Therapists in West Humboldt Park, Chicago, IL

Photo of Micaela Noelle Bates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Micaela Noelle Bates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Congratulations on taking the difficult, but brave, step to research options for support! I am here to act as a GPS on your journey to self actualization - whether you currently find yourself in the packing stage, are determining your destination, or you're looking to discover "how did I end up here?' My passion and my training work to aid you in defining your truths and walking boldly in them. Wellness is achieved when you can look at your worn-out shoes and esteem them for getting you this far instead of forever cursing the road that damaged them. Be well.
Congratulations on taking the difficult, but brave, step to research options for support! I am here to act as a GPS on your journey to self actualization - whether you currently find yourself in the packing stage, are determining your destination, or you're looking to discover "how did I end up here?' My passion and my training work to aid you in defining your truths and walking boldly in them. Wellness is achieved when you can look at your worn-out shoes and esteem them for getting you this far instead of forever cursing the road that damaged them. Be well.
(708) 377-9663 View (708) 377-9663
Photo of Carla Hernandez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Carla Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in supporting adults living with anxiety, depression, trauma, and big life transitions who are ready to make meaningful, sustainable changes. As a first-generation Latina and Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I understand how culture, family expectations, and identity can shape your stress, relationships, and sense of self. In our work together—whether in English or Spanish, you’ll have a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore your story, connect patterns, and move toward the life you want.
I specialize in supporting adults living with anxiety, depression, trauma, and big life transitions who are ready to make meaningful, sustainable changes. As a first-generation Latina and Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I understand how culture, family expectations, and identity can shape your stress, relationships, and sense of self. In our work together—whether in English or Spanish, you’ll have a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore your story, connect patterns, and move toward the life you want.
(773) 801-7510 View (773) 801-7510
Photo of Kres Ashford, Counselor, PsyD, LCPC, CST
Kres Ashford
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC, CST
Serves Area
Essentially my goal as a culturally aware LCPC and AASECT certified sex therapist is to help people navigate their relationships with themselves, others, and their identity. I want clients to be able to see themselves in me and feel understood by someone who can relate. I have 18 years experience with LGBTQIA+ issues, individuals & couples. As a Lesbian Woman, the issues of the community are of great concern to me. I am a proud Kink, BDSM, polyamory affirming Psychotherapist. I bring a honest and open approach to therapy while helping you find hope. I truly work to meet you where you are and create a space where you are safe.
Essentially my goal as a culturally aware LCPC and AASECT certified sex therapist is to help people navigate their relationships with themselves, others, and their identity. I want clients to be able to see themselves in me and feel understood by someone who can relate. I have 18 years experience with LGBTQIA+ issues, individuals & couples. As a Lesbian Woman, the issues of the community are of great concern to me. I am a proud Kink, BDSM, polyamory affirming Psychotherapist. I bring a honest and open approach to therapy while helping you find hope. I truly work to meet you where you are and create a space where you are safe.
(773) 825-3978 View (773) 825-3978
Photo of Lucretia Mayer, Counselor, MA, LCPC
Lucretia Mayer
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Serves Area
Lucretia Mayer is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has been practicing since 2015. Lucretia is uniquely skilled in working with professionals like caregivers, medical professionals, social workers, and counselors, focusing on managing career and emotional burnout, which is increasingly relevant in today’s high-stress work/living environments. Her approach is characterized by a deep sense of empathy, respect, sensitivity, and compassion, emphasizing the importance of a supportive and understanding therapeutic relationship.
Lucretia Mayer is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has been practicing since 2015. Lucretia is uniquely skilled in working with professionals like caregivers, medical professionals, social workers, and counselors, focusing on managing career and emotional burnout, which is increasingly relevant in today’s high-stress work/living environments. Her approach is characterized by a deep sense of empathy, respect, sensitivity, and compassion, emphasizing the importance of a supportive and understanding therapeutic relationship.
(708) 554-4293 View (708) 554-4293
Photo of Ian Christensen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Ian Christensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Serves Area
Ian brings particular expertise in supporting individuals dealing with substance use concerns, trauma and PTSD, and mood disorders such as bipolar disorder. His work is guided by the belief that every person’s story matters and that therapy can be a transformative space for growth and healing. By tailoring his interventions to each patient’s needs, Ian helps clients strengthen coping skills, improve relationships, and move toward healthier, more balanced lives. He is especially passionate about supporting patients managing alcohol and drug use issues.
