Therapists in Bourbonnais, IL

Photo of Michelle M. Hessler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MA, LCSW
Michelle M. Hessler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MA, LCSW
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Hello. My name is Michelle Hessler and I am, after having worked in public education for over 27 years, pursuing the passion of my professional heart which has always been linked to supporting clients in the intimate setting of private practice. My career began immediately after I completed my Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) which included an emphasis on School Social Work. I worked in a school setting, supporting both Special Education and Regular Education students for approximately 18 years before deciding to return to school myself to complete a second Master's degree in School Leadership (administration).
Hello. My name is Michelle Hessler and I am, after having worked in public education for over 27 years, pursuing the passion of my professional heart which has always been linked to supporting clients in the intimate setting of private practice. My career began immediately after I completed my Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) which included an emphasis on School Social Work. I worked in a school setting, supporting both Special Education and Regular Education students for approximately 18 years before deciding to return to school myself to complete a second Master's degree in School Leadership (administration).
(815) 855-2585 View (815) 855-2585
Photo of Melanie McCummiskey, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Melanie McCummiskey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Melanie has a passion for working with individuals who experience high levels of anxiety, in particular, veterans and individuals with complex PTSD or acute stress related symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. Melanie works with individuals 6-65+ who experience mood and personality disorders. Melanie also enjoys working with couples to build a solid relational foundation.
Melanie has a passion for working with individuals who experience high levels of anxiety, in particular, veterans and individuals with complex PTSD or acute stress related symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. Melanie works with individuals 6-65+ who experience mood and personality disorders. Melanie also enjoys working with couples to build a solid relational foundation.
(815) 706-2493 View (815) 706-2493
Photo of Megan Pfeifer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, TF-CBT, ABECSW, MHFA
Megan Pfeifer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, TF-CBT, ABECSW, MHFA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Please email for new client availability! Spring 2026 Hours: M:1p–5p T:8a–5p W:1p–6p Th:9a–6p F:9a-1p Hello, future client! I believe everyone wants to feel happy, healthy, and fulfilled—but sometimes life gets in the way. I'm here to help you recognize your strengths, work through challenges, and move toward the changes you want. I'm easy to talk to and aim to make therapy feel like that honest conversation you’ve been needing—supportive, real, and refreshing. Sessions are always tailored to your goals in a warm, welcoming space.
Please email for new client availability! Spring 2026 Hours: M:1p–5p T:8a–5p W:1p–6p Th:9a–6p F:9a-1p Hello, future client! I believe everyone wants to feel happy, healthy, and fulfilled—but sometimes life gets in the way. I'm here to help you recognize your strengths, work through challenges, and move toward the changes you want. I'm easy to talk to and aim to make therapy feel like that honest conversation you’ve been needing—supportive, real, and refreshing. Sessions are always tailored to your goals in a warm, welcoming space.
(815) 768-2227 View (815) 768-2227
Photo of Kristina Billadeau, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Kristina Billadeau
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
3 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Welcome. I am so glad you have decided to take the first step to becoming the healthiest, most authentic version of yourself! Life can feel like it's kicking your ass sometimes. Maybe you wonder why things feel so out of control. We can all use some help to dig through the chaos! My goal is to offer a safe, collaborative, and judgement free space where you feel supported as you work through what drags you down. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, feelings of losing yourself, relationships, or simply want to make sure you are showing up for yourself and your people, I would love to assist you on this healing journey.
Welcome. I am so glad you have decided to take the first step to becoming the healthiest, most authentic version of yourself! Life can feel like it's kicking your ass sometimes. Maybe you wonder why things feel so out of control. We can all use some help to dig through the chaos! My goal is to offer a safe, collaborative, and judgement free space where you feel supported as you work through what drags you down. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, feelings of losing yourself, relationships, or simply want to make sure you are showing up for yourself and your people, I would love to assist you on this healing journey.
(815) 591-5475 View (815) 591-5475
Photo of Keaton El-Talabani, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Keaton El-Talabani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Congratulations on taking the first step toward improving your mental health. Finding the right therapist can be overwhelming, but you're in the right place. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship challenges, or occupational stress, I'm here to support you. Life can be difficult and that’s okay. Let’s talk about it.
Congratulations on taking the first step toward improving your mental health. Finding the right therapist can be overwhelming, but you're in the right place. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship challenges, or occupational stress, I'm here to support you. Life can be difficult and that’s okay. Let’s talk about it.
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Photo of Alli Kuhn, Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Alli Kuhn
