Therapists in Frederick, MD

Photo of Alicia Barmon, Counselor in Frederick, MD
Alicia Barmon
Counselor, SEP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
I am transitioning out of one-on-one work and into group work. Please see my Fall Offerings linked.
I am transitioning out of one-on-one work and into group work. Please see my Fall Offerings linked.
(240) 245-2866 View (240) 245-2866
Photo of Tammy Green, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Frederick, MD
Tammy Green
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702  (Online Only)
Do you feel consumed by past trauma that causes intrusive thoughts or disrupts your sleep? Or anxiety that cripples your ability to interact with others or engage in activities you once enjoyed? Do your mood swings leave you feeling overwhelmed & out of control? Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root causes of your difficulties & build a life full of hope and empowerment. Hello, my name is Tammy Green. I have been a practicing psychotherapist for 6 years & currently hold a Degree in Psychology with a Christian counseling specialization & a Master's in Counseling.
Do you feel consumed by past trauma that causes intrusive thoughts or disrupts your sleep? Or anxiety that cripples your ability to interact with others or engage in activities you once enjoyed? Do your mood swings leave you feeling overwhelmed & out of control? Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address the root causes of your difficulties & build a life full of hope and empowerment. Hello, my name is Tammy Green. I have been a practicing psychotherapist for 6 years & currently hold a Degree in Psychology with a Christian counseling specialization & a Master's in Counseling.
(240) 376-4308 x2 View (240) 376-4308 x2
Photo of Blu Haven Wellness Center, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Frederick, MD
Blu Haven Wellness Center
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704  (Online Only)
You’re struggling to overcome feelings of shock after an extremely stressful event. You’re experiencing unpredictable emotions, flashbacks, relationship difficulties, or even physical symptoms like headaches or nausea. You feel sad & unmotivated about the future. Constantly, you worry that something bad will happen. You have a hard time sleeping. You can't shake the negative thoughts. You want to connect with others but you think its better to avoid situations that cause any anxiety. You find yourself worrying about different topics, events or activities. You’re trying to heal from the things that are causing pain!
You’re struggling to overcome feelings of shock after an extremely stressful event. You’re experiencing unpredictable emotions, flashbacks, relationship difficulties, or even physical symptoms like headaches or nausea. You feel sad & unmotivated about the future. Constantly, you worry that something bad will happen. You have a hard time sleeping. You can't shake the negative thoughts. You want to connect with others but you think its better to avoid situations that cause any anxiety. You find yourself worrying about different topics, events or activities. You’re trying to heal from the things that are causing pain!
(301) 710-0386 View (301) 710-0386
Photo of Angie Miller, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Frederick, MD
Angie Miller
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702
Life can be stressful, down right overwhelming at times. “Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it.”-Helen Keller. During these times when things become too difficult to manage on our own, counseling can help with learning healthier ways to cope, expressing deep emotions in a safe environment, working on goals, and reaching your potential. My years of experience related to the field have focused on assisting clients with work-life balance, sense of purpose, breaking through fears, reducing anxiety, and improving self-esteem.
Life can be stressful, down right overwhelming at times. “Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it.”-Helen Keller. During these times when things become too difficult to manage on our own, counseling can help with learning healthier ways to cope, expressing deep emotions in a safe environment, working on goals, and reaching your potential. My years of experience related to the field have focused on assisting clients with work-life balance, sense of purpose, breaking through fears, reducing anxiety, and improving self-esteem.
(301) 578-6727 View (301) 578-6727
Photo of Erin Graham, Art Therapist in Frederick, MD
Erin Graham
Art Therapist, LCPAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
Navigating the various emotional and social challenges of life can be frustrating and lonely. You may appear fine to the outside world, but underneath feel sensitive to home/school/work environments. Some people find they are using a lot of mental energy fighting off the insensitive words/actions of others, unspoken societal pressures, or general worries. Over time, this can wear down your self-worth and impact your relationships. It can make all the difference when you find a space where you feel understood and are free to express your genuine emotions.
Navigating the various emotional and social challenges of life can be frustrating and lonely. You may appear fine to the outside world, but underneath feel sensitive to home/school/work environments. Some people find they are using a lot of mental energy fighting off the insensitive words/actions of others, unspoken societal pressures, or general worries. Over time, this can wear down your self-worth and impact your relationships. It can make all the difference when you find a space where you feel understood and are free to express your genuine emotions.
