Therapists in Highland Park, NJ

Photo of Morit Blank: Parenting Coach And Educator in Highland Park, NJ
Morit Blank: Parenting Coach And Educator
PhD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
It is my passion to empower parents to be the parents they aspire to be and to transform family dynamic challenges into opportunities for joyous communication and connection. I can help you: -Improve communication between you and your children, -Increase consistency in co-parenting, -Reduce your parental stress and anxiety, -Raise independent and confident kids, -Improve the dynamics of the family, -Foster a genuine connection with your children, -Learn alternative disciplinary techniques and reduce the use of punishments, -Gain a peaceful home, -Develop your child's social emotional skills.
It is my passion to empower parents to be the parents they aspire to be and to transform family dynamic challenges into opportunities for joyous communication and connection. I can help you: -Improve communication between you and your children, -Increase consistency in co-parenting, -Reduce your parental stress and anxiety, -Raise independent and confident kids, -Improve the dynamics of the family, -Foster a genuine connection with your children, -Learn alternative disciplinary techniques and reduce the use of punishments, -Gain a peaceful home, -Develop your child's social emotional skills.
(732) 658-0702 View (732) 658-0702
Photo of Carol D. Church, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Carol D. Church
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Not accepting new clients
Feeling unhappy, overwhelmed, or in pain about your life? Do you wish you could feel more confident, happier, and at peace with yourself and in your relationships? Fears, losses, limiting beliefs, and stress can block us from having the balanced, connected life we desire. In over 25 years as a therapist, I have helped many women, men and adolescents become more accepting, resourceful, and resilient. Here, you will find a warm and compassionate environment where you can voice your needs, develop skills to create emotional healing, and enliven your relationships. My approach is holistic and tailored to your needs.
Feeling unhappy, overwhelmed, or in pain about your life? Do you wish you could feel more confident, happier, and at peace with yourself and in your relationships? Fears, losses, limiting beliefs, and stress can block us from having the balanced, connected life we desire. In over 25 years as a therapist, I have helped many women, men and adolescents become more accepting, resourceful, and resilient. Here, you will find a warm and compassionate environment where you can voice your needs, develop skills to create emotional healing, and enliven your relationships. My approach is holistic and tailored to your needs.
(732) 853-1086 View (732) 853-1086
Photo of Rachel Samet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Rachel Samet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Social Worker and certified Trauma therapist, I aim to support my clients in navigating life's challenges, fostering a transformative experience that promotes inner purpose and resilience. Seeing primarily adults, my focus is on creating a safe and empowering environment through a client-centered and strength-based approach.
As a Licensed Social Worker and certified Trauma therapist, I aim to support my clients in navigating life's challenges, fostering a transformative experience that promotes inner purpose and resilience. Seeing primarily adults, my focus is on creating a safe and empowering environment through a client-centered and strength-based approach.
(732) 652-9453 View (732) 652-9453
Photo of Marianne Wishbow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Highland Park, NJ
Marianne Wishbow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Taking the first step towards making a change is the most challenging part of any process. I foster a safe, compassionate, and non-judgemental space so that you can begin to work and process through what has brought you to therapy. Whether you are looking to work through anxiety, depression, a recent/past trauma, or substance use issues, I am here to listen and help you to improve your overall well-being. I believe you already have the capacity for healing - I can help you to tap into this part of yourself. I will help you gain greater insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
Taking the first step towards making a change is the most challenging part of any process. I foster a safe, compassionate, and non-judgemental space so that you can begin to work and process through what has brought you to therapy. Whether you are looking to work through anxiety, depression, a recent/past trauma, or substance use issues, I am here to listen and help you to improve your overall well-being. I believe you already have the capacity for healing - I can help you to tap into this part of yourself. I will help you gain greater insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
(732) 783-5310 View (732) 783-5310
Photo of David Siegman, Psychologist in Highland Park, NJ
David Siegman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904
I provide behavioral treatment of sleep disorders, especially insomnia and sleep phase disorders, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia, CBT-I. If you are 16 years of age or older and have difficulty getting to sleep, staying asleep, or you wake up earlier than you'd like, CBT-I is a scientifically proven intervention that you may want to consider. Treatment typically lasts 3-6 sessions over 1-3 months. My practice is an online, tele-health practice for adolescents, adults and older adults. I am part of PsyPact, treating patients on-line throughout the U.S.
I provide behavioral treatment of sleep disorders, especially insomnia and sleep phase disorders, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia, CBT-I. If you are 16 years of age or older and have difficulty getting to sleep, staying asleep, or you wake up earlier than you'd like, CBT-I is a scientifically proven intervention that you may want to consider. Treatment typically lasts 3-6 sessions over 1-3 months. My practice is an online, tele-health practice for adolescents, adults and older adults. I am part of PsyPact, treating patients on-line throughout the U.S.
