Therapists in New York, NY

View neighborhoods in New York
Photo of Marlena Rubenstein, Licensed Master Social Worker in New York, NY
Marlena Rubenstein
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
Welcome to Allied Psychotherapy Group! The decision to begin to heal is not one made easily. I (she/her/ella) will trust and honor your decision by listening to and working with you to learn, heal, and grow in the face of life’s ups and downs. I engage with my clients to provide a safe environment in which their identities and life experiences are affirmed and validated. Having earned a Masters degree in Social Work from Boston University, as well as a Bachelor of Science from American University, I hold licenses to practice social work in both New York and New Jersey.
Welcome to Allied Psychotherapy Group! The decision to begin to heal is not one made easily. I (she/her/ella) will trust and honor your decision by listening to and working with you to learn, heal, and grow in the face of life’s ups and downs. I engage with my clients to provide a safe environment in which their identities and life experiences are affirmed and validated. Having earned a Masters degree in Social Work from Boston University, as well as a Bachelor of Science from American University, I hold licenses to practice social work in both New York and New Jersey.
(332) 249-8022 View (332) 249-8022
Photo of Kassia R Ringell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Kassia R Ringell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10033  (Online Only)
Do you have anxiety and depression? Perhaps you're experiencing severe stress from the changes going on in your life, and you're having difficulty adjusting. If this is you, then I can help. As a practitioner for 18+ years, I have expertise in the treatment of Depression, Trauma, Grief/Loss, and Generalized Anxiety Disorders to help you work through your challenges, maximize your strengths, and embrace change in your life. As a black identified biracial woman, I am deeply interested and passionate about working with a multi-cultural and multi-ethnic clientele who may carry multiple racial, sexual, and gender identities.
Do you have anxiety and depression? Perhaps you're experiencing severe stress from the changes going on in your life, and you're having difficulty adjusting. If this is you, then I can help. As a practitioner for 18+ years, I have expertise in the treatment of Depression, Trauma, Grief/Loss, and Generalized Anxiety Disorders to help you work through your challenges, maximize your strengths, and embrace change in your life. As a black identified biracial woman, I am deeply interested and passionate about working with a multi-cultural and multi-ethnic clientele who may carry multiple racial, sexual, and gender identities.
(914) 339-5674 View (914) 339-5674
Photo of Michael S Grove, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Michael S Grove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, BCD, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10128  (Online Only)
As a parent myself, I know the fears, anguish, and confusion you can have dealing with your child's or adolescent's struggles. If you are in a less than satisfying relationship, I can help you understand and effectively communicate your needs in a way your partner can respond to you. If you have an addictive problem, I can help you motivate yourself to overcome it. I provide a safe, comfortable, nonjudgmental place to heard. We will use intense problem solving methods to get the most rapid relief we can. We focus on your goals, not someone else's.
As a parent myself, I know the fears, anguish, and confusion you can have dealing with your child's or adolescent's struggles. If you are in a less than satisfying relationship, I can help you understand and effectively communicate your needs in a way your partner can respond to you. If you have an addictive problem, I can help you motivate yourself to overcome it. I provide a safe, comfortable, nonjudgmental place to heard. We will use intense problem solving methods to get the most rapid relief we can. We focus on your goals, not someone else's.
(646) 386-2229 View (646) 386-2229
Photo of Shurla Perry, Counselor in New York, NY
Shurla Perry
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10012
I provide a neutral, non-judgmental zone to explore and find positive coping strategies that can improve daily living. I believe that positive coping strategies will empower us to live our best lives. I will aid you in finding and exploring factors in your past and present that have hindered you from recognizing your internal strength, thereby empowering you to move forward and become mentally healthier. I hold a strong belief that talk therapy allows for a collaborative effort to utilize grounded theories as the tools needed to help you heal, change, accept and live your best life.
