Therapists in Chicago, IL

View neighborhoods in Chicago
Photo of Lana Sestovic, Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Lana Sestovic
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Chicago, IL 60613
As a trauma-informed therapist, I create a supportive space where you can explore your story, your challenges, and your strengths. I work with children, adults, and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, cultural transitions, and relationship challenges. I also have training in sex therapy and support clients exploring intimacy, identity, family dynamics, or healing from painful experiences. As a first-generation immigrant, I bring empathy and cultural sensitivity to my work, with a strong passion for supporting immigrants and marginalized communities.
As a trauma-informed therapist, I create a supportive space where you can explore your story, your challenges, and your strengths. I work with children, adults, and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, cultural transitions, and relationship challenges. I also have training in sex therapy and support clients exploring intimacy, identity, family dynamics, or healing from painful experiences. As a first-generation immigrant, I bring empathy and cultural sensitivity to my work, with a strong passion for supporting immigrants and marginalized communities.
(773) 322-1512 View (773) 322-1512
Photo of Melissa Manley, Psychologist, PhD
Melissa Manley
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
My specialties include working with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, self-esteem and self-image issues, social difficulties, and issues surrounding gender and sexual identity. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I am passionate about working with LGBTQ clients and clients in consensually nonmonogamous relationships. I strive to be aware of how all individuals I work with are impacted by their social contexts, such as personal relationships, family systems, and systems of oppression.
My specialties include working with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, self-esteem and self-image issues, social difficulties, and issues surrounding gender and sexual identity. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I am passionate about working with LGBTQ clients and clients in consensually nonmonogamous relationships. I strive to be aware of how all individuals I work with are impacted by their social contexts, such as personal relationships, family systems, and systems of oppression.
(773) 897-3285 View (773) 897-3285
Photo of Roxana Villatoro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Roxana Villatoro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
Whether it’s your first time starting therapy or you’re returning after some time, I am genuinely glad you’re here, and I’m excited to support you on your journey. In a world where hustle culture often pushes mental health aside, there is so much power and courage in choosing to prioritize your well-being. Even during the most difficult seasons of life, there is beauty in the process—sometimes, we just need that reminder and support.
Whether it’s your first time starting therapy or you’re returning after some time, I am genuinely glad you’re here, and I’m excited to support you on your journey. In a world where hustle culture often pushes mental health aside, there is so much power and courage in choosing to prioritize your well-being. Even during the most difficult seasons of life, there is beauty in the process—sometimes, we just need that reminder and support.
(872) 253-6807 View (872) 253-6807
Photo of Pat Bardenett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT, CDD
Pat Bardenett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT, CDD
Chicago, IL 60601
We often find ourselves unable to move forward due to the enormity of the situations that are presented to us. We may feel stuck, tired, and at times, hopeless. So we armour ourselves to face the world. This armouring occurs in the form of addictions such as overeating; using drugs and alcohol; isolating and repeating patterns of toxic relationships. As a result our hearts become numb. We move through life with an armored exterior, fearful of experiencing our feelings and emotions. By creating a safe environment, I help unlock and release pain.
We often find ourselves unable to move forward due to the enormity of the situations that are presented to us. We may feel stuck, tired, and at times, hopeless. So we armour ourselves to face the world. This armouring occurs in the form of addictions such as overeating; using drugs and alcohol; isolating and repeating patterns of toxic relationships. As a result our hearts become numb. We move through life with an armored exterior, fearful of experiencing our feelings and emotions. By creating a safe environment, I help unlock and release pain.
(312) 789-5428 View (312) 789-5428
Photo of Melissa Meador, Counselor, LCPC
Melissa Meador
Counselor, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I specialize in helping individuals who want to feel more at peace with food, more comfortable in their bodies, and less consumed by the mental and emotional energy that eating and body image can demand. We will work to understand the patterns that keep you stuck and build a relationship with food that feels more grounded, flexible, and sustainable.
I specialize in helping individuals who want to feel more at peace with food, more comfortable in their bodies, and less consumed by the mental and emotional energy that eating and body image can demand. We will work to understand the patterns that keep you stuck and build a relationship with food that feels more grounded, flexible, and sustainable.
(312) 262-5301 View (312) 262-5301
Photo of Veronica Diaz, Licensed Social Worker, LSW, MSW
Veronica Diaz
Licensed Social Worker, LSW, MSW
Online Only
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life transitions, relationship concerns, and adjustment challenges. Using an eclectic, holistic, and trauma-informed approach, I tailor therapy to each client's unique needs, strengths, and goals.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life transitions, relationship concerns, and adjustment challenges. Using an eclectic, holistic, and trauma-informed approach, I tailor therapy to each client's unique needs, strengths, and goals.
(773) 869-7199 View (773) 869-7199
Photo of Kirstin Schafer, Psychologist, PsyD, PSYPACT
Kirstin Schafer
