Therapists in Allen County, KY

Photo of Angela Samson, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPCA
Angela Samson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsville, KY 42164
My mission is to offer personalized support and guidance, crafted to your unique needs and circumstances, so that you may feel confident and empowered in every stage of your journey. I offer a safe, supportive environment where you are welcome to express yourself freely and explore your path to healing and growth. Together, we’ll build a toolbox of coping skills to navigate life's challenges and cultivate a greater sense of peace and balance in your life.
My mission is to offer personalized support and guidance, crafted to your unique needs and circumstances, so that you may feel confident and empowered in every stage of your journey. I offer a safe, supportive environment where you are welcome to express yourself freely and explore your path to healing and growth. Together, we’ll build a toolbox of coping skills to navigate life's challenges and cultivate a greater sense of peace and balance in your life.
(270) 727-5621 View (270) 727-5621
Photo of Vanessa Sewell, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Vanessa Sewell
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! My name is Vanessa Sewell and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I received my Bachelor's Degrees in Psychology and History from Western Kentucky University and my Master's Degree in Counseling and Human Development from Lindsey Wilson College.
Hello! My name is Vanessa Sewell and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I received my Bachelor's Degrees in Psychology and History from Western Kentucky University and my Master's Degree in Counseling and Human Development from Lindsey Wilson College.
(270) 626-6059 View (270) 626-6059
Photo of Jerry Armour, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, MHSP
Jerry Armour
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsville, KY 42164
My philosophy for therapy is like the metaphor my mother would tell me growing up. My mother would say, “Treat people like gold.” Sometimes, gold can be devalued, lost, and tarnished, but it still has worth, is precious, and can shine. Just as gold retains its inherent value despite life's challenges, so too do people possess an intrinsic worth that deserves recognition and respect. They should know that even when they face certain challenges, they still have value and worth. It is my hope as a therapist to assist everyone in becoming the shiniest, most golden version of themselves.
My philosophy for therapy is like the metaphor my mother would tell me growing up. My mother would say, “Treat people like gold.” Sometimes, gold can be devalued, lost, and tarnished, but it still has worth, is precious, and can shine. Just as gold retains its inherent value despite life's challenges, so too do people possess an intrinsic worth that deserves recognition and respect. They should know that even when they face certain challenges, they still have value and worth. It is my hope as a therapist to assist everyone in becoming the shiniest, most golden version of themselves.
(270) 479-8117 View (270) 479-8117
Photo of Amanda G. Patrick - Scottsville Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Scottsville Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsville, KY 42164
Welcome to Scottsville Counseling Center. We're glad you stopped by! SCC was founded on a mission to provide quality, affordable care tailored to your needs via a collaborative approach. We consider our work a sacred investment, and labor to ensure you have the best possible support.
Welcome to Scottsville Counseling Center. We're glad you stopped by! SCC was founded on a mission to provide quality, affordable care tailored to your needs via a collaborative approach. We consider our work a sacred investment, and labor to ensure you have the best possible support.
(270) 266-3804 View (270) 266-3804
Photo of Erin Meyer, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , MEd, LPCC KY, LPC TN
Erin Meyer
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , MEd, LPCC KY, LPC TN
Verified Verified
Scottsville, KY 42164
Welcome, and congratulations on taking this step on your journey! I see the courage and strength that have brought you this far, and I’m excited for the growth and healing ahead of you. I have a holistic and collaborative approach to therapy. Before I ever sat across from someone as a therapist, I went into the community with instructions to practice partnership and reciprocity, build capacity, create sustainable solutions, and always reflect to continue learning and growing. That is how I approach my work with clients as well.
Welcome, and congratulations on taking this step on your journey! I see the courage and strength that have brought you this far, and I’m excited for the growth and healing ahead of you. I have a holistic and collaborative approach to therapy. Before I ever sat across from someone as a therapist, I went into the community with instructions to practice partnership and reciprocity, build capacity, create sustainable solutions, and always reflect to continue learning and growing. That is how I approach my work with clients as well.
(270) 606-7180 View (270) 606-7180
Photo of Brenda Weingartz, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPC
Brenda Weingartz
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life is full of changes -some we embrace, others can catch us off guard. If you are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, worry, depression or other challenges that come throughout life, you are not alone! I understand the struggles that come with shifting roles, changing relationships, and personal growth. Think of me as your trusted guide, navigating these struggles together. I can help you find clarity in the confusion, and joy and meaning in the midst of pain! Together we will clear the obstacles that are preventing you from living your life as the beautiful being that you are!
Life is full of changes -some we embrace, others can catch us off guard. If you are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, worry, depression or other challenges that come throughout life, you are not alone! I understand the struggles that come with shifting roles, changing relationships, and personal growth. Think of me as your trusted guide, navigating these struggles together. I can help you find clarity in the confusion, and joy and meaning in the midst of pain! Together we will clear the obstacles that are preventing you from living your life as the beautiful being that you are!
(270) 679-0638 View (270) 679-0638
Photo of Amanda G. Patrick, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Amanda G. Patrick
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Scottsville, KY 42164
