Therapists in San Francisco, CA
Laura M Goodspeed
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110 (Online Only)
The most significant predictor of a successful therapy experience is the quality of the relationship between therapist and client. Building a safe, nurturing relationship is where I excel. My style is warm and highly interactive, best suited for clients who prefer a therapist who feels very "human." I assist clients to explore their thought patterns and corresponding emotional responses, and to identify unconscious assumptions they hold about themselves and the world, which inform behavior patterns. I also provide practical tools for regulating anxiety, managing depression, and processing grief.
The most significant predictor of a successful therapy experience is the quality of the relationship between therapist and client. Building a safe, nurturing relationship is where I excel. My style is warm and highly interactive, best suited for clients who prefer a therapist who feels very "human." I assist clients to explore their thought patterns and corresponding emotional responses, and to identify unconscious assumptions they hold about themselves and the world, which inform behavior patterns. I also provide practical tools for regulating anxiety, managing depression, and processing grief.
Elizabeth Sullivan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
You want help feeling better or making tough decisions. You may feel anxiety, depression, or just have the painful idea that everyone else is doing better than you. I will teach you to create more ease, focus, and meaning in your life. Sessions with me are offered through video meetings which we can schedule at our mutual convenience.
You want help feeling better or making tough decisions. You may feel anxiety, depression, or just have the painful idea that everyone else is doing better than you. I will teach you to create more ease, focus, and meaning in your life. Sessions with me are offered through video meetings which we can schedule at our mutual convenience.
Dr. Simrin Kang
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103 (Online Only)
Many of us attempt to charge through life, trying to ignore that on the inside we feel empty, alone, misunderstood, or full of dread about life's problems. We may be skilled at keeping a brave face in public or with loved ones, but eventually it becomes impossible to ignore that our ability to enjoy our life has greatly diminished. Each day becomes about just surviving, hoping that tomorrow may somehow feel different. We know we are capable of joy, passion, ambition, and love, but they feel so out of reach. What has gone wrong?
Many of us attempt to charge through life, trying to ignore that on the inside we feel empty, alone, misunderstood, or full of dread about life's problems. We may be skilled at keeping a brave face in public or with loved ones, but eventually it becomes impossible to ignore that our ability to enjoy our life has greatly diminished. Each day becomes about just surviving, hoping that tomorrow may somehow feel different. We know we are capable of joy, passion, ambition, and love, but they feel so out of reach. What has gone wrong?
Holly Greenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Hello, there are some hurts in life that heal only through connecting with another person. Early relational trauma whether physical or emotional can create a heaviness that feels inescapable. Single incident trauma can have this effect as well. Sharing the story seems to exacerbate sleep problems, difficulty engaging in day-day activities, or just rising from bed. You do not need to tell me your story, just arrive and be willing to be curious. I offer therapy for PTSD, life transitions, grief and depression. In my work I offer myself as a supportive presence and companion.
Hello, there are some hurts in life that heal only through connecting with another person. Early relational trauma whether physical or emotional can create a heaviness that feels inescapable. Single incident trauma can have this effect as well. Sharing the story seems to exacerbate sleep problems, difficulty engaging in day-day activities, or just rising from bed. You do not need to tell me your story, just arrive and be willing to be curious. I offer therapy for PTSD, life transitions, grief and depression. In my work I offer myself as a supportive presence and companion.
Joe Lawwill
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MBA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94117
I work with clients to treat anxiety disorders, depression, and bipolar disorders, as well as increase their ability to regulate emotions and replace impulsive behaviors with effective ones. I also help clients to identify their own intrinsic strengths and values. The effect is an ongoing flow of positive experiences, which help to build confidence, boost self-respect, and improve interpersonal relationships. I offer clients positive regard, non-judgmental stance, and a compassionate environment, where they can feel safe expressing their experiences, thoughts and feelings.
I work with clients to treat anxiety disorders, depression, and bipolar disorders, as well as increase their ability to regulate emotions and replace impulsive behaviors with effective ones. I also help clients to identify their own intrinsic strengths and values. The effect is an ongoing flow of positive experiences, which help to build confidence, boost self-respect, and improve interpersonal relationships. I offer clients positive regard, non-judgmental stance, and a compassionate environment, where they can feel safe expressing their experiences, thoughts and feelings.
Rebecca M Crabb
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I welcome individuals willing to engage in an active, reflective treatment and try new ways of thinking and relating, both within and outside of therapy. I enjoy working with individuals in professions such as law, medicine, and engineering who seek to better manage the pressures that come with responsibility, and with artists, musicians, and writers, for whom creative expression is an integral part of emotional health. My other specialties include coping with medical illness and navigating caregiving challenges. My practice is open to adults of all ages, cultural backgrounds, gender identities, and sexual orientations.
