Therapists in Portsmouth, NH

Photo of Sheila Jenkins, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Sheila Jenkins
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, MLADC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03802
I provide counseling to individuals on a variety of issues including depression/anxiety,anger management, substance abuse, addiction, compulsive behaviors,and stress management. Counseling sessions are tailored to your goals: either short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing ongoing personal growth. If you are looking for ways to gain a better understanding of yourself, change old behavior patterns, learn new ways to cope with stress then counseling can help you. What you can expect from counseling is compassion, and understanding, new perspectives on negative feelings and behaviors, and strategies for creating positive changes in your life.
I provide counseling to individuals on a variety of issues including depression/anxiety,anger management, substance abuse, addiction, compulsive behaviors,and stress management. Counseling sessions are tailored to your goals: either short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing ongoing personal growth. If you are looking for ways to gain a better understanding of yourself, change old behavior patterns, learn new ways to cope with stress then counseling can help you. What you can expect from counseling is compassion, and understanding, new perspectives on negative feelings and behaviors, and strategies for creating positive changes in your life.
(603) 244-3939 View (603) 244-3939
Photo of Cheryl Withka, Psychologist in Portsmouth, NH
Cheryl Withka
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical psychologist and certified school psychologist with over twenty years of experience. I work primarily with children, adolescents and young adults. I draw from a variety of treatment approaches based on the needs and strengths of each individual including CBT, DBT, social skills training, psychodynamic psychotherapy, play therapy and brief therapeutic interventions. I believe in working collaboratively with clients and helping them identify and utilize their strengths.
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical psychologist and certified school psychologist with over twenty years of experience. I work primarily with children, adolescents and young adults. I draw from a variety of treatment approaches based on the needs and strengths of each individual including CBT, DBT, social skills training, psychodynamic psychotherapy, play therapy and brief therapeutic interventions. I believe in working collaboratively with clients and helping them identify and utilize their strengths.
(603) 821-0583 View (603) 821-0583
Audrey LaBarre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Are you feeling overwhelmed with life right now? Could you use better coping skills to manage life transitions, whether it is relationship issues, parenting stress, body image/confidence problems, financial stress, or work changes? I would like to help you develop coping skills that can help you better manage stress, anxiety or depressive symptoms. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, my goal is to help individuals, couples and families learn strategies for managing life stressors in order to increase their quality of life. Therapy is a collaborative effort that takes reflection, awareness, creativity and strength.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with life right now? Could you use better coping skills to manage life transitions, whether it is relationship issues, parenting stress, body image/confidence problems, financial stress, or work changes? I would like to help you develop coping skills that can help you better manage stress, anxiety or depressive symptoms. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, my goal is to help individuals, couples and families learn strategies for managing life stressors in order to increase their quality of life. Therapy is a collaborative effort that takes reflection, awareness, creativity and strength.
(603) 727-4293 View (603) 727-4293
Photo of Melissa Tarbox, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portsmouth, NH
Melissa Tarbox
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Not accepting new clients
Maya Angelou said, “do the best you can until you know better and when you know better, do better.” It's never too late to meet your authentic self & do better. Healing requires surrender, & when we let go of the familiar we make room for something greater. As a Marriage & Family Therapist, I provide a safe & secure space for everyone to peel back layers & explore their inner world so they can heal. I provide insight toward better ways of being human that are in alignment with the true self. We are all unique & deeply gifted human beings, & I strive to empower every person I work with to discover their true unlimited potential.
Maya Angelou said, “do the best you can until you know better and when you know better, do better.” It's never too late to meet your authentic self & do better. Healing requires surrender, & when we let go of the familiar we make room for something greater. As a Marriage & Family Therapist, I provide a safe & secure space for everyone to peel back layers & explore their inner world so they can heal. I provide insight toward better ways of being human that are in alignment with the true self. We are all unique & deeply gifted human beings, & I strive to empower every person I work with to discover their true unlimited potential.
(603) 945-5481 View (603) 945-5481
Photo of Brianna Brickner, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portsmouth, NH
Brianna Brickner
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Are you ready to begin your path toward healing? As a pre-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I hold space for you to better understand yourself, where you have been, and where you are going more deeply. I believe healing is an ongoing practice instead of another task to complete. In our work together, I will use an integrative, collaborative, and client-centered approach to therapy.
Are you ready to begin your path toward healing? As a pre-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I hold space for you to better understand yourself, where you have been, and where you are going more deeply. I believe healing is an ongoing practice instead of another task to complete. In our work together, I will use an integrative, collaborative, and client-centered approach to therapy.