Ian brings particular expertise in supporting individuals dealing with substance use concerns, trauma and PTSD, and mood disorders such as bipolar disorder. His work is guided by the belief that every person’s story matters and that therapy can be a transformative space for growth and healing. By tailoring his interventions to each patient’s needs, Ian helps clients strengthen coping skills, improve relationships, and move toward healthier, more balanced lives. He is especially passionate about supporting patients managing alcohol and drug use issues.
(773) 345-9014 View (773) 345-9014
Photo of Donesha Collier, Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Donesha Collier
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life sometimes has a way of getting the best of you. Your thoughts and emotions can sometimes feel so negative and overwhelming that you have difficulty seeing the positives in life. Maybe you are struggling with understanding yourself? Maybe you are struggling with setting goals and boundaries or realizing your values and self worth? Maybe you are struggling in your dating life or in your family?
Life sometimes has a way of getting the best of you. Your thoughts and emotions can sometimes feel so negative and overwhelming that you have difficulty seeing the positives in life. Maybe you are struggling with understanding yourself? Maybe you are struggling with setting goals and boundaries or realizing your values and self worth? Maybe you are struggling in your dating life or in your family?
(217) 987-8580 View (217) 987-8580
Photo of Laura A Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Laura A Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
When Life Feels Too Heavy to Carry Alone. You wake up exhausted before the day even begins. The weight of expectations presses down like a familiar burden you've carried for years. As a first-generation Latina, I understand the complex dance of honoring where you come from while creating who you're becoming. I specialize in walking alongside teens and young adults who are processing difficult emotions and healing from trauma
When Life Feels Too Heavy to Carry Alone. You wake up exhausted before the day even begins. The weight of expectations presses down like a familiar burden you've carried for years. As a first-generation Latina, I understand the complex dance of honoring where you come from while creating who you're becoming. I specialize in walking alongside teens and young adults who are processing difficult emotions and healing from trauma
(312) 997-5429 View (312) 997-5429
Photo of Sheila Harris-Fitzpatrick, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, DCC, PhD
Sheila Harris-Fitzpatrick
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, DCC, PhD
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
ONLINE COUNSELING AVAILABLE! Get counseling without going out. I specialized in remote online counseling. I have immediate openings for daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. My passion is working with individuals relating to grief and other life transitions; which include, employment exit strategies, career decisions while identifying gifts and talents, finding your life calling and coaching through life altering events. I am a excellent couples counselor and whether you are preparing for marriage or married, I can help you become better communicators and partners for life.
ONLINE COUNSELING AVAILABLE! Get counseling without going out. I specialized in remote online counseling. I have immediate openings for daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. My passion is working with individuals relating to grief and other life transitions; which include, employment exit strategies, career decisions while identifying gifts and talents, finding your life calling and coaching through life altering events. I am a excellent couples counselor and whether you are preparing for marriage or married, I can help you become better communicators and partners for life.
(630) 491-4239 View (630) 491-4239
Photo of Afsha Merchant, Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Afsha Merchant
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Navigating relationships can feel confusing. You may give more than you receive or feel unseen in your connections. I help individuals and couples (18+) build healthier relationship patterns, communicate effectively, and reconnect with themselves and each other. Using CBT, DBT, the Gottman Method, and Somatic Therapy, we explore emotional and relational dynamics to create balance, confidence, and authenticity. Who you are matters. What you want matters. Healing starts with understanding yourself and feeling truly seen.
Navigating relationships can feel confusing. You may give more than you receive or feel unseen in your connections. I help individuals and couples (18+) build healthier relationship patterns, communicate effectively, and reconnect with themselves and each other. Using CBT, DBT, the Gottman Method, and Somatic Therapy, we explore emotional and relational dynamics to create balance, confidence, and authenticity. Who you are matters. What you want matters. Healing starts with understanding yourself and feeling truly seen.
(773) 869-7144 View (773) 869-7144
Photo of Rashad Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Rashad Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I help people better understand who they are, where they are stuck and how they can move forward in a healthy way. Anxiety, depression, grief, career counseling, and emotional regulation are just a few of the issues I work with often. As a former athlete, I also work with many athletes whether it be performance pressures or figuring what your plans are when you retire. I have experienced lots of wins, failures, and know firsthand how challenging being an athlete is.
I help people better understand who they are, where they are stuck and how they can move forward in a healthy way. Anxiety, depression, grief, career counseling, and emotional regulation are just a few of the issues I work with often. As a former athlete, I also work with many athletes whether it be performance pressures or figuring what your plans are when you retire. I have experienced lots of wins, failures, and know firsthand how challenging being an athlete is.
