Therapists in Windsor, CT

Pathways to Perseverance
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Windsor, CT 06095
I have served as a social worker for over 25 years, working primarily with children and families. When asked, I proudly declare that I am a social worker and love what I do. I believe social work is a calling. In my work with children I enjoy meeting them where they are. From a little person dealing with emotions much bigger than they can manage, to a tween who is desperately trying to figure out where they belong socially, to a teenager struggling with their identity, to a young person just trying to figure out life and what’s next for them, and so much more, I’ve honed my skills, ears and heart to meet them where they are.
I have served as a social worker for over 25 years, working primarily with children and families. When asked, I proudly declare that I am a social worker and love what I do. I believe social work is a calling. In my work with children I enjoy meeting them where they are. From a little person dealing with emotions much bigger than they can manage, to a tween who is desperately trying to figure out where they belong socially, to a teenager struggling with their identity, to a young person just trying to figure out life and what’s next for them, and so much more, I’ve honed my skills, ears and heart to meet them where they are.
(860) 390-5012 View (860) 390-5012
Photo of Milna Rosario, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Milna Rosario
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Windsor, CT 06095
As we move through life we are challenged with issues related to ourselves, mental illness, family, marriage, friends, school, work and/or our living environment. Our ability to function, sleep, focus or remain motivated changes from day to day.
As we move through life we are challenged with issues related to ourselves, mental illness, family, marriage, friends, school, work and/or our living environment. Our ability to function, sleep, focus or remain motivated changes from day to day.
(860) 661-4976 View (860) 661-4976
Photo of Yvonne Sailor, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yvonne Sailor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windsor, CT 06095
Are you feeling hopeless, discouraged, or misunderstood? Are you struggling to overcome past trauma, anxieties, setting goals, and being your authentic self? I am not here to judge you but to walk with you through your process of healing. Too often we struggle in silence and taking the initiative to reach out for help is no easy task. However, it demonstrates you have a strong desire to improve your quality of life.
Are you feeling hopeless, discouraged, or misunderstood? Are you struggling to overcome past trauma, anxieties, setting goals, and being your authentic self? I am not here to judge you but to walk with you through your process of healing. Too often we struggle in silence and taking the initiative to reach out for help is no easy task. However, it demonstrates you have a strong desire to improve your quality of life.
(860) 530-2966 View (860) 530-2966
Photo of Samantha Micael, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha Micael
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Windsor, CT 06095  (Online Only)
Picture this: you are feeling disconnected from the life you've created. Work is causing burn out, and there's no time for your own self-care because you're too busy being there for everyone else in your life. Navigating this stress leads to anxiety and impacts your self-esteem, causing you to be your own worst critic. It's interfering with your relationships, leading to miscommunication and less room for genuine connection. If that picture is feeling all too real, then finding a therapist who can meet you where you're at and support you through these hurdles would be life-changing.
Picture this: you are feeling disconnected from the life you've created. Work is causing burn out, and there's no time for your own self-care because you're too busy being there for everyone else in your life. Navigating this stress leads to anxiety and impacts your self-esteem, causing you to be your own worst critic. It's interfering with your relationships, leading to miscommunication and less room for genuine connection. If that picture is feeling all too real, then finding a therapist who can meet you where you're at and support you through these hurdles would be life-changing.
(860) 815-8947 View (860) 815-8947
Photo of Yvonne A Sailor, MEd, LPC , NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yvonne A Sailor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC , NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windsor, CT 06095
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I currently offer therapy services to individuals, couples, families, children, teens, and groups. As a Christian Therapist I help you overcome your Mental Health Challenges, as well as heal spiritually through the use of Gods Word as well as the use of integrative approaches including mindfulness, acceptance, and cognitive and behavioral principles as well as the humanistic and person-centered approach to ensure that the right skills are used to meet your goals.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I currently offer therapy services to individuals, couples, families, children, teens, and groups. As a Christian Therapist I help you overcome your Mental Health Challenges, as well as heal spiritually through the use of Gods Word as well as the use of integrative approaches including mindfulness, acceptance, and cognitive and behavioral principles as well as the humanistic and person-centered approach to ensure that the right skills are used to meet your goals.
(860) 855-3048 View (860) 855-3048
Photo of Michelle Thomason, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Thomason