I provide a neutral, non-judgmental zone to explore and find positive coping strategies that can improve daily living. I believe that positive coping strategies will empower us to live our best lives. I will aid you in finding and exploring factors in your past and present that have hindered you from recognizing your internal strength, thereby empowering you to move forward and become mentally healthier. I hold a strong belief that talk therapy allows for a collaborative effort to utilize grounded theories as the tools needed to help you heal, change, accept and live your best life.
View
Photo of Mara E Eilenberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Mara E Eilenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10033  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Clients who benefit from working with me are struggling with anxiety, depression, and poor self-esteem. My clients are hoping to build self-awareness and learn to trust themselves and their emotions. A client's commitment to therapy is a powerful and far-reaching one, and the best gift that a person can give themselves. Clients in therapy with me can hope to gain more depth in their relationships and find greater meaning in work, school, artistic pursuits, and community.
Clients who benefit from working with me are struggling with anxiety, depression, and poor self-esteem. My clients are hoping to build self-awareness and learn to trust themselves and their emotions. A client's commitment to therapy is a powerful and far-reaching one, and the best gift that a person can give themselves. Clients in therapy with me can hope to gain more depth in their relationships and find greater meaning in work, school, artistic pursuits, and community.
(646) 679-2548 View (646) 679-2548
Photo of Greg Lowder, Psychologist in New York, NY
Greg Lowder
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10007
When you are physically ill you turn to your doctor, hoping they can help you feel better. Problems like depression, anxiety, impulsivity, uncontrollable anger, guilt, or low self-confidence can be as painful, if not more so, than physical illness; they can also create serious relationship and work difficulties. I have over 25 years of experience and I have helped many adults, adolescents, and couples who had received limited or no benefit from previous therapists, other doctors, or medications. I work well with people who are skeptical of, or intimidated by, talk therapy.
When you are physically ill you turn to your doctor, hoping they can help you feel better. Problems like depression, anxiety, impulsivity, uncontrollable anger, guilt, or low self-confidence can be as painful, if not more so, than physical illness; they can also create serious relationship and work difficulties. I have over 25 years of experience and I have helped many adults, adolescents, and couples who had received limited or no benefit from previous therapists, other doctors, or medications. I work well with people who are skeptical of, or intimidated by, talk therapy.
(646) 846-9957 View (646) 846-9957
Photo of Lauren Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Lauren Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
Lauren Murphy, LMSW, received her Master's degree from the NYU Silver School. Lauren brings a background in economics and language to her social work career and as a result she is comfortable working with diverse populations, both in career choice and culture. Lauren chose to pivot into studying psychiatric illness after realizing she saw a path for herself in the mental health field and identified that what gave her the most joy was working directly with a variety of individuals around their struggles for wellness and living a better quality of life.
Lauren Murphy, LMSW, received her Master's degree from the NYU Silver School. Lauren brings a background in economics and language to her social work career and as a result she is comfortable working with diverse populations, both in career choice and culture. Lauren chose to pivot into studying psychiatric illness after realizing she saw a path for herself in the mental health field and identified that what gave her the most joy was working directly with a variety of individuals around their struggles for wellness and living a better quality of life.
(332) 237-5869 View (332) 237-5869
Photo of Curtis R Campaigne, Psychologist in New York, NY
Curtis R Campaigne
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
Therapy is a rare opportunity to be profoundly understood by another person. The more we feel understood, the more we are able to untangle the emotional and interpersonal knots that lead us into treatment in the first place. While diagnostic categories are often useful, each person has to be understood within the context of their life history and the emotional convictions that shape their experience.
Therapy is a rare opportunity to be profoundly understood by another person. The more we feel understood, the more we are able to untangle the emotional and interpersonal knots that lead us into treatment in the first place. While diagnostic categories are often useful, each person has to be understood within the context of their life history and the emotional convictions that shape their experience.
(917) 791-2201 View (917) 791-2201
Photo of Tzu-Yu (Alice) Kan, Counselor in New York, NY
Tzu-Yu (Alice) Kan
Counselor, LMHC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10002  (Online Only)
