Therapists in The Woodlands, TX

Photo of Josh Parham Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Josh Parham Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I believe everyone has the power to change and improve their lives, no matter what the situation. As a counselor, it is my job to help people realize their potential and assist them in making the changes they wish to achieve. Using a blend of cognitive behavioral, EMDR, existential, and gestalt techniques, I help clients develop coping skills, identify problematic thinking patterns and behaviors, and improve their emotional well being. My office is a safe, warm, welcoming environment. I am non-judgmental, and respectful of my clients' beliefs and lifestyles.
I believe everyone has the power to change and improve their lives, no matter what the situation. As a counselor, it is my job to help people realize their potential and assist them in making the changes they wish to achieve. Using a blend of cognitive behavioral, EMDR, existential, and gestalt techniques, I help clients develop coping skills, identify problematic thinking patterns and behaviors, and improve their emotional well being. My office is a safe, warm, welcoming environment. I am non-judgmental, and respectful of my clients' beliefs and lifestyles.
(281) 968-4350 View (281) 968-4350
Photo of Brandy Hussey, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in The Woodlands, TX
Brandy Hussey
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC, Assoc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Taking that first step is not easy and I am honored to be a part of that journey with you. I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families walk through healing. It is normal to feel overwhelmed, stressed, and unsure how to handle emotions, trauma, or just the things life brings our way but I am here to help you understand how to handle those emotions in a healthy way.
Taking that first step is not easy and I am honored to be a part of that journey with you. I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families walk through healing. It is normal to feel overwhelmed, stressed, and unsure how to handle emotions, trauma, or just the things life brings our way but I am here to help you understand how to handle those emotions in a healthy way.
(936) 215-8726 View (936) 215-8726
Photo of Darya Ross, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in The Woodlands, TX
Darya Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Congratulations on taking a big step towards a more fulfilling life. Are you unmotivated, hopeless, depressed, anxious, stuck, or feel disconnected? Have you experienced trauma or emotional distress through a life experience? My goal is to provide you with knowledge and individualized appropriate treatment. Most importantly, I will commit to supporting you as you walk the path towards experiencing a better quality of life. Together, we will work through challenging events, while rebuilding your confidence and empowerment.
Congratulations on taking a big step towards a more fulfilling life. Are you unmotivated, hopeless, depressed, anxious, stuck, or feel disconnected? Have you experienced trauma or emotional distress through a life experience? My goal is to provide you with knowledge and individualized appropriate treatment. Most importantly, I will commit to supporting you as you walk the path towards experiencing a better quality of life. Together, we will work through challenging events, while rebuilding your confidence and empowerment.
(281) 801-1347 View (281) 801-1347
Photo of Veronique Vaillancourt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Veronique Vaillancourt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
People of all ages and walks of life can benefit from therapy, because therapy is really for anyone wanting to improve their life. Sometimes problems are concrete and clear, other times, people know that something isn’t quite right, but they can’t identify what is causing them unhappiness or stress. Therapy works because there are times in everyone’s life when they can use help to overcome the obstacles that stand in their way. Problems come in many shapes and sizes, both large and small, and therapy is a good space in which such problems can be addressed.
People of all ages and walks of life can benefit from therapy, because therapy is really for anyone wanting to improve their life. Sometimes problems are concrete and clear, other times, people know that something isn’t quite right, but they can’t identify what is causing them unhappiness or stress. Therapy works because there are times in everyone’s life when they can use help to overcome the obstacles that stand in their way. Problems come in many shapes and sizes, both large and small, and therapy is a good space in which such problems can be addressed.
(832) 861-0916 View (832) 861-0916
Photo of Claire R Berry, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in The Woodlands, TX
Claire R Berry
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, LPCA
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Reaching out and asking for help is one of the hardest yet most vital parts of growth and self improvement in our lives. We all need help at some point - yes, even me! Therapy can not only help in dealing with the chaos life throws at us, but also help us learn how and when to ask for that help. I firmly believe that everyone deserves a safe environment to explore oneself and improve overall mental health. I'm also incredibly passionate about advocating for the expansion of mental health awareness through psychoeducation and increasing access to quality care.
Reaching out and asking for help is one of the hardest yet most vital parts of growth and self improvement in our lives. We all need help at some point - yes, even me! Therapy can not only help in dealing with the chaos life throws at us, but also help us learn how and when to ask for that help. I firmly believe that everyone deserves a safe environment to explore oneself and improve overall mental health. I'm also incredibly passionate about advocating for the expansion of mental health awareness through psychoeducation and increasing access to quality care.