If you’re here, reading this, chances are you’re uncertain about where life is heading. You’re not alone, friend. Life can be incredibly tough and messy. But I must say, there’s beauty and huge potential in the falling, stumbling, not knowing and feeling lost. Why? Because that’s when the best changes can be made! My therapy style is solution-focused and begins with meeting you where you are. After all, you’re the expert in your journey. No one will ever know your life as you do. My goal is to honor that in working with you to create a new narrative that is full of joy, hope, and possibilities.
If you’re here, reading this, chances are you’re uncertain about where life is heading. You’re not alone, friend. Life can be incredibly tough and messy. But I must say, there’s beauty and huge potential in the falling, stumbling, not knowing and feeling lost. Why? Because that’s when the best changes can be made! My therapy style is solution-focused and begins with meeting you where you are. After all, you’re the expert in your journey. No one will ever know your life as you do. My goal is to honor that in working with you to create a new narrative that is full of joy, hope, and possibilities.
(270) 946-1512 View (270) 946-1512
Photo of Jaclyn Curtsinger, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Jaclyn Curtsinger
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Scottsville, KY 42164
Let's face it: life can be hard. Do you feel anxious, worried, or overwhelmed? Or do you wonder how to lessen stress and feel greater balance? Maybe you are experiencing a life transition, such as a new baby. If you are seeking support to garner new awareness and tools that help you navigate the road ahead, let’s work together to create a journey that flourishes with healing and possibilities! I’m here to help you design and build a healthier life through an open, solution-based approach. As we journey forward, I’ll help guide and walk with you throughout your transition using a client-centered, collaborative approach.
Let's face it: life can be hard. Do you feel anxious, worried, or overwhelmed? Or do you wonder how to lessen stress and feel greater balance? Maybe you are experiencing a life transition, such as a new baby. If you are seeking support to garner new awareness and tools that help you navigate the road ahead, let’s work together to create a journey that flourishes with healing and possibilities! I’m here to help you design and build a healthier life through an open, solution-based approach. As we journey forward, I’ll help guide and walk with you throughout your transition using a client-centered, collaborative approach.
(270) 278-1398 View (270) 278-1398
Photo of Austin Weiler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Austin Weiler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hello! As a therapist, I strive to cultivate a safe space that fosters inclusivity, authentic self expression, and courageous conversations without judgement. Employing a person-centered approach, I believe strong therapeutic alliance is informed by respecting self-determination and honoring the unique lived experience of each person. I have strong efficacy working with OCD, BDD, ADHD, autistic youth/adults, anxiety, and the LGBTQIA+ community providing neuro-affirming and identity affirming care. I also have experience working with depression, self-esteem, grief, and life adjustment.
Hello! As a therapist, I strive to cultivate a safe space that fosters inclusivity, authentic self expression, and courageous conversations without judgement. Employing a person-centered approach, I believe strong therapeutic alliance is informed by respecting self-determination and honoring the unique lived experience of each person. I have strong efficacy working with OCD, BDD, ADHD, autistic youth/adults, anxiety, and the LGBTQIA+ community providing neuro-affirming and identity affirming care. I also have experience working with depression, self-esteem, grief, and life adjustment.
(270) 518-1664 View (270) 518-1664
Photo of Emily Jo Ferguson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Emily Jo Ferguson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am passionate about helping clients develop the tools needed to build stronger, healthier relationships with themselves and others. I believe that with the right support, everyone can improve their well-being and live a more fulfilling life. My approach is client-centered and often incorporates solution-focused and strengths-based techniques, empowering you to become an advocate for your own mental health. I provide a safe, inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ individuals, justice-involved individuals, and other historically underrepresented groups.
I am passionate about helping clients develop the tools needed to build stronger, healthier relationships with themselves and others. I believe that with the right support, everyone can improve their well-being and live a more fulfilling life. My approach is client-centered and often incorporates solution-focused and strengths-based techniques, empowering you to become an advocate for your own mental health. I provide a safe, inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ individuals, justice-involved individuals, and other historically underrepresented groups.
(270) 812-8892 View (270) 812-8892
Photo of Jessica Mahaney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Jessica Mahaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hello! It would be a pleasure to have the opportunity to support and assist you through the challenges and obstacles that often come with living life. I provide mental health and therapeutic services that are tailored to the individual challenges and needs of my clients. I work with adolescents, teens, adults, and families and accept various insurances as well as private pay. Those who come to me are often struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, trauma, and many other challenges. I am honored to assist those who are seeking help with these and other issues.
Hello! It would be a pleasure to have the opportunity to support and assist you through the challenges and obstacles that often come with living life. I provide mental health and therapeutic services that are tailored to the individual challenges and needs of my clients. I work with adolescents, teens, adults, and families and accept various insurances as well as private pay. Those who come to me are often struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, trauma, and many other challenges. I am honored to assist those who are seeking help with these and other issues.
(270) 458-0742 View (270) 458-0742
Photo of Patricia Anne Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Patricia Anne Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I am Trisha and would love to work with you. I have 20 years of experience in the field of social work. I have been a therapist for 8 years. I have experience treating trauma based issues and all of treatment is trauma informed. I have vast experience with anxiety, depression and defiant behavior in people of all ages. I am skilled in EMDR and CBT. I use a person centered approach to all of my clients, which means that you will get a treatment plan specifically made for you. Please contact me so we can work together.