Having grown up across various regions in Asia, transitioned to the United States as an international student, and now settling as an immigrant, Alice intimately comprehends the nuances and challenges inherent in this process. Fluent in both English and Mandarin, she bridges cultural divides effortlessly, offering a supportive and inclusive environment for her clients. Alice specializes in addressing a spectrum of mental health concerns, ranging from depression and anxiety to trauma and cultural identity issues.
Having grown up across various regions in Asia, transitioned to the United States as an international student, and now settling as an immigrant, Alice intimately comprehends the nuances and challenges inherent in this process. Fluent in both English and Mandarin, she bridges cultural divides effortlessly, offering a supportive and inclusive environment for her clients. Alice specializes in addressing a spectrum of mental health concerns, ranging from depression and anxiety to trauma and cultural identity issues.
(551) 266-5642 View (551) 266-5642
Photo of Sally Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist in New York, NY
Sally Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
Are you missing appreciation? Does he stonewall? Does she not stop criticizing? Anxious and having trust issues? Do you feel a lack of sexual desire? Fighting over sexual frequency? I can help you stop the negative cycle. Feel love again. Feel intimate again. Trained explicitly as a marriage and family therapist, I am a highly trained and experienced couples therapist. I believe in a collaborative approach and skilled at creating tools to foster healthy connections between couples and families. Together, we repair your relationship by introducing new methods of communication to increase empathy and flexibility.
Are you missing appreciation? Does he stonewall? Does she not stop criticizing? Anxious and having trust issues? Do you feel a lack of sexual desire? Fighting over sexual frequency? I can help you stop the negative cycle. Feel love again. Feel intimate again. Trained explicitly as a marriage and family therapist, I am a highly trained and experienced couples therapist. I believe in a collaborative approach and skilled at creating tools to foster healthy connections between couples and families. Together, we repair your relationship by introducing new methods of communication to increase empathy and flexibility.
(929) 441-6281 View (929) 441-6281
Photo of The Virtual Recovery Program-Dr. Denine Polen, DNP in New York, NY
The Virtual Recovery Program-Dr. Denine Polen, DNP
DNP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10009
Take control of your sobriety and mental health journey with our HIPAA-compliant telemedicine program. Our program works towards breaking down the barrier that exists for receiving treatment and support for opioid dependence. Our small team is dedicated to working with you to develop a treatment plan that includes a Buprenorphine prescription and in-depth mental health counseling. We recognize that opioid dependence can affect anyone. Our program provides you the opportunity to hold yourself accountable for your sobriety while feeling accomplished and supported along the way. www.herbalscript.org
Take control of your sobriety and mental health journey with our HIPAA-compliant telemedicine program. Our program works towards breaking down the barrier that exists for receiving treatment and support for opioid dependence. Our small team is dedicated to working with you to develop a treatment plan that includes a Buprenorphine prescription and in-depth mental health counseling. We recognize that opioid dependence can affect anyone. Our program provides you the opportunity to hold yourself accountable for your sobriety while feeling accomplished and supported along the way. www.herbalscript.org
(646) 437-8723 View (646) 437-8723
Photo of Leah Pollock, Counselor in New York, NY
Leah Pollock
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018  (Online Only)
Mental and Emotional Health is equally as important as our physical health. This encouragement is necessary in today's world. A healthy human is an integrated human, our experiences effect us as a whole, and the therapeutic process can help facilitate that. I have a mind/body oriented approach to counseling. Contact me through, Talk NYC! Psychotherapy, MHC.
Mental and Emotional Health is equally as important as our physical health. This encouragement is necessary in today's world. A healthy human is an integrated human, our experiences effect us as a whole, and the therapeutic process can help facilitate that. I have a mind/body oriented approach to counseling. Contact me through, Talk NYC! Psychotherapy, MHC.
(914) 600-3827 View (914) 600-3827
Photo of Janel Judge, Counselor in New York, NY
Janel Judge