(240) 589-7148 View (240) 589-7148
Photo of Susie Wilson, Counselor in Frederick, MD
Susie Wilson
Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC, LCPC, CCPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701  (Online Only)
You are not your story! If you feel alone, unseen or invisible, asking "what's the matter with me?"or "why aren't I enough?" I want to create an emotionally safe space for you to be seen and heard, to help you safely process whatever events, feelings, or family of origin issues have led up to where you find yourself today. I am a trauma-focused therapist seeing clients virtually throughout NY, NJ, and MD, passionate about my clients finding freedom, healing, and self-kindness through our work. I specialize in betrayal trauma, childhood abuse and CEN (Childhood Emotional Neglect), addictions, emotional regulation, and suicide loss.
You are not your story! If you feel alone, unseen or invisible, asking "what's the matter with me?"or "why aren't I enough?" I want to create an emotionally safe space for you to be seen and heard, to help you safely process whatever events, feelings, or family of origin issues have led up to where you find yourself today. I am a trauma-focused therapist seeing clients virtually throughout NY, NJ, and MD, passionate about my clients finding freedom, healing, and self-kindness through our work. I specialize in betrayal trauma, childhood abuse and CEN (Childhood Emotional Neglect), addictions, emotional regulation, and suicide loss.
(845) 237-5049 x10 View (845) 237-5049 x10
Photo of Samantha Ross, Counselor in Frederick, MD
Samantha Ross
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704  (Online Only)
Are you a teacher, counselor, therapist, medical professional, college student, entrepreneur, new hire, ready to retire, changing careers? We all know the last few years have been a challenge. Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, overwhelm, life transitions, issues with focus, etc.? If daily life is a challenge or you are feeling stuck, I’m here to listen to you, support you, and help you reach your goals. You are not alone, and you can make meaningful changes. Counseling is designed to help you live happier and healthier. Sessions explore issues in different ways so that you can process and grow from challenges.
Are you a teacher, counselor, therapist, medical professional, college student, entrepreneur, new hire, ready to retire, changing careers? We all know the last few years have been a challenge. Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, overwhelm, life transitions, issues with focus, etc.? If daily life is a challenge or you are feeling stuck, I’m here to listen to you, support you, and help you reach your goals. You are not alone, and you can make meaningful changes. Counseling is designed to help you live happier and healthier. Sessions explore issues in different ways so that you can process and grow from challenges.
(240) 415-9188 View (240) 415-9188
Middleton Psychology Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702
Do you feel unusually sad, angry, frustrated, or worried? Does it seem like your relationships could be healthier, less conflictual, or smoother? Are you having trouble quitting or staying off drugs, alcohol, or nicotine? Do you have disturbing thoughts, images, or nightmares? We might be able to help.
Do you feel unusually sad, angry, frustrated, or worried? Does it seem like your relationships could be healthier, less conflictual, or smoother? Are you having trouble quitting or staying off drugs, alcohol, or nicotine? Do you have disturbing thoughts, images, or nightmares? We might be able to help.
(240) 998-8211 View (240) 998-8211
Photo of Now Accepting Clients For Couples Counseling! , Counselor in Frederick, MD
Now Accepting Clients For Couples Counseling!
Counselor, #1, MD, 5, Star, Rating
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21704  (Online Only)
Are you and your partner struggling to get past certain issues in your marriage or relationship? Do you find it hard to communicate how you really feel to them? Is a lack of communication causing gridlock between the two of you, to the point where it is hard to reach a resolution when conflict arises? Maybe betrayal has occurred and you are finding it hard to trust your partner again. Let me help you reestablish and reaffirm the bond that brought you together in the first place. I'll teach you strategies to better communicate and overcome whatever obstacle you are facing in your relationship to help reignite the spark
Are you and your partner struggling to get past certain issues in your marriage or relationship? Do you find it hard to communicate how you really feel to them? Is a lack of communication causing gridlock between the two of you, to the point where it is hard to reach a resolution when conflict arises? Maybe betrayal has occurred and you are finding it hard to trust your partner again. Let me help you reestablish and reaffirm the bond that brought you together in the first place. I'll teach you strategies to better communicate and overcome whatever obstacle you are facing in your relationship to help reignite the spark
(443) 681-6117 View (443) 681-6117
Photo of Shanna Lavjonne-Brown, Psychological Associate in Frederick, MD
Shanna Lavjonne-Brown
Psychological Associate
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702  (Online Only)
Navigating the search for the right therapist can be challenging, and I recognize the courage required to seek help. As a psychotherapist, I offer a non-judgmental environment for children, adolescents, and adults. Building a foundation of trust, care, and respect is essential in our therapeutic relationship. I am dedicated to creating a safe space where you can explore, express, and work towards positive change. Listening attentively, understanding your unique experiences, and tailoring specialized treatments to meet individual needs are at the core of my practice.