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
1 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I'm Alli! I feel passionately that the space therapy provides is invaluable as it relates to establishing change; whether it be for support and processing of daily life stressors, or for chronic mental health symptoms that are posing barrier to feeling like your best self. My office is a safe space, and I believe everyone is deserving of support and moving through this life less alone. I have a wide range of experience in working with individuals who struggle with addiction, anxiety, depression, legal issues, sexual abuse, and trauma.
Hi, I'm Alli! I feel passionately that the space therapy provides is invaluable as it relates to establishing change; whether it be for support and processing of daily life stressors, or for chronic mental health symptoms that are posing barrier to feeling like your best self. My office is a safe space, and I believe everyone is deserving of support and moving through this life less alone. I have a wide range of experience in working with individuals who struggle with addiction, anxiety, depression, legal issues, sexual abuse, and trauma.
(779) 237-3242 View (779) 237-3242
Photo of Taylor Ewing, Counselor, MA, LCPC
Taylor Ewing
Counselor, MA, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Hi there! I am Taylor. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and have decided to practice on my own! I believe that counseling should always be a safe and a non judgmental space. I strive to create a space of authentic support and empathy. Easiest way to say it is, I want to be your biggest cheerleader while you allow me to walk through specific topics with you and help you accomplish your goals.
Hi there! I am Taylor. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and have decided to practice on my own! I believe that counseling should always be a safe and a non judgmental space. I strive to create a space of authentic support and empathy. Easiest way to say it is, I want to be your biggest cheerleader while you allow me to walk through specific topics with you and help you accomplish your goals.
(815) 859-8521 View (815) 859-8521
Photo of Brooke Jensen, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Brooke Jensen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Sometimes we all struggle with feeling overwhelmed, anxious, frustrated, disconnected or sad. These thoughts and feelings can negatively impact our lives and our relationships with our loved ones. I can help. I am a clinical mental health counselor with experience working with children, individuals, couples and families. In practice, I tailor my approach to meet each clients needs in a non-judgmental and supportive environment. Choosing a counselor you can trust and feel comfortable with is an important part of your therapeutic journey. I encourage clients to reach out with any questions or concerns you may have before scheduling.
Sometimes we all struggle with feeling overwhelmed, anxious, frustrated, disconnected or sad. These thoughts and feelings can negatively impact our lives and our relationships with our loved ones. I can help. I am a clinical mental health counselor with experience working with children, individuals, couples and families. In practice, I tailor my approach to meet each clients needs in a non-judgmental and supportive environment. Choosing a counselor you can trust and feel comfortable with is an important part of your therapeutic journey. I encourage clients to reach out with any questions or concerns you may have before scheduling.
(708) 787-8458 View (708) 787-8458
Photo of Andrew M Fisher, Counselor, MA, LCPC, I/ECHMC
Andrew M Fisher
Counselor, MA, LCPC, I/ECHMC
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
So often, we experience a time in our life where we feel stuck, misunderstood, or perplexed of what to do next. Have you experienced an event in your life that is challenging to move past? Feeling at a loss of how to repair a relationship, whether adult or child? These situations can be overwhelming and bring up a whole host of emotions that impact us in many ways. I use a relational and attachment based approach to help individuals, couples and families establish and maintain healthy relationships and strengthen their ability to cope with stressful life events. I enjoy working with adults, couples, and children of all ages.
So often, we experience a time in our life where we feel stuck, misunderstood, or perplexed of what to do next. Have you experienced an event in your life that is challenging to move past? Feeling at a loss of how to repair a relationship, whether adult or child? These situations can be overwhelming and bring up a whole host of emotions that impact us in many ways. I use a relational and attachment based approach to help individuals, couples and families establish and maintain healthy relationships and strengthen their ability to cope with stressful life events. I enjoy working with adults, couples, and children of all ages.
(815) 281-5315 View (815) 281-5315
Photo of Janelle Bagley, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Janelle Bagley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
First, praise yourself for taking that step to seek help. That's half the battle, so you're already half way there! It isn't easy, asking for help, but you are doing it. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I have been dedicated to the field of mental health for nearly 20 years now. In my approach I work hard to create an environment that encourages trust and the ability to build a positive rapport. From that foundation blossoms our joint exploration where you will begin to feel empowered to allow personal growth and healing, as you actively engage in your roadmap to satisfaction.
First, praise yourself for taking that step to seek help. That's half the battle, so you're already half way there! It isn't easy, asking for help, but you are doing it. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I have been dedicated to the field of mental health for nearly 20 years now. In my approach I work hard to create an environment that encourages trust and the ability to build a positive rapport. From that foundation blossoms our joint exploration where you will begin to feel empowered to allow personal growth and healing, as you actively engage in your roadmap to satisfaction.