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Windsor, CT 06095  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Connecticut. I have over 15 years of experience in the Mental Health field and have been practicing as an LPC for the past few years. I work with adults and specialize in CPTSD and Trauma. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and trained in Brainspotting and Internal Family Systems informed. I am passionate towards helping individuals find appropriate healing techniques, unleash their strengths, and discover their inner potential to benefit their lives positively, through emotional, cognitive, and physical growth.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Connecticut. I have over 15 years of experience in the Mental Health field and have been practicing as an LPC for the past few years. I work with adults and specialize in CPTSD and Trauma. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and trained in Brainspotting and Internal Family Systems informed. I am passionate towards helping individuals find appropriate healing techniques, unleash their strengths, and discover their inner potential to benefit their lives positively, through emotional, cognitive, and physical growth.
(860) 300-3948 View (860) 300-3948
Photo of Korin Campbell - 2nd Chances LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
2nd Chances LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Windsor, CT 06095
2nd Chances LLC provides in-office and community-based behavioral health and wraparound services to those in need and who want help. These are challenging times and many people have experienced many life changes and challenges. Some people might feel defeated and as if they can’t get a break. At 2nd Chances LLC, we believe no matter how difficult life has been everyone deserves a second chance if given the
2nd Chances LLC provides in-office and community-based behavioral health and wraparound services to those in need and who want help. These are challenging times and many people have experienced many life changes and challenges. Some people might feel defeated and as if they can’t get a break. At 2nd Chances LLC, we believe no matter how difficult life has been everyone deserves a second chance if given the
(860) 215-8290 View (860) 215-8290
Photo of Katie Magalnick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Magalnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Windsor, CT 06095  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based out of Connecticut. I received my Masters from Southern Connecticut State University and have been practicing for 6 years. I currently work for the State of Connecticut working with young adults who struggle with addiction and/or mental health issues.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based out of Connecticut. I received my Masters from Southern Connecticut State University and have been practicing for 6 years. I currently work for the State of Connecticut working with young adults who struggle with addiction and/or mental health issues.
(860) 935-6629 View (860) 935-6629
Photo of Melissa Marris - Inner Reach Therapeutics, LLC, MOT, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist
Inner Reach Therapeutics, LLC
Occupational Therapist, MOT, OTR/L
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windsor, CT 06095
When struggling with debilitating mental health symptoms, it may still be a struggle to function despite being in talk therapy & taking your medications. You may need help with daily functioning, life balance, routine, enjoying activities, & exploring new ones. OT addresses it all! Areas my clients struggle with include self-care, showering, eating, emotion regulation, leisure & hobbies, sensory processing, sleep, work, social, & school. I typically work with ages 18-35 who struggle with symptoms related to autism, anxiety, depression/bipolar, BPD, trauma, ADHD. I place a big emphasis on neuroaffirming, strengths-based care.
When struggling with debilitating mental health symptoms, it may still be a struggle to function despite being in talk therapy & taking your medications. You may need help with daily functioning, life balance, routine, enjoying activities, & exploring new ones. OT addresses it all! Areas my clients struggle with include self-care, showering, eating, emotion regulation, leisure & hobbies, sensory processing, sleep, work, social, & school. I typically work with ages 18-35 who struggle with symptoms related to autism, anxiety, depression/bipolar, BPD, trauma, ADHD. I place a big emphasis on neuroaffirming, strengths-based care.
(860) 809-1878 View (860) 809-1878
Photo of Jania Yvonne Ross - Jania Ross, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jania Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Windsor, CT 06095
Do you often feel unseen, misunderstood or unheard? People think you’re the strong one, so you can’t show any vulnerability? Change is the only constant to be faced in this world. As we weather those changes, our quality of life can become more demanding on our mental health. Having support to navigate these moments is essential to one's wellbeing. Support that is safe, non-judgmental and validating can be found here. Everyone is deserving of a space where they can be their true self, unapologetically.
Do you often feel unseen, misunderstood or unheard? People think you’re the strong one, so you can’t show any vulnerability? Change is the only constant to be faced in this world. As we weather those changes, our quality of life can become more demanding on our mental health. Having support to navigate these moments is essential to one's wellbeing. Support that is safe, non-judgmental and validating can be found here. Everyone is deserving of a space where they can be their true self, unapologetically.
(860) 957-5866 View (860) 957-5866
Photo of Denise Serrato, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Serrato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Windsor, CT 06095  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with Adults dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma and life stressors
I specialize in working with Adults dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma and life stressors
(860) 421-1988 View (860) 421-1988
Photo of Dr. Cara E Barbierri, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Cara E Barbierri
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Windsor, CT 06095
Not accepting new clients