Psychologist, PsyD, PSYPACT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe in connection as a source of healing and strive to co-create a space where you feel seen and heard. I intentionally work to deemphasize the inherent power differential in the therapy room, recognizing how systems of oppression deeply affect and impact individuals. As a gender-nonconforming, queer-identified clinician, I am passionate about supporting LGBTQIA+ communities and helping individuals explore and embrace their authentic selves. My clinical areas of focus include: LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, eating disorders, body image disturbance, fat positivity, gender and sexuality exploration, and mood disorders.
I believe in connection as a source of healing and strive to co-create a space where you feel seen and heard. I intentionally work to deemphasize the inherent power differential in the therapy room, recognizing how systems of oppression deeply affect and impact individuals. As a gender-nonconforming, queer-identified clinician, I am passionate about supporting LGBTQIA+ communities and helping individuals explore and embrace their authentic selves. My clinical areas of focus include: LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, eating disorders, body image disturbance, fat positivity, gender and sexuality exploration, and mood disorders.
(312) 313-2530 View (312) 313-2530
Photo of Daina Hunt, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT, LCPC, NCC, MA
Daina Hunt
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT, LCPC, NCC, MA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel like you're always behind, no matter how hard you try? Like your brain works differently and the world wasn't quite built for it? You're not lazy, broken, or difficult. You're someone whose mind needs a different kind of map. I work with adults and adolescents navigating ADHD, anxiety, and depression, especially those who've spent years masking, overcompensating, or wondering why the strategies that work for everyone else just don't stick. I also support couples and families when ADHD is affecting connection, communication, and daily life together.
Do you feel like you're always behind, no matter how hard you try? Like your brain works differently and the world wasn't quite built for it? You're not lazy, broken, or difficult. You're someone whose mind needs a different kind of map. I work with adults and adolescents navigating ADHD, anxiety, and depression, especially those who've spent years masking, overcompensating, or wondering why the strategies that work for everyone else just don't stick. I also support couples and families when ADHD is affecting connection, communication, and daily life together.
(224) 207-4339 View (224) 207-4339
Photo of Lucy Newburn, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Lucy Newburn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I am a psychotherapist in Chicago, IL specializing in body image concerns, disordered eating, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. With lived eating disorder experience, I understand the impact of diet culture on our relationships with food and our own bodies and am passionate about dismantling the systems that uphold these insidious ideals. As an LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent ally, I welcome folks of all backgrounds and identities into the therapeutic space. My clinical approach is defined by warmth, nonjudgement, and a touch of humor to create a safe space of growth and reflection for each and every one of my clients.
Hello! I am a psychotherapist in Chicago, IL specializing in body image concerns, disordered eating, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. With lived eating disorder experience, I understand the impact of diet culture on our relationships with food and our own bodies and am passionate about dismantling the systems that uphold these insidious ideals. As an LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent ally, I welcome folks of all backgrounds and identities into the therapeutic space. My clinical approach is defined by warmth, nonjudgement, and a touch of humor to create a safe space of growth and reflection for each and every one of my clients.
(872) 349-2994 View (872) 349-2994
Photo of Kareena Gardner, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kareena Gardner
Pre-Licensed Professional
Chicago, IL 60610
Kareena is a clinical intern specializing in therapy services for individuals, couples, families, and youth. She is committed to creating a safe environment where clients feel seen, heard, and supported as they work toward emotional wellness, relational health, self-awareness, and healing. Her therapeutic approach is collaborative and creative, honoring each client’s unique context, personality, and goals. When working with children, she thoughtfully incorporates developmentally appropriate play and expressive interventions to support authentic expression and engagement.
Kareena is a clinical intern specializing in therapy services for individuals, couples, families, and youth. She is committed to creating a safe environment where clients feel seen, heard, and supported as they work toward emotional wellness, relational health, self-awareness, and healing. Her therapeutic approach is collaborative and creative, honoring each client’s unique context, personality, and goals. When working with children, she thoughtfully incorporates developmentally appropriate play and expressive interventions to support authentic expression and engagement.
(312) 847-0940 View (312) 847-0940
Photo of Cristina Di Re, Pre-Licensed Professional
Cristina Di Re
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607
Starting therapy can feel uncomfortable, especially when you might be carrying a lot on your own. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, working with children, adolescents, and adults, to create a comfortable space to fully express emotions and explore what’s been going on, understand what’s keeping things stuck, and figure out what can really help you move forward. Together we can better understand how thoughts, emotions, and behaviors connect in ways that often show up through stress, school, relationships, and family dynamics, and how these patterns can shift over time.
