Therapists in Poulsbo, WA

Photo of Tina R Gillespie, Mental Health Counselor in Poulsbo, WA
Tina R Gillespie
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
There are three fundamental qualities essential in our journey to navigate the complexities of human experience: compassion, humor, and realism. My approach is grounded in the belief that everyone deserves to be heard, valued, and supported. I am committed to maintaining a safe, judgment-free environment. I believe in the healing power of laughter, and integrate humor into my work to help individuals cope with adversity and discover their inner strength. I also believe that a grounded sense of realism is important in developing and working toward our goals. We must first recognize who we are so we can become who we want to be.
There are three fundamental qualities essential in our journey to navigate the complexities of human experience: compassion, humor, and realism. My approach is grounded in the belief that everyone deserves to be heard, valued, and supported. I am committed to maintaining a safe, judgment-free environment. I believe in the healing power of laughter, and integrate humor into my work to help individuals cope with adversity and discover their inner strength. I also believe that a grounded sense of realism is important in developing and working toward our goals. We must first recognize who we are so we can become who we want to be.
(360) 585-0117 View (360) 585-0117
Photo of Mallory Burns, Counselor in Poulsbo, WA
Mallory Burns
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
We all experience hardships and circumstances out of our control from time to time. My desire is to help you empower yourself, regain control of your life, and change your mindset so that you can have the most contentment and joy possible. I hope to create a safe place for you to develop your strengths while equipping you for positive change as you navigate the challenges of life. Seeking counseling requires a lot of courage and strength; your step in faith will be met with kindness, genuine care, and understanding.
We all experience hardships and circumstances out of our control from time to time. My desire is to help you empower yourself, regain control of your life, and change your mindset so that you can have the most contentment and joy possible. I hope to create a safe place for you to develop your strengths while equipping you for positive change as you navigate the challenges of life. Seeking counseling requires a lot of courage and strength; your step in faith will be met with kindness, genuine care, and understanding.
(360) 732-8683 View (360) 732-8683
Photo of Holly Hulst, Marriage & Family Therapist in Poulsbo, WA
Holly Hulst
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Even though it may not seem like it, often times our symptoms are messengers from a deep part of our own psyche, sent to inform us that we need to find new ways of relating to ourselves and those around us in order to reach our next level of growth. My philosophy is one of wholeness; our bodies, emotions, thoughts, and background work in unison to inform our present experience. It is my goal to help you find more flexibility within your experience, so that you can move towards the life that you truly want to be living.
Even though it may not seem like it, often times our symptoms are messengers from a deep part of our own psyche, sent to inform us that we need to find new ways of relating to ourselves and those around us in order to reach our next level of growth. My philosophy is one of wholeness; our bodies, emotions, thoughts, and background work in unison to inform our present experience. It is my goal to help you find more flexibility within your experience, so that you can move towards the life that you truly want to be living.
(360) 633-2904 View (360) 633-2904
Photo of Ashley M Kennedy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Poulsbo, WA
Ashley M Kennedy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAA
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
My current focus is teens and adults suffering from Anxiety, Trauma-PTSD, and Relationship Issues. My experience includes, working in the substance use disorder field and extensive training in Human Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation. I have worked with local Indigenous communities and understand the magnitude and impacts of generational trauma. Recently, I worked with high- risk teens in an educational setting.
My current focus is teens and adults suffering from Anxiety, Trauma-PTSD, and Relationship Issues. My experience includes, working in the substance use disorder field and extensive training in Human Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation. I have worked with local Indigenous communities and understand the magnitude and impacts of generational trauma. Recently, I worked with high- risk teens in an educational setting.
(360) 276-9327 View (360) 276-9327
Photo of Allie Dafcik, Counselor in Poulsbo, WA
Allie Dafcik