The process of beginning therapy is so hard. In fact, getting started often keeps people stuck. I understand this and I strive to help with all stages of the therapy process. We will begin with a diagnostic evaluation that will allow you to share what has brought you into treatment, will allow me to collect all relevant information needed, and we will discuss the beginning stages of treatment. Then weekly or bi-weekly appointments will provide the support you need. You will find that I will check in with you, we will consistently assess progress, and we will shift the course of treatment as necessary to meet your needs
The process of beginning therapy is so hard. In fact, getting started often keeps people stuck. I understand this and I strive to help with all stages of the therapy process. We will begin with a diagnostic evaluation that will allow you to share what has brought you into treatment, will allow me to collect all relevant information needed, and we will discuss the beginning stages of treatment. Then weekly or bi-weekly appointments will provide the support you need. You will find that I will check in with you, we will consistently assess progress, and we will shift the course of treatment as necessary to meet your needs
(860) 590-9266 View (860) 590-9266
Photo of Chedene Ewart, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chedene Ewart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Windsor, CT 06095
A skilled therapist with extensive experience working with both adults and children. My expertise spans individual, family and couples counseling to provide support as you navigate life stressors and/or behavioral challenges. I hold 5 years of experience utilizing a range of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Therapy, I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each client. My holistic and adaptable methods emphasizes empathy and collaboration, while aiming to foster emotional resilience, promote positive change, and improve overall mental health.
A skilled therapist with extensive experience working with both adults and children. My expertise spans individual, family and couples counseling to provide support as you navigate life stressors and/or behavioral challenges. I hold 5 years of experience utilizing a range of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Therapy, I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each client. My holistic and adaptable methods emphasizes empathy and collaboration, while aiming to foster emotional resilience, promote positive change, and improve overall mental health.
(860) 590-3239 View (860) 590-3239
Photo of Nardine Staroverov, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nardine Staroverov
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Windsor, CT 06095
Hello, my name is Nardine and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in couples/marriage therapy and infidelity recovery. Many couples who contact me are experiencing communication issues and lack of emotional connection that has lead to resentment. They often say that they are tired from trying to get their partner to listen and validate their feelings. Others contact me because of the discovery of an affair. If this sounds like you, I can help. My goal is to provide a non-judgmental space for you and your partner. The first step is to rebuild trust by using proven researched-based strategies.
Hello, my name is Nardine and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in couples/marriage therapy and infidelity recovery. Many couples who contact me are experiencing communication issues and lack of emotional connection that has lead to resentment. They often say that they are tired from trying to get their partner to listen and validate their feelings. Others contact me because of the discovery of an affair. If this sounds like you, I can help. My goal is to provide a non-judgmental space for you and your partner. The first step is to rebuild trust by using proven researched-based strategies.
(860) 200-0185 View (860) 200-0185
Photo of Kathryn J. Mas, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn J. Mas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Windsor, CT 06095  (Online Only)
In this this time of crises, people are struggling to cope with the multiple challenges they are facing, including isolation, fear, anxiety, depression, anger, sadness, financial stress, and relationships. As a therapist, I want to offer assistance to individuals who find themselves overwhelmed and seeking a safe space in which to openly discuss their concerns. Although I take insurance, I will be discussing a sliding scale with individuals who would otherwise be unable to get treatment.
In this this time of crises, people are struggling to cope with the multiple challenges they are facing, including isolation, fear, anxiety, depression, anger, sadness, financial stress, and relationships. As a therapist, I want to offer assistance to individuals who find themselves overwhelmed and seeking a safe space in which to openly discuss their concerns. Although I take insurance, I will be discussing a sliding scale with individuals who would otherwise be unable to get treatment.
(959) 207-8467 View (959) 207-8467
Photo of Valerie Barrett-Noel - Self Reflections Therapy, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Self Reflections Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Windsor, CT 06095  (Online Only)
Sometimes we all need a little encouragement, guidance, validation, motivation, and a safe space to voice our concerns, feelings, thoughts, ideas, and questions. I am willing to be that person for you! I am Valerie Barrett- Noel, a licensed independent social worker in Connecticut, Massachusetts and Florida. I graduated with my master's in social work from Fordham University. I completed my undergrad in criminal justice investigative services at the University of New Haven with concentrations in fire science and victim services.
Sometimes we all need a little encouragement, guidance, validation, motivation, and a safe space to voice our concerns, feelings, thoughts, ideas, and questions. I am willing to be that person for you! I am Valerie Barrett- Noel, a licensed independent social worker in Connecticut, Massachusetts and Florida. I graduated with my master's in social work from Fordham University. I completed my undergrad in criminal justice investigative services at the University of New Haven with concentrations in fire science and victim services.
