Therapists in Monroe, LA

Photo of Robert Nijjar, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Robert Nijjar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Monroe, LA 71203
Hi, I’m Robert—and I believe everyone needs someone who truly listens. Since I was young, people have told me I’m easy to talk to and that I just “get” them. That natural ability to connect with others is what led me to pursue a career in mental health, and it continues to fuel my passion for helping people feel understood, supported, and empowered. I specialize in structured family therapy, couples and relationship issues, and anxiety exploration. Anxiety is something most of us face in one form or another, and I work with clients to untangle the layers of stress and worry to get to the heart of what’s going on.
Hi, I’m Robert—and I believe everyone needs someone who truly listens. Since I was young, people have told me I’m easy to talk to and that I just “get” them. That natural ability to connect with others is what led me to pursue a career in mental health, and it continues to fuel my passion for helping people feel understood, supported, and empowered. I specialize in structured family therapy, couples and relationship issues, and anxiety exploration. Anxiety is something most of us face in one form or another, and I work with clients to untangle the layers of stress and worry to get to the heart of what’s going on.
(318) 269-7847 View (318) 269-7847
Photo of Matthew Paxton, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Matthew Paxton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Monroe, LA 71201
As a dedicated counselor, I empower teens and adults seeking transformation through faith and personal growth. My ideal clients face challenges like depression, anxiety, and feelings of hopelessness, yearning for fulfillment in their lives, families, careers, and marriages. They aspire to overcome negativity and achieve lasting change. What sets me apart is my holistic approach, integrating faith-based principles with practical strategies tailored to individual needs. Together, we’ll navigate this journey, fostering resilience and unlocking potential to become the best version of yourself, creating a life filled with purpose.
As a dedicated counselor, I empower teens and adults seeking transformation through faith and personal growth. My ideal clients face challenges like depression, anxiety, and feelings of hopelessness, yearning for fulfillment in their lives, families, careers, and marriages. They aspire to overcome negativity and achieve lasting change. What sets me apart is my holistic approach, integrating faith-based principles with practical strategies tailored to individual needs. Together, we’ll navigate this journey, fostering resilience and unlocking potential to become the best version of yourself, creating a life filled with purpose.
(318) 467-3477 View (318) 467-3477
Photo of Sharon D. Pleasant - Pleasant Counseling and Consulting Services, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, EMDR, SAP
Pleasant Counseling and Consulting Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, EMDR, SAP
Monroe, LA 71201
Are you ready to leave the old story behind and live the full embodied life you deserve? Therapy is a brave first step in healing. I am not an expert on how you should live. Rather, I seek to support you in living a life you want. As a result of working together, you'll learn to develop more satisfying relationships, navigate life transitions and clarify wants and desires. As a therapist, I am dedicated to creating a safe and calming space for people to explore their needs on a journey to healing and wellness. I have a relational style of therapy that looks to your goals, experiences and strengths in order to meet your unique needs
Are you ready to leave the old story behind and live the full embodied life you deserve? Therapy is a brave first step in healing. I am not an expert on how you should live. Rather, I seek to support you in living a life you want. As a result of working together, you'll learn to develop more satisfying relationships, navigate life transitions and clarify wants and desires. As a therapist, I am dedicated to creating a safe and calming space for people to explore their needs on a journey to healing and wellness. I have a relational style of therapy that looks to your goals, experiences and strengths in order to meet your unique needs
(318) 217-8053 View (318) 217-8053
Photo of Chanell Finley, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCS, LPC
Chanell Finley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCS, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Now Accepting New Clients! You Don’t Have to Be the Strong One All the Time. You’ve been the reliable one - showing up, pushing through, holding it all together for everyone else. But now, you're realizing that you need a safe space, too. You’re exhausted, anxious, grieving, or feeling stuck in cycles that no longer serve you. You're ready to release the weight of it all without judgment. Whether you’re battl anxiety, burnout, depression, trauma, or just feeling emotionally depleted, therapy with me is a space to breathe, feel, and begin again. If requested, I integrate Christian principles into the healing process.
Now Accepting New Clients! You Don’t Have to Be the Strong One All the Time. You’ve been the reliable one - showing up, pushing through, holding it all together for everyone else. But now, you're realizing that you need a safe space, too. You’re exhausted, anxious, grieving, or feeling stuck in cycles that no longer serve you. You're ready to release the weight of it all without judgment. Whether you’re battl anxiety, burnout, depression, trauma, or just feeling emotionally depleted, therapy with me is a space to breathe, feel, and begin again. If requested, I integrate Christian principles into the healing process.
(318) 616-9068 View (318) 616-9068
Photo of Keisha Bell-Celestand, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, CCATP
Keisha Bell-Celestand
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, CCATP
Monroe, LA 71201
At Celestand Counseling, our goal is to provide an environment that allows clients to explore, grow, and heal. I collaborate with the client(s) to foster insight and to help individuals reach their fullest potential. I am committed to providing personalized counseling sessions that are tailored to each individual’s needs and goals. I offer a variety of services, including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and family therapy. I believe in the power of growth and I am dedicated to helping my clients find the insight and courage to make lasting changes in their lives.
