Therapists in Westerville, OH

Photo of Rebecca Austin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Rebecca Austin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a passion for decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting the health and well being of my clients. For my undergraduate degree, I moved from Central Jersey (Yes! It exists!) to South Jersey to attend Stockton University. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work with a Minor in Behavioral Neuroscience from Stockton, and then moved on to attend graduate school in Philadelphia. I received my Master of Social Work Degree with a clinical concentration from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice in May of 2020.
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a passion for decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting the health and well being of my clients. For my undergraduate degree, I moved from Central Jersey (Yes! It exists!) to South Jersey to attend Stockton University. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work with a Minor in Behavioral Neuroscience from Stockton, and then moved on to attend graduate school in Philadelphia. I received my Master of Social Work Degree with a clinical concentration from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice in May of 2020.
(380) 333-6059 View (380) 333-6059
Photo of Tom Spangler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Tom Spangler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I have experience working with clients who suffer from a range of mental illnesses, including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, and more. I take an approach that involves meeting clients where they are. I learn about their stories and assess what the right path is for their needs and goals. Having a client who is open and receptive to therapy is all a therapist could and should ask for.
I have experience working with clients who suffer from a range of mental illnesses, including depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, and more. I take an approach that involves meeting clients where they are. I learn about their stories and assess what the right path is for their needs and goals. Having a client who is open and receptive to therapy is all a therapist could and should ask for.
(380) 212-2219 View (380) 212-2219
Photo of Roy McClelland Jr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Roy McClelland Jr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Do you find it difficult to deal with life transitions and change? Life has its unique challenges as we navigate through the different stages. Sometimes, we need support through these stages while dealing with the ongoing changes in our personal universe. Although change is difficult to handle at times, I feel that change promotes personal growth, perseverance, and inner strength. When dealt with appropriately, change can be a healthy part of life.
Do you find it difficult to deal with life transitions and change? Life has its unique challenges as we navigate through the different stages. Sometimes, we need support through these stages while dealing with the ongoing changes in our personal universe. Although change is difficult to handle at times, I feel that change promotes personal growth, perseverance, and inner strength. When dealt with appropriately, change can be a healthy part of life.
(380) 201-9508 View (380) 201-9508
Photo of Marcie Foster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Marcie Foster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Please email for more information or to schedule. Daytime availability Monday-Thursday. We are in a unique time; daily life might seem more challenging. Life brings moments of joy, unknowns, hurt, and disappointment. Perhaps it’s leading to anxiety, feeling overwhelmed with life and changes, worries, sleep issues, depression, or simply - heavy with life. Maybe it’s led to feelings of sadness or wanting a change. Pursuing therapeutic support can be a difficult, yet brave step. It’s beneficial to talk about your struggles, worries, or life changes, to help you through this season.
Please email for more information or to schedule. Daytime availability Monday-Thursday. We are in a unique time; daily life might seem more challenging. Life brings moments of joy, unknowns, hurt, and disappointment. Perhaps it’s leading to anxiety, feeling overwhelmed with life and changes, worries, sleep issues, depression, or simply - heavy with life. Maybe it’s led to feelings of sadness or wanting a change. Pursuing therapeutic support can be a difficult, yet brave step. It’s beneficial to talk about your struggles, worries, or life changes, to help you through this season.
(614) 682-8895 View (614) 682-8895
Photo of Eric C Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Eric C Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
Eric has a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Otterbein University. He believes in the holistic approach to counseling individuals and couples. Eric values the integration of body, mind, and spirit in his counseling. He has taken a special interest in working with couples. He began studying what makes relationships "work" 25+ years ago when he got married and he helps couples reconnect emotionally. He can also share how he learned to manage the anxiety he struggled with in his 20’s and 30’s. He is accepting new clients .
Eric has a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Otterbein University. He believes in the holistic approach to counseling individuals and couples. Eric values the integration of body, mind, and spirit in his counseling. He has taken a special interest in working with couples. He began studying what makes relationships "work" 25+ years ago when he got married and he helps couples reconnect emotionally. He can also share how he learned to manage the anxiety he struggled with in his 20’s and 30’s. He is accepting new clients .
(614) 980-2290 View (614) 980-2290