(732) 853-1091 View (732) 853-1091
Photo of Gitty Gordon, Pre-Licensed Professional in Highland Park, NJ
Gitty Gordon
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Navigating the complex landscape of mental health challenges, whether personal or within your family, can feel overwhelming. My mission is to provide a supportive environment that not only addresses immediate challenges but also empowers you and your loved ones to achieve long-term relief and live more fulfilling, engaged, free, and balanced lives. I provide individual therapy to children, teens, young adults, and families dealing with a wide range of challenges, including anxiety disorders, Tourettes, OCD, PTSD, depression, severe emotional dysregulation, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and comorbid learning and emotional challenges.
Navigating the complex landscape of mental health challenges, whether personal or within your family, can feel overwhelming. My mission is to provide a supportive environment that not only addresses immediate challenges but also empowers you and your loved ones to achieve long-term relief and live more fulfilling, engaged, free, and balanced lives. I provide individual therapy to children, teens, young adults, and families dealing with a wide range of challenges, including anxiety disorders, Tourettes, OCD, PTSD, depression, severe emotional dysregulation, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and comorbid learning and emotional challenges.
(732) 838-7843 View (732) 838-7843
Photo of Lara Dubowchik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Lara Dubowchik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
I am an experienced licensed clinical social worker trained by the IFS institute. I take an integrative approach to therapy, emphasizing healing mind, body, and soul. I believe that therapy should be enjoyable and non-judgmental. I am told that I create a collaborative and compassionate environment where my clients and I are able to tap into deep inner wisdom, provide insight, and apply concrete methods to heal and move forward. The result? Becoming brave enough to build a deep connection to your truest self and live authentically. Spirituality is incorporated, as desired.
I am an experienced licensed clinical social worker trained by the IFS institute. I take an integrative approach to therapy, emphasizing healing mind, body, and soul. I believe that therapy should be enjoyable and non-judgmental. I am told that I create a collaborative and compassionate environment where my clients and I are able to tap into deep inner wisdom, provide insight, and apply concrete methods to heal and move forward. The result? Becoming brave enough to build a deep connection to your truest self and live authentically. Spirituality is incorporated, as desired.
(732) 537-8766 View (732) 537-8766
Photo of Ruth Goldsmith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Ruth Goldsmith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, (EMDR, EFcT, KAP)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Hi! Are you tired of being stuck in a rut or can’t get out of your own way? Do you want deeper connnections with others and with yourself? Is your inner critic interfering with enjoying life? Do you want to resolve past traumas and painful memories? Are you craving more sexual intimacy and/or understanding of your sexual self? I will work compassionately and collaboratively with you to heal and develop different patterns and ways of thinking. I will listen carefully to your story and provide your space to increase your awareness, get in touch with your emotions and provide you practical strategies for change.
Hi! Are you tired of being stuck in a rut or can’t get out of your own way? Do you want deeper connnections with others and with yourself? Is your inner critic interfering with enjoying life? Do you want to resolve past traumas and painful memories? Are you craving more sexual intimacy and/or understanding of your sexual self? I will work compassionately and collaboratively with you to heal and develop different patterns and ways of thinking. I will listen carefully to your story and provide your space to increase your awareness, get in touch with your emotions and provide you practical strategies for change.
(732) 333-8729 View (732) 333-8729
David Rogoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904
My goal: your being the most you can be in a life you can embrace, celebrate and be at peace with. To this process, I bring my knowledge, skill, respect and humanity, offering understanding, validation, support, and therapeutic interventions geared to increasing your self-awareness, and helping you find new and more rewarding ways of meeting the challenges and opportunities of life, as well as recovering from its assaults. Call and let's talk.
My goal: your being the most you can be in a life you can embrace, celebrate and be at peace with. To this process, I bring my knowledge, skill, respect and humanity, offering understanding, validation, support, and therapeutic interventions geared to increasing your self-awareness, and helping you find new and more rewarding ways of meeting the challenges and opportunities of life, as well as recovering from its assaults. Call and let's talk.
(732) 481-1567 View (732) 481-1567
Photo of Miriam Jaffe, Licensed Social Worker in Highland Park, NJ
Miriam Jaffe
Licensed Social Worker, PhD, LSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
I work primarily with children, teenagers, and college students, as well as adult women, specializing in trauma, depression, and anxiety.
I work primarily with children, teenagers, and college students, as well as adult women, specializing in trauma, depression, and anxiety.
(848) 220-1712 View (848) 220-1712
Photo of Sarah Wilson-Leslie, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Highland Park, NJ
Sarah Wilson-Leslie
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Sarah, and I am a licensed associate marriage and family therapist. I have experience with supporting individuals, couples, and families in improving communication, setting boundaries, and managing challenging life transitions. I am passionate about helping clients explore complex family dynamics, as well as the impact those dynamics have on their physical and mental health. I strive to support clients by providing them with the tools needed to create healthy and long-lasting relationships with both themselves and others.
