Therapists in Colchester, VT

Photo of The Vermont Center for Responder Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colchester, VT
The Vermont Center for Responder Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colchester, VT 05446
The Vermont Center for Responder Wellness specializes in treating first responders and their families. The Center also employs relational trauma experts serving survivors of sexual violence, domestic violence, and human trafficking. We work with clients on issues of post-traumatic stress, relationships, stress at work and at home, and overall mental health and wellbeing using a mixed format of modalities from Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), restorative yoga, mindfulness and meditation coaching and biofeedback. We also specialize in workman's compensation issues for first responders.
The Vermont Center for Responder Wellness specializes in treating first responders and their families. The Center also employs relational trauma experts serving survivors of sexual violence, domestic violence, and human trafficking. We work with clients on issues of post-traumatic stress, relationships, stress at work and at home, and overall mental health and wellbeing using a mixed format of modalities from Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), restorative yoga, mindfulness and meditation coaching and biofeedback. We also specialize in workman's compensation issues for first responders.
(802) 357-7513 View (802) 357-7513
Photo of Nicole Rocheleau, Pre-Licensed Professional in Colchester, VT
Nicole Rocheleau
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Colchester, VT 05446
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! For some, entering therapy occurs upon recognizing behavioral patterns that are consciously maladaptive, yet difficult to improve. In our work, you can expect treatment to be tailored according to your presenting concerns, personal history, attachment style, core values, and long-term goals. In session, clients can begin to analyze self-states, such as: What is this bodily sensation pushing for me to do? Is it serving me in any way? How is this emotion leading to self-sabotaging behavior? Is there a way to convey my needs that is more effective? What successes can I celebrate...?
Welcome! For some, entering therapy occurs upon recognizing behavioral patterns that are consciously maladaptive, yet difficult to improve. In our work, you can expect treatment to be tailored according to your presenting concerns, personal history, attachment style, core values, and long-term goals. In session, clients can begin to analyze self-states, such as: What is this bodily sensation pushing for me to do? Is it serving me in any way? How is this emotion leading to self-sabotaging behavior? Is there a way to convey my needs that is more effective? What successes can I celebrate...?
(802) 278-0366 View (802) 278-0366
Photo of Sharon Michener, Counselor in Colchester, VT
Sharon Michener
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colchester, VT 05446  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
We each possess an innate wisdom, and we all lose our way from time to time. I help clients to find and listen to their intuition and access their own personal guidance to be happier and reach their goals. I have a warm client centered and spiritual approach. As a psychodynamic, body centered psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience my hope is to help clients find the courage and the resources to make changes to feel more alive and fulfilled. I also offer life coaching, internal family systems and energy medicine.
We each possess an innate wisdom, and we all lose our way from time to time. I help clients to find and listen to their intuition and access their own personal guidance to be happier and reach their goals. I have a warm client centered and spiritual approach. As a psychodynamic, body centered psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience my hope is to help clients find the courage and the resources to make changes to feel more alive and fulfilled. I also offer life coaching, internal family systems and energy medicine.
(802) 321-0976 View (802) 321-0976
Photo of Allyson Murdock, Marriage & Family Therapist in Colchester, VT
Allyson Murdock
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Colchester, VT 05446
Not accepting new clients
NO availability or waitlist at this time! Oftentimes clients come to therapy stuck in patterns that are not serving them well, and they do not understand how they ended up where they are. My goal in working with clients is to help them know, understand, and have compassion for themselves, and in the case of couples and families, for each other as well. I provide a safe and nurturing environment where clients are free to express their thoughts and feelings, and I work to help them make sense of it all. My goal is to meet clients where they are, and give them the tools to get to where they want to be emotionally and psychologically.