Navigating the search for the right therapist can be challenging, and I recognize the courage required to seek help. As a psychotherapist, I offer a non-judgmental environment for children, adolescents, and adults. Building a foundation of trust, care, and respect is essential in our therapeutic relationship. I am dedicated to creating a safe space where you can explore, express, and work towards positive change. Listening attentively, understanding your unique experiences, and tailoring specialized treatments to meet individual needs are at the core of my practice.
(240) 376-4320 x2 View (240) 376-4320 x2
Photo of Illuminate Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Frederick, MD
Illuminate Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701  (Online Only)
NOW accepting new patients and scheduling within one week! As a therapist for over 20 years, I have a great deal of experience assisting individuals and couples in meeting their goals. I will work with you to determine the areas in which you are struggling and help you to develop strategies to make the necessary changes. Whether you are dealing with relationship struggles, anxiety, depressed feelings or past trauma I will assist you with moving beyond these difficulties. My approach to therapy is a holistic approach. I will work with you to heal mind, body & spirit.
NOW accepting new patients and scheduling within one week! As a therapist for over 20 years, I have a great deal of experience assisting individuals and couples in meeting their goals. I will work with you to determine the areas in which you are struggling and help you to develop strategies to make the necessary changes. Whether you are dealing with relationship struggles, anxiety, depressed feelings or past trauma I will assist you with moving beyond these difficulties. My approach to therapy is a holistic approach. I will work with you to heal mind, body & spirit.
(301) 298-1903 View (301) 298-1903
Photo of MacKenzie Colgan, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Frederick, MD
MacKenzie Colgan
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704
I work with children, adolescents, and adults utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness and person-centered therapeutic approaches. I often see clients on the autism spectrum or who identify as neurodiverse. I also work with clients who have ADHD and can provide both mental health therapy and executive function coaching.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness and person-centered therapeutic approaches. I often see clients on the autism spectrum or who identify as neurodiverse. I also work with clients who have ADHD and can provide both mental health therapy and executive function coaching.
(240) 712-5479 View (240) 712-5479
Photo of David Snipes, Counselor in Frederick, MD
David Snipes
Counselor, MS, LGPC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
Do you notice swirling thoughts that don't seem to have a viable solution often distracting you to the point you’ve missed several songs on the radio? Perhaps you’ve lost interest in activities you used to find enjoyable. Maybe you’ve found yourself engaging in compulsive behaviors such as online pornography, gambling, video gaming, shopping, or sex to distract yourself from your worries. Many who experience these issues are struggling with anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, or family/relationship challenges. These symptoms can sap your energy and leave you feeling as though you've lost your way in your life's journey.
Do you notice swirling thoughts that don't seem to have a viable solution often distracting you to the point you’ve missed several songs on the radio? Perhaps you’ve lost interest in activities you used to find enjoyable. Maybe you’ve found yourself engaging in compulsive behaviors such as online pornography, gambling, video gaming, shopping, or sex to distract yourself from your worries. Many who experience these issues are struggling with anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, or family/relationship challenges. These symptoms can sap your energy and leave you feeling as though you've lost your way in your life's journey.
(240) 660-4374 View (240) 660-4374
Photo of Meredith Riddick, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Frederick, MD
Meredith Riddick
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21704  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes even the smartest and most capable women I know feel stuck. It could be moving beyond an issue in a relationship, anxiety, perfectionism or it could be an eating disorder or traumatic memory. You may feel like you are underperforming in life and relationships or just completely overwhelmed with everything going on. When we do not have the social support we need or just not sure how to use our social support, it can be helpful to talk to a professional and get objective feedback. To be asked thought provoking questions. To get ideas with how to move forward and start thriving in life!
Sometimes even the smartest and most capable women I know feel stuck. It could be moving beyond an issue in a relationship, anxiety, perfectionism or it could be an eating disorder or traumatic memory. You may feel like you are underperforming in life and relationships or just completely overwhelmed with everything going on. When we do not have the social support we need or just not sure how to use our social support, it can be helpful to talk to a professional and get objective feedback. To be asked thought provoking questions. To get ideas with how to move forward and start thriving in life!
View
Photo of Elizabeth Diaz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Frederick, MD
Elizabeth Diaz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21704  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! Starting a therapy journey can come with many emotions and sometimes worry... will the therapist be the "right fit," or someone who "gets me/us" or "who can just help?" These are common questions and I hope that learning a little bit about me and my approach is helpful as you make your decision.
Hello and welcome! Starting a therapy journey can come with many emotions and sometimes worry... will the therapist be the "right fit," or someone who "gets me/us" or "who can just help?" These are common questions and I hope that learning a little bit about me and my approach is helpful as you make your decision.