Hello, my name is Sarah, and I am a licensed associate marriage and family therapist. I have experience with supporting individuals, couples, and families in improving communication, setting boundaries, and managing challenging life transitions. I am passionate about helping clients explore complex family dynamics, as well as the impact those dynamics have on their physical and mental health. I strive to support clients by providing them with the tools needed to create healthy and long-lasting relationships with both themselves and others.
(732) 641-8631 View (732) 641-8631
Photo of Donna Wolfskehl Distefano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Donna Wolfskehl Distefano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
If painful experiences were met with confusing or anxious responses from others or described in manners that did not respond to emotional needs, then a child or individual would likely cope with difficulties by disconnecting from the threatening emotional meanings. We need another at times, or search for a healing process. If you have been struggling with strong feelings or a particular situation, it is time to get help. You can find the way through fears, loss or other struggles. I am here to support you through your struggles, through personal hardships, finding truths or make sense of confusion in your mind or life.
If painful experiences were met with confusing or anxious responses from others or described in manners that did not respond to emotional needs, then a child or individual would likely cope with difficulties by disconnecting from the threatening emotional meanings. We need another at times, or search for a healing process. If you have been struggling with strong feelings or a particular situation, it is time to get help. You can find the way through fears, loss or other struggles. I am here to support you through your struggles, through personal hardships, finding truths or make sense of confusion in your mind or life.
(732) 204-6462 View (732) 204-6462
Photo of Ken A Verni, Psychologist in Highland Park, NJ
Ken A Verni
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Bringing a careful, curious & compassionate attention to ourselves and our present situation is often the first step in any journey of healing or self-discovery. In our work together, I will encourage you to join me in a non-judging, non-blaming attitude of curiosity towards yourself, your past and current experiences and relationships, and whatever comes forward during our meetings together. For me, this curiosity includes elements of deep respect for what is known and not known about what shapes our sense of who we are and what drives our moods and behaviors.
Bringing a careful, curious & compassionate attention to ourselves and our present situation is often the first step in any journey of healing or self-discovery. In our work together, I will encourage you to join me in a non-judging, non-blaming attitude of curiosity towards yourself, your past and current experiences and relationships, and whatever comes forward during our meetings together. For me, this curiosity includes elements of deep respect for what is known and not known about what shapes our sense of who we are and what drives our moods and behaviors.
(732) 800-4530 View (732) 800-4530
Photo of Nydia Garcia Preto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Nydia Garcia Preto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
I work with individuals, couples, and families who are feeling emotionally stuck in relationship patterns that cause stress and diminish functioning. They are often depressed, anxious, and feel hopeless. Encouraging them to observe their behavior and listen to their hearts are the first steps towards change. Asking about family history, culture, and legacies that have been transferred through generations engages them expand their understanding of the present situation. Focusing on their strengths, and on building positive connections with those who love them helps them gain control and decide what really matters in their lives. They feel stronger and hopeful.
I work with individuals, couples, and families who are feeling emotionally stuck in relationship patterns that cause stress and diminish functioning. They are often depressed, anxious, and feel hopeless. Encouraging them to observe their behavior and listen to their hearts are the first steps towards change. Asking about family history, culture, and legacies that have been transferred through generations engages them expand their understanding of the present situation. Focusing on their strengths, and on building positive connections with those who love them helps them gain control and decide what really matters in their lives. They feel stronger and hopeful.
(732) 903-2994 View (732) 903-2994
J. Rametta, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904
In my 30 years of treating people with emotional problems, I have worked in-patient, in extended out-patient settings, early recovery from substance abuse. With trauma victims, soldiers returning from Iraq at Fort Dix and also spiritual and Christian counseling. All people with various challenges are welcome. I am also Licensed as a Rehabilitation Counselor by the State of NJ and work with people who have physical challenges. Anger management is a speciality as is addictions counseling. sexual orientation is not a barrier to receiving treatment.
In my 30 years of treating people with emotional problems, I have worked in-patient, in extended out-patient settings, early recovery from substance abuse. With trauma victims, soldiers returning from Iraq at Fort Dix and also spiritual and Christian counseling. All people with various challenges are welcome. I am also Licensed as a Rehabilitation Counselor by the State of NJ and work with people who have physical challenges. Anger management is a speciality as is addictions counseling. sexual orientation is not a barrier to receiving treatment.
(732) 763-9316 View (732) 763-9316