NO availability or waitlist at this time! Oftentimes clients come to therapy stuck in patterns that are not serving them well, and they do not understand how they ended up where they are. My goal in working with clients is to help them know, understand, and have compassion for themselves, and in the case of couples and families, for each other as well. I provide a safe and nurturing environment where clients are free to express their thoughts and feelings, and I work to help them make sense of it all. My goal is to meet clients where they are, and give them the tools to get to where they want to be emotionally and psychologically.
(802) 278-6592 View (802) 278-6592
Photo of Michael C. Bergeron, Counselor in Colchester, VT
Michael C. Bergeron
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Colchester, VT 05446
Waitlist for new clients
I have been supporting folks of all ages for over 14 years across a variety of outpatient, residential, and private settings. I find that many mental health challenges are rooted in adverse experiences and focus my therapy sessions with a trauma-informed lens. Utilizing a strong therapeutic relationship, my work is based in psychodynamic and existential theories which allow my clients to connect their pasts to the present, and cultivate a more intentional future.
I have been supporting folks of all ages for over 14 years across a variety of outpatient, residential, and private settings. I find that many mental health challenges are rooted in adverse experiences and focus my therapy sessions with a trauma-informed lens. Utilizing a strong therapeutic relationship, my work is based in psychodynamic and existential theories which allow my clients to connect their pasts to the present, and cultivate a more intentional future.
(802) 560-4340 View (802) 560-4340
Photo of Lauren Schnepf, Pre-Licensed Professional in Colchester, VT
Lauren Schnepf
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colchester, VT 05446
Not accepting new clients
Please email me to contact. I will not return phone calls. Welcome! I aim to create an accepting, accommodating, and safe environment where we can collaborate to work towards your goals and overcome your challenges. I have a background working with LGBTQ+ folks, clients who are insecurely housed, and clients with mood and anxiety disorders. My focus is on work with clients facing ADHD, identity development issues, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I focus on balancing things we need to change in our lives with things we need to accept, and I incorporate teaching concrete skills into all my work.
Please email me to contact. I will not return phone calls. Welcome! I aim to create an accepting, accommodating, and safe environment where we can collaborate to work towards your goals and overcome your challenges. I have a background working with LGBTQ+ folks, clients who are insecurely housed, and clients with mood and anxiety disorders. My focus is on work with clients facing ADHD, identity development issues, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I focus on balancing things we need to change in our lives with things we need to accept, and I incorporate teaching concrete skills into all my work.
(802) 242-8315 x12 View (802) 242-8315 x12
Photo of Kristi Cornforth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colchester, VT
Kristi Cornforth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colchester, VT 05446  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! You're ready for a worry-free mindset, and you know it's time for 1:1 support. The problem is anxiety has you barely keeping your head above water, and you feel powerless even to take action. I understand the struggle.
Accepting New Clients! You're ready for a worry-free mindset, and you know it's time for 1:1 support. The problem is anxiety has you barely keeping your head above water, and you feel powerless even to take action. I understand the struggle.
(802) 992-8532 View (802) 992-8532
Photo of Alexis Pless, Pre-Licensed Professional in Colchester, VT
Alexis Pless
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
Colchester, VT 05446
Currently scheduling intake sessions for late April and May. I ground my work in a Relational-Cultural and Feminist perspective, in which a collaborative therapeutic relationship is integral to supporting you in recognizing, establishing, and reaching personally meaningful goals. I work primarily with adults working through relationship and communication struggles, identity development, depression, and anxiety. Through creating a stable and grounded therapeutic relationship to each other, we will explore the ways in which maladaptive relational patterns and beliefs impact your current ability to live the life you want and deserve.
Currently scheduling intake sessions for late April and May. I ground my work in a Relational-Cultural and Feminist perspective, in which a collaborative therapeutic relationship is integral to supporting you in recognizing, establishing, and reaching personally meaningful goals. I work primarily with adults working through relationship and communication struggles, identity development, depression, and anxiety. Through creating a stable and grounded therapeutic relationship to each other, we will explore the ways in which maladaptive relational patterns and beliefs impact your current ability to live the life you want and deserve.