(872) 246-7905 View (872) 246-7905
Photo of Grace O'Malley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Grace O'Malley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Serves Area
Grace is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 9 years of experience specializing in Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Grief/Loss, ADHD, and Life Transitions/Adjustments. Grace has extensive experience counseling individuals, across the lifespan, including couples, families, and groups, in both clinical and outpatient settings.Grace is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 9 years of experience specializing in Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Grief/Loss, ADHD, and Life Transitions/Adjustments. Grace has extensive experience counseling individuals, across the lifespan,
Grace is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 9 years of experience specializing in Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Grief/Loss, ADHD, and Life Transitions/Adjustments. Grace has extensive experience counseling individuals, across the lifespan, including couples, families, and groups, in both clinical and outpatient settings.Grace is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 9 years of experience specializing in Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Grief/Loss, ADHD, and Life Transitions/Adjustments. Grace has extensive experience counseling individuals, across the lifespan,
(773) 830-6469 View (773) 830-6469
Photo of Brittany Rivera, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Brittany Rivera
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, and welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. Taking the step to seek therapy is brave, and you don’t have to face life’s challenges alone. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, or life transitions, I’m here to provide a safe, supportive space where you feel understood. My goal is to meet you where you are, understand your unique experiences, and help you gain clarity, develop tools, and create meaningful growth. You deserve to feel supported and empowered, and I’d love to walk alongside you on this journey. Let’s work together to help you thrive.
Hi, and welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. Taking the step to seek therapy is brave, and you don’t have to face life’s challenges alone. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, or life transitions, I’m here to provide a safe, supportive space where you feel understood. My goal is to meet you where you are, understand your unique experiences, and help you gain clarity, develop tools, and create meaningful growth. You deserve to feel supported and empowered, and I’d love to walk alongside you on this journey. Let’s work together to help you thrive.
(872) 327-6073 View (872) 327-6073
Photo of Nicholas Leth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Nicholas Leth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Serves Area
Nicholas Leth, LCSW, helps children, adolescents, teens, adults, and seniors across Illinois navigate emotional challenges with clarity and confidence through individual and family therapy at LifeStance Health. He provides structured, compassionate mental health treatment tailored to each stage of life, supporting clients in building insight, strengthening coping skills, and creating meaningful, sustainable change. Nicholas specializes in ADHD, anxiety, and PTSD/trauma, while also treating concerns such as depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, substance use issues, and major life transitions.
Nicholas Leth, LCSW, helps children, adolescents, teens, adults, and seniors across Illinois navigate emotional challenges with clarity and confidence through individual and family therapy at LifeStance Health. He provides structured, compassionate mental health treatment tailored to each stage of life, supporting clients in building insight, strengthening coping skills, and creating meaningful, sustainable change. Nicholas specializes in ADHD, anxiety, and PTSD/trauma, while also treating concerns such as depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, substance use issues, and major life transitions.
(708) 766-7721 View (708) 766-7721
Photo of Leigh Hare, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Leigh Hare
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Leigh is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a robust educational background and hands-on training. Before private practice Leigh worked in Refugee resettlement and community mental health providing multicultural care to their clients. Those experiences contributed to their deep commitment to supporting folks journey of growth and healing with a focus on their individuality and how environment and culture shape us and our struggles. Often incorporating humor and a playful attitude to build rapport, Leigh fosters a safe and nurturing environment for therapeutic work.
Leigh is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a robust educational background and hands-on training. Before private practice Leigh worked in Refugee resettlement and community mental health providing multicultural care to their clients. Those experiences contributed to their deep commitment to supporting folks journey of growth and healing with a focus on their individuality and how environment and culture shape us and our struggles. Often incorporating humor and a playful attitude to build rapport, Leigh fosters a safe and nurturing environment for therapeutic work.
(847) 744-9846 View (847) 744-9846
Photo of Rachel Hagfors, Counselor, LCPC, CCATP
Rachel Hagfors
Counselor, LCPC, CCATP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with folks experiencing a variety of issues, including anxiety, OCD, major life transitions, and relationship issues (romantic, peer, and family). I have a particular interest in supporting new parents and those experiencing family planning and adjustment challenges. I also enjoy working with client's who identify as having perfectionistic tendencies and those who are looking to establish healthy boundaries in their life and looking to increase their level of self-understanding. I will work to understand your unique goals, your strengths, your values, your relationships, and your thought patterns.
I work with folks experiencing a variety of issues, including anxiety, OCD, major life transitions, and relationship issues (romantic, peer, and family). I have a particular interest in supporting new parents and those experiencing family planning and adjustment challenges. I also enjoy working with client's who identify as having perfectionistic tendencies and those who are looking to establish healthy boundaries in their life and looking to increase their level of self-understanding. I will work to understand your unique goals, your strengths, your values, your relationships, and your thought patterns.
