Therapists in Iowa City, IA

Photo of Pat L McArtor, Counselor, LMHC, MA
Pat L McArtor
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Iowa City, IA 52240
I received my BA in Psychology from the University of Iowa in 1980 and returned to receive my MA in Counseling and Human Development in 1992. I have been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Iowa since 1998. I have over 30 years of experience in the counseling field and utilize a variety of cognitive/behavioral approaches in working with adults, adolescents, couples and families. Areas of experience include depression, anxiety and other mood disorders, ADD/ADHD, relationship, couple and divorce issues, stress and anger management, domestic violence, and substance abuse issues.
I received my BA in Psychology from the University of Iowa in 1980 and returned to receive my MA in Counseling and Human Development in 1992. I have been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Iowa since 1998. I have over 30 years of experience in the counseling field and utilize a variety of cognitive/behavioral approaches in working with adults, adolescents, couples and families. Areas of experience include depression, anxiety and other mood disorders, ADD/ADHD, relationship, couple and divorce issues, stress and anger management, domestic violence, and substance abuse issues.
(319) 774-4313 View (319) 774-4313
Photo of Marni Moody - Marni Moody Counseling and Consultation, Counselor, Marni Moody, MS, LMHC
Marni Moody Counseling and Consultation
Counselor, Marni Moody, MS, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
You’re capable, driven, and give your all. The strengths that fueled your success—like motivation, high standards, and determination—now feel depleted. You're stuck in overthinking, pushing through, or avoiding what feels overwhelming. If this sounds familiar, you’re not broken. These patterns developed for a reason. They can change.
You’re capable, driven, and give your all. The strengths that fueled your success—like motivation, high standards, and determination—now feel depleted. You're stuck in overthinking, pushing through, or avoiding what feels overwhelming. If this sounds familiar, you’re not broken. These patterns developed for a reason. They can change.
(712) 217-3979 View (712) 217-3979
Photo of Diane Tonkyn, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Diane Tonkyn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Iowa City, IA 52245
Not accepting new clients
My goal is to help you obtain your goals and to address the issues that are getting in your way. I create a safe and supportive environment that encourages growth and change. We may utilize traditional verbal therapy or tap into the healing power of Art Therapy. Art Therapy requires no special skills as the focus is on the process of art making and the verbal communication included in that process, not the art product itself. My 28 years of experience includes a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, victims issues, marital and family conflict.
My goal is to help you obtain your goals and to address the issues that are getting in your way. I create a safe and supportive environment that encourages growth and change. We may utilize traditional verbal therapy or tap into the healing power of Art Therapy. Art Therapy requires no special skills as the focus is on the process of art making and the verbal communication included in that process, not the art product itself. My 28 years of experience includes a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, victims issues, marital and family conflict.
(319) 313-5297 View (319) 313-5297
Photo of Kate E Slater, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Kate E Slater
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Iowa City, IA 52240
I enjoy helping individuals, couples, and families build resilience and thrive through the challenges and changes and losses that life inevitably brings. I offer an empathetic listening ear and a hopeful solutions-focused approach, developing my client's strengths and coping skills to help them meet their therapy goals. I believe that human connection through healthy relationships makes all the difference when we are struggling, and I love working with people to strengthen relationships with those closest to them.
I enjoy helping individuals, couples, and families build resilience and thrive through the challenges and changes and losses that life inevitably brings. I offer an empathetic listening ear and a hopeful solutions-focused approach, developing my client's strengths and coping skills to help them meet their therapy goals. I believe that human connection through healthy relationships makes all the difference when we are struggling, and I love working with people to strengthen relationships with those closest to them.
(319) 209-9342 View (319) 209-9342
Photo of S Ann Long, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSW
S Ann Long
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSW
Online Only