(802) 210-3981 View (802) 210-3981
Photo of Mark Lucas, Registered Psychotherapist in Colchester, VT
Mark Lucas
Registered Psychotherapist, CMHC
Verified Verified
Colchester, VT 05446
I'm excited and ready to help all those willing to help themselves as we all have the power within us to change and reach our goals. After 30 years of working as a Vermont State Trooper, I have a firm understanding of a variety of challenges life throws our way. I have helped folks navigate through grief and loss, stressful family situations, battles with substance abuse, relationship conflicts, and a plethora of other unique challenges that Vermonters face. At the core of my work is a belief that with proper communication, and belief in others, any obstacle can be overcome. I look forward to hearing from you.
I'm excited and ready to help all those willing to help themselves as we all have the power within us to change and reach our goals. After 30 years of working as a Vermont State Trooper, I have a firm understanding of a variety of challenges life throws our way. I have helped folks navigate through grief and loss, stressful family situations, battles with substance abuse, relationship conflicts, and a plethora of other unique challenges that Vermonters face. At the core of my work is a belief that with proper communication, and belief in others, any obstacle can be overcome. I look forward to hearing from you.
(802) 494-4904 View (802) 494-4904
Photo of Nicholas T Hunter PLC, Psychologist in Colchester, VT
Nicholas T Hunter PLC
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Colchester, VT 05446
Not accepting new clients
Have you been so overwhelmed you can't seem to find the energy to move? Are you too anxious to take the next step, or are you frustrated that you are getting upset over trivial things? Do your interactions with other people bring new struggles and pain? It's not ridiculous that you are responding to life’s challenges in a particular way. You are not a bad parent or partner. You are dealing with situations that have become a roadblock to your happiness. Deep down, we are meant to be happy, and too much daily stress can drain us of contentment and joy.
Have you been so overwhelmed you can't seem to find the energy to move? Are you too anxious to take the next step, or are you frustrated that you are getting upset over trivial things? Do your interactions with other people bring new struggles and pain? It's not ridiculous that you are responding to life’s challenges in a particular way. You are not a bad parent or partner. You are dealing with situations that have become a roadblock to your happiness. Deep down, we are meant to be happy, and too much daily stress can drain us of contentment and joy.
(802) 448-8444 x111 View (802) 448-8444 x111
Photo of Ashley Demers, Psychologist in Colchester, VT
Ashley Demers
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Colchester, VT 05446  (Online Only)
I believe that all people have a past that has contributed to the unique being that they are today, and that each of us have the ability to make positive change and live meaningful lives. My goal is to provide a safe, caring environment that allows for collaboration and growth towards the goals of my client. I enjoy working with, teens, and adults, in the areas of depression, anxiety, marital stress, prenatal/maternal challenges, and military related stressors.
I believe that all people have a past that has contributed to the unique being that they are today, and that each of us have the ability to make positive change and live meaningful lives. My goal is to provide a safe, caring environment that allows for collaboration and growth towards the goals of my client. I enjoy working with, teens, and adults, in the areas of depression, anxiety, marital stress, prenatal/maternal challenges, and military related stressors.
(802) 444-8456 View (802) 444-8456
Photo of Venessa Luck, Psychologist in Colchester, VT
Venessa Luck
Psychologist, MA, PLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Colchester, VT 05446
Waitlist for new clients
I offer confidential psychotherapy working with individuals to help alleviate suffering, process trauma, work through relational discord, and navigate life transitions. This is possible through a collaboration of dialogue between therapist and client, in which we work together to find clarity, process emotions, explore past experiences, and discuss relational patterns. When given the opportunity to bring these themes forward in a trusting space, one can find a deeper connection to self and others.
I offer confidential psychotherapy working with individuals to help alleviate suffering, process trauma, work through relational discord, and navigate life transitions. This is possible through a collaboration of dialogue between therapist and client, in which we work together to find clarity, process emotions, explore past experiences, and discuss relational patterns. When given the opportunity to bring these themes forward in a trusting space, one can find a deeper connection to self and others.
(802) 210-3573 View (802) 210-3573
Photo of Kate McKernan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Colchester, VT
