Therapists in Hot Springs, AR

Photo of Kenneth Scott Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Kenneth Scott Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71913  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Whether this is your first time in counseling or you've been through the process, having the right therapist makes a significant difference. That is one of several reasons you should always contact your potential provider for a free telephone consultation. First, ask questions, see how the interaction goes, and then make an informed choice.
Whether this is your first time in counseling or you've been through the process, having the right therapist makes a significant difference. That is one of several reasons you should always contact your potential provider for a free telephone consultation. First, ask questions, see how the interaction goes, and then make an informed choice.
(501) 271-3997 View (501) 271-3997
Photo of Savanna Scott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Savanna Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, SEP, EMDR II, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Not accepting new clients
***WE ARE NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS TO OUR WAITLIST ONLY*** Your story is unique, and you deserve a therapist who will honor your experience. You’ve likely had painful, tough experiences, and you've probably tried to forget them. But no matter how hard you try, they keeps coming back up- in your brain, in your body, in your relationships. Hard things will be thrown our way, that's a fact of life, but what has happened doesn’t have to weigh you down any longer. Part of being human is having struggles, but part of being human is overcoming those struggles and finding joy and freedom again. I want to help YOU find that freedom!
***WE ARE NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS TO OUR WAITLIST ONLY*** Your story is unique, and you deserve a therapist who will honor your experience. You’ve likely had painful, tough experiences, and you've probably tried to forget them. But no matter how hard you try, they keeps coming back up- in your brain, in your body, in your relationships. Hard things will be thrown our way, that's a fact of life, but what has happened doesn’t have to weigh you down any longer. Part of being human is having struggles, but part of being human is overcoming those struggles and finding joy and freedom again. I want to help YOU find that freedom!
(501) 214-7697 View (501) 214-7697
Photo of Heather Bixler, Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Heather Bixler
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Are you feeling broken, empty, detached, misunderstood, edgy, or depressed? Are relationship issues, uncontrollable thoughts, feelings, or behaviors overwhelming you? Don't be alone in your struggles. Connect with a caring and empathetic therapist. Join with me as we work together to discover who you are, what you want to accomplish in therapy, and we set out to achieve your goals.
Are you feeling broken, empty, detached, misunderstood, edgy, or depressed? Are relationship issues, uncontrollable thoughts, feelings, or behaviors overwhelming you? Don't be alone in your struggles. Connect with a caring and empathetic therapist. Join with me as we work together to discover who you are, what you want to accomplish in therapy, and we set out to achieve your goals.
(501) 430-3129 View (501) 430-3129
Photo of Bruce A Dodson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Bruce A Dodson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Since 2002 I have had the privilege of providing counseling services to the individuals and couples of Hot Springs and central Arkansas. If you have obstacles and patterns in your life or relationships that are keeping you from experiencing a healthy and fruitful life, I would be glad to visit with you about how I might be able to help. For more information please visit my website: bruceadodsonlpc.com
Since 2002 I have had the privilege of providing counseling services to the individuals and couples of Hot Springs and central Arkansas. If you have obstacles and patterns in your life or relationships that are keeping you from experiencing a healthy and fruitful life, I would be glad to visit with you about how I might be able to help. For more information please visit my website: bruceadodsonlpc.com
(501) 381-3860 View (501) 381-3860
Photo of Larry Hopkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Larry Hopkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901  (Online Only)
Sometimes it feels like no matter what we do, how hard we think, or how much we pray, the change we need in our life remains just out of reach. This feeling of hopelessness can make it difficult to simply get out of bed in the morning, much less enjoy the parts of our life that we know should bring us joy. Even the smallest negative events can trigger reactions and sadness we don’t understand and it can quickly feel like we're losing control over our lives. Often, we turn to unhealthy ways of coping, stay trapped in broken relationships, and even lose our will to fight.
Sometimes it feels like no matter what we do, how hard we think, or how much we pray, the change we need in our life remains just out of reach. This feeling of hopelessness can make it difficult to simply get out of bed in the morning, much less enjoy the parts of our life that we know should bring us joy. Even the smallest negative events can trigger reactions and sadness we don’t understand and it can quickly feel like we're losing control over our lives. Often, we turn to unhealthy ways of coping, stay trapped in broken relationships, and even lose our will to fight.
(501) 456-4254 View (501) 456-4254
Photo of Susan Millerd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hot Springs, AR
Susan Millerd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Life is a journey and does not come with a manual. I enjoy working with people of any age, sex, race, cultural, religious, gender identity, and socioeconomic background who are committed to improving their lives and are willing to engage in the process of change. Someone who shows up and does the work. I have much experience in helping people make lifestyle changes that involve not just leaving the problem behaviors and feelings behind, but also understanding triggers, being aware of their presence, changing their thinking, and eventually their choices.