Holistic Body Centered TRAUMA specialization. Learn WHY you may have anxiety, insomnia, racing thoughts, negative thinking, overwhelm/triggers or depression. Learn coping skills and how to feel things again instead of pushing them down. We can process trauma so that you are not experiencing triggers in the way you have been.
Holistic Body Centered TRAUMA specialization. Learn WHY you may have anxiety, insomnia, racing thoughts, negative thinking, overwhelm/triggers or depression. Learn coping skills and how to feel things again instead of pushing them down. We can process trauma so that you are not experiencing triggers in the way you have been.
(563) 281-6133 View (563) 281-6133
Photo of Jenna Iben, Counselor, MS, LMHC
Jenna Iben
Counselor, MS, LMHC
4 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
My therapeutic approach is rooted in the belief that healing and growth occur through relationships and our connections with others. I believe that everyone desires a sense of belonging and thrives within a community. As your therapist, my role is to accompany you on your journey, providing a safe and comfortable space for you to explore your inner world and the world around you. I have experience working with teens, adult women, and gender-expansive individuals. I have worked closely with those facing relationship issues, low self-worth, life transitions, depression, anxiety, and intimate partner violence.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in the belief that healing and growth occur through relationships and our connections with others. I believe that everyone desires a sense of belonging and thrives within a community. As your therapist, my role is to accompany you on your journey, providing a safe and comfortable space for you to explore your inner world and the world around you. I have experience working with teens, adult women, and gender-expansive individuals. I have worked closely with those facing relationship issues, low self-worth, life transitions, depression, anxiety, and intimate partner violence.
(319) 946-4113 View (319) 946-4113
Photo of Kathy Fox, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, t-LMFT
Kathy Fox
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, t-LMFT
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52245
Waitlist for new clients
Every couple develops patterns. Some bring partners closer, while others leave them feeling lonely, misunderstood, or caught in the same painful arguments. If your relationship is struggling—or you're questioning whether it can survive—you don't have to navigate it alone. I specialize in helping couples, including those in significant distress, move beyond blame and reactivity toward deeper understanding, trust, and connection using Relational Life Therapy (RLT) and the Gottman Method. For couples on the edge of divorce, I offer the short-term Discernment Counseling protocol to support thoughtful decision-making about the future.
Every couple develops patterns. Some bring partners closer, while others leave them feeling lonely, misunderstood, or caught in the same painful arguments. If your relationship is struggling—or you're questioning whether it can survive—you don't have to navigate it alone. I specialize in helping couples, including those in significant distress, move beyond blame and reactivity toward deeper understanding, trust, and connection using Relational Life Therapy (RLT) and the Gottman Method. For couples on the edge of divorce, I offer the short-term Discernment Counseling protocol to support thoughtful decision-making about the future.
(319) 727-1697 View (319) 727-1697
Photo of Blake Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Blake Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Iowa City, IA 52245
I have worked with a wide range of children and adults, primarily in the outpatient and school settings. My experience and trainings have included cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, adoption competency, mindfulness and relaxation techniques, anxiety and depression, trauma processing, and others.
I have worked with a wide range of children and adults, primarily in the outpatient and school settings. My experience and trainings have included cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, adoption competency, mindfulness and relaxation techniques, anxiety and depression, trauma processing, and others.
(319) 349-2305 View (319) 349-2305
Photo of Jill Johnson, Counselor, LMHC, IADC, SAP
Jill Johnson
Counselor, LMHC, IADC, SAP
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
I enjoy working with individuals ready to start their journey with therapy in a safe, non-judgemental, and confidential environment. My approach is eclectic, utilizing a collaborative approach to help foster positive life changes that improve quality of life. I work with individuals experiencing a wide range of concerns including: depression, anxiety, work and family stressors, communication difficulties, marital problems, life transitions, trauma, substance use, gambling, co-occurring disorders, and adjustment to disability.