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Often, our past stories of trauma and heartache play out in the present and keep us from fully living the lives we desire. Therapy is a place for us to reflect on how these stories have impacted you so that you can regain agency and freedom over your life. Through understanding your past wounds more deeply, I believe we will come to see that these places of pain and trauma are the very grounds for beauty, gifting, and the rebirthing of desire in your relationships and life.
Often, our past stories of trauma and heartache play out in the present and keep us from fully living the lives we desire. Therapy is a place for us to reflect on how these stories have impacted you so that you can regain agency and freedom over your life. Through understanding your past wounds more deeply, I believe we will come to see that these places of pain and trauma are the very grounds for beauty, gifting, and the rebirthing of desire in your relationships and life.
(206) 203-8202 View (206) 203-8202
Photo of Art Nelson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Poulsbo, WA
Art Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Poulsbo, WA 98370  (Online Only)
What if you could make your life the way you want it to be? Would you like to overcome loneliness, self-doubt, anxiety, fear of failure, hopelessness, relationship difficulties? Many times our discontent in the present is tethered to traumatic events in our past. If you suffered trauma as a child or as an adult, chances are you have adapted and survived but you may not be currently thriving. The deeper the wounding, the more profound the negative impacts can be in your present life. The miracle of therapy offers you the power to rewrite your past and reprogram your future.
What if you could make your life the way you want it to be? Would you like to overcome loneliness, self-doubt, anxiety, fear of failure, hopelessness, relationship difficulties? Many times our discontent in the present is tethered to traumatic events in our past. If you suffered trauma as a child or as an adult, chances are you have adapted and survived but you may not be currently thriving. The deeper the wounding, the more profound the negative impacts can be in your present life. The miracle of therapy offers you the power to rewrite your past and reprogram your future.
(253) 319-3314 View (253) 319-3314
Photo of Maia E Jacoby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Poulsbo, WA
Maia E Jacoby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
— Accepting new clients — My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your needs. Healing is not a linear journey, my hope is for us to work collaboratively to find the path that works for you. I believe that building a strong therapeutic relationship is essential to the healing process. I am eclectic in my approach, utilizing evidence-based practices and our own curiosity to explore the challenges you are facing.
— Accepting new clients — My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your needs. Healing is not a linear journey, my hope is for us to work collaboratively to find the path that works for you. I believe that building a strong therapeutic relationship is essential to the healing process. I am eclectic in my approach, utilizing evidence-based practices and our own curiosity to explore the challenges you are facing.
(360) 230-5978 View (360) 230-5978
Photo of Nani Baran Psychotherapy, Counselor in Poulsbo, WA
Nani Baran Psychotherapy
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Not accepting new clients
I currently have limited availability. Why get therapy? It's hard work and involves change. But for most people, it's worth it. Therapy is taking care of and investing in yourself. It means you are ready to look at the parts of your life that are not working well-the parts that are hurt, broken or in pain. As your therapist, I will listen with empathy and compassion. Together, we will establish goals and focus on what might make your life better by helping you build resilience and develop coping skills. Through this work, you can learn to be in healthy relationships with others and ultimately with yourself.
I currently have limited availability. Why get therapy? It's hard work and involves change. But for most people, it's worth it. Therapy is taking care of and investing in yourself. It means you are ready to look at the parts of your life that are not working well-the parts that are hurt, broken or in pain. As your therapist, I will listen with empathy and compassion. Together, we will establish goals and focus on what might make your life better by helping you build resilience and develop coping skills. Through this work, you can learn to be in healthy relationships with others and ultimately with yourself.
(206) 538-2866 View (206) 538-2866
Photo of Lisa Bernardin (She Her), Counselor in Poulsbo, WA
Lisa Bernardin (She Her)
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poulsbo, WA 98370