Photo of De’Aja Hines, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
De’Aja Hines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Deaja Hines, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
Is it time for a change? Have you desperately attempted to make changes in your life and still feel no satisfaction? Are you ready to elevate beyond your current circumstances? Through our journey together, I will teach you how our thoughts directly influence our feelings and behaviors. By becoming more aware of your thinking patterns, identifying strengths, and processing stressors, WE can overcome any obstacle you are currently facing. Together we can manifest a life that gives you purpose, hope, and peace. Together, we will overcome the fear, shame, and anxiety that is holding us back.
Is it time for a change? Have you desperately attempted to make changes in your life and still feel no satisfaction? Are you ready to elevate beyond your current circumstances? Through our journey together, I will teach you how our thoughts directly influence our feelings and behaviors. By becoming more aware of your thinking patterns, identifying strengths, and processing stressors, WE can overcome any obstacle you are currently facing. Together we can manifest a life that gives you purpose, hope, and peace. Together, we will overcome the fear, shame, and anxiety that is holding us back.
(614) 683-4803 View (614) 683-4803
Photo of Victoria Borsukevich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Victoria Borsukevich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082  (Online Only)
I believe in an active and client-led approach to therapy, where I can help you build the tools and strengths within yourself to reach your goals. I feel that effective treatment begins with a genuine connection between us and I will strive to make you feel heard and understood. In my practice, I utilize a personalized approach to each client's mental health needs and goals.
I believe in an active and client-led approach to therapy, where I can help you build the tools and strengths within yourself to reach your goals. I feel that effective treatment begins with a genuine connection between us and I will strive to make you feel heard and understood. In my practice, I utilize a personalized approach to each client's mental health needs and goals.
(614) 683-2210 View (614) 683-2210
Photo of Zach Efaw, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westerville, OH
Zach Efaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
Your situation and circumstance is unique and I am passionate about collaboratively working with individuals who are struggling and enjoy helping people navigate the challenges of life. I have experience working with both adolescents and adults.
Your situation and circumstance is unique and I am passionate about collaboratively working with individuals who are struggling and enjoy helping people navigate the challenges of life. I have experience working with both adolescents and adults.
(380) 204-9632 x705 View (380) 204-9632 x705
Photo of Brad Brewer, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Brad Brewer
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, loss, life changes, addiction, work… or just life in general. I help people with situations that are impacting their ability to enjoy life & move forward. I help people that are doing OK in life achieve & become more. I'm passionate about what I do & I'm confident I can help you. If I can’t, I will refer you to someone who can.
Depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, loss, life changes, addiction, work… or just life in general. I help people with situations that are impacting their ability to enjoy life & move forward. I help people that are doing OK in life achieve & become more. I'm passionate about what I do & I'm confident I can help you. If I can’t, I will refer you to someone who can.
(614) 389-9204 View (614) 389-9204
Photo of Kristin McConnell, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Kristin McConnell
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
If you entered motherhood with your idealistic views and are now buried under the demands of your family’s needs wondering what happened, or where things went awry, I get it! Whether it's the mental load, stress/burn out, sensory overwhelm, default parenting or things like anxiety, neurodivergent features or life transitions...I'm here for you. As a mother your first priority is everyone else but you deserve to have your needs met too. But how? It starts with feelings supported and empowered. It starts with you taking time for yourself. Let's work together and learn some tools and strategies so you can thrive.
If you entered motherhood with your idealistic views and are now buried under the demands of your family’s needs wondering what happened, or where things went awry, I get it! Whether it's the mental load, stress/burn out, sensory overwhelm, default parenting or things like anxiety, neurodivergent features or life transitions...I'm here for you. As a mother your first priority is everyone else but you deserve to have your needs met too. But how? It starts with feelings supported and empowered. It starts with you taking time for yourself. Let's work together and learn some tools and strategies so you can thrive.
(614) 802-6010 View (614) 802-6010
Photo of Ellie Mental Health - Westerville Ohio, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westerville, OH
Ellie Mental Health - Westerville Ohio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPCC, LISW, IMFT
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Ellie Mental Health in Westerville Ohio isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs.
Ellie Mental Health in Westerville Ohio isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs.
(380) 208-0300 View (380) 208-0300
Photo of Monarch Counseling, Psychologist in Westerville, OH
Monarch Counseling
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