Life is a journey and does not come with a manual. I enjoy working with people of any age, sex, race, cultural, religious, gender identity, and socioeconomic background who are committed to improving their lives and are willing to engage in the process of change. Someone who shows up and does the work. I have much experience in helping people make lifestyle changes that involve not just leaving the problem behaviors and feelings behind, but also understanding triggers, being aware of their presence, changing their thinking, and eventually their choices.
(501) 430-4890 View (501) 430-4890
Photo of Sherrie A Graham, Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Sherrie A Graham
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901
My passion is helping families thrive. I want to help adoptive families and people who are caring for aging parents. I know the frustration of raising a child with attachment injury and being part of the sandwich generation where you take care of a struggling child and elderly parents at the same time. I know what it is like to feel loss and isolation when your heart is ripped apart by death or divorce. I also know what it is like to have your support system drop you because you no longer fit in. I want to help you find ways to hang on to precious memories and still move forward with life.
My passion is helping families thrive. I want to help adoptive families and people who are caring for aging parents. I know the frustration of raising a child with attachment injury and being part of the sandwich generation where you take care of a struggling child and elderly parents at the same time. I know what it is like to feel loss and isolation when your heart is ripped apart by death or divorce. I also know what it is like to have your support system drop you because you no longer fit in. I want to help you find ways to hang on to precious memories and still move forward with life.
(501) 361-4204 View (501) 361-4204
Photo of TLC Incorporated Counseling and Trauma Care, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hot Springs, AR
TLC Incorporated Counseling and Trauma Care
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Hello! I am a licensed certified social worker specializing in trauma therapy. In order to help my clients heal, EMDR therapy and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy are among the types of treatment used. I often work with clients who are stuck. They are are not making progress alone or with other treatments. We will work together to identify the needs, goals, and what gets in the way of progress. We pay attention to healing the wounds that have occurred at whatever time in life. Our newest services offered are through our Horse Powered Reading program. We are assisting 1st - 3rd graders improve reading while assisted with horses!
Hello! I am a licensed certified social worker specializing in trauma therapy. In order to help my clients heal, EMDR therapy and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy are among the types of treatment used. I often work with clients who are stuck. They are are not making progress alone or with other treatments. We will work together to identify the needs, goals, and what gets in the way of progress. We pay attention to healing the wounds that have occurred at whatever time in life. Our newest services offered are through our Horse Powered Reading program. We are assisting 1st - 3rd graders improve reading while assisted with horses!
(501) 550-9057 View (501) 550-9057
Photo of Tayler Brickell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Tayler Brickell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, TA
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
You feel hopeless and fearful that you will never be able to get out of this dark place. You replay things that have happened in the past and somehow these things continue to pull you down. Your anxiety debilitates you and simple daily life tasks exhaust you. Vulnerability appears absolutely terrifying. First, it's uncomfortable talking through the struggles, yet it's uncomfortable holding it all inside. Whichever emotions or experiences that you battle, you are fully accepted. I welcome you to this safe space to just be yourself, as you process through the obstacles that led you to seek therapy.
You feel hopeless and fearful that you will never be able to get out of this dark place. You replay things that have happened in the past and somehow these things continue to pull you down. Your anxiety debilitates you and simple daily life tasks exhaust you. Vulnerability appears absolutely terrifying. First, it's uncomfortable talking through the struggles, yet it's uncomfortable holding it all inside. Whichever emotions or experiences that you battle, you are fully accepted. I welcome you to this safe space to just be yourself, as you process through the obstacles that led you to seek therapy.
(501) 509-9068 View (501) 509-9068
Photo of Life Trek, LLC, Psychologist in Hot Springs, AR
Life Trek, LLC
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Are you ready for change and improvements in your life? Reach for your goals, live life without symptoms that interfere in achieving your dreams! Overcome trauma symptoms that hurt focus, relationships, and ability to live each day to its fullest. Beat anxiety by learning healthier ways to combat the difficulties that are thrown at you. We'll walk with you step by step! No need to travel alone!
Are you ready for change and improvements in your life? Reach for your goals, live life without symptoms that interfere in achieving your dreams! Overcome trauma symptoms that hurt focus, relationships, and ability to live each day to its fullest. Beat anxiety by learning healthier ways to combat the difficulties that are thrown at you. We'll walk with you step by step! No need to travel alone!
(501) 424-4984 View (501) 424-4984
Photo of Elizabeth Hale, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hot Springs, AR