(603) 803-6272 View (603) 803-6272
Photo of Kim Cote, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portsmouth, NH
Kim Cote
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Accepting new In-person and Telehealth Clients at Mending Minds Counseling PLLC in Portsmouth, NH. I am a pre-licensed Clinical Mental Health therapist with several years of experience facilitating growth in adults, children and families seeking support for a variety of mental health issues. My experience is as follows but is not limited too; stress management, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Eating Disorders, OCD and Behavioral Disorders. I can assist individuals in identifying their problem(s) and working towards solutions to help live a more fulfilling and manageable life.
Accepting new In-person and Telehealth Clients at Mending Minds Counseling PLLC in Portsmouth, NH. I am a pre-licensed Clinical Mental Health therapist with several years of experience facilitating growth in adults, children and families seeking support for a variety of mental health issues. My experience is as follows but is not limited too; stress management, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Eating Disorders, OCD and Behavioral Disorders. I can assist individuals in identifying their problem(s) and working towards solutions to help live a more fulfilling and manageable life.
(833) 358-0469 View (833) 358-0469
Photo of Lauren DeBaene, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Lauren DeBaene
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Not accepting new clients
Are you feeling trapped and consumed by anxiety, disordered eating, or poor self esteem? I am a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental therapist who can help you take charge of your life again. I would feel privileged to provide you with a safe space and useful coping tools in a comfortable therapeutic setting. Intense emotions and negative intrusive thoughts often take us out of the present moment and slow our progress towards a life of freedom, purpose, and adventure. I specialize in treating individuals struggling with eating disorders, depression and anxiety disorders.
Are you feeling trapped and consumed by anxiety, disordered eating, or poor self esteem? I am a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental therapist who can help you take charge of your life again. I would feel privileged to provide you with a safe space and useful coping tools in a comfortable therapeutic setting. Intense emotions and negative intrusive thoughts often take us out of the present moment and slow our progress towards a life of freedom, purpose, and adventure. I specialize in treating individuals struggling with eating disorders, depression and anxiety disorders.
(603) 824-3868 View (603) 824-3868
Photo of Serenity Counseling PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Serenity Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, challenging relationships that affect your day-to-day life, ability to function at home or work? Do you feel exhausted/ overwhelmed by what it means to live up to someone else’s standards, getting through the day, completing household tasks, or responding to text messages? Do you question if relationships or ability to function day to day could feel easier? Now more than ever people are feeling overwhelmed about overcoming difficult relationships, working through a loss, or finding their place in life.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, challenging relationships that affect your day-to-day life, ability to function at home or work? Do you feel exhausted/ overwhelmed by what it means to live up to someone else’s standards, getting through the day, completing household tasks, or responding to text messages? Do you question if relationships or ability to function day to day could feel easier? Now more than ever people are feeling overwhelmed about overcoming difficult relationships, working through a loss, or finding their place in life.
(603) 828-2991 View (603) 828-2991
Photo of Sandra Yarne, Psychologist in Portsmouth, NH
Sandra Yarne
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
I work best with individuals who prefer a therapist to be interactive and collaborative. I strive to support you emotionally and challenge you to experiment with new ways of thinking and behaving which increase happiness and life satisfaction. The nature of your presenting problem can vary from a recent disruption in a significant relationship to life-long difficulties with anxiety, depression, mood swings or childhood trauma. All these problems can be helped with self understanding and acceptance along with specific behavioral interventions to ease your pain and suffering.
I work best with individuals who prefer a therapist to be interactive and collaborative. I strive to support you emotionally and challenge you to experiment with new ways of thinking and behaving which increase happiness and life satisfaction. The nature of your presenting problem can vary from a recent disruption in a significant relationship to life-long difficulties with anxiety, depression, mood swings or childhood trauma. All these problems can be helped with self understanding and acceptance along with specific behavioral interventions to ease your pain and suffering.
(603) 685-3062 View (603) 685-3062
Photo of Ellen Ronka, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Ellen Ronka
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
Compassion and safety, metaphors and stories, laughter and creativity, brainstorming and education are some of the tools I will combine to help you feel understood, heal, and then grow. I will adjust my style to what I sense you need as a whole person: body, mind, and spirit. I frame my work in psychodynamic theory, while using cognitive-behavioral and experiential techniques. I infuse all sessions with the principles of mindfulness. I can help you organize your thoughts on difficult decisions, coach you to be more assertive, and help you establish better boundaries. I will teach you a variety of coping skills for managing stress.