Shimon Parnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904  (Online Only)
Have you ever felt your interactions with others do not represent your true self? Do you often feel misunderstood? Do you lack emotional energy or avoid uncomfortable situations? Are you often triggered but lack self-awareness to understand the source of your feelings? Perhaps you are a teen or young adult wondering how your feelings and emotional intelligence will affect your life.
Have you ever felt your interactions with others do not represent your true self? Do you often feel misunderstood? Do you lack emotional energy or avoid uncomfortable situations? Are you often triggered but lack self-awareness to understand the source of your feelings? Perhaps you are a teen or young adult wondering how your feelings and emotional intelligence will affect your life.
(732) 314-7492 View (732) 314-7492
Photo of Brett Sheldon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Brett Sheldon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Imagine you're in a brightly lit, comfortable and spacious room with lots of natural light pouring in. It's very easy to see and feel safe. Suddenly the windows go black blocking the sun light, the lights in the room go off and you can't see a thing. The sense of spaciousness gives way to pitch black darkness and you since you can't see you're too scared to move. The first thing you need to do is calm down if you feel fear or anger. If you feel paralyzed you need to start believing in yourself. Once you can think straight, you can start taking steps towards finding a way to create light and dispel the darkness.
Imagine you're in a brightly lit, comfortable and spacious room with lots of natural light pouring in. It's very easy to see and feel safe. Suddenly the windows go black blocking the sun light, the lights in the room go off and you can't see a thing. The sense of spaciousness gives way to pitch black darkness and you since you can't see you're too scared to move. The first thing you need to do is calm down if you feel fear or anger. If you feel paralyzed you need to start believing in yourself. Once you can think straight, you can start taking steps towards finding a way to create light and dispel the darkness.
(848) 244-8171 View (848) 244-8171
Photo of Monica McGoldrick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
Monica McGoldrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhC(hc)
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
I work with individuals, couples and families to set and achieve their goals- resolving conflicts, increasing their life satisfaction, overcoming estrangement, depression, anxiety. I focus on couple issues, individual problems, child focused problems, secrets, grief, intergenerational conflicts, divorce, remarriage, step-parenting, sibling conflicts.
I work with individuals, couples and families to set and achieve their goals- resolving conflicts, increasing their life satisfaction, overcoming estrangement, depression, anxiety. I focus on couple issues, individual problems, child focused problems, secrets, grief, intergenerational conflicts, divorce, remarriage, step-parenting, sibling conflicts.
(732) 479-1130 View (732) 479-1130
Photo of David Patrick Munck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Highland Park, NJ
David Patrick Munck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC-I, ICGC-C
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
C.G. Jung stated, "In many cases in therapy the patient who has come to us has a story that is not told, and which as a rule no one knows of. To my mind, therapy only really begins after the investigation of that wholly personal story. It is the patient's secret, the rock against which s/he is shattered." My practice involves creating a client/therapist relationship and environment where this wholly personal story can be explored and brought to consciousness. I work to create a safe, accepting, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space that will bring wholeness and meaning to the suffering that every human experiences.
C.G. Jung stated, "In many cases in therapy the patient who has come to us has a story that is not told, and which as a rule no one knows of. To my mind, therapy only really begins after the investigation of that wholly personal story. It is the patient's secret, the rock against which s/he is shattered." My practice involves creating a client/therapist relationship and environment where this wholly personal story can be explored and brought to consciousness. I work to create a safe, accepting, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space that will bring wholeness and meaning to the suffering that every human experiences.
(732) 537-8533 View (732) 537-8533
Photo of Action Counseling and Consulting, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Highland Park, NJ
Action Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
I have a general psychotherapy/counseling practice and I enjoy helping clients to identify their needs and goals and then help them achieve their goals. I like to help people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, interpersonal skills problems, workplace struggles and family issues.
I have a general psychotherapy/counseling practice and I enjoy helping clients to identify their needs and goals and then help them achieve their goals. I like to help people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, interpersonal skills problems, workplace struggles and family issues.
(732) 592-5542 View (732) 592-5542

See more therapy options for Highland Park

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Highland Park, NJ

100+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Highland Park, NJ who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
86% Depression
80% Relationship Issues
70% Self Esteem
64% Trauma and PTSD
63% Grief
62% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

64% Aetna
48% Cigna and Evernorth
48% Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield

How Therapists in Highland Park, NJ see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
25% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Highland Park?

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.