(815) 205-0453 View (815) 205-0453
Photo of Pamela A Ford - Pamela Ford Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Pamela Ford Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Therapy can be both rewarding and difficult. At Pamela Ford Counseling what you can expect is a judgment free zone where you will be able to grow and heal at your own pace–This is a safe space. I have over 20 years of experience in the addictions field as well as mental health. I have continued my own personal journey of growth and understand what it’s like to sit in the client chair. My goal is that you will feel comfortable and have a safe place to expand and grow.
Therapy can be both rewarding and difficult. At Pamela Ford Counseling what you can expect is a judgment free zone where you will be able to grow and heal at your own pace–This is a safe space. I have over 20 years of experience in the addictions field as well as mental health. I have continued my own personal journey of growth and understand what it’s like to sit in the client chair. My goal is that you will feel comfortable and have a safe place to expand and grow.
(815) 336-4303 View (815) 336-4303
Photo of Sara Marrs O'donnell, Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Sara Marrs O'donnell
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
I believe people are the experts in their own lives. With a client-centered approach, I will offer insight and tools to work with you to reach your goals. I have over 9 years of experience in supporting survivors of abuse and others experiencing stress, anxiety, and difficult emotions. Everyone’s experience is unique and I will use a variety of techniques and resources to tailor your treatment to you.
I believe people are the experts in their own lives. With a client-centered approach, I will offer insight and tools to work with you to reach your goals. I have over 9 years of experience in supporting survivors of abuse and others experiencing stress, anxiety, and difficult emotions. Everyone’s experience is unique and I will use a variety of techniques and resources to tailor your treatment to you.
(779) 242-2684 View (779) 242-2684
Photo of Polly M Vaughn - Institute for Social and Emotional Learning, Counselor, EdD, CADC, LCPC
Institute for Social and Emotional Learning
Counselor, EdD, CADC, LCPC
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor. I work with all ages. I work with men, women, children and adolescents. My work is based on Gestalt Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing and Play Therapy. My interest includes helping others achieve their dreams through learning to develop their Social and Emotional Intelligence. Sometimes, in life obstacles get in the way of a person being able to achieve their dreams and they often need help learning to better use their emotions and their social environments. Because, dreams comes from change and change comes from dreams.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor. I work with all ages. I work with men, women, children and adolescents. My work is based on Gestalt Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing and Play Therapy. My interest includes helping others achieve their dreams through learning to develop their Social and Emotional Intelligence. Sometimes, in life obstacles get in the way of a person being able to achieve their dreams and they often need help learning to better use their emotions and their social environments. Because, dreams comes from change and change comes from dreams.
(815) 768-3134 View (815) 768-3134
Photo of Jared Coffman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Jared Coffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
What if your anxiety or depression didn’t stand in your way from accomplishing what you wanted anymore? What if your stress was more manageable and you were in more control over what kind of thoughts stuck around in your mind? What if you understood more about yourself and who you are? What if you were able to move beyond your trauma and no longer let it define you? What if you and your partner were able to regain some of that excitement you had when you first met? If you would like to know the answers to any of those questions, I would love to hear from you.
What if your anxiety or depression didn’t stand in your way from accomplishing what you wanted anymore? What if your stress was more manageable and you were in more control over what kind of thoughts stuck around in your mind? What if you understood more about yourself and who you are? What if you were able to move beyond your trauma and no longer let it define you? What if you and your partner were able to regain some of that excitement you had when you first met? If you would like to know the answers to any of those questions, I would love to hear from you.
(815) 240-0752 View (815) 240-0752
Photo of Brandon Douglas, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CFRC
Brandon Douglas
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CFRC
2 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Are you ready to start experiencing life rather than just surviving day to day? Maybe symptoms like high anxiety or depression get in your way. It’s hard to thrive when you’re constantly worried about the past or overwhelmed by the present. I’ve seen so many gifted people unable to embrace their full potential. No matter what you’re going through you’re not defined by your diagnosis. With the right support you can overcome the obstacles that keep you from living a joyful and meaningful life. My job is to help you heal and build the confidence to do just that.
Are you ready to start experiencing life rather than just surviving day to day? Maybe symptoms like high anxiety or depression get in your way. It’s hard to thrive when you’re constantly worried about the past or overwhelmed by the present. I’ve seen so many gifted people unable to embrace their full potential. No matter what you’re going through you’re not defined by your diagnosis. With the right support you can overcome the obstacles that keep you from living a joyful and meaningful life. My job is to help you heal and build the confidence to do just that.
(815) 569-0943 View (815) 569-0943