Compassion and safety, metaphors and stories, laughter and creativity, brainstorming and education are some of the tools I will combine to help you feel understood, heal, and then grow. I will adjust my style to what I sense you need as a whole person: body, mind, and spirit. I frame my work in psychodynamic theory, while using cognitive-behavioral and experiential techniques. I infuse all sessions with the principles of mindfulness. I can help you organize your thoughts on difficult decisions, coach you to be more assertive, and help you establish better boundaries. I will teach you a variety of coping skills for managing stress.
(603) 392-7340 View (603) 392-7340
Photo of Matthew Fowler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Matthew Fowler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. I help children, parents, and couples overcome obstacles, improve relationships, and better their lives. Starting a family can be one of the most exciting and fulfilling experiences, but when things do not go according to plan, this can be one of the biggest struggles for parents and children. I help families uncover the issues that contribute to the problem and find solutions to help you obtain the vision you always wanted for your child and your family.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. I help children, parents, and couples overcome obstacles, improve relationships, and better their lives. Starting a family can be one of the most exciting and fulfilling experiences, but when things do not go according to plan, this can be one of the biggest struggles for parents and children. I help families uncover the issues that contribute to the problem and find solutions to help you obtain the vision you always wanted for your child and your family.
(603) 531-8811 View (603) 531-8811
Photo of Meredith Orchard-Blowen, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Meredith Orchard-Blowen
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, MLADC, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Not accepting new clients at this time. Welcome to my 100 % telehealth practice. I provide psychotherapy and substance use services to individuals, couples and families. I am committed to working with diverse individuals (LGBTQ+), ages 14 and older, tailoring varied therapeutic methods as needed to best support them in creating meaningful change in their lives. I also work with couples; providing space and support to deepen their connection, further their communication skills and enable them to move more successfully through conflict. Additionally, I provide court ordered substance use treatment and evaluations.
Not accepting new clients at this time. Welcome to my 100 % telehealth practice. I provide psychotherapy and substance use services to individuals, couples and families. I am committed to working with diverse individuals (LGBTQ+), ages 14 and older, tailoring varied therapeutic methods as needed to best support them in creating meaningful change in their lives. I also work with couples; providing space and support to deepen their connection, further their communication skills and enable them to move more successfully through conflict. Additionally, I provide court ordered substance use treatment and evaluations.
(603) 678-4304 View (603) 678-4304
Amanda deWildt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
If you are a first responder or work in a high stress job that is affecting your personal or family life there is help to manage those symptoms and situations in order to enjoy life again. If you are diagnosed with PTSD there are ways to help manage and cope with those symptoms. It is my goal to help individuals and families reduce conflict, improve communication, and develop healthier relationships.
If you are a first responder or work in a high stress job that is affecting your personal or family life there is help to manage those symptoms and situations in order to enjoy life again. If you are diagnosed with PTSD there are ways to help manage and cope with those symptoms. It is my goal to help individuals and families reduce conflict, improve communication, and develop healthier relationships.
(603) 941-4338 View (603) 941-4338
Photo of Kimberly Meurillon, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Kimberly Meurillon
Counselor, LCMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
I'm passionate about working with individuals navigating depression, anxiety, mania, and perinatal mental health concerns. Engaging in therapy can be particularly meaningful when experiencing interpersonal conflicts and going through major life events: such as the onset of a mood disorder, preparing for life after high school and college, moving to a new community, adjusting to early parenthood, or coping with pregnancy loss.
I'm passionate about working with individuals navigating depression, anxiety, mania, and perinatal mental health concerns. Engaging in therapy can be particularly meaningful when experiencing interpersonal conflicts and going through major life events: such as the onset of a mood disorder, preparing for life after high school and college, moving to a new community, adjusting to early parenthood, or coping with pregnancy loss.
(603) 691-3745 View (603) 691-3745
Photo of Michelle Houle, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Michelle Houle
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MLADC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
I'm so glad that you took the step to find a therapist to help you in your struggles! Life can be hectic and overwhelming and when you're struggling with issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, separation/divorce, substances, issues with your children, the overwhelming feelings can feel like too much. I'm here to help you in dealing with these struggles. You don't have to continue to carry these issues alone.
I'm so glad that you took the step to find a therapist to help you in your struggles! Life can be hectic and overwhelming and when you're struggling with issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, separation/divorce, substances, issues with your children, the overwhelming feelings can feel like too much. I'm here to help you in dealing with these struggles. You don't have to continue to carry these issues alone.