Starting therapy can feel uncomfortable, especially when you might be carrying a lot on your own. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, working with children, adolescents, and adults, to create a comfortable space to fully express emotions and explore what’s been going on, understand what’s keeping things stuck, and figure out what can really help you move forward. Together we can better understand how thoughts, emotions, and behaviors connect in ways that often show up through stress, school, relationships, and family dynamics, and how these patterns can shift over time.
(708) 726-3484 View (708) 726-3484
Photo of Larry Walker, Counselor, LCPC
Larry Walker
Counselor, LCPC
Chicago, IL 60618
Hi, I’m Larry. I believe every person has the ability to live the life they truly desire when they’re willing to embrace self‑compassion, honesty, self‑determination, and self‑appreciation. The life you want is often just one choice—and one honest conversation—away. Therapy with me is personal, practical, and real. I use language that makes sense to you, so you can better understand yourself and start making changes that feel authentic and sustainable, not forced or fake. I work best with people who are ready to face their pain and admit, “Something needs to change.” Together, we’ll face it and take it one step at a time.
Hi, I’m Larry. I believe every person has the ability to live the life they truly desire when they’re willing to embrace self‑compassion, honesty, self‑determination, and self‑appreciation. The life you want is often just one choice—and one honest conversation—away. Therapy with me is personal, practical, and real. I use language that makes sense to you, so you can better understand yourself and start making changes that feel authentic and sustainable, not forced or fake. I work best with people who are ready to face their pain and admit, “Something needs to change.” Together, we’ll face it and take it one step at a time.
(872) 339-3388 View (872) 339-3388
Photo of Michelle Thornton, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CYT
Michelle Thornton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CYT
Chicago, IL 60614
Seeking support is a deeply empowering act and I am here to help you on your healing journey. I believe that by working with the mind and the body, powerful connection and growth can occur. Have your worries impacted your ability to feel good in your body? Are you struggling in your relationships? Do you desire to learn new ways to engage with life’s complexities? By understanding the roots of our pain and distress, we can improve current circumstances and cultivate deeper fulfillment.
Seeking support is a deeply empowering act and I am here to help you on your healing journey. I believe that by working with the mind and the body, powerful connection and growth can occur. Have your worries impacted your ability to feel good in your body? Are you struggling in your relationships? Do you desire to learn new ways to engage with life’s complexities? By understanding the roots of our pain and distress, we can improve current circumstances and cultivate deeper fulfillment.
(872) 274-4018 View (872) 274-4018
Photo of Aimee Fizor, Counselor, LCPC
Aimee Fizor
Counselor, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
The world will keep moving but you are here for a reason. Seeking support for yourself despite the harsh realities of the world around us is a brave first step towards stability and calm. It is my goal to help you achieve that feeling of consistent safety and learn how to move through life as a gentler more resilient version of yourself. I specialize in improving the management of chronic stress, calming anxious overworked minds, and reducing unexplained shifts in mood or sadness. I am passionate about helping others find their voice, communicate more openly, navigate life transitions, and find healing from loss or trauma.
The world will keep moving but you are here for a reason. Seeking support for yourself despite the harsh realities of the world around us is a brave first step towards stability and calm. It is my goal to help you achieve that feeling of consistent safety and learn how to move through life as a gentler more resilient version of yourself. I specialize in improving the management of chronic stress, calming anxious overworked minds, and reducing unexplained shifts in mood or sadness. I am passionate about helping others find their voice, communicate more openly, navigate life transitions, and find healing from loss or trauma.
(872) 529-3248 View (872) 529-3248
Photo of Katherine Dowen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Katherine Dowen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chicago, IL 60642
I’ve always had a passion for helping others, which led me to pursue a career in social work. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds to work toward their personal goals. My approach to therapy is person-centered and strength-based. I believe in meeting people where they are and empowering them to move forward at their own pace. By building on each individual’s strengths, I strive to create a supportive space for growth, healing, and lasting change.
I’ve always had a passion for helping others, which led me to pursue a career in social work. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds to work toward their personal goals. My approach to therapy is person-centered and strength-based. I believe in meeting people where they are and empowering them to move forward at their own pace. By building on each individual’s strengths, I strive to create a supportive space for growth, healing, and lasting change.
(815) 420-4417 View (815) 420-4417
Photo of Allison Joy Stephens - Peace Through Hope Therapy, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Peace Through Hope Therapy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
If you can change your thoughts, you can change your world. I believe that our day-to-day thoughts directly dictate our emotions and ultimately our decisions and actions. Whether it is childhood trauma, adult anxiety or postpartum depression, we can take captive every self-defeating thought and turn that negative narrative into a powerful and hopeful future. Regaining control over our thoughts and actions can provide such lasting peace and happiness. My focus is to thoroughly get to know my patients, by listening to and trying my best to understand their unique experiences, while working collaboratively toward agreed upon goals.