Monarch Counseling specializes in ADHD testing and ADHD counseling, including ADHD in men, women, adolescents, teens, and children. Tina Schneider, Ph.D. has developed a method to determine strengths in learning and memory. Results are used to develop strategies to manage symptoms of ADHD. As an adult, Tina Schneider, Ph.D. was diagnosed with ADHD and has a child with ADHD. She teaches techniques she also uses. Monarch Counseling also has independent contractors. Their specializations include testing and counseling and EMDR, to treat symptoms of PTSD and trauma. Check your insurance to see if Monarch Counseling is in network.
Monarch Counseling specializes in ADHD testing and ADHD counseling, including ADHD in men, women, adolescents, teens, and children. Tina Schneider, Ph.D. has developed a method to determine strengths in learning and memory. Results are used to develop strategies to manage symptoms of ADHD. As an adult, Tina Schneider, Ph.D. was diagnosed with ADHD and has a child with ADHD. She teaches techniques she also uses. Monarch Counseling also has independent contractors. Their specializations include testing and counseling and EMDR, to treat symptoms of PTSD and trauma. Check your insurance to see if Monarch Counseling is in network.
(614) 918-4935 View (614) 918-4935
Photo of Contessa Bush, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Contessa Bush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43082
Contessa Bush is a Licensed Social Worker, licensed through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Contessa received her master's degree in Social Work from Cleveland State University. Before attending graduate school, she completed a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Wright State University where she started her career working with children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Serving that population, which in some cases consumers happened to be dually diagnosed with mental health barriers, inspired her to further her education and service people from a clinical perspective.
Contessa Bush is a Licensed Social Worker, licensed through the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Contessa received her master's degree in Social Work from Cleveland State University. Before attending graduate school, she completed a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Wright State University where she started her career working with children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Serving that population, which in some cases consumers happened to be dually diagnosed with mental health barriers, inspired her to further her education and service people from a clinical perspective.
(614) 963-3033 View (614) 963-3033
Photo of Jack Hambrick, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Westerville, OH
Jack Hambrick
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT-T
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Immediate opening available for in-person and telehealth. Jack provides couples counseling for spouses/partners/co-parents who are struggling to communicate; adjusting to marriage, cohabitation, or the demands of parenting; dealing with ADHD, addiction, infidelity, or trauma; and/or considering marriage, cohabitation, separation, or divorce. Jack also works with individuals (ages 15+) who are coping with the impact of ADHD, anxiety, depressive symptoms, trauma, and/or relationship challenges.
Immediate opening available for in-person and telehealth. Jack provides couples counseling for spouses/partners/co-parents who are struggling to communicate; adjusting to marriage, cohabitation, or the demands of parenting; dealing with ADHD, addiction, infidelity, or trauma; and/or considering marriage, cohabitation, separation, or divorce. Jack also works with individuals (ages 15+) who are coping with the impact of ADHD, anxiety, depressive symptoms, trauma, and/or relationship challenges.
(740) 791-0357 View (740) 791-0357
Photo of Lisa Riddle, Counselor in Westerville, OH
Lisa Riddle
Counselor, MACMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43082
You’re not sure exactly when it happened. But recently, you’ve begun to feel like the spark in your relationship has fizzled out. It’s painful to remember the love and excitement you shared early on and how far you are from that now. You tell yourself that things will get easier, and the relationship will improve by itself. When this doesn’t happen, you begin to wonder if this is just how marriage is supposed to be. Maybe every relationship becomes stagnant eventually. But you’re not ready to give up that easily. You’re determined to reclaim the healthy, thriving relationship you both deserve – you’re just unsure how to achieve it.
You’re not sure exactly when it happened. But recently, you’ve begun to feel like the spark in your relationship has fizzled out. It’s painful to remember the love and excitement you shared early on and how far you are from that now. You tell yourself that things will get easier, and the relationship will improve by itself. When this doesn’t happen, you begin to wonder if this is just how marriage is supposed to be. Maybe every relationship becomes stagnant eventually. But you’re not ready to give up that easily. You’re determined to reclaim the healthy, thriving relationship you both deserve – you’re just unsure how to achieve it.
(614) 660-5965 View (614) 660-5965
Photo of Stacey Foster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Stacey Foster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Waitlist for new clients
I have more than 12 years experience helping people process through and adjust to difficult and sometimes scary life experiences. My clinical work has focused on treating individuals who have experienced intimate partner violence, sexual violence and other traumas, as well as those struggling with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
I have more than 12 years experience helping people process through and adjust to difficult and sometimes scary life experiences. My clinical work has focused on treating individuals who have experienced intimate partner violence, sexual violence and other traumas, as well as those struggling with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