I welcome individuals willing to engage in an active, reflective treatment and try new ways of thinking and relating, both within and outside of therapy. I enjoy working with individuals in professions such as law, medicine, and engineering who seek to better manage the pressures that come with responsibility, and with artists, musicians, and writers, for whom creative expression is an integral part of emotional health. My other specialties include coping with medical illness and navigating caregiving challenges. My practice is open to adults of all ages, cultural backgrounds, gender identities, and sexual orientations.
Pink Moon Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115 (Online Only)
Do you tend to be hard on yourself and feel you're never good enough? Maybe you date the wrong people, stuck in old relational patterns? Or maybe you just feel unfulfilled in your life, lost on your path. Surely you’d love to feel in alignment with your life direction, owning your worth, loved by healthy humans, all while being your own best friend. As a licensed Astrotherapist, I support you in finding that life. Together we’ll explore present challenges in your life, while diving into your birth chart and identifying your unique energies in this lifetime.
Do you tend to be hard on yourself and feel you're never good enough? Maybe you date the wrong people, stuck in old relational patterns? Or maybe you just feel unfulfilled in your life, lost on your path. Surely you’d love to feel in alignment with your life direction, owning your worth, loved by healthy humans, all while being your own best friend. As a licensed Astrotherapist, I support you in finding that life. Together we’ll explore present challenges in your life, while diving into your birth chart and identifying your unique energies in this lifetime.
Kristen Cubeta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105 (Online Only)
I strive to provide evidence-based treatment, while also meeting my clients where they are and treating them as the expert of their experience. My style can be described as warm and laid-back. It is my goal to get to know each person I work with deeply so I can tailor treatment to fit their individual needs. I tend to utilize CBT and/or DBT strategies in most sessions.
I strive to provide evidence-based treatment, while also meeting my clients where they are and treating them as the expert of their experience. My style can be described as warm and laid-back. It is my goal to get to know each person I work with deeply so I can tailor treatment to fit their individual needs. I tend to utilize CBT and/or DBT strategies in most sessions.
Anthony F Jannetti
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I have been a therapist for over 25 years and have worked in many different settings. I am very experienced in treating people with a broad spectrum of psychological problems. I have a long history of treating people who have experienced different types of trauma from sexual abuse to the effects of living in a war zone. I can help people who experience anxiety and depression and relationship issues. I am trained in cognitive behavior therapy but have studied many other treatment modalities. I am a teaching and supervising member of the International Integrative Psychotherapy Association.
I have been a therapist for over 25 years and have worked in many different settings. I am very experienced in treating people with a broad spectrum of psychological problems. I have a long history of treating people who have experienced different types of trauma from sexual abuse to the effects of living in a war zone. I can help people who experience anxiety and depression and relationship issues. I am trained in cognitive behavior therapy but have studied many other treatment modalities. I am a teaching and supervising member of the International Integrative Psychotherapy Association.
Harmony Mandela Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94121
Now offering services for Teens, couples and individuals. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery. In our sessions we find old patterns that do not serve you and new growth that will offer new patterns to enjoy a more fulfilling life. I will use many methods with you exploring emotions, thoughts, body sensations and behavior. I work collaboratively with you to set goals and treatment that is personal to your needs and situation in a non-judgmental environment.
Now offering services for Teens, couples and individuals. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery. In our sessions we find old patterns that do not serve you and new growth that will offer new patterns to enjoy a more fulfilling life. I will use many methods with you exploring emotions, thoughts, body sensations and behavior. I work collaboratively with you to set goals and treatment that is personal to your needs and situation in a non-judgmental environment.
John Paul Vail
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104 (Online Only)
Feeling out of control or out of Focus? Do ADHD related issues hold you or a loved one back from dreams and potential? Feelings of worry, confusion, anger, and sadness can make your relationships, parenting, work, or your education seem impossible or like plain torture. My passion is helping people tap into their their inherent worth and significance, while promoting growth. You CAN tackle the problems you have, and you have the power to promote well-being in yourself and in your relationships. Lets get to work, and see the results in your life: improvements in mood/ relationships/work and educational performance, and peace of mind.
Feeling out of control or out of Focus? Do ADHD related issues hold you or a loved one back from dreams and potential? Feelings of worry, confusion, anger, and sadness can make your relationships, parenting, work, or your education seem impossible or like plain torture. My passion is helping people tap into their their inherent worth and significance, while promoting growth. You CAN tackle the problems you have, and you have the power to promote well-being in yourself and in your relationships. Lets get to work, and see the results in your life: improvements in mood/ relationships/work and educational performance, and peace of mind.