I enjoy working with individuals ready to start their journey with therapy in a safe, non-judgemental, and confidential environment. My approach is eclectic, utilizing a collaborative approach to help foster positive life changes that improve quality of life. I work with individuals experiencing a wide range of concerns including: depression, anxiety, work and family stressors, communication difficulties, marital problems, life transitions, trauma, substance use, gambling, co-occurring disorders, and adjustment to disability.
(319) 820-0078 View (319) 820-0078
Photo of Jenna Briasco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Jenna Briasco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Iowa City, IA 52240
Hey there! Life can be challenging and sometimes we need extra help making sense of it all. I aim to support you by breaking down the unhelpful socially-constructed narratives we are all subject to. My goal is to help you connect with balance, meaning, and purpose, reclaiming your Story.
Hey there! Life can be challenging and sometimes we need extra help making sense of it all. I aim to support you by breaking down the unhelpful socially-constructed narratives we are all subject to. My goal is to help you connect with balance, meaning, and purpose, reclaiming your Story.
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Photo of Gloria Chang, Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Gloria Chang
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Iowa City, IA 52240
Hi there! I'm Gloria, a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)! I believe therapy is built on trust, respect, and a genuine connection. I provide a warm, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and supported, wherever you are in your journey. I enjoy working with young adults and individuals from diverse backgrounds navigating anxiety, depression, identity exploration, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Together, we'll build practical coping skills, strengthen self-trust, and create meaningful change aligned with your values and goals.
Hi there! I'm Gloria, a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)! I believe therapy is built on trust, respect, and a genuine connection. I provide a warm, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and supported, wherever you are in your journey. I enjoy working with young adults and individuals from diverse backgrounds navigating anxiety, depression, identity exploration, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Together, we'll build practical coping skills, strengthen self-trust, and create meaningful change aligned with your values and goals.
(319) 387-8606 View (319) 387-8606
Photo of Lisa Richardson Schmidt, Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Lisa Richardson Schmidt
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Iowa City, IA 52240
Now Accepting New Clients! Are you ready to feel better right now? Perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, your nervous system always in fight or flight. Maybe you can't stop eating, drinking, shopping on line, bingeing, purging. These are all signs of nervous system "dis - regulation" which can be changed with my support. I have been helping people of all ages change their thoughts, patterns and habits in order to feel better NOW! Using mindfulness based approaches, you too can feel freedom from gripping anxiety and depressive moods that negatively impact your life!-call me today!
Now Accepting New Clients! Are you ready to feel better right now? Perhaps you are struggling with anxiety, your nervous system always in fight or flight. Maybe you can't stop eating, drinking, shopping on line, bingeing, purging. These are all signs of nervous system "dis - regulation" which can be changed with my support. I have been helping people of all ages change their thoughts, patterns and habits in order to feel better NOW! Using mindfulness based approaches, you too can feel freedom from gripping anxiety and depressive moods that negatively impact your life!-call me today!
(319) 257-2935 View (319) 257-2935
Photo of Bruce Douglas Williams, Counselor, MDiv, LMHC
Bruce Douglas Williams
Counselor, MDiv, LMHC
Iowa City, IA 52245
My direct phone is 319-360-1582 My areas of special interest are grief counseling and helping those coping with anxiety, depression, life transitions, spirituality , relationship issues, existential struggles, and recovery from domestic violence. I have years of experience doing individual, premarital, and couple therapy. I am especially sensitive to those who've had losses and are coping with sadness, sorrow, or grief. My clients tell me I have exceptional listening skills and the ability to make each person feel valued. I value each person's story and honor it as I help people find meaningful, healthy, and productive lives.
My direct phone is 319-360-1582 My areas of special interest are grief counseling and helping those coping with anxiety, depression, life transitions, spirituality , relationship issues, existential struggles, and recovery from domestic violence. I have years of experience doing individual, premarital, and couple therapy. I am especially sensitive to those who've had losses and are coping with sadness, sorrow, or grief. My clients tell me I have exceptional listening skills and the ability to make each person feel valued. I value each person's story and honor it as I help people find meaningful, healthy, and productive lives.