(614) 389-9387 View (614) 389-9387
Photo of Lara K Palay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Lara K Palay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
I am an experienced clinician, with 20 years in private practice. My work is an essential way for me to experience meaning and connection. I am honored to do it. My mode of practice is psychodynamic with eclectic influences including integrating eastern and western thought, mindfulness, compassion, and meaning. My personal style is warm, clear, and straightforward. I consider therapy to be a partnership with the client. My goal is to provide a safe space for you to gain insight, to create mindfulness and calm in you life, to build coping skills, and to make practical, manageable changes as needed.
I am an experienced clinician, with 20 years in private practice. My work is an essential way for me to experience meaning and connection. I am honored to do it. My mode of practice is psychodynamic with eclectic influences including integrating eastern and western thought, mindfulness, compassion, and meaning. My personal style is warm, clear, and straightforward. I consider therapy to be a partnership with the client. My goal is to provide a safe space for you to gain insight, to create mindfulness and calm in you life, to build coping skills, and to make practical, manageable changes as needed.
(614) 389-9146 View (614) 389-9146
Photo of Nicole Lawson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Nicole Lawson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Hello and welcome! Do you ever find yourself feeling depressed or anxious and wondering how to navigate life in a healthier way? When you are struggling, do you ever wonder about how there has to be a better way? Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or seeking personal growth, we'll work collaboratively to explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals. I hold a Master's Degree in Social Work from Ohio State University and have been in practice since 2010 and have several years of experience in helping individuals transform their lives.
Hello and welcome! Do you ever find yourself feeling depressed or anxious and wondering how to navigate life in a healthier way? When you are struggling, do you ever wonder about how there has to be a better way? Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or seeking personal growth, we'll work collaboratively to explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals. I hold a Master's Degree in Social Work from Ohio State University and have been in practice since 2010 and have several years of experience in helping individuals transform their lives.
(614) 541-1872 View (614) 541-1872
Photo of Afton Avalos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westerville, OH
Afton Avalos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
If you've decided to take the brave step to reach out for support, then it's my mission to create a safe space so we can get to the hard work of supporting your growth and healing. I work with people who've experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief/loss. I strive to create a supportive space where you can safely bring your most difficult and painful experiences, while also experiencing the joy of reconnecting with who you really are, underneath the stress and old, unhelpful ways of coping. When we feel safe and accepted, we can begin the process of shedding what's no longer working for us anymore.
If you've decided to take the brave step to reach out for support, then it's my mission to create a safe space so we can get to the hard work of supporting your growth and healing. I work with people who've experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief/loss. I strive to create a supportive space where you can safely bring your most difficult and painful experiences, while also experiencing the joy of reconnecting with who you really are, underneath the stress and old, unhelpful ways of coping. When we feel safe and accepted, we can begin the process of shedding what's no longer working for us anymore.
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Photo of Dr. Bowen Marshall, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Westerville, OH
Dr. Bowen Marshall
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , MA, LPCC-S, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43086  (Online Only)
I believe that everyone has an innate ability to move towards growth, healing, and fulfillment. I approach therapy from a perspective learning and believe that the more we learn about ourselves, the better able we are to make choices about how we want to move forward in life. I use an integrative framework to address each client’s individual needs. I work from a trauma informed lens and use interventions from existential, Attachment Theory, Gottman, ACT, IPT, and EFT.
I believe that everyone has an innate ability to move towards growth, healing, and fulfillment. I approach therapy from a perspective learning and believe that the more we learn about ourselves, the better able we are to make choices about how we want to move forward in life. I use an integrative framework to address each client’s individual needs. I work from a trauma informed lens and use interventions from existential, Attachment Theory, Gottman, ACT, IPT, and EFT.
(380) 221-7373 View (380) 221-7373

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Westerville, OH

200+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Westerville, OH who prioritize treating:

90% Anxiety
88% Depression
72% Trauma and PTSD
71% Relationship Issues
68% Self Esteem
66% Grief
64% Stress

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% Aetna
75% Optum
70% Medical Mutual

How Therapists in Westerville, OH see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Westerville?

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.