15 Second Videos
Rebecca M Crabb
Larisa Southerland
Sonia Troiani Doulton
Elite Physiology, Inc.
Miya G Yung @ The Connective
Jhoana Sarabia
Chia-Ying Chou
Lindsey Brooks
Remi Bean
Jeffrey Ly | Porn Addiction Relationship
Darla Wolgast Romano
Scott D Altamirano
Stephanie Owen
Wing Shall Lem
Dr. Olivia Byza - Relationship Coaching
Elena Wang
Cirrena Troutt
Ruth Krumbhaar
Kate Evans Therapy - Attachment Medicine
Victoria Storr
Roberto F Santiago
Megan Sullivan-Tuba
Antje Hofmeister MFT
Shallyn Wells
Francesco Cerminara
Andrea Starn
Michael Griffith
Savannah Wagner Belk
Josh Krieger
Faye Mariefel Ocomen
Christina Velasco
Jake Sims
Randi Jackson
George J Moore
Emelia Applegate
Kate Leffel
Justin D'Avella
Elizabeth Owens
Natalie Spautz
Scott Moresi
Kathryn Green
Whitney Richards
John Mark Krejci
Sarah Wilson
Mary Deyo
Ken Stamper
Scott D Altamirano
Sf Bay Play Therapy By Karen Wolfe Lmft
Rachel Brandwene
Shemya Vaughn
Larisa Southerland
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104 (Online Only)
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT145725) at Relationship Wisdom. Supervised by Brad Byrum, LMFT118448. Navigating relationships can be tricky, to say the least. I believe the most important element of any relationship is communication. Breakdowns in communication are common and may go undetected for months, or even years. Becoming aware of how we communicate and adjusting appropriately can make all the difference in our interactions moving forward. My goal is to help you and your partner become effective communicators. My therapeutic style is down to Earth and compassionately curious.
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT145725) at Relationship Wisdom. Supervised by Brad Byrum, LMFT118448. Navigating relationships can be tricky, to say the least. I believe the most important element of any relationship is communication. Breakdowns in communication are common and may go undetected for months, or even years. Becoming aware of how we communicate and adjusting appropriately can make all the difference in our interactions moving forward. My goal is to help you and your partner become effective communicators. My therapeutic style is down to Earth and compassionately curious.
Bradley Akin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, BS
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
Sometimes we feel anxious, depressed, ashamed, disappointed, or just plain numb because we think we should be better, faster, smarter, or simply not have these feelings at all. With the goal of moving forward in a more positive direction, relationship challenges, communication breakdowns, trauma history, substance use dependency, procrastination, fear, isolation, grief, positive expressions of anger, coming out, are just some of the things we work on in therapy. The solutions my clients seek are often found within, and I help them find them with insight, gentle nudging or sometimes with stronger, more direct interventions.
Sometimes we feel anxious, depressed, ashamed, disappointed, or just plain numb because we think we should be better, faster, smarter, or simply not have these feelings at all. With the goal of moving forward in a more positive direction, relationship challenges, communication breakdowns, trauma history, substance use dependency, procrastination, fear, isolation, grief, positive expressions of anger, coming out, are just some of the things we work on in therapy. The solutions my clients seek are often found within, and I help them find them with insight, gentle nudging or sometimes with stronger, more direct interventions.
Ellen Salwen
Psychologist, PhD, MFA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114 (Online Only)
I imagine you are looking through this list because you've become stuck in something. Something big or small but it feels bad and you want help getting unstuck. It might be something new and unfamiliar or something too well known and you're tired of history repeating itself. I believe history does not have to repeat itself. Emotions can shift and patterns of behavior can change. It's not simple, easy or fast. There is comfort in the familiar and it takes bravery to change. But in the right environment, with the right help, change is possible.
I imagine you are looking through this list because you've become stuck in something. Something big or small but it feels bad and you want help getting unstuck. It might be something new and unfamiliar or something too well known and you're tired of history repeating itself. I believe history does not have to repeat itself. Emotions can shift and patterns of behavior can change. It's not simple, easy or fast. There is comfort in the familiar and it takes bravery to change. But in the right environment, with the right help, change is possible.
Rhea St. Julien
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
My speciality is working with women and non-binary people who have experienced trauma. I use a range of modalities, including EMDR, Expressive Arts Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Talk Therapy, to help my patients see real change. My approach is engaged, relational, and embodied.
My speciality is working with women and non-binary people who have experienced trauma. I use a range of modalities, including EMDR, Expressive Arts Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Talk Therapy, to help my patients see real change. My approach is engaged, relational, and embodied.