(832) 390-0109 View (832) 390-0109
Photo of Dr. Hassey: Fyadra Healing & Transformation, Marriage & Family Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Dr. Hassey: Fyadra Healing & Transformation
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC, LMFT, EMDR, Spanish
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I am a psychotherapist oriented to people's well being. I will aid you, your partner, and /or children to solve problems, grow, develop skills, and heal. I have over 17 years of experience working with sexual issues, self-esteem, depression, addictions, groups, parenting, couple conflict and children/adolescents. I am multicultural-multilingual professional psychotherapist in U.S.A., Mexico, and Europe. I am fluent in English, Spanish, Italian, and French
I am a psychotherapist oriented to people's well being. I will aid you, your partner, and /or children to solve problems, grow, develop skills, and heal. I have over 17 years of experience working with sexual issues, self-esteem, depression, addictions, groups, parenting, couple conflict and children/adolescents. I am multicultural-multilingual professional psychotherapist in U.S.A., Mexico, and Europe. I am fluent in English, Spanish, Italian, and French
(832) 529-6801 View (832) 529-6801
Photo of Dr. Shaun Lester, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Dr. Shaun Lester
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Really, I am a professional tool. I consider myself an instument to be used in your life to help you redesign, renovate, remodel, and/or rebuild your life. Everyone, at some point in their life, feels like the walls are caving in. Typically, we are good do-it-yourselfers and make repairs easily. However, life can get out of hand and the repairs can get too big for us to fix it alone. Let me help you assess the damage, redesign your blueprint, and equip you with the skills to..."Git-R-Done." It would be my honor to work alongside you.
Really, I am a professional tool. I consider myself an instument to be used in your life to help you redesign, renovate, remodel, and/or rebuild your life. Everyone, at some point in their life, feels like the walls are caving in. Typically, we are good do-it-yourselfers and make repairs easily. However, life can get out of hand and the repairs can get too big for us to fix it alone. Let me help you assess the damage, redesign your blueprint, and equip you with the skills to..."Git-R-Done." It would be my honor to work alongside you.
(713) 234-1142 View (713) 234-1142
Photo of Mindful Movements Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Mindful Movements Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I'm Mikayla, and I am the founder of MMCC. We know it's hard to be vulnerable with a new person, not knowing how they’ll react to what you tell them. As your counselor, our role is to meet you where you’re at, take your hand, and walk with you at your own pace. We are passionate for holistic, mindful mental health counseling for kids, teens, couples, and adults in areas including trauma, DV and sexual assault, grief, faith-based counseling, anxiety, depression, codependency, self-esteem, identity, self-harming behaviors, relationships, parenting, and more. With 11 counselors on our team, we aim to have a counselor for everyone.
I'm Mikayla, and I am the founder of MMCC. We know it's hard to be vulnerable with a new person, not knowing how they’ll react to what you tell them. As your counselor, our role is to meet you where you’re at, take your hand, and walk with you at your own pace. We are passionate for holistic, mindful mental health counseling for kids, teens, couples, and adults in areas including trauma, DV and sexual assault, grief, faith-based counseling, anxiety, depression, codependency, self-esteem, identity, self-harming behaviors, relationships, parenting, and more. With 11 counselors on our team, we aim to have a counselor for everyone.
(713) 804-4955 View (713) 804-4955
Photo of Maryanne Walker, Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Maryanne Walker
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Do you have goals you just can't seem to meet? Feel like you always have things to do, but never have enough time to do them? Are anxiety and depression overtaking your life? Together we can take the chaos in your life and create structure, focus, motivation and more organization to help you reach your goals. With new skills, education, encouragement and accountability, you can start living the life you want. If you feel stuck, overwhelmed or frustrated, reach out today. I not only work with adult ADHD and Executive Function issues, but also depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
Do you have goals you just can't seem to meet? Feel like you always have things to do, but never have enough time to do them? Are anxiety and depression overtaking your life? Together we can take the chaos in your life and create structure, focus, motivation and more organization to help you reach your goals. With new skills, education, encouragement and accountability, you can start living the life you want. If you feel stuck, overwhelmed or frustrated, reach out today. I not only work with adult ADHD and Executive Function issues, but also depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
(936) 289-3324 View (936) 289-3324
Photo of Kim Saltzman, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Kim Saltzman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSAT, CEDS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Along side of my professional credentials, I too have traveled down a road of recovery and healing that enables me to share valuable insight and perspective with my clients. I specialize in treating Eating Disorders, PTSD/Complex trauma, and Sex Addiction. I support a holistic counseling approach that addresses the mental, physical, and spiritual aspects of a person. By integrating various counseling techniques and philosophies, I offer my clients the most current and effective methods of treatment.
