Therapists in Lexington, KY

View neighborhoods in Lexington
Photo of Lily Dunn, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MFTA
Lily Dunn
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MFTA
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40509
It's important to remember that every step you take, is a step toward growth. As a therapist, I am dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment for your development, guided by empathy, trust, and collaboration. With a diverse background in individual, couple, family, and school-based therapy, I integrate therapeutic modalities such as Emotionally Focused, Structural, and Narrative Therapy techniques. These tools are designed to guide you in navigating life's challenges and uncovering your inherent strengths. I am deeply passionate about working with humans who, like all of us, are just trying to figure out life.
It's important to remember that every step you take, is a step toward growth. As a therapist, I am dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment for your development, guided by empathy, trust, and collaboration. With a diverse background in individual, couple, family, and school-based therapy, I integrate therapeutic modalities such as Emotionally Focused, Structural, and Narrative Therapy techniques. These tools are designed to guide you in navigating life's challenges and uncovering your inherent strengths. I am deeply passionate about working with humans who, like all of us, are just trying to figure out life.
(859) 217-4741 View (859) 217-4741
Photo of Christopher G. Lyon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Christopher G. Lyon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lexington, KY 40509
My ideal client is someone with a solution-focused mindset who may be facing challenges like stress, anxiety, or life transitions but is open to taking small, manageable steps forward. They need a supportive, nonjudgmental space, strategies tailored to their strengths, and encouragement to recognize progress along the way. Their goal is to build resilience, develop healthy coping skills, and find clarity without the pressure of having everything “fixed” at once. They value an approach that acknowledges no path is linear, allowing them to move at a sustainable pace toward a more balanced, fulfilling life.
My ideal client is someone with a solution-focused mindset who may be facing challenges like stress, anxiety, or life transitions but is open to taking small, manageable steps forward. They need a supportive, nonjudgmental space, strategies tailored to their strengths, and encouragement to recognize progress along the way. Their goal is to build resilience, develop healthy coping skills, and find clarity without the pressure of having everything “fixed” at once. They value an approach that acknowledges no path is linear, allowing them to move at a sustainable pace toward a more balanced, fulfilling life.
(859) 695-2752 View (859) 695-2752
Marsha Ritchey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Lexington, KY 40509
Marsha ‘Nacole’ Ritchey is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the University of Kentucky. Nacole’s approach to therapy is to seek growth, change and acceptance through combining evidence-based treatment approaches. She has experience working in outpatient, residential and intensive in-home services with both mental health and substance abuse clients. Nacole has experience working with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Anger Management, an array of life adjustment challenges and grief therapy.
Marsha ‘Nacole’ Ritchey is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the University of Kentucky. Nacole’s approach to therapy is to seek growth, change and acceptance through combining evidence-based treatment approaches. She has experience working in outpatient, residential and intensive in-home services with both mental health and substance abuse clients. Nacole has experience working with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Panic Disorder, ADHD, Anger Management, an array of life adjustment challenges and grief therapy.
(859) 724-5657 View (859) 724-5657
Photo of Micah Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Micah Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Lexington, KY 40517
Don’t let depression or anxiety steal another day of your life. Find peace and purpose in the middle of the pain and hardship. I want to help you accomplish your goals. To get me on your team and set up your first visit, call 859-449-5725. If you are having second thoughts about the process of therapy, find out more at my website (scroll down to the link under "Links").
Don’t let depression or anxiety steal another day of your life. Find peace and purpose in the middle of the pain and hardship. I want to help you accomplish your goals. To get me on your team and set up your first visit, call 859-449-5725. If you are having second thoughts about the process of therapy, find out more at my website (scroll down to the link under "Links").
(859) 237-7801 x495725 View (859) 237-7801 x495725
Photo of Marquetta Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Marquetta Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Online Only
In case you haven't heard it before: Your story matters. Your words matter. Your feelings are VALID. If you're struggling with past trauma, constant worry, overthinking, or a low mood, or if you're finding it tough to understand what it means to love yourself, know that you're not alone. If you feel misunderstood, impulsive, or uneasy with communication and boundaries, we're here to help. Enriching Smiles Counseling Services offers support to adults to help you understand your pain, gain clarity, and start your journey towards healing and self-love.
In case you haven't heard it before: Your story matters. Your words matter. Your feelings are VALID. If you're struggling with past trauma, constant worry, overthinking, or a low mood, or if you're finding it tough to understand what it means to love yourself, know that you're not alone. If you feel misunderstood, impulsive, or uneasy with communication and boundaries, we're here to help. Enriching Smiles Counseling Services offers support to adults to help you understand your pain, gain clarity, and start your journey towards healing and self-love.