Jessica Hodge
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105 (Online Only)
I believe in walking with individuals through their life experiences in a non-judgmental manner. I believe people are not a product of life circumstances; therefore, they do not need to live in a self-punishing manner. I believe individuals can process past traumas and issues resulting in a more fulfilling life. Gaining personal insight and personal growth is a strength that will manifest and multiply in relationships. Working with people is my passion, and I believe your past does not define your future.
I believe in walking with individuals through their life experiences in a non-judgmental manner. I believe people are not a product of life circumstances; therefore, they do not need to live in a self-punishing manner. I believe individuals can process past traumas and issues resulting in a more fulfilling life. Gaining personal insight and personal growth is a strength that will manifest and multiply in relationships. Working with people is my passion, and I believe your past does not define your future.
Andrew Pelfini
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
No human being gets through this life without a certain amount of conflict. The need to solve problems and manage distress is complicated by our fast paced world with high expectations on individual pursuit where social media takes the place of meaningful social/community/familial support. I consider your particular situation, interests, and personality in order to assist you in relieving your distress. Compassionate care shifts perspective, opens options and releases us from unhelpful responses and painful situations--eases our minds. I work with adults across the life span: individuals/couples with differing sexual preferences, gender identification, and value orientations.
No human being gets through this life without a certain amount of conflict. The need to solve problems and manage distress is complicated by our fast paced world with high expectations on individual pursuit where social media takes the place of meaningful social/community/familial support. I consider your particular situation, interests, and personality in order to assist you in relieving your distress. Compassionate care shifts perspective, opens options and releases us from unhelpful responses and painful situations--eases our minds. I work with adults across the life span: individuals/couples with differing sexual preferences, gender identification, and value orientations.
Laura Joiner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Adolescence can be a challenging phase of life. Whether it is struggling with self image, anxiety, depression, stress, aggression, defiance, or social or academic difficulties, I specialize in working with teens and their families to address these issues. My style is collaborative, warm, and interactive - yet straight forward. I focus on strengths to promote positive change. People come to grow in a variety of ways, and as a result, I draw from Cognitive Behavioral (including Trauma-Focused CBT), Psychodynamic, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Narrative theories to best meet my clients' needs. Please see my website for further details about my background.
Adolescence can be a challenging phase of life. Whether it is struggling with self image, anxiety, depression, stress, aggression, defiance, or social or academic difficulties, I specialize in working with teens and their families to address these issues. My style is collaborative, warm, and interactive - yet straight forward. I focus on strengths to promote positive change. People come to grow in a variety of ways, and as a result, I draw from Cognitive Behavioral (including Trauma-Focused CBT), Psychodynamic, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Narrative theories to best meet my clients' needs. Please see my website for further details about my background.
Sarah Cox
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105
Therapy is a unique opportunity to learn more about ourselves and discover how we can step forward in life, relationships and work with more passion and purpose. I work with you to cultivate the insight, strength and agency that help you to work through challenges, move through difficult transitions and find more purpose and fulfillment in your life. My style is warm, direct and highly attuned to the interrelation between the mind, emotions and body.
Therapy is a unique opportunity to learn more about ourselves and discover how we can step forward in life, relationships and work with more passion and purpose. I work with you to cultivate the insight, strength and agency that help you to work through challenges, move through difficult transitions and find more purpose and fulfillment in your life. My style is warm, direct and highly attuned to the interrelation between the mind, emotions and body.
Rachel M Cleveland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR-P
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
**Accepting New Clients** Feel cared for and heard, experience a safe and authentic connection, find clarity, heal from a past or more recent traumatic event. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Provisional Art Therapist and Mindfulness-based Practitioner, I offer a person-centered, strength-based holistic approach to healing. In addition to traditional talk therapy, I work with the creative mind, this work includes art and expressive mediums to understand how our earliest experiences in life create the implicit, behavioral patterns that we can potentially carry with us for a lifetime.
**Accepting New Clients** Feel cared for and heard, experience a safe and authentic connection, find clarity, heal from a past or more recent traumatic event. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Provisional Art Therapist and Mindfulness-based Practitioner, I offer a person-centered, strength-based holistic approach to healing. In addition to traditional talk therapy, I work with the creative mind, this work includes art and expressive mediums to understand how our earliest experiences in life create the implicit, behavioral patterns that we can potentially carry with us for a lifetime.
See more therapy options for San Francisco
Nearby Searches for San Francisco
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in San Francisco, CA
3,000+
Average cost per session
$189
Therapists in San Francisco, CA who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
81% | Relationship Issues |
75% | Self Esteem |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Stress |
66% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
69% | Aetna |
55% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
54% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in San Francisco, CA see their clients
55% | In Person and Online | |
45% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
23% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in San Francisco?
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
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.
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.
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.