Kate McKernan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colchester, VT 05446
Not accepting new clients
I believe that healing is within reach, regardless of the complexities of symptoms and intensity of past experiences. I work with people affected by stress, anxiety, depression, compulsive behaviors, intrusive thoughts, chronic pain, anger, and grief. My experience in various trauma treatment modalities prepares me to work with those who have survived single event traumatic incidents, as well as chronic traumas like intimate partner violence, childhood abuse and neglect, racism, financial instability, and prejudice.
I believe that healing is within reach, regardless of the complexities of symptoms and intensity of past experiences. I work with people affected by stress, anxiety, depression, compulsive behaviors, intrusive thoughts, chronic pain, anger, and grief. My experience in various trauma treatment modalities prepares me to work with those who have survived single event traumatic incidents, as well as chronic traumas like intimate partner violence, childhood abuse and neglect, racism, financial instability, and prejudice.
(802) 988-6430 View (802) 988-6430
Photo of Kristin C. Sopronyi, Psychologist in Colchester, VT
Kristin C. Sopronyi
Psychologist, MS, Lic-Psy
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Colchester, VT 05446
Not accepting new clients
xxxxxx I am not currently accepting new clients. Thank you! xxxxxx Making the choice to start therapy is a very personal and sometimes intimidating process. I want to make support accessible and meaningful for you. I believe you have the capacity for growth and improvement, no matter your history or current concerns. My goal is to build a partnership with you as you work to explore your experience and move within the world in a healthier, more fulfilling way.
xxxxxx I am not currently accepting new clients. Thank you! xxxxxx Making the choice to start therapy is a very personal and sometimes intimidating process. I want to make support accessible and meaningful for you. I believe you have the capacity for growth and improvement, no matter your history or current concerns. My goal is to build a partnership with you as you work to explore your experience and move within the world in a healthier, more fulfilling way.
(802) 851-5562 x104 View (802) 851-5562 x104
Photo of Karry Andileigh, Pre-Licensed Professional in Colchester, VT
Karry Andileigh
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Colchester, VT 05446
My mission is to offer individuals a safe environment to create, establish and navigate their emotions by offering a variety of therapeutic techniques. I see myself as a guide along the path to your journey of self healing. Through establishing a therapeutic approach together, the goal is to guide you to identify and experience your voice. My treatment style is both educational and theory-based.
My mission is to offer individuals a safe environment to create, establish and navigate their emotions by offering a variety of therapeutic techniques. I see myself as a guide along the path to your journey of self healing. Through establishing a therapeutic approach together, the goal is to guide you to identify and experience your voice. My treatment style is both educational and theory-based.
(802) 278-9448 View (802) 278-9448
Photo of Vera Mikhailova, Counselor in Colchester, VT
Vera Mikhailova
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Colchester, VT 05446
I am a fully-licensed in VT, and as a telehealth provider in FL, I am here to help and support you. Each experience is unique and significant. I work collaboratively with every client to determine individual needs and to provide the best care possible. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where issues, problems, thoughts, and feelings can be discussed without fear of judgment. I am a person-centered counselor with a warm and compassionate style. I believe in treating others with respect and dignity. It is important to me that my clients feel understood, appreciated and their feelings are validated.
I am a fully-licensed in VT, and as a telehealth provider in FL, I am here to help and support you. Each experience is unique and significant. I work collaboratively with every client to determine individual needs and to provide the best care possible. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where issues, problems, thoughts, and feelings can be discussed without fear of judgment. I am a person-centered counselor with a warm and compassionate style. I believe in treating others with respect and dignity. It is important to me that my clients feel understood, appreciated and their feelings are validated.
(802) 494-4476 View (802) 494-4476
Photo of Ruth Chavez, Pre-Licensed Professional in Colchester, VT
Ruth Chavez
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colchester, VT 05446
Howdy and welcome to my page! I am a graduate level psychotherapist looking to work with a variety of individuals from a range of backgrounds. Especially those who are in the LGBTQIA+ community and People of Color. I have experience working with people with depression, anxiety, PTSD, CPTSD, ADHD, and OCD.