(901) 554-4086 View (901) 554-4086
Photo of Nancy Leigh Gilmer, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC-S
Nancy Leigh Gilmer
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC-S
2 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40502
Namaste. Are you looking for a good “fit” with a Therapist? With over 20 years of licensed mental health experience, I believe we stand a good chance of being successful in addressing your wants and needs in therapy. I treat Trauma, Anxiety/Panic, Depression, Life Transitions, Relationships, and Spiritual Exploration, among other areas of “life.” I am a mature, open-minded, and compassionate woman who's "life experiences" might help you to expand your perspective on where you are in your life and what your realistic goals might be. My goal is to help you explore the difficulties you are facing in a relaxed, cozy, and safe setting.
Namaste. Are you looking for a good “fit” with a Therapist? With over 20 years of licensed mental health experience, I believe we stand a good chance of being successful in addressing your wants and needs in therapy. I treat Trauma, Anxiety/Panic, Depression, Life Transitions, Relationships, and Spiritual Exploration, among other areas of “life.” I am a mature, open-minded, and compassionate woman who's "life experiences" might help you to expand your perspective on where you are in your life and what your realistic goals might be. My goal is to help you explore the difficulties you are facing in a relaxed, cozy, and safe setting.
(859) 376-4523 View (859) 376-4523
Photo of Demetruis Watson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Demetruis Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
You appear strong, capable, and put-together, but inside you may feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or emotionally heavy. You’re the one others depend on, even when anxiety, burnout, or past trauma quietly drain your strength. You may feel disconnected from yourself, unsure how to slow down, or tired of holding everything together without support. You want clarity, peace, balance, and emotional stability so you can feel grounded again and reclaim the parts of you that feel lost, hidden, or forgotten.
You appear strong, capable, and put-together, but inside you may feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or emotionally heavy. You’re the one others depend on, even when anxiety, burnout, or past trauma quietly drain your strength. You may feel disconnected from yourself, unsure how to slow down, or tired of holding everything together without support. You want clarity, peace, balance, and emotional stability so you can feel grounded again and reclaim the parts of you that feel lost, hidden, or forgotten.
(859) 587-3778 View (859) 587-3778
Photo of Kalee Culver, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kalee Culver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40503
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 7 years of experience supporting individuals through life’s challenges with compassion and care. I believe healing begins in a space where you feel heard, understood, and accepted. My approach is warm, collaborative, and client-centered, and I am deeply committed to walking alongside you on your mental health journey—at your pace—as you work toward growth, balance, and lasting change.
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 7 years of experience supporting individuals through life’s challenges with compassion and care. I believe healing begins in a space where you feel heard, understood, and accepted. My approach is warm, collaborative, and client-centered, and I am deeply committed to walking alongside you on your mental health journey—at your pace—as you work toward growth, balance, and lasting change.
(859) 374-8146 View (859) 374-8146
Photo of Madison Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Madison Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40517
Not accepting new clients
I help clients feel more excited about living their beautiful, messy lives! Together we'll work to build resilience in an unpredictable world. I trust in the ability of our minds and nervous systems to heal from traumatic experiences. As you unburden wounded parts of yourself, we will honor the adaptive ways your brain has protected you. We'll work together to build cohesion between your parts to help them better serve you in seeking the future you want.
I help clients feel more excited about living their beautiful, messy lives! Together we'll work to build resilience in an unpredictable world. I trust in the ability of our minds and nervous systems to heal from traumatic experiences. As you unburden wounded parts of yourself, we will honor the adaptive ways your brain has protected you. We'll work together to build cohesion between your parts to help them better serve you in seeking the future you want.
(859) 600-6085 View (859) 600-6085
Photo of Robyn Napier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, MSSW, LCSW
Robyn Napier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, MSSW, LCSW
Online Only
Have you ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward in your life? Many carry unresolved past experiences that continue to affect their well-being, and are seeking a safe, supportive space to talk, explore, and process these challenges without judgment. If this is you and you are ready to gain insight, clarity, develop practical coping strategies, and build resilience, which leads to progress, you are in the right space. My integrative approach emphasizes guidance, understanding, and collaboration as we work toward healing and meaningful change, as I believe "Insight is Progress".
Have you ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward in your life? Many carry unresolved past experiences that continue to affect their well-being, and are seeking a safe, supportive space to talk, explore, and process these challenges without judgment. If this is you and you are ready to gain insight, clarity, develop practical coping strategies, and build resilience, which leads to progress, you are in the right space. My integrative approach emphasizes guidance, understanding, and collaboration as we work toward healing and meaningful change, as I believe "Insight is Progress".