(860) 792-5862 View (860) 792-5862
Photo of Nichole Mayweather-Banks - Changing FACES, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Changing FACES
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Windsor, CT 06095
Immediate Openings with a Gender Therapist. Changing FACES llc is a queer, black, female, owned psychotherapy practice. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Connecticut. I am passionate about supporting people with transitioning and provide a safe spaces to talk about their gender identity. I provide letters of support for gender-affirming medical care. As a Gender Therapist, I work exclusively with gender queer folx over 18, to help enhance skills that encourage sustainable personal growth both in the therapeutic setting and in the community.
Immediate Openings with a Gender Therapist. Changing FACES llc is a queer, black, female, owned psychotherapy practice. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Connecticut. I am passionate about supporting people with transitioning and provide a safe spaces to talk about their gender identity. I provide letters of support for gender-affirming medical care. As a Gender Therapist, I work exclusively with gender queer folx over 18, to help enhance skills that encourage sustainable personal growth both in the therapeutic setting and in the community.
(860) 512-7305 View (860) 512-7305
Photo of Christopher R. Penta - Spectrum Psychotherapy Centers, LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Spectrum Psychotherapy Centers, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Windsor, CT 06095
At Spectrum, we believe that a respectful, confidential, and trusting therapy relationship is the foundation for all true change. We are a multidisciplinary group of licensed mental health professionals offering therapy and assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. People seek our services for many reasons, from adjusting to life transitions such as bereavement, job loss, medical illness, or parenthood, to more ongoing difficulties such as chronic depression or anxiety. We offer specialized therapy and assessment for those dealing with chemical dependency, trauma, learning problems, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders. Our therapists offer individual, couples, and family therapy, and psychological and forensic assessment.
At Spectrum, we believe that a respectful, confidential, and trusting therapy relationship is the foundation for all true change. We are a multidisciplinary group of licensed mental health professionals offering therapy and assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. People seek our services for many reasons, from adjusting to life transitions such as bereavement, job loss, medical illness, or parenthood, to more ongoing difficulties such as chronic depression or anxiety. We offer specialized therapy and assessment for those dealing with chemical dependency, trauma, learning problems, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders. Our therapists offer individual, couples, and family therapy, and psychological and forensic assessment.
(860) 264-5701 View (860) 264-5701
Photo of Serginho Walker, LPC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Serginho Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Windsor, CT 06095  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I am Serginho Walker, a seasoned Licensed Professional Counselor devoted to fostering well-being among individuals from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. With a rich tapestry of experiences, I bring a wealth of expertise in navigating the complexities of mental health and offering compassionate guidance to those seeking support.
Hello and welcome! I am Serginho Walker, a seasoned Licensed Professional Counselor devoted to fostering well-being among individuals from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. With a rich tapestry of experiences, I bring a wealth of expertise in navigating the complexities of mental health and offering compassionate guidance to those seeking support.
(860) 926-5308 View (860) 926-5308
Photo of Danielle Morgan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danielle Morgan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Windsor, CT 06095
I am dedicated and loyal to the clients I serve. There are a multitude of issues for whom someone might come to me for assistance; marital/family conflict, work stress, changes in mood, depression, anxiety, self esteem, life transitions, growing up and growing older. Sometimes early events including trauma and attachment issues manifest in later relationships, impacting your ability to relate as a partner, a parent, a sibling, family member or a co-worker. I can help empower you and strengthen your ability to make positive choices that bring you inner peace.
I am dedicated and loyal to the clients I serve. There are a multitude of issues for whom someone might come to me for assistance; marital/family conflict, work stress, changes in mood, depression, anxiety, self esteem, life transitions, growing up and growing older. Sometimes early events including trauma and attachment issues manifest in later relationships, impacting your ability to relate as a partner, a parent, a sibling, family member or a co-worker. I can help empower you and strengthen your ability to make positive choices that bring you inner peace.
(959) 265-0922 View (959) 265-0922
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See more therapy options for Windsor

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Windsor, CT

200+

Average cost per session

$135

Therapists in Windsor, CT who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
84% Depression
69% Coping Skills
68% Self Esteem
60% Trauma and PTSD
49% Family Conflict
47% Women's Issues

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Cigna and Evernorth
79% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
77% Optum

How Therapists in Windsor, CT see their clients

59% Online Only
41% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

91% Female
8% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Windsor?

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.