(319) 220-0182 View (319) 220-0182
Photo of Brenda Boese, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Brenda Boese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
Welcome to Anew Healing Center! Everything about you, whether it be people-pleasing, perfectionism, anxiety, depression, ADHD, dissociation, addictions, chronic illness, or other ways to cope, is invited and welcomed here. All of these have protected you and brought you to this point in time and I’m so grateful you are here. By combining somatic therapy with relationship and connection, healing begins. An awareness of your physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual self will begin to unfold through nervous system regulation. A sense of safety and trust in the moment emerges and the possibility of moving to a new normal begins.
Welcome to Anew Healing Center! Everything about you, whether it be people-pleasing, perfectionism, anxiety, depression, ADHD, dissociation, addictions, chronic illness, or other ways to cope, is invited and welcomed here. All of these have protected you and brought you to this point in time and I’m so grateful you are here. By combining somatic therapy with relationship and connection, healing begins. An awareness of your physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual self will begin to unfold through nervous system regulation. A sense of safety and trust in the moment emerges and the possibility of moving to a new normal begins.
(319) 220-5538 View (319) 220-5538
Photo of Jen Aakre, Psychologist, PhD, LP
Jen Aakre
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Online Only
Midlife is a time of growth and change for many women. Relationships, responsibilities, and roles may be shifting at the same time that physical and emotional challenges arise. While there is great potential for fulfillment and learning in times of flux, the impact on one’s sense of self, self-confidence, and identity can feel pretty destabilizing. If this sounds like your experience, and you are looking for a supportive, compassionate place to navigate these changes and challenges, we should talk!
Midlife is a time of growth and change for many women. Relationships, responsibilities, and roles may be shifting at the same time that physical and emotional challenges arise. While there is great potential for fulfillment and learning in times of flux, the impact on one’s sense of self, self-confidence, and identity can feel pretty destabilizing. If this sounds like your experience, and you are looking for a supportive, compassionate place to navigate these changes and challenges, we should talk!
(319) 895-1658 View (319) 895-1658
Photo of L. M. Jones, Counselor, LMHC
L. M. Jones
Counselor, LMHC
Iowa City, IA 52240
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with people who are reluctant about, or new to the therapeutic process. My clients would tell you that I am very laid-back, non-judgmental, and authentic. I welcome humor, and am very curious by nature. I view anxiety, depression, and addiction as maladaptive coping skills that can offer insight and serve as a catalyst for positive change. My personal interest in philosophy, spirituality, and quantum theory translates into an ease and comfort with navigating strange territory. I enjoy the "weirdness" of people and examining how we relate (or not) to one another.
I enjoy working with people who are reluctant about, or new to the therapeutic process. My clients would tell you that I am very laid-back, non-judgmental, and authentic. I welcome humor, and am very curious by nature. I view anxiety, depression, and addiction as maladaptive coping skills that can offer insight and serve as a catalyst for positive change. My personal interest in philosophy, spirituality, and quantum theory translates into an ease and comfort with navigating strange territory. I enjoy the "weirdness" of people and examining how we relate (or not) to one another.
(319) 766-6152 View (319) 766-6152
Photo of Elisabeth Burlingame, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Elisabeth Burlingame
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52245
Currently accepting new clients (ages 18+). I’m a licensed social worker with over 15 years experience in mental health. As a neurodivergent clinician, I specialize in working with autistic and ADHD adults. Many clients come in exhausted from masking, self-criticism, relationship strain, and balancing work, school, family, and personal needs. Together we use a strengths-based, practical, nonjudgmental approach to understand your experience and build a life that fits you. I also work with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma/PTSD, OCD, grief, identity exploration, self-esteem, and life transitions. LGBTQIA+ affirming.