Howdy and welcome to my page! I am a graduate level psychotherapist looking to work with a variety of individuals from a range of backgrounds. Especially those who are in the LGBTQIA+ community and People of Color. I have experience working with people with depression, anxiety, PTSD, CPTSD, ADHD, and OCD.
(802) 441-6760 x17 View (802) 441-6760 x17
Photo of Tessa Neubauer, Pre-Licensed Professional in Colchester, VT
Tessa Neubauer
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Colchester, VT 05446
I'm interested in working with adults experiencing a wide range of life’s obstacles, including experiencing anxiety, depression, family and/or relationship struggles. I have a special interest in incorporating accessible mental health counseling practices tailored towards a neurodiverse population. I have a passion for supporting individuals through body image struggles, with a background in intuitive eating practices. Additionally, I approach my work using a trauma lens, centering social justice and advocacy in my work with individuals.
I'm interested in working with adults experiencing a wide range of life’s obstacles, including experiencing anxiety, depression, family and/or relationship struggles. I have a special interest in incorporating accessible mental health counseling practices tailored towards a neurodiverse population. I have a passion for supporting individuals through body image struggles, with a background in intuitive eating practices. Additionally, I approach my work using a trauma lens, centering social justice and advocacy in my work with individuals.
(802) 723-2488 x14 View (802) 723-2488 x14
Photo of J Heather Fitzpatrick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colchester, VT
J Heather Fitzpatrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Colchester, VT 05446
Not accepting new clients
As a naval spouse of 16 years, and the mother of two children with mental health and developmental needs, J. Heather Fitzpatrick, LICSW, RPT-S, knows how difficult it can be to cope with adversity. With twenty-two years of clinical experience working with individuals, children and military service members across the range of mental health diagnoses, Heather is compassionate, committed, and well versed in guiding you to achieve your personal goals. Maintaining high esteem towards one’s natural tendency to achieve personal growth, Heather considers the clinical relationship sacrosanct and values a strength based perspective.
As a naval spouse of 16 years, and the mother of two children with mental health and developmental needs, J. Heather Fitzpatrick, LICSW, RPT-S, knows how difficult it can be to cope with adversity. With twenty-two years of clinical experience working with individuals, children and military service members across the range of mental health diagnoses, Heather is compassionate, committed, and well versed in guiding you to achieve your personal goals. Maintaining high esteem towards one’s natural tendency to achieve personal growth, Heather considers the clinical relationship sacrosanct and values a strength based perspective.
(802) 441-7128 View (802) 441-7128
Photo of Robert J. Narucki Licensed Psychologist-Master, Psychologist in Colchester, VT
Robert J. Narucki Licensed Psychologist-Master
Psychologist, MA, Psychol
Verified Verified
Colchester, VT 05446
I offer therapy services for children, adolescents, adults, and families. Developing a dialogue between therapist and client we work together in the relationship to understand, and expand one's understanding of one's personal and life narrative. Meeting the individual at their level is important in the development of a trusting working alliance. My belief in the therapeutic relationship itself plays a pivotal role in the healing process, where my work is founded on trust, empathy, and humor. I offer my commitment to the human journey and look forward to working collaboratively with my clients to renewed understanding, growth, and healing.
I offer therapy services for children, adolescents, adults, and families. Developing a dialogue between therapist and client we work together in the relationship to understand, and expand one's understanding of one's personal and life narrative. Meeting the individual at their level is important in the development of a trusting working alliance. My belief in the therapeutic relationship itself plays a pivotal role in the healing process, where my work is founded on trust, empathy, and humor. I offer my commitment to the human journey and look forward to working collaboratively with my clients to renewed understanding, growth, and healing.
(802) 872-7645 View (802) 872-7645

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Colchester, VT

60+

Average cost per session

$130

Therapists in Colchester, VT who prioritize treating:

97% Anxiety
85% Depression
83% Relationship Issues
83% Self Esteem
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Coping Skills
71% Stress

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% BlueCross and BlueShield
78% Medicaid
67% MVP Health Care

How Therapists in Colchester, VT see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

76% Female
21% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Colchester?

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.