Hello, I am Trisha and would love to work with you. I have 20 years of experience in the field of social work. I have been a therapist for 8 years. I have experience treating trauma based issues and all of treatment is trauma informed. I have vast experience with anxiety, depression and defiant behavior in people of all ages. I am skilled in EMDR and CBT. I use a person centered approach to all of my clients, which means that you will get a treatment plan specifically made for you. Please contact me so we can work together.
(270) 341-3910 View (270) 341-3910
Photo of Sydney Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sydney Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Kentucky with my pup Sir Rainey. As a queer and Neurodivergent therapist, my passion lies in serving folks in the LGBTQIA+/ND communities, whether that be coping skills for Anxiety/Depression, finding diagnoses for unexplained or overlooked symptoms, or finding themselves through goal setting and increased self-acceptance. I strive every day to approach my work and my life with cultural humility and understand that mental health is not one-size-fits-all. I fully stand by equity over equality for all human beings.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Kentucky with my pup Sir Rainey. As a queer and Neurodivergent therapist, my passion lies in serving folks in the LGBTQIA+/ND communities, whether that be coping skills for Anxiety/Depression, finding diagnoses for unexplained or overlooked symptoms, or finding themselves through goal setting and increased self-acceptance. I strive every day to approach my work and my life with cultural humility and understand that mental health is not one-size-fits-all. I fully stand by equity over equality for all human beings.
(270) 817-4009 View (270) 817-4009
Photo of Kyra Tuley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TCADC
Kyra Tuley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TCADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My specialty client populations I have worked with previously are those struggling with addiction, those experiencing homelessness, and at-risk youth. Any goal, need, and challenge brought to me are met with the understanding that you are the expert of your situation. I will work to assist you through using the skills I have accumulated throughout my education and career to best serve you at your most vulnerable times while learning from your experiences to provide the best possible care and further assist where and when able. I have experience in both outpatient and inpatient counseling, as well as individual and group counseling.
My specialty client populations I have worked with previously are those struggling with addiction, those experiencing homelessness, and at-risk youth. Any goal, need, and challenge brought to me are met with the understanding that you are the expert of your situation. I will work to assist you through using the skills I have accumulated throughout my education and career to best serve you at your most vulnerable times while learning from your experiences to provide the best possible care and further assist where and when able. I have experience in both outpatient and inpatient counseling, as well as individual and group counseling.
(270) 341-3714 View (270) 341-3714
Photo of Andrea Flores, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Andrea Flores
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As an LCSW from Brescia University (2020), I have one goal - allowing others to be seen and heard for who they truly are. I created a compassionate virtual space centered around you- the stories you tell yourself about who you are, where you are going, and what makes life...well, life. It is never my goal to "tell you like it is" but to allow you to tell it while I serve as a guide to help you make sense of it. Values such as self-determination and acceptance are the foundation of every interaction. The goal is to help you discover yourself and grow into your power to reach your own goals. Let's walk this path together.
As an LCSW from Brescia University (2020), I have one goal - allowing others to be seen and heard for who they truly are. I created a compassionate virtual space centered around you- the stories you tell yourself about who you are, where you are going, and what makes life...well, life. It is never my goal to "tell you like it is" but to allow you to tell it while I serve as a guide to help you make sense of it. Values such as self-determination and acceptance are the foundation of every interaction. The goal is to help you discover yourself and grow into your power to reach your own goals. Let's walk this path together.
(270) 819-6446 View (270) 819-6446
Photo of Megan Rorex, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Megan Rorex
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hi there! My name is Megan and I'm an LCSW with 10+ years of experience currently practicing in Bowling Green, Kentucky. I specialize in working with PTSD and other trauma related disorders and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, as well as anxiety and depression.
Hi there! My name is Megan and I'm an LCSW with 10+ years of experience currently practicing in Bowling Green, Kentucky. I specialize in working with PTSD and other trauma related disorders and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, as well as anxiety and depression.
(270) 727-5731 View (270) 727-5731
Photo of Charles Burgett, Marriage & Family Therapist, MAE, LMFT
Charles Burgett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAE, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Over the past 18 years I have found clients seeking my assistance who are searching for ways to improve their lives. Many times we find ourselves either stuck or unable to break free from the thoughts, feelings or behaviors that seem to drag us down. Many people find it helpful to be able to voice their struggles to someone who will be non judgmental or condemning. I have found that people want to renew their hope for a better tomorrow, others need to regain their inner strength, while others long for a new vision of what their life could be.
Over the past 18 years I have found clients seeking my assistance who are searching for ways to improve their lives. Many times we find ourselves either stuck or unable to break free from the thoughts, feelings or behaviors that seem to drag us down. Many people find it helpful to be able to voice their struggles to someone who will be non judgmental or condemning. I have found that people want to renew their hope for a better tomorrow, others need to regain their inner strength, while others long for a new vision of what their life could be.
(270) 977-8024 View (270) 977-8024