Elizabeth Hale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901
As a mental health provider, I believe in approaching mental health challenges with evidenced-based tools that allow a person to navigate the path to a healthier, happier life. As a human, I believe all people deserve the opportunity to access those tools in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. With training and education in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-informed care I approach each person as an individual who has lived a unique life, has unique challenges, and is worthy of support.
As a mental health provider, I believe in approaching mental health challenges with evidenced-based tools that allow a person to navigate the path to a healthier, happier life. As a human, I believe all people deserve the opportunity to access those tools in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. With training and education in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-informed care I approach each person as an individual who has lived a unique life, has unique challenges, and is worthy of support.
(501) 530-9580 View (501) 530-9580
Photo of Thad Elder, Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Thad Elder
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Am I the problem or is it everyone around me?" “Am I the only one who feels the way I do?” “I can’t seem to get things straight” “I thought my life would have turned out differently.” Is no one listening to you? Are you feeling scattered or that your priorities are out of touch? I want to listen to you and help you reorder your life in a meaningful way – one that you’re pleased with. "Ugh, every time I think about what he did to me, I get an upset stomach and can’t shake this feeling." If your relationship is on the rocks, reach out! Don't wait to reach out and find the happiness that you deserve and need. Call or text today!
Am I the problem or is it everyone around me?" “Am I the only one who feels the way I do?” “I can’t seem to get things straight” “I thought my life would have turned out differently.” Is no one listening to you? Are you feeling scattered or that your priorities are out of touch? I want to listen to you and help you reorder your life in a meaningful way – one that you’re pleased with. "Ugh, every time I think about what he did to me, I get an upset stomach and can’t shake this feeling." If your relationship is on the rocks, reach out! Don't wait to reach out and find the happiness that you deserve and need. Call or text today!
(501) 392-5449 View (501) 392-5449
Photo of Connie Segal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Connie Segal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Arkansas. I believe in a collaborative, person-centered approach to therapy and believe in meeting clients where they are. I understand the importance of a trusting therapeutic relationship and encourage clients to find the right fit when seeking therapy. I am trained in brainspotting and have seen firsthand the healing it can bring. I have experience in treating a variety of issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief, and self-esteem among others. I have extensive experience in working with transgender children, adults, and their families.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Arkansas. I believe in a collaborative, person-centered approach to therapy and believe in meeting clients where they are. I understand the importance of a trusting therapeutic relationship and encourage clients to find the right fit when seeking therapy. I am trained in brainspotting and have seen firsthand the healing it can bring. I have experience in treating a variety of issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief, and self-esteem among others. I have extensive experience in working with transgender children, adults, and their families.
(501) 799-7072 View (501) 799-7072
Photo of Fannie Bea Wallace, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Fannie Bea Wallace
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, DBT
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71913
I am the owner and lead therapist at Lillies In The Valley Counseling Services, LLC. I have been in the mental health field for over 5 years. I primarily treat children and adolescents that struggle with anxiety and behavior issues. In addition, I treat adults that are experiencing difficulty with life struggles. I listen to clients and teach clients to control their emotions and express these emotions in a positive manner. You may reach out to me by text or by calling me at 501-553-5539.
I am the owner and lead therapist at Lillies In The Valley Counseling Services, LLC. I have been in the mental health field for over 5 years. I primarily treat children and adolescents that struggle with anxiety and behavior issues. In addition, I treat adults that are experiencing difficulty with life struggles. I listen to clients and teach clients to control their emotions and express these emotions in a positive manner. You may reach out to me by text or by calling me at 501-553-5539.
(501) 361-4401 View (501) 361-4401
Photo of Amy Tankersley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hot Springs, AR
Amy Tankersley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Are you struggling to self-regulate and better understand your thoughts and emotions? Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you self-harming or having suicidal thinking? Or is there a traumatic event you're feeling ready to process, or a relationship pattern you'd like to address? Do you need a safe, private place to explore trauma, or other big changes in your life? If so, I may be able to help.
Are you struggling to self-regulate and better understand your thoughts and emotions? Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you self-harming or having suicidal thinking? Or is there a traumatic event you're feeling ready to process, or a relationship pattern you'd like to address? Do you need a safe, private place to explore trauma, or other big changes in your life? If so, I may be able to help.
(501) 426-6039 View (501) 426-6039
Photo of Carolyn Jenkins McKamey, Psychologist in Hot Springs, AR