(508) 928-4190 View (508) 928-4190
Photo of Dr. Rachel L. Orr, Psychologist in Portsmouth, NH
Dr. Rachel L. Orr
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP-CN
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Many individuals who experience medical events need clarity about how they have been impacted and what it means for their future. Some individuals and families also want clarity about whether there is an underlying developmental, cognitive, or psychiatric condition affecting functioning. Through neuropsychological evaluations, I help provide a picture of current functioning, as well as help explain how this relates to brain functions. Evaluations are designed to answer specific referral questions and, where needed, to provide useful conclusions and recommendations for next steps.
Many individuals who experience medical events need clarity about how they have been impacted and what it means for their future. Some individuals and families also want clarity about whether there is an underlying developmental, cognitive, or psychiatric condition affecting functioning. Through neuropsychological evaluations, I help provide a picture of current functioning, as well as help explain how this relates to brain functions. Evaluations are designed to answer specific referral questions and, where needed, to provide useful conclusions and recommendations for next steps.
(603) 803-6627 View (603) 803-6627
Photo of Pat Coughlin in Portsmouth, NH
Pat Coughlin
MSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
My intention as a therapist is to provide a warm and emotionally safe space for you to explore and work through those issues that keep you from living the life you want. In my 36 years of working in the field of mental health as well as death and dying, I have developed a client centered holistic approach to healing. I work with grief, chronic illness, depression, pet loss, life transitions, aging, caregiving issues and personal growth. I have come to embrace the belief that humans are capable of great healing, and I feel honored to be a witness and facilitator to that process.
My intention as a therapist is to provide a warm and emotionally safe space for you to explore and work through those issues that keep you from living the life you want. In my 36 years of working in the field of mental health as well as death and dying, I have developed a client centered holistic approach to healing. I work with grief, chronic illness, depression, pet loss, life transitions, aging, caregiving issues and personal growth. I have come to embrace the belief that humans are capable of great healing, and I feel honored to be a witness and facilitator to that process.
(888) 505-4875 View (888) 505-4875
Photo of Brad Lebo, Psychologist in Portsmouth, NH
Brad Lebo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
The people who like to work with me are facing challenges in their work or personal lives including, self-inflicted stress, relationship or peer conflict, and accepting a loss (or multiple losses). They appreciate a cognitive or thinking approach to their challenges and appreciate learning skills that they can use to reduce their distress. They may have sought treatment elsewhere for anxiety or depression, and it's not unusual that the challenges they face are either going home with them or making their way into their work.
The people who like to work with me are facing challenges in their work or personal lives including, self-inflicted stress, relationship or peer conflict, and accepting a loss (or multiple losses). They appreciate a cognitive or thinking approach to their challenges and appreciate learning skills that they can use to reduce their distress. They may have sought treatment elsewhere for anxiety or depression, and it's not unusual that the challenges they face are either going home with them or making their way into their work.
(603) 803-6534 View (603) 803-6534
Photo of Amy Blackburn, Psychologist in Portsmouth, NH
Amy Blackburn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in both NH and Mass. I have worked with children, adolescents, and families for more than 30 years in many different settings including public and independent schools, colleges, hospitals, and private and group practice. I have much experience working with adults, children, and adolescents in outpatient settings, and I understand schools and the myriad issues that can arise in schools. I am a thoughtful, warm professional with a good sense of humor. My approach is solution-focused and I integrate various treatment modalities, tailoring my approach to meet the individual needs of my clients.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in both NH and Mass. I have worked with children, adolescents, and families for more than 30 years in many different settings including public and independent schools, colleges, hospitals, and private and group practice. I have much experience working with adults, children, and adolescents in outpatient settings, and I understand schools and the myriad issues that can arise in schools. I am a thoughtful, warm professional with a good sense of humor. My approach is solution-focused and I integrate various treatment modalities, tailoring my approach to meet the individual needs of my clients.
(857) 271-5231 View (857) 271-5231
Photo of Eileen Sutherland in Portsmouth, NH
Eileen Sutherland
MSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
I work with WOMEN seeking support around a variety of issues - self-esteem, relationships, life transitions, work, parenting, and more. My approach is positive, strengths-based, and solution-focused. I firmly believe that in every person and situation, there is hope. When you are ready, I will gently help you move from where you are to where you want to be.
I work with WOMEN seeking support around a variety of issues - self-esteem, relationships, life transitions, work, parenting, and more. My approach is positive, strengths-based, and solution-focused. I firmly believe that in every person and situation, there is hope. When you are ready, I will gently help you move from where you are to where you want to be.
(603) 686-7762 View (603) 686-7762

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portsmouth, NH

200+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Portsmouth, NH who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
85% Depression
79% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
68% Coping Skills
64% Stress
62% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

15 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

64% BlueCross and BlueShield
59% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
58% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Portsmouth, NH see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portsmouth?

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.