I am a general practice therapist treating children, youth and adult individuals in Washington state - primarily by Telehealth. As your therapist, I bring intentional listening skills, professional insight, and a safe, no-judgement space in which we can partner together to reach solutions that work for you. I believe that every person deserves "unconditional positive regard" and in our relationship you will know that I am on your side and working hard with you to find peace, hope, and a way forward. I do not treat couples.
I am a general practice therapist treating children, youth and adult individuals in Washington state - primarily by Telehealth. As your therapist, I bring intentional listening skills, professional insight, and a safe, no-judgement space in which we can partner together to reach solutions that work for you. I believe that every person deserves "unconditional positive regard" and in our relationship you will know that I am on your side and working hard with you to find peace, hope, and a way forward. I do not treat couples.
(206) 866-2845 View (206) 866-2845
Photo of Mia Jamison, Pre-Licensed Professional in Poulsbo, WA
Mia Jamison
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
I believe suffering revolves around burdensome ideals, fantasies, obsessions and problems in and of the world. These can stem from a mental, emotional, physical and/or spiritual tether. A disquieted heart requires a space to move in feeling and voice. The goal may be to get through the day or get through this trying season. I believe this is due to the will to live, breathe and be at peace within the unknown. Ultimately, a heart in mourning or fear desires to hope for a better day and tomorrow.
I believe suffering revolves around burdensome ideals, fantasies, obsessions and problems in and of the world. These can stem from a mental, emotional, physical and/or spiritual tether. A disquieted heart requires a space to move in feeling and voice. The goal may be to get through the day or get through this trying season. I believe this is due to the will to live, breathe and be at peace within the unknown. Ultimately, a heart in mourning or fear desires to hope for a better day and tomorrow.
(360) 845-1295 View (360) 845-1295
Photo of Shades of Grace Trauma Therapy-Dr. Renee Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Poulsbo, WA
Shades of Grace Trauma Therapy-Dr. Renee Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD , LMFT , EMDR, Equine, IFS
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Therapy and Consultation for Professionals...Are you feeling burned out, having trouble sleeping, difficulty concentrating, or feeling like you are not helping your patients or clients as much as you would like to? Maybe you are having a difficult time enjoying the work that you once felt passionate about? Perhaps you are finding that your own unresolved trauma is being triggered in your work and you are having a tough time being fully present. Counter-transference may also be showing up in ways that are not always helpful to those you serve, which can happen when we are experiencing compassion fatigue.
Therapy and Consultation for Professionals...Are you feeling burned out, having trouble sleeping, difficulty concentrating, or feeling like you are not helping your patients or clients as much as you would like to? Maybe you are having a difficult time enjoying the work that you once felt passionate about? Perhaps you are finding that your own unresolved trauma is being triggered in your work and you are having a tough time being fully present. Counter-transference may also be showing up in ways that are not always helpful to those you serve, which can happen when we are experiencing compassion fatigue.
(206) 466-0278 View (206) 466-0278
Photo of Angela Garvey, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Poulsbo, WA
Angela Garvey
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
We all experience hurt, worry, and stressful experiences along our life journey. When you are most exhausted and vulnerable, therapy can provide hope and direction towards healing. Sometimes going at it alone isn’t enough, and we need someone to walk alongside us as we work through life. My aim in therapy is to help you with life's complexities by strengthening your hope and purpose and finding a pathway to meet that goal. There is no judgment, shame, or guilt but a safe place for vulnerable moments for everyone, regardless of background, political position, or belief system.
We all experience hurt, worry, and stressful experiences along our life journey. When you are most exhausted and vulnerable, therapy can provide hope and direction towards healing. Sometimes going at it alone isn’t enough, and we need someone to walk alongside us as we work through life. My aim in therapy is to help you with life's complexities by strengthening your hope and purpose and finding a pathway to meet that goal. There is no judgment, shame, or guilt but a safe place for vulnerable moments for everyone, regardless of background, political position, or belief system.
(360) 569-1622 View (360) 569-1622
Photo of Bayview Counseling and Consulting, Counselor in Poulsbo, WA
Bayview Counseling and Consulting
Counselor, LMHC, CMHS, GMHS, DDS, BDCert