Online Therapists

Photo of Ray C Coates - Lifetree Marriage and Family Therapy LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Lifetree Marriage and Family Therapy LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new clients via telehealth. I am Ray Coates, LMFT. Certain events in life can leave you feeling stuck, and in these instances I can help. I work with individuals, couples and families to help them get "unstuck" in love, work and life. I utilize various techniques in communication from the Gottman method to assist couples in meeting needs, resolving conflict and strengthening relationships. I utilize a cognitive behavioral approach in address stress, anxiety, and depression. I am trained in grief and bereavement care. I believe everyone should have a safe and healing place to work through life's difficulties.
Accepting new clients via telehealth. I am Ray Coates, LMFT. Certain events in life can leave you feeling stuck, and in these instances I can help. I work with individuals, couples and families to help them get "unstuck" in love, work and life. I utilize various techniques in communication from the Gottman method to assist couples in meeting needs, resolving conflict and strengthening relationships. I utilize a cognitive behavioral approach in address stress, anxiety, and depression. I am trained in grief and bereavement care. I believe everyone should have a safe and healing place to work through life's difficulties.
(859) 350-6250 View (859) 350-6250
Photo of Dr. Nikolaus Secula, Pastoral Counselor, DMin, KLPC, BCC
Dr. Nikolaus Secula
Pastoral Counselor, DMin, KLPC, BCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! I'm Dr. Nikolaus Secula, a dedicated psychotherapist passionate about supporting individuals through life's challenges and transitions. With a compassionate and holistic approach, I specialize in addressing a range of concerns including ADHD, anxiety, stress and burnout, grief, and assisting individuals through navigating life's transitions. I bring years of education, training, and experience to the counseling relationship. I am a Kentucky Licensed Pastoral Counselor. I am also a Board Certified Coach with the CCE, a Certified Pastoral Temperament Counselor with the NCCA, and hold an ADHD specialization.
Welcome! I'm Dr. Nikolaus Secula, a dedicated psychotherapist passionate about supporting individuals through life's challenges and transitions. With a compassionate and holistic approach, I specialize in addressing a range of concerns including ADHD, anxiety, stress and burnout, grief, and assisting individuals through navigating life's transitions. I bring years of education, training, and experience to the counseling relationship. I am a Kentucky Licensed Pastoral Counselor. I am also a Board Certified Coach with the CCE, a Certified Pastoral Temperament Counselor with the NCCA, and hold an ADHD specialization.
(270) 479-8510 View (270) 479-8510
Photo of Denise Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Denise Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client is a person who has a willingness to take an honest look at their life challenges and the courage to gain the awareness necessary to reach personal goals.
My ideal client is a person who has a willingness to take an honest look at their life challenges and the courage to gain the awareness necessary to reach personal goals.
(270) 677-1194 View (270) 677-1194

See more therapy options for Allen County

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Allen County, KY

10+

Average cost per session

$60

Therapists in Allen County, KY who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
82% Trauma and PTSD
76% Coping Skills
76% Self Esteem
71% Family Conflict
65% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

75% Aetna
75% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Allen County, KY see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
28% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Allen County?

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.