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor located in New York. I earned my Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling from Medaille College. My goal is to help individuals from all walks of life with becoming the best versions of themselves. I strive to be the catalyst to change for those I work with and work hard to leave a positive impression on everyone I encounter.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor located in New York. I earned my Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling from Medaille College. My goal is to help individuals from all walks of life with becoming the best versions of themselves. I strive to be the catalyst to change for those I work with and work hard to leave a positive impression on everyone I encounter.
(646) 921-6519 View (646) 921-6519
Photo of Suzan Sherman, Licensed Psychoanalyst in New York, NY
Suzan Sherman
Licensed Psychoanalyst, MFA, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
If you’re looking for emotional support and insight, I’m here to help—whether it’s a pressing issue that’s come to a head or a longstanding dynamic that you feel ready to change. Whatever the reason you are seeking help, I will utilize my extensive training in psychoanalytic psychotherapy, as well as my compassion and intuition, to gently collaborate with you on developing the awareness, understanding, and acceptance that’s needed to heal and transform.
If you’re looking for emotional support and insight, I’m here to help—whether it’s a pressing issue that’s come to a head or a longstanding dynamic that you feel ready to change. Whatever the reason you are seeking help, I will utilize my extensive training in psychoanalytic psychotherapy, as well as my compassion and intuition, to gently collaborate with you on developing the awareness, understanding, and acceptance that’s needed to heal and transform.
(929) 238-8978 View (929) 238-8978
Photo of Laquanique L. Lake, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Laquanique L. Lake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10027  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Beautiful Being, be not discouraged by your past pain or current tribulation, for you are none other than Love. Be not deceived any longer by the mind’s loveless image of who you are and what you have been given by Love to offer to the world. You have come to begin this healing journey not because you are broken, but because you are ready to see you with your heart. To heal is to see yourself as you truly are – one who is whole. Love is wholeness, and, therefore, you are Love.
Beautiful Being, be not discouraged by your past pain or current tribulation, for you are none other than Love. Be not deceived any longer by the mind’s loveless image of who you are and what you have been given by Love to offer to the world. You have come to begin this healing journey not because you are broken, but because you are ready to see you with your heart. To heal is to see yourself as you truly are – one who is whole. Love is wholeness, and, therefore, you are Love.
(914) 359-3074 View (914) 359-3074
Photo of Juan Olmedo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Juan Olmedo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
New York, NY 10023
I have worked in social services providing individual and group counseling in New York City for over 15 years. From crisis hotline volunteer to HIV test educator, from substance use counselor to prevention group leader, my work has taught me two important things: no one's life is perfect and everyone's got issues. So why therapy? There are times when you find yourself in the same frustrating or painful situation, or when you just want to make a change but don't know how - therapy can help. With my training and experience, I can help you through these times.
I have worked in social services providing individual and group counseling in New York City for over 15 years. From crisis hotline volunteer to HIV test educator, from substance use counselor to prevention group leader, my work has taught me two important things: no one's life is perfect and everyone's got issues. So why therapy? There are times when you find yourself in the same frustrating or painful situation, or when you just want to make a change but don't know how - therapy can help. With my training and experience, I can help you through these times.
(646) 257-5047 View (646) 257-5047
Photo of Michael Miano, Counselor in New York, NY
Michael Miano
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10013  (Online Only)
Deciding on a therapist for your teen can feel like an extremely complicated process but finding the right therapist for your family is extremely important. We rarely find ourselves seeking therapy when everything is comfortable and going well, instead, we may be feeling helpless, unlovable, angry, isolated, and stuck in situations without solutions, only reinforcing how inadequate we feel. Your teen may feel confused, fearful, angry, or depressed. You may be concerned about their mood or behaviors. You want to help and that's why you're reaching out. You just want them to feel better and for them to get the support they need.