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Need for clarity and improve insight? Counseling is a great avenue to enhance your perspective, improve outlook and renew your spirit. 30 plus years expertise in development, trauma, family systems, parenting, ADHD, couples therapy, depression, anxiety, grief, stress, sexual abuse, trauma, Autism/Aspergers, life transitions and neuroscience, Marcia uses a variety of modalities, depending on need of client(s), CBT, TFCBT, Adult Attachment, Safe Sound Protocol, Family Systems, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Guided Imagery, Anger Management,
Need for clarity and improve insight? Counseling is a great avenue to enhance your perspective, improve outlook and renew your spirit. 30 plus years expertise in development, trauma, family systems, parenting, ADHD, couples therapy, depression, anxiety, grief, stress, sexual abuse, trauma, Autism/Aspergers, life transitions and neuroscience, Marcia uses a variety of modalities, depending on need of client(s), CBT, TFCBT, Adult Attachment, Safe Sound Protocol, Family Systems, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Guided Imagery, Anger Management,
(206) 388-2834 View (206) 388-2834
Photo of William Krutch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Poulsbo, WA
William Krutch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Not accepting new clients
My job as a therapist is to help you find solutions to problems that are limiting your enjoyment of life. I utilize cognitive therapy which has a "here and now" focus and includes a skill-set which will help you examine and let go of negative self-concepts and achieve the goals that are important to you. My goal is to provide a supportive environment in which you will be able to come to terms with past and present problems and adopt strategies that will reduce feelings of anger, depression and anxiety.
My job as a therapist is to help you find solutions to problems that are limiting your enjoyment of life. I utilize cognitive therapy which has a "here and now" focus and includes a skill-set which will help you examine and let go of negative self-concepts and achieve the goals that are important to you. My goal is to provide a supportive environment in which you will be able to come to terms with past and present problems and adopt strategies that will reduce feelings of anger, depression and anxiety.
(360) 797-5995 View (360) 797-5995
Photo of Cheri McKern, Pre-Licensed Professional in Poulsbo, WA
Cheri McKern
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
My passion is to help all parents create an environment where their kids, whether adopted or biological, with developmental trauma can thrive. I have many years of experience working with traumatized kids and providing support for the parents that love them. I look forward to developing a trusting relationship where we can work together to draw on your own skills, strengths, and abilities to overcome life’s challenges.
My passion is to help all parents create an environment where their kids, whether adopted or biological, with developmental trauma can thrive. I have many years of experience working with traumatized kids and providing support for the parents that love them. I look forward to developing a trusting relationship where we can work together to draw on your own skills, strengths, and abilities to overcome life’s challenges.
(360) 732-8822 View (360) 732-8822
Photo of Keith Orr, Pre-Licensed Professional in Poulsbo, WA
Keith Orr
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Are you needing help navigating some storms in your life? Are you struggling inside? I will partner with you through the internal struggles that could be self-doubt, past traumatic events, or present unresolved issues. Do you want to resolve current issues or trauma and be educated on strategies to handle other similar issues in the future? I can help you to build a solid interior foundation as a base for future successes. You need a safe space to address all of the fears swirling around in your head. You and I will come up with a plan to identify and organize your fears in a way that will allow us to address them one at a time.
Are you needing help navigating some storms in your life? Are you struggling inside? I will partner with you through the internal struggles that could be self-doubt, past traumatic events, or present unresolved issues. Do you want to resolve current issues or trauma and be educated on strategies to handle other similar issues in the future? I can help you to build a solid interior foundation as a base for future successes. You need a safe space to address all of the fears swirling around in your head. You and I will come up with a plan to identify and organize your fears in a way that will allow us to address them one at a time.
(360) 302-4822 View (360) 302-4822
Photo of Kim Pennybrook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Poulsbo, WA
Kim Pennybrook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