Along side of my professional credentials, I too have traveled down a road of recovery and healing that enables me to share valuable insight and perspective with my clients. I specialize in treating Eating Disorders, PTSD/Complex trauma, and Sex Addiction. I support a holistic counseling approach that addresses the mental, physical, and spiritual aspects of a person. By integrating various counseling techniques and philosophies, I offer my clients the most current and effective methods of treatment.
(281) 245-0785 View (281) 245-0785
Photo of Dana Futrell, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Dana Futrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I see life as a journey and always changing. I believe that we all have tools to make positive change. I assist others in identifying tools to overcome obstacles that are presented in life that may inhibit positive change. I believe there is great power in the therapist/client relationship. People often find their best version of themselves when they feel truly heard and seen. We can start where you are now and change to find freedom and joy.
I see life as a journey and always changing. I believe that we all have tools to make positive change. I assist others in identifying tools to overcome obstacles that are presented in life that may inhibit positive change. I believe there is great power in the therapist/client relationship. People often find their best version of themselves when they feel truly heard and seen. We can start where you are now and change to find freedom and joy.
(844) 840-2259 View (844) 840-2259
Photo of Jennifer J. Cain, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Jennifer J. Cain
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I specialize in play therapy for children ages 3-8 and supervision for LPC Associates and RPT Interns (post graduate only). I do not accept insurance, but you can submit your claims for out-of-network reimbursement. Please contact me today to determine if we are a good match for this process, or if you have any questions.
I specialize in play therapy for children ages 3-8 and supervision for LPC Associates and RPT Interns (post graduate only). I do not accept insurance, but you can submit your claims for out-of-network reimbursement. Please contact me today to determine if we are a good match for this process, or if you have any questions.
(832) 734-6717 View (832) 734-6717
Photo of Dr. Avery Neal, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Dr. Avery Neal
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77382
I specialize in depression and anxiety in women. I enjoy working with women struggling with generalized depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, abusive relationships, divorce recovery, pregnancy depression and anxiety, postpartum depression and anxiety, traumatic labor and delivery, miscarriage, and loss.
I specialize in depression and anxiety in women. I enjoy working with women struggling with generalized depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, abusive relationships, divorce recovery, pregnancy depression and anxiety, postpartum depression and anxiety, traumatic labor and delivery, miscarriage, and loss.
(866) 995-7910 x2 View (866) 995-7910 x2
Photo of Dr. Kevin Schloneger, Psychologist in The Woodlands, TX
Dr. Kevin Schloneger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380  (Online Only)
Dr. Kevin Schloneger has been a Texas licensed Psychologist since 5/7/99 and has experience in mental health services for 37 years. His education is Ph.D. for clinical psychology in 12/96 from California School Professional Psychology (now Alliant International University): Fresno, CA; MA for theology in 8/86 from Fuller Theological Seminary: Pasadena, CA; and BA for psychology in 5/83 from Evangel University: Springfield, MO. If you could have resolved the problem, you would have. Needing help/others is a positive human quality.
Dr. Kevin Schloneger has been a Texas licensed Psychologist since 5/7/99 and has experience in mental health services for 37 years. His education is Ph.D. for clinical psychology in 12/96 from California School Professional Psychology (now Alliant International University): Fresno, CA; MA for theology in 8/86 from Fuller Theological Seminary: Pasadena, CA; and BA for psychology in 5/83 from Evangel University: Springfield, MO. If you could have resolved the problem, you would have. Needing help/others is a positive human quality.
(936) 262-6908 View (936) 262-6908
Photo of Kristen Nicole Skowronski, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in The Woodlands, TX
Kristen Nicole Skowronski
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Are you concerned that the relationship you and your partner dreamed of may be slipping away? Searching for reconnection? You may be fed up with arguments interfering with family time, feeling misunderstood or alone. It may be getting more difficult to remember a time when things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for change. To work on creating new patterns in your communication. Most of all, you’re ready to establish peace and love in your relationship again.
Are you concerned that the relationship you and your partner dreamed of may be slipping away? Searching for reconnection? You may be fed up with arguments interfering with family time, feeling misunderstood or alone. It may be getting more difficult to remember a time when things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for change. To work on creating new patterns in your communication. Most of all, you’re ready to establish peace and love in your relationship again.