Deciding on a therapist for your teen can feel like an extremely complicated process but finding the right therapist for your family is extremely important. We rarely find ourselves seeking therapy when everything is comfortable and going well, instead, we may be feeling helpless, unlovable, angry, isolated, and stuck in situations without solutions, only reinforcing how inadequate we feel. Your teen may feel confused, fearful, angry, or depressed. You may be concerned about their mood or behaviors. You want to help and that's why you're reaching out. You just want them to feel better and for them to get the support they need.
(347) 338-6274 View (347) 338-6274
Photo of Mary W Schultz, Psychologist in New York, NY
Mary W Schultz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10025  (Online Only)
By searching this website you have taken a big step toward trying to address whatever problems and difficulties you are facing right now. I work with clients to transform experiences of suffering into opportunities for growth and discovery of one's inner strengths. I am a non-judgmental, compassionate listener who strives to build a therapeutic relationship that is honest, supportive, and empathic. Within this relationship we will be able to safely and sensitively identify and work through sources of pain and problems that you are experiencing.
By searching this website you have taken a big step toward trying to address whatever problems and difficulties you are facing right now. I work with clients to transform experiences of suffering into opportunities for growth and discovery of one's inner strengths. I am a non-judgmental, compassionate listener who strives to build a therapeutic relationship that is honest, supportive, and empathic. Within this relationship we will be able to safely and sensitively identify and work through sources of pain and problems that you are experiencing.
(646) 832-2291 View (646) 832-2291
Photo of Amy Werman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Amy Werman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
"There is a crack in everything, that's how the light gets in" (Leonard Cohen). It's not your imagination. Life has gotten harder over the past couple of years. And when life gets harder, our "issues" and problems tend to get larger. Relationships may be strained. You may feel anxious and overwhelmed. Yet you know in your core that life can be better. I'm glad you've reached out to me! Let me help you navigate through the rough spots by accessing the strengths that lie within you. Together we will locate, nurture and expand the light in your life so you can feel better, function more effectively, and get the tools you need to cope.
"There is a crack in everything, that's how the light gets in" (Leonard Cohen). It's not your imagination. Life has gotten harder over the past couple of years. And when life gets harder, our "issues" and problems tend to get larger. Relationships may be strained. You may feel anxious and overwhelmed. Yet you know in your core that life can be better. I'm glad you've reached out to me! Let me help you navigate through the rough spots by accessing the strengths that lie within you. Together we will locate, nurture and expand the light in your life so you can feel better, function more effectively, and get the tools you need to cope.
(914) 306-8766 View (914) 306-8766
Photo of Natasha Edwards, Counselor in New York, NY
Natasha Edwards
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10026
The process of beginning therapy and finding a therapist can feel overwhelming and frightening. I understand and believe those who are starting this process are truly courageous and resourceful. In my experience, I have found having a safe, contained, and trusting environment to share all of one's thoughts, feelings, and experiences can be restorative and healing. Each experience is different and some clients desire short term treatment while others wish for a more long term therapeutic relationship to achieve their goals; I look forward to exploring options and co-creating a safe and productive space with those seeking therapy.
The process of beginning therapy and finding a therapist can feel overwhelming and frightening. I understand and believe those who are starting this process are truly courageous and resourceful. In my experience, I have found having a safe, contained, and trusting environment to share all of one's thoughts, feelings, and experiences can be restorative and healing. Each experience is different and some clients desire short term treatment while others wish for a more long term therapeutic relationship to achieve their goals; I look forward to exploring options and co-creating a safe and productive space with those seeking therapy.
(646) 759-9934 View (646) 759-9934

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in New York, NY

3,000+

Average cost per session

$200

Therapists in New York, NY who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
89% Depression
85% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
67% Trauma and PTSD
66% Stress
63% Coping Skills

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

78% Aetna
62% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
60% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in New York, NY see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in New York?

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.