem, end of life/grief, life transitions, & trauma. As a pre-licensed clinician, I receive regular supervision from Doug Stephens, Ed., LICSW.
(603) 825-6207 View (603) 825-6207
Photo of Scott D. Singleton, Counselor in Exeter, NH
Scott D. Singleton
Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC, MEd
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
They Say "It takes a Village" Do you ever worry that you're just not getting through to your child? Does it seem like no matter what you try, nothing seems to work? Some families don't have a "village" to help them with all the different struggles kids face today. I have worked in many different settings; hospitals, group homes, schools, residential treatment centers, and clinical outpatient offices. I have helped lots of children of all age ranges and their families with similar situations that you're probably facing.
They Say "It takes a Village" Do you ever worry that you're just not getting through to your child? Does it seem like no matter what you try, nothing seems to work? Some families don't have a "village" to help them with all the different struggles kids face today. I have worked in many different settings; hospitals, group homes, schools, residential treatment centers, and clinical outpatient offices. I have helped lots of children of all age ranges and their families with similar situations that you're probably facing.
(603) 605-1218 View (603) 605-1218
Photo of Alfred-John Diamonti, Psychologist in Exeter, NH
Alfred-John Diamonti
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Exeter, NH 03833
Dr. AJ Diamonti began his career as a classroom teacher and school administrator, before returning to school himself to train as a psychologist. He received a Master of Arts degree in Mental Health Counseling and his doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology, both from Boston College, and completed his pre-doctoral internship in clinical psychology at Tewksbury Hospital in Massachusetts. His education and experience have included working with children, adolescents, and adults within public and private school systems, college counseling centers, and inpatient hospital settings.
Dr. AJ Diamonti began his career as a classroom teacher and school administrator, before returning to school himself to train as a psychologist. He received a Master of Arts degree in Mental Health Counseling and his doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology, both from Boston College, and completed his pre-doctoral internship in clinical psychology at Tewksbury Hospital in Massachusetts. His education and experience have included working with children, adolescents, and adults within public and private school systems, college counseling centers, and inpatient hospital settings.
(888) 270-8529 View (888) 270-8529

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Exeter, NH

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Exeter, NH who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
83% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
71% Self Esteem
66% Grief
62% Life Transitions
61% Stress

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

72% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
70% Optum
65% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Exeter, NH see their clients

81% In Person and Online
19% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
23% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Exeter?

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.