(936) 209-7259 View (936) 209-7259
Photo of Christopher Patrick Haggard, Marriage & Family Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Christopher Patrick Haggard
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77381
In my ideal client, I see someone navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, seeking support and guidance towards self-discovery and healing. They crave a compassionate therapist to provide a safe space for exploration and validation. Their goals include developing healthier coping strategies, boosting self-esteem, and fostering fulfilling relationships. Ultimately, they aspire to live authentically and purposefully, seeking therapy as a valuable tool for personal growth and fulfillment.
In my ideal client, I see someone navigating challenges like anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, seeking support and guidance towards self-discovery and healing. They crave a compassionate therapist to provide a safe space for exploration and validation. Their goals include developing healthier coping strategies, boosting self-esteem, and fostering fulfilling relationships. Ultimately, they aspire to live authentically and purposefully, seeking therapy as a valuable tool for personal growth and fulfillment.
(281) 990-6244 View (281) 990-6244
Photo of Kathryn G Wainscott in The Woodlands, TX
Kathryn G Wainscott
BS, MCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
My primary clinical experience lies in developing coping skills and identifying goals for adolescents and adults during transitional periods in their lives, such as, college and career counseling, pre- and post-marital counseling, and infidelity recovery. Moreover, I specialize in treatment for ADHD/ADD and offer a variety of treatment methods. Additionally, I have experience with mental health disorders varying from Personality Disorders, Bipolar 1 & 2, OCD, Depression, and Anxiety. My holistic approach to intake and treatment differentiates me from a mere psychological approach to diagnosis, assessment, and evaluation.
My primary clinical experience lies in developing coping skills and identifying goals for adolescents and adults during transitional periods in their lives, such as, college and career counseling, pre- and post-marital counseling, and infidelity recovery. Moreover, I specialize in treatment for ADHD/ADD and offer a variety of treatment methods. Additionally, I have experience with mental health disorders varying from Personality Disorders, Bipolar 1 & 2, OCD, Depression, and Anxiety. My holistic approach to intake and treatment differentiates me from a mere psychological approach to diagnosis, assessment, and evaluation.
(936) 209-7086 View (936) 209-7086
Photo of Rebecca A. Higgins, Marriage & Family Therapist in The Woodlands, TX
Rebecca A. Higgins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77381
I am passionate about helping individuals and families reach their unique, personal goals. I believe a client grows best when there is a positive therapeutic relationship built in a safe and non-judgmental atmosphere. Those who want to build interpersonal insight, increase self-awareness, and are willing to implement new skills will benefit most from therapy. The ability to visualize their desired outcome is an important part of the therapeutic journey for clients and is key in the redevelopment of their personal identity.
I am passionate about helping individuals and families reach their unique, personal goals. I believe a client grows best when there is a positive therapeutic relationship built in a safe and non-judgmental atmosphere. Those who want to build interpersonal insight, increase self-awareness, and are willing to implement new skills will benefit most from therapy. The ability to visualize their desired outcome is an important part of the therapeutic journey for clients and is key in the redevelopment of their personal identity.
(936) 226-0397 View (936) 226-0397
Photo of Tameka G. Survillion, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Tameka G. Survillion
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77381
Our journey through life presents us all with different challenges. There are times of great joy and victory and times of defeat, disruption, and loss. We are shaped by our experiences, family of origin, culture, temperament, available resources, and the people in our lives. Ultimately, our chief mission in this world is to create a high quality of life despite the hardships we face. I specialize in the healing of trauma, serious mental health symptoms, and unwanted residue from life transitions. I explore my client’s perspectives, challenge ideas that hinder progress, and help develop better responses to life struggles.
Our journey through life presents us all with different challenges. There are times of great joy and victory and times of defeat, disruption, and loss. We are shaped by our experiences, family of origin, culture, temperament, available resources, and the people in our lives. Ultimately, our chief mission in this world is to create a high quality of life despite the hardships we face. I specialize in the healing of trauma, serious mental health symptoms, and unwanted residue from life transitions. I explore my client’s perspectives, challenge ideas that hinder progress, and help develop better responses to life struggles.
(346) 567-6902 View (346) 567-6902
Photo of Jennifer Rone, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Woodlands, TX
Jennifer Rone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LSOTP
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, anger issues, or life transitions, we can work together to create a plan specifically for you!
Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, anger issues, or life transitions, we can work together to create a plan specifically for you!
(281) 519-6652 View (281) 519-6652

See more therapy options for The Woodlands

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in The Woodlands, TX

500+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in The Woodlands, TX who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
75% Self Esteem
72% Stress
71% Coping Skills
70% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
78% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
74% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in The Woodlands, TX see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
18% Male
1% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in The Woodlands?

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.