(606) 559-0828 View (606) 559-0828
Photo of Maria Koerner, Counselor, LPCC
Maria Koerner
Counselor, LPCC
Lexington, KY 40504
Hi there, I'm Maria. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help women who feel the weight of the world on their shoulders mange the feelings of being overwhelmed. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit.
Hi there, I'm Maria. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help women who feel the weight of the world on their shoulders mange the feelings of being overwhelmed. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit.
(859) 648-3701 View (859) 648-3701
Photo of Hilary Miles, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Hilary Miles
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Lexington, KY 40502
Not accepting new clients
I provide a warm, supportive environment to explore life’s many challenges. I focus first on developing strong trust within the therapeutic relationship. I believe change happens once we feel safe to be witnessed in our vulnerability. So often what makes the stressors around us intolerable are our internal responses of shame, guilt, fear, anger, and anxiety. Learning how to increase our ability to tolerate difficult emotions, to be honest with ourselves, to grieve our losses, to practice accepting where we are, and to determine a path forward that aligns with our values - each is central to the work I do with clients.
I provide a warm, supportive environment to explore life’s many challenges. I focus first on developing strong trust within the therapeutic relationship. I believe change happens once we feel safe to be witnessed in our vulnerability. So often what makes the stressors around us intolerable are our internal responses of shame, guilt, fear, anger, and anxiety. Learning how to increase our ability to tolerate difficult emotions, to be honest with ourselves, to grieve our losses, to practice accepting where we are, and to determine a path forward that aligns with our values - each is central to the work I do with clients.
(859) 710-5893 View (859) 710-5893
Photo of Grant Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAP
Grant Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAP
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40503
The idea for New Creation Counseling started years ago as I embarked on my life reclamation. Through my journey a wholehearted desire grew to help those who are hurting and I wanted to provide them with a safe place to heal. Over the years my authentic, relational and evidence based approach has seemed deliver the outcomes clients seek. It would be a privilege to share in your process of working through addiction, relationship discord, depression, anxiety, life transition, anger and any other issues you may be facing. We are not built to face these burdens alone, so I invite you to invest in yourself and start growing forward.
The idea for New Creation Counseling started years ago as I embarked on my life reclamation. Through my journey a wholehearted desire grew to help those who are hurting and I wanted to provide them with a safe place to heal. Over the years my authentic, relational and evidence based approach has seemed deliver the outcomes clients seek. It would be a privilege to share in your process of working through addiction, relationship discord, depression, anxiety, life transition, anger and any other issues you may be facing. We are not built to face these burdens alone, so I invite you to invest in yourself and start growing forward.
(859) 349-1348 View (859) 349-1348
Photo of Robert Kyle May - Open Doors Counseling Center, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Open Doors Counseling Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
2 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40509
We provide services to people who are seeking Identity Counseling, Trauma and Grief Counseling, Mood and Anxiety Counseling, and more. We foster a safe space for people who identify as LGBTQ+, LGBTQ+ allies, and people who are seeking behavioral health services. The core values for ODCC are Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Diversity, and Excellence (PRIDE).
We provide services to people who are seeking Identity Counseling, Trauma and Grief Counseling, Mood and Anxiety Counseling, and more. We foster a safe space for people who identify as LGBTQ+, LGBTQ+ allies, and people who are seeking behavioral health services. The core values for ODCC are Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Diversity, and Excellence (PRIDE).
(859) 780-8746 View (859) 780-8746
Photo of Angela Kirkland, Psychologist, MA, CPAF
Angela Kirkland
Psychologist, MA, CPAF
Lexington, KY 40503
If you are struggling with emotional stress, long for better relationships, or wish to address difficult circumstances in the past or present, then the assistance of a mental health professional may be a step in the right direction. Building a partnership with a therapist can help you process those issues and build skills to better tackle challenges. As a Cognitive Behavioral and Solution-Focused Therapist, I help clients understand how the mind interprets and reacts to situations, and then arm them with tools. With knowledge comes awareness, and awareness creates the opportunity for positive change.
If you are struggling with emotional stress, long for better relationships, or wish to address difficult circumstances in the past or present, then the assistance of a mental health professional may be a step in the right direction. Building a partnership with a therapist can help you process those issues and build skills to better tackle challenges. As a Cognitive Behavioral and Solution-Focused Therapist, I help clients understand how the mind interprets and reacts to situations, and then arm them with tools. With knowledge comes awareness, and awareness creates the opportunity for positive change.
(859) 209-6595 View (859) 209-6595