Currently accepting new clients (ages 18+). I’m a licensed social worker with over 15 years experience in mental health. As a neurodivergent clinician, I specialize in working with autistic and ADHD adults. Many clients come in exhausted from masking, self-criticism, relationship strain, and balancing work, school, family, and personal needs. Together we use a strengths-based, practical, nonjudgmental approach to understand your experience and build a life that fits you. I also work with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma/PTSD, OCD, grief, identity exploration, self-esteem, and life transitions. LGBTQIA+ affirming.
(319) 835-8226 View (319) 835-8226
Photo of Elizabeth Schachter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSW
Elizabeth Schachter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSW
Online Only
Looking to feel confident in your choices as a person and/or parent and connected to the people in your life? Wishing life came with instruction manuals? Looking to gain more control over your emotional reactions and feelings of worry? I can help. Therapy is a place where you can work to understand yourself, feel seen and be heard. Together, in a safe space we can work on making mindset shifts, building self-acceptance and developing positive coping mechanisms and setting and working towards your goals. I also have extensive experience working with young child and partnering with parents offering guidance and support.
Looking to feel confident in your choices as a person and/or parent and connected to the people in your life? Wishing life came with instruction manuals? Looking to gain more control over your emotional reactions and feelings of worry? I can help. Therapy is a place where you can work to understand yourself, feel seen and be heard. Together, in a safe space we can work on making mindset shifts, building self-acceptance and developing positive coping mechanisms and setting and working towards your goals. I also have extensive experience working with young child and partnering with parents offering guidance and support.
(319) 214-7769 View (319) 214-7769
Photo of Dr. Susan Frauenholtz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Dr. Susan Frauenholtz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Susan. Have you been overwhelmed by juggling life's demands recently? Would you like to feel more confident in relationships and comfortable in your own skin? Are you finding it difficult to cope with change and loss? Reaching out for support is a big first step. As a licensed clinician in both Virginia and Iowa with over two decades of experience, I will work collaboratively with you as a partner to explore solutions and help you reach your goals.
Hi there, I'm Susan. Have you been overwhelmed by juggling life's demands recently? Would you like to feel more confident in relationships and comfortable in your own skin? Are you finding it difficult to cope with change and loss? Reaching out for support is a big first step. As a licensed clinician in both Virginia and Iowa with over two decades of experience, I will work collaboratively with you as a partner to explore solutions and help you reach your goals.
(319) 729-8033 View (319) 729-8033
Photo of Scott Liu - Dr. Scott Liu (Huan-Chung S Liu, Ph.D.), Psychologist, PhD, LP, HSP
Dr. Scott Liu (Huan-Chung S Liu, Ph.D.)
Psychologist, PhD, LP, HSP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a generalist, I work from an integrative lens, naturally leaning towards a client-centered, strengths-based, and multicultural perspectives. Often, I like to integrate aspects of Interpersonal Therapy, Family Systems, Psychodynamic, and Cognitive-Behavioral theories with the Bio-Psycho-Social framework. With extensive college counseling center experience (20+ years), I enjoy working with this population and understands the difficulties that often emerge during this transitional process (identities, relationships, self-awareness, etc.). I believe no concern is too big or too small to seek support.
As a generalist, I work from an integrative lens, naturally leaning towards a client-centered, strengths-based, and multicultural perspectives. Often, I like to integrate aspects of Interpersonal Therapy, Family Systems, Psychodynamic, and Cognitive-Behavioral theories with the Bio-Psycho-Social framework. With extensive college counseling center experience (20+ years), I enjoy working with this population and understands the difficulties that often emerge during this transitional process (identities, relationships, self-awareness, etc.). I believe no concern is too big or too small to seek support.
(319) 559-4963 View (319) 559-4963

See more therapy options for Iowa City

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Iowa City, IA

400+

Average cost per session

$175

Therapists in Iowa City, IA who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
97% Social Anxiety
97% Health Anxiety
97% Driving Anxiety
91% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% BlueCross and BlueShield
73% Wellmark BCBS
45% Blue Cross

How Therapists in Iowa City, IA see their clients

72% In Person and Online
28% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
18% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Iowa City?

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.