(240) 896-1922 View (240) 896-1922
Photo of Elissa Samuels, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Frederick, MD
Elissa Samuels
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Elissa Samuels, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) at Life Change Therapy Now, LLC. With over 15 years of experience in counseling, I specialize in providing support to neurodivergent adults, the LGBTQ+ community, and individuals exploring Kink lifestyles. I offer a warm and welcoming environment where clients can feel safe to explore their identities, navigate relationships, and achieve personal growth. I understand the unique needs and challenges faced by these communities, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.
Hello! I'm Elissa Samuels, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) at Life Change Therapy Now, LLC. With over 15 years of experience in counseling, I specialize in providing support to neurodivergent adults, the LGBTQ+ community, and individuals exploring Kink lifestyles. I offer a warm and welcoming environment where clients can feel safe to explore their identities, navigate relationships, and achieve personal growth. I understand the unique needs and challenges faced by these communities, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.
(240) 201-2478 x1 View (240) 201-2478 x1
Photo of Heather Derpic, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Frederick, MD
Heather Derpic
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702  (Online Only)
I want to help you feel empowered, confident and at peace! With awareness and courage you can let go of unhealthy thoughts, feelings and behaviors and see tremendous growth. I have over a decade of experience helping individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, stress, anger, addiction and more. I am EMDR trained for trauma reprocessing and a certified anger management specialist.
I want to help you feel empowered, confident and at peace! With awareness and courage you can let go of unhealthy thoughts, feelings and behaviors and see tremendous growth. I have over a decade of experience helping individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, stress, anger, addiction and more. I am EMDR trained for trauma reprocessing and a certified anger management specialist.
(667) 220-0051 View (667) 220-0051
Photo of Jess Albright, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Frederick, MD
Jess Albright
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, NCC, LCPC, ACS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Being human can be so freaking heavy and hard! I’m Jess, and I’m what I like to call mama-thentic. I’m a mama, and I’m authentic! I invite you to come as you are and allow me to walk alongside you on your journey of self-discovery. I will listen, guide, and support as you work towards peace, change, and growth. The greatest gift you can give yourself (and your children) is the most healed version of yourself. Allow me to help so that your past no longer controls your present.
Being human can be so freaking heavy and hard! I’m Jess, and I’m what I like to call mama-thentic. I’m a mama, and I’m authentic! I invite you to come as you are and allow me to walk alongside you on your journey of self-discovery. I will listen, guide, and support as you work towards peace, change, and growth. The greatest gift you can give yourself (and your children) is the most healed version of yourself. Allow me to help so that your past no longer controls your present.
(240) 896-2090 View (240) 896-2090
Photo of Michelle Bavender, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Frederick, MD
Michelle Bavender
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702  (Online Only)
Whether you're going through a life transition, experiencing something difficult (externally or internally), or want someone you can bounce thoughts, feelings, and ideas off of, I'm here for it. When we take the intentional time to look at how whatever is going on for you is impacting your mental, emotional, physical, and relational health, and how that might be preventing you from reaching your goals, we can not only gain a lot from the therapy process, but also enjoy it. We can work together to talk it through, break down barriers, generate insight, and create positive change in a supportive environment.
Whether you're going through a life transition, experiencing something difficult (externally or internally), or want someone you can bounce thoughts, feelings, and ideas off of, I'm here for it. When we take the intentional time to look at how whatever is going on for you is impacting your mental, emotional, physical, and relational health, and how that might be preventing you from reaching your goals, we can not only gain a lot from the therapy process, but also enjoy it. We can work together to talk it through, break down barriers, generate insight, and create positive change in a supportive environment.
(240) 384-4293 View (240) 384-4293
Photo of Stacy Bratburd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Frederick, MD
Stacy Bratburd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
I use a strengths-based approach to help you rediscover your assets, strengths, and abilities. The revelation of these will help you overcome obstacles that may be standing in your way to live a healthier, happier, more fulfilling life. I will work alongside you at your own pace and comfort level to help create a warm, safe, nurturing, and most importantly trusting environment. Together, we will work towards your healing.
I use a strengths-based approach to help you rediscover your assets, strengths, and abilities. The revelation of these will help you overcome obstacles that may be standing in your way to live a healthier, happier, more fulfilling life. I will work alongside you at your own pace and comfort level to help create a warm, safe, nurturing, and most importantly trusting environment. Together, we will work towards your healing.
(301) 603-3266 View (301) 603-3266

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Frederick, MD

400+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Frederick, MD who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
89% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
78% Self Esteem
73% Coping Skills
73% Stress
70% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

76% BlueCross and BlueShield
72% CareFirst
64% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Frederick, MD see their clients

56% In Person and Online
44% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
16% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Frederick?

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.