Photo of Angie C DeHart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Angie C DeHart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40513
When you're feeling down, even the most mundane stressors can be too much to bear. Talking with a caring professional in a warm and supportive environment can be an invaluable life experience. With almost 30 years of experience working with individuals and couples, I feel confident that I can help.
When you're feeling down, even the most mundane stressors can be too much to bear. Talking with a caring professional in a warm and supportive environment can be an invaluable life experience. With almost 30 years of experience working with individuals and couples, I feel confident that I can help.
(859) 379-0058 View (859) 379-0058
Photo of Melissa Graehler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Melissa Graehler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
It's okay to not be okay, and I am so proud of you for putting in the research to find a therapist who is a good fit for you. A little bit about myself, I was raised in Lexington, KY and after living in Western Kentucky for 11 years, I have returned home to my roots.
It's okay to not be okay, and I am so proud of you for putting in the research to find a therapist who is a good fit for you. A little bit about myself, I was raised in Lexington, KY and after living in Western Kentucky for 11 years, I have returned home to my roots.
(859) 762-2123 View (859) 762-2123
Photo of Kara Hardesty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kara Hardesty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lexington, KY 40509
Kara Hardesty, LCSW, is dedicated to providing compassionate and evidencebased mental health care to individuals, couples, and families in Kentucky. She works with clients facing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and major life transitions, offering a supportive space to explore emotions and develop meaningful coping strategies. Kara believes that everyone has the capacity for growth and healing, and she collaborates with clients to help them build resilience, improve relationships, and enhance overall wellbeing.
Kara Hardesty, LCSW, is dedicated to providing compassionate and evidencebased mental health care to individuals, couples, and families in Kentucky. She works with clients facing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and major life transitions, offering a supportive space to explore emotions and develop meaningful coping strategies. Kara believes that everyone has the capacity for growth and healing, and she collaborates with clients to help them build resilience, improve relationships, and enhance overall wellbeing.
(859) 376-5894 View (859) 376-5894
Photo of Ashlee Mayberry-Marshall, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashlee Mayberry-Marshall
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Only
Hi my name is Ashlee! I'm an independently licensed therapist specializing in Anxiety and Depression working with Adolescents, Adults, Couples and Families. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Clark Atlanta University and a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Georgia State University. I have 6 years of working experience as a licensed counselor and currently independently licensed in the state of Kentucky and Georgia. My mission is to help instill a sense of hope and allow the opportunity to open your eyes to a new perspective on life less desirable and unfortunate
Hi my name is Ashlee! I'm an independently licensed therapist specializing in Anxiety and Depression working with Adolescents, Adults, Couples and Families. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Clark Atlanta University and a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Georgia State University. I have 6 years of working experience as a licensed counselor and currently independently licensed in the state of Kentucky and Georgia. My mission is to help instill a sense of hope and allow the opportunity to open your eyes to a new perspective on life less desirable and unfortunate
(470) 536-1458 View (470) 536-1458
Photo of Tiffany Dobbs, Counselor, LPCC-S
Tiffany Dobbs
Counselor, LPCC-S
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40515
Mental Health issues coupled with the pressure of everyday life can be overwhelming. You may be having trouble coping or moving forward. You do not need to do this alone and I would like to walk beside you on your journey. Therapy can be the pathway to the life you want but are having trouble visualizing and obtaining. I utilize a client-centered approach viewing each person as unique and valuable. I am a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional and can incorporate nutrition and other key factors that contribute to mental wellness. I use Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman Model when working with couples and families.
Mental Health issues coupled with the pressure of everyday life can be overwhelming. You may be having trouble coping or moving forward. You do not need to do this alone and I would like to walk beside you on your journey. Therapy can be the pathway to the life you want but are having trouble visualizing and obtaining. I utilize a client-centered approach viewing each person as unique and valuable. I am a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional and can incorporate nutrition and other key factors that contribute to mental wellness. I use Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman Model when working with couples and families.
(859) 374-3987 View (859) 374-3987

See more therapy options for Lexington

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Lexington, KY

900+

Average cost per session

$124

Therapists in Lexington, KY who prioritize treating:

92% Anxiety
85% Depression
73% Trauma and PTSD
67% Self Esteem
62% Stress
61% Relationship Issues
58% Grief

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

86% Aetna
76% Anthem
69% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Lexington, KY see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

77% Female
22% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Lexington?

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.