Photo of Andrea Lareau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MT-BC
Andrea Lareau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MT-BC
2 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Are you having a hard time facing the stresses of everyday life? Having difficulties at work, school, or in your marriage? Struggling with the state of the world? Maybe getting out of bed seems especially difficult because of depression, anxiety, or lack of motivation. I'm glad you're here and I'm ready to help! I enjoy helping my clients gain control, build their confidence and self-esteem, increase communication skills and better all of their relationships in their life.
Are you having a hard time facing the stresses of everyday life? Having difficulties at work, school, or in your marriage? Struggling with the state of the world? Maybe getting out of bed seems especially difficult because of depression, anxiety, or lack of motivation. I'm glad you're here and I'm ready to help! I enjoy helping my clients gain control, build their confidence and self-esteem, increase communication skills and better all of their relationships in their life.
(815) 934-8932 View (815) 934-8932
Photo of Alyssa Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Alyssa Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Do you ever reply with “I’m fine” or “Can’t complain” when, deep down, you’re anything but fine as you're going through some shit? Whatever you are going through - relationship struggles, depression, anxiety, or feeling stuck in your friendships, motivation, or overall happiness. It’s overwhelming, and it can feel like you’re silently drowning, wishing someone would notice you're not okay. You're juggling family, work, friends, hobbies, and trying to stay healthy (whatever that means)—but instead of feeling fulfilled, life’s starting to feel like a constant drain.
Do you ever reply with “I’m fine” or “Can’t complain” when, deep down, you’re anything but fine as you're going through some shit? Whatever you are going through - relationship struggles, depression, anxiety, or feeling stuck in your friendships, motivation, or overall happiness. It’s overwhelming, and it can feel like you’re silently drowning, wishing someone would notice you're not okay. You're juggling family, work, friends, hobbies, and trying to stay healthy (whatever that means)—but instead of feeling fulfilled, life’s starting to feel like a constant drain.
(331) 244-0647 View (331) 244-0647
Photo of Mary Lacy, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Mary Lacy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
She works collaboratively with clients to address emotional struggles while honoring their spiritual values and beliefs. Mary Grace believes that collaboration and trust form the foundation for successful clinical work. Her approach involves helping clients understand their symptoms, set attainable goals, develop effective coping strategies, and build self-esteem and confidence. She provides a safe and nurturing space for individuals to explore their unique challenges, offering sensitivity, empathy, and a commitment to help individuals empower themselves to achieve their desired goals.
She works collaboratively with clients to address emotional struggles while honoring their spiritual values and beliefs. Mary Grace believes that collaboration and trust form the foundation for successful clinical work. Her approach involves helping clients understand their symptoms, set attainable goals, develop effective coping strategies, and build self-esteem and confidence. She provides a safe and nurturing space for individuals to explore their unique challenges, offering sensitivity, empathy, and a commitment to help individuals empower themselves to achieve their desired goals.
(815) 396-4563 View (815) 396-4563
Photo of Beth Shelton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Beth Shelton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Whether you are seeking guidance during a challenging life event or looking to enhance your emotional well being, you have found the right place to truly be seen.
Whether you are seeking guidance during a challenging life event or looking to enhance your emotional well being, you have found the right place to truly be seen.
(815) 591-5934 View (815) 591-5934
Photo of Jeanine A Mellish, Counselor, LCPC, NARM, Master, Ther
Jeanine A Mellish
Counselor, LCPC, NARM, Master, Ther
1 Endorsed
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
Jeanine Mellish supports adult clients and couples on the path of healing and integration. She began her study and practice of various forms of healing arts in 2014, including emotional, relational, and mental health healing. Jeanine specializes in the integration of complex (relational, developmental) trauma, primarily informed by the Neuro-Affective Relational Model (NARM) developed by Dr. Laurence Heller. She works in person or via video sessions as a Therapist at Jeanine A Mellish PLLC in Bourbonnais, Illinois.
Jeanine Mellish supports adult clients and couples on the path of healing and integration. She began her study and practice of various forms of healing arts in 2014, including emotional, relational, and mental health healing. Jeanine specializes in the integration of complex (relational, developmental) trauma, primarily informed by the Neuro-Affective Relational Model (NARM) developed by Dr. Laurence Heller. She works in person or via video sessions as a Therapist at Jeanine A Mellish PLLC in Bourbonnais, Illinois.
(779) 228-3105 View (779) 228-3105

See more therapy options for Bourbonnais

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bourbonnais, IL

70+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Bourbonnais, IL who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
94% Depression
78% Trauma and PTSD
72% Grief
66% Bipolar Disorder
66% Self Esteem
65% Relationship Issues

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% BlueCross and BlueShield
84% Aetna
79% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Bourbonnais, IL see their clients

82% In Person and Online
18% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
19% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bourbonnais?

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.