(773) 825-8765 View (773) 825-8765
Photo of Sanna Stella, Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CTP
Sanna Stella
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CTP
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you struggling with ruminating over the same past events over and over again? Are you struggling with guilt and regrets? Do you wish you could go back and make different choices; wish you had known earlier what you only learned or realized when it was too late? Do you wish you could tell someone how you really feel about them or what happened, but they are either not here anymore or you don't know how to have that kind of conversation? How to make amends, tell someone how you feel/felt, and repair relationships with your adult kids, siblings, family, friends, people who have passed away already?
Are you struggling with ruminating over the same past events over and over again? Are you struggling with guilt and regrets? Do you wish you could go back and make different choices; wish you had known earlier what you only learned or realized when it was too late? Do you wish you could tell someone how you really feel about them or what happened, but they are either not here anymore or you don't know how to have that kind of conversation? How to make amends, tell someone how you feel/felt, and repair relationships with your adult kids, siblings, family, friends, people who have passed away already?
(630) 521-3835 View (630) 521-3835
Photo of Diana Cazares, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Diana Cazares
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Welcome! I'm Diana, a first-generation Latina therapist dedicated to guiding individuals on their unique journey to self-discovery and growth. With a culturally informed and trauma-sensitive approach, I empower clients to reclaim their voices and navigate life's challenges with resilience and strength.
Welcome! I'm Diana, a first-generation Latina therapist dedicated to guiding individuals on their unique journey to self-discovery and growth. With a culturally informed and trauma-sensitive approach, I empower clients to reclaim their voices and navigate life's challenges with resilience and strength.
(312) 728-3755 View (312) 728-3755
Photo of Elizabeth Avalos, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT
Elizabeth Avalos
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT
Serves Area
Elizabeth Avalos, ALMFT, helps children, teens, adults, couples, and families across Illinois navigate emotional challenges, strengthen relationships, and build healthier patterns of communication. As a therapist with LifeStance Health, she offers a warm, grounded presence and a collaborative approach that supports clients working through anxiety, depression, trauma, and family or relational strain. Elizabeth works with a wide range of ages—from children and adolescents through older adults—providing individualized care to meet the diverse needs of the communities she serves throughout Illinois.
Elizabeth Avalos, ALMFT, helps children, teens, adults, couples, and families across Illinois navigate emotional challenges, strengthen relationships, and build healthier patterns of communication. As a therapist with LifeStance Health, she offers a warm, grounded presence and a collaborative approach that supports clients working through anxiety, depression, trauma, and family or relational strain. Elizabeth works with a wide range of ages—from children and adolescents through older adults—providing individualized care to meet the diverse needs of the communities she serves throughout Illinois.
(773) 906-7454 View (773) 906-7454
Photo of La Juan Baines, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MEd
La Juan Baines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MEd
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a licensed clinical social worker who works from a client centered lens. I work with diverse populations ages 12 - 65 years of age. My therapeutic approach is rooted in an integrative framework, with a strong foundation in psychodynamic therapy.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who works from a client centered lens. I work with diverse populations ages 12 - 65 years of age. My therapeutic approach is rooted in an integrative framework, with a strong foundation in psychodynamic therapy.
(331) 258-3594 View (331) 258-3594
Photo of Tracy Springate, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Tracy Springate
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Serves Area
I believe that you are not broken because you’re not a person that needs to be fixed in the first place. You only needed to be respected and understood. I uphold that a nervous system implies the existence of a loving system. People often think I’m helping them overcome anguish when really I’m helping them experience how to love again despite their pain. Some days we will talk, vibe, and think out loud. Which is great! On other days we will establish what being “done” with therapy looks like and how you want to get there. My usual clientele include adults, couples, male, female, non-binary, weirdos, normies, lovers, and haters.
I believe that you are not broken because you’re not a person that needs to be fixed in the first place. You only needed to be respected and understood. I uphold that a nervous system implies the existence of a loving system. People often think I’m helping them overcome anguish when really I’m helping them experience how to love again despite their pain. Some days we will talk, vibe, and think out loud. Which is great! On other days we will establish what being “done” with therapy looks like and how you want to get there. My usual clientele include adults, couples, male, female, non-binary, weirdos, normies, lovers, and haters.
(872) 253-6186 View (872) 253-6186

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in West Humboldt Park, Chicago, IL

60+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in West Humboldt Park, Chicago, IL who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
93% Depression
82% Trauma and PTSD
74% Grief
72% Relationship Issues
65% Stress
60% Self Esteem

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

96% BlueCross and BlueShield
90% Aetna
73% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in West Humboldt Park, Chicago, IL see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
20% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in West Humboldt Park, 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.