If you can change your thoughts, you can change your world. I believe that our day-to-day thoughts directly dictate our emotions and ultimately our decisions and actions. Whether it is childhood trauma, adult anxiety or postpartum depression, we can take captive every self-defeating thought and turn that negative narrative into a powerful and hopeful future. Regaining control over our thoughts and actions can provide such lasting peace and happiness. My focus is to thoroughly get to know my patients, by listening to and trying my best to understand their unique experiences, while working collaboratively toward agreed upon goals.
(872) 266-1392 View (872) 266-1392
Photo of Phoebe Caplin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, PEL
Phoebe Caplin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, PEL
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I work with a range of individuals including adults, teens, and children. I have worked with clients with challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, low self-esteem, and gender dysphoria. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community, folks with diagnosed or self-identified Autism/ADHD, and those navigating pregnancy/postpartum. Therapy with me is an affirming space for those in the kink and poly communities. I enjoy working with individuals who wish to deepen their understanding of their identity, are undergoing a life transition, or who want to understand how their past informs their present.
I work with a range of individuals including adults, teens, and children. I have worked with clients with challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, low self-esteem, and gender dysphoria. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community, folks with diagnosed or self-identified Autism/ADHD, and those navigating pregnancy/postpartum. Therapy with me is an affirming space for those in the kink and poly communities. I enjoy working with individuals who wish to deepen their understanding of their identity, are undergoing a life transition, or who want to understand how their past informs their present.
(773) 207-4756 View (773) 207-4756
Photo of Sylvia Johnston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MAM
Sylvia Johnston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MAM
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Therapy is a come as you are space. I empower you to discover yourself, process life's events and to uncover pieces of yourself. I am a client- centered, relational, trauma informed clinician. I approach session with compassion and empathy as clients share their life and offer space for clients to navigate transitions, identity exploration, and healing.
Therapy is a come as you are space. I empower you to discover yourself, process life's events and to uncover pieces of yourself. I am a client- centered, relational, trauma informed clinician. I approach session with compassion and empathy as clients share their life and offer space for clients to navigate transitions, identity exploration, and healing.
(872) 328-4451 View (872) 328-4451
Photo of Kelsey Avera, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kelsey Avera
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
Waitlist for new clients
I aim to create a space that accommodates all of you: your cultural identities, sexuality, gender, or neurodiversity. You may have had a therapist tell you that you’re “too self-aware” for therapy, or that “it seems like you have it all figured out”. And still, you’re dealing with buried trauma, emotions that feel too overwhelming to acknowledge, and wondering if there’s something wrong with you for “not getting it”. I want to meet you where you’re feeling stuck and try something new together. I’m here to build safety to make the hard things a little less hard so you can start moving towards a life that feels authentic to you.
I aim to create a space that accommodates all of you: your cultural identities, sexuality, gender, or neurodiversity. You may have had a therapist tell you that you’re “too self-aware” for therapy, or that “it seems like you have it all figured out”. And still, you’re dealing with buried trauma, emotions that feel too overwhelming to acknowledge, and wondering if there’s something wrong with you for “not getting it”. I want to meet you where you’re feeling stuck and try something new together. I’m here to build safety to make the hard things a little less hard so you can start moving towards a life that feels authentic to you.
(872) 324-2560 x28 View (872) 324-2560 x28
Photo of Nikhaar Surti, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-P
Nikhaar Surti
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-P
1 Endorsed
Online Only
From the outside, you’re functioning, but internally, something feels off. I work with teens and adults navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship stress, and burnout that doesn’t always have a clear name. My approach blends somatic therapy, mindfulness, and creative exploration with evidence-based practices to help you gain clarity, regulate your nervous system, and reconnect with yourself. Therapy with me is thoughtful, collaborative, and tailored. Supporting you in moving beyond coping into a more grounded, aligned way of living.
From the outside, you’re functioning, but internally, something feels off. I work with teens and adults navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship stress, and burnout that doesn’t always have a clear name. My approach blends somatic therapy, mindfulness, and creative exploration with evidence-based practices to help you gain clarity, regulate your nervous system, and reconnect with yourself. Therapy with me is thoughtful, collaborative, and tailored. Supporting you in moving beyond coping into a more grounded, aligned way of living.
(773) 692-9850 View (773) 692-9850

See more therapy options for Chicago

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Chicago, IL

3,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Chicago, IL who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
93% Social Anxiety
93% Health Anxiety
93% Driving Anxiety
87% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
74% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

93% BlueCross and BlueShield
77% Aetna
52% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Chicago, IL see their clients

58% In Person and Online
42% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
19% Male
4% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Chicago?

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.