Carolyn Jenkins McKamey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901
ACCEPTING PATIENTS In AR & TX. Life can knock you down and leave you feeling overwhelmed and not sure which way is up. I view therapy as a collaboration between you and I, working together to achieve the goals you would like to accomplish, rediscover your strengths, and develop healthier ways of coping and interacting with others. I teach skills to help you make positive changes while also identifying strengths you already possess to find hope among the ashes and restore balance in your life. My ideal client wants to work on: anxiety, stress, boundaries, assertiveness skills, depression, people-pleasing, OR codependency.
ACCEPTING PATIENTS In AR & TX. Life can knock you down and leave you feeling overwhelmed and not sure which way is up. I view therapy as a collaboration between you and I, working together to achieve the goals you would like to accomplish, rediscover your strengths, and develop healthier ways of coping and interacting with others. I teach skills to help you make positive changes while also identifying strengths you already possess to find hope among the ashes and restore balance in your life. My ideal client wants to work on: anxiety, stress, boundaries, assertiveness skills, depression, people-pleasing, OR codependency.
(501) 881-2392 View (501) 881-2392
Photo of Donita Easley, Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Donita Easley
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
I see myself as an emotional fitness trainer. I can help you fine tune your communications skills, work on assertiveness, and improve self-esteem. I enjoy couple's work--helping each learn to understand and meet the other's needs, therefore enhancing the satisfaction of both. I can help stressed and depressed individuals learn ways to take better care of themselves as they begin to listen to their bodies. I have over 20 years experience as an Employee Assistance Professional, specializing in solution-focused therapy.
I see myself as an emotional fitness trainer. I can help you fine tune your communications skills, work on assertiveness, and improve self-esteem. I enjoy couple's work--helping each learn to understand and meet the other's needs, therefore enhancing the satisfaction of both. I can help stressed and depressed individuals learn ways to take better care of themselves as they begin to listen to their bodies. I have over 20 years experience as an Employee Assistance Professional, specializing in solution-focused therapy.
(501) 825-0960 View (501) 825-0960
Photo of Thrive Behavioral Health Services, LLC., Licensed Professional Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Thrive Behavioral Health Services, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Do you feel overwhelmed? Are you searching for solutions, clarity, and peace within yourself, family, or situation? My goal is to work with individuals and/or families to increase clarity and to help gain insight into ways to solve problems in order to improve normal daily functioning. Parents, are you having problems with an oppositional, angry, moody, or sad child and looking for ways to help?
Do you feel overwhelmed? Are you searching for solutions, clarity, and peace within yourself, family, or situation? My goal is to work with individuals and/or families to increase clarity and to help gain insight into ways to solve problems in order to improve normal daily functioning. Parents, are you having problems with an oppositional, angry, moody, or sad child and looking for ways to help?
(501) 238-6261 View (501) 238-6261
Photo of Shelia Love Camp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hot Springs, AR
Shelia Love Camp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71913
I will work with anyone who wants to get help. I start out by listening and making sure the client knows they are ok to say whatever they need to say. There are no right or wrong answers in therapy. My goal is to make you feel like you have the freedom to let go of anything that is heavy on your heart.
I will work with anyone who wants to get help. I start out by listening and making sure the client knows they are ok to say whatever they need to say. There are no right or wrong answers in therapy. My goal is to make you feel like you have the freedom to let go of anything that is heavy on your heart.
(501) 361-4565 View (501) 361-4565
Photo of Heather Ramsay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hot Springs, AR
Heather Ramsay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901
If you are someone who experienced a difficult childhood/early adulthood, I can probably guess a bit about you. You’re painfully hard on yourself…You feel like you are going crazy…You feel like you can’t trust yourself or anyone else and you wonder when those sleepless nights will ever end. There is another way! You can start to believe that you are ENOUGH and you MATTER! My 'heartbeat' is to guide women to find emotional freedom!
If you are someone who experienced a difficult childhood/early adulthood, I can probably guess a bit about you. You’re painfully hard on yourself…You feel like you are going crazy…You feel like you can’t trust yourself or anyone else and you wonder when those sleepless nights will ever end. There is another way! You can start to believe that you are ENOUGH and you MATTER! My 'heartbeat' is to guide women to find emotional freedom!
(870) 568-0832 View (870) 568-0832

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Hot Springs, AR

70+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Hot Springs, AR who prioritize treating:

88% Anxiety
86% Depression
81% Trauma and PTSD
79% Relationship Issues
73% Self Esteem
71% Stress
69% Grief

Average years in practice

16 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

77% BlueCross and BlueShield
58% Ambetter
58% Health Advantage

How Therapists in Hot Springs, AR see their clients

88% In Person and Online
12% Online Only

Gender breakdown

79% Female
21% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Hot Springs?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.

Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.