If you are struggling with trauma, dysphoria, anxiety, or life in general, I want to help you feel better. I believe you can find the calm, healing, clarity, and joy you seek. I work predominately with adult clients who experience trauma and PTSD (including C-PTSD), gender dysphoria, depression, self-harm, and anxiety and adjustment disorders. I'm particularly passionate about unsticking negative message received in childhood and accompanying folx on their gender journey. I have years of experience supporting folx through gender transition and providing support to their loved ones.
If you are struggling with trauma, dysphoria, anxiety, or life in general, I want to help you feel better. I believe you can find the calm, healing, clarity, and joy you seek. I work predominately with adult clients who experience trauma and PTSD (including C-PTSD), gender dysphoria, depression, self-harm, and anxiety and adjustment disorders. I'm particularly passionate about unsticking negative message received in childhood and accompanying folx on their gender journey. I have years of experience supporting folx through gender transition and providing support to their loved ones.
(253) 285-7390 View (253) 285-7390
Photo of Sue-Marie Casagrande, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Poulsbo, WA
Sue-Marie Casagrande
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MHS, C-ASWCM, LICSW
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Not accepting new clients
Each of us has a wealth of wisdom within us, but circumstances sometimes prevent us from accessing our own innate wisdom. Therapy is a process of discovery and a way to receive assistance in accessing your own deep wisdom. My role as your therapist is to walk beside you on this journey and to help you make the most of your unique inner wisdom through talking, reflecting, learning, and discovering your own inner strength, resiliency, and ability to navigate life's challenges successfully.
Each of us has a wealth of wisdom within us, but circumstances sometimes prevent us from accessing our own innate wisdom. Therapy is a process of discovery and a way to receive assistance in accessing your own deep wisdom. My role as your therapist is to walk beside you on this journey and to help you make the most of your unique inner wisdom through talking, reflecting, learning, and discovering your own inner strength, resiliency, and ability to navigate life's challenges successfully.
(360) 719-4045 View (360) 719-4045
Photo of Lisa Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Poulsbo, WA
Lisa Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Every person is unique and amazing in their own way. We come together to share your deepest self and at times there can seem to be few words to connect. We are accustomed to putting on our armor, presenting our inauthentic self and carrying this self into our relationships. We have a loud, blaming inner voice that we listen to and allow to minimize our wholeness. But each of us has the innate ability to heal ourselves.
Every person is unique and amazing in their own way. We come together to share your deepest self and at times there can seem to be few words to connect. We are accustomed to putting on our armor, presenting our inauthentic self and carrying this self into our relationships. We have a loud, blaming inner voice that we listen to and allow to minimize our wholeness. But each of us has the innate ability to heal ourselves.
(360) 345-3533 View (360) 345-3533
Photo of Dan Layton, Counselor in Poulsbo, WA
Dan Layton
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
The story of our life comes with a great deal of challenges, both large and small. Sometimes we know exactly what those challenges are but are unsure what to do about them. At other times we feel a general uneasiness but cannot comprehend the source of our difficulty. It is my understanding that the inner world of the self is vast, complex, and often mysterious, and that the places where we might feel knotted up inside are best untangled in the presence of another caring individual.
The story of our life comes with a great deal of challenges, both large and small. Sometimes we know exactly what those challenges are but are unsure what to do about them. At other times we feel a general uneasiness but cannot comprehend the source of our difficulty. It is my understanding that the inner world of the self is vast, complex, and often mysterious, and that the places where we might feel knotted up inside are best untangled in the presence of another caring individual.
(360) 776-6741 View (360) 776-6741

See more therapy options for Poulsbo

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Poulsbo, WA

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Poulsbo, WA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
92% Depression
81% Self Esteem
77% Relationship Issues
74% Trauma and PTSD
70% Grief
68% Stress

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

71% Premera
52% Regence
47% Aetna

How Therapists in Poulsbo, WA see their clients

81% In Person and Online
19% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
15% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Poulsbo?

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.