At Celestand Counseling, our goal is to provide an environment that allows clients to explore, grow, and heal. I collaborate with the client(s) to foster insight and to help individuals reach their fullest potential. I am committed to providing personalized counseling sessions that are tailored to each individual’s needs and goals. I offer a variety of services, including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and family therapy. I believe in the power of growth and I am dedicated to helping my clients find the insight and courage to make lasting changes in their lives.
(318) 668-7780 View (318) 668-7780
Photo of Kasey Gentry Witherington - Kasey Witherington Counseling @ Tower Place, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Kasey Witherington Counseling @ Tower Place
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
1 Endorsed
Monroe, LA 71201
Are you living the best version of "you"? Is what you are doing each day working to build a better life? What's holding you back from changing? These are questions I might ask during our first session. I approach therapy from a collaborative viewpoint. Together the client and therapist will build a therapeutic relationship that will produce positive solutions. I also encourage the client to become mentally and physically empowered by recognizing and changing their unconscious thoughts and ideas.
Are you living the best version of "you"? Is what you are doing each day working to build a better life? What's holding you back from changing? These are questions I might ask during our first session. I approach therapy from a collaborative viewpoint. Together the client and therapist will build a therapeutic relationship that will produce positive solutions. I also encourage the client to become mentally and physically empowered by recognizing and changing their unconscious thoughts and ideas.
(318) 381-4317 View (318) 381-4317
Photo of Brenda S Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LCSW , BACS, C-SSWS, CTRS
Brenda S Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LCSW , BACS, C-SSWS, CTRS
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Clients in 2025. Are you struggling with grief, stress, anxiety, or depression. You are not alone, and there is always support. BWilling Mental Health Counseling will help you navigate through those difficult roadblocks and put you back on the path of a meaningful and satisfying life.
Accepting New Clients in 2025. Are you struggling with grief, stress, anxiety, or depression. You are not alone, and there is always support. BWilling Mental Health Counseling will help you navigate through those difficult roadblocks and put you back on the path of a meaningful and satisfying life.
(318) 414-5843 View (318) 414-5843
Photo of Scarlett Stansbury, Counselor, PLPC, PLMFT
Scarlett Stansbury
Counselor, PLPC, PLMFT
1 Endorsed
Monroe, LA 71201
My goal is to meet you where you are on your journey and walk alongside you as we move forward towards meaningful and lasting change. Whether you're walking through a difficult season, working through past trauma, or navigating relational challenges, I aim to foster a safe, supportive environment where clients feel seen and empowered to heal, learn, and grow.
My goal is to meet you where you are on your journey and walk alongside you as we move forward towards meaningful and lasting change. Whether you're walking through a difficult season, working through past trauma, or navigating relational challenges, I aim to foster a safe, supportive environment where clients feel seen and empowered to heal, learn, and grow.
(318) 710-3394 View (318) 710-3394
Photo of Rylie Balius Johnson, Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
Rylie Balius Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
Monroe, LA 71201
Hello! I am a Marriage and Family Therapy intern and am trained in EMDR to treat trauma and relational conflict. My passion is to help individuals find healing and hope.
Hello! I am a Marriage and Family Therapy intern and am trained in EMDR to treat trauma and relational conflict. My passion is to help individuals find healing and hope.
(318) 498-6459 View (318) 498-6459
Photo of Amber Ledford, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Amber Ledford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
1 Endorsed
Monroe, LA 71201
Hi, I’m Amber, and I help adults who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain navigating life’s transitions with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re managing anxiety, depression, burnout, or the weight of everyday stress, you don’t have to go through it alone. As the owner of Moving Mountains Counseling, I’m passionate about creating a space where you feel seen and supported—not judged. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in real-world tools that help you better understand your emotions, develop healthier patterns, and reconnect with yourself.
Hi, I’m Amber, and I help adults who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain navigating life’s transitions with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re managing anxiety, depression, burnout, or the weight of everyday stress, you don’t have to go through it alone. As the owner of Moving Mountains Counseling, I’m passionate about creating a space where you feel seen and supported—not judged. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in real-world tools that help you better understand your emotions, develop healthier patterns, and reconnect with yourself.
(318) 559-8247 View (318) 559-8247
Photo of Lesley Lowman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Lesley Lowman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Monroe, LA 71201
Life can feel overwhelming sometimes. It could be losing a loved one, a job or some other major life change. Maybe there’s conflict within your family or other close relationships. Sometimes you just feel sad, lonely, or confused about what to do next. And for others, there is something devastating from the past that feels impossible to move beyond. This is when counseling can help. It’s important to realize that you’re not alone and that help can be found, you just have to be willing to take that first scary step in asking for it.
Life can feel overwhelming sometimes. It could be losing a loved one, a job or some other major life change. Maybe there’s conflict within your family or other close relationships. Sometimes you just feel sad, lonely, or confused about what to do next. And for others, there is something devastating from the past that feels impossible to move beyond. This is when counseling can help. It’s important to realize that you’re not alone and that help can be found, you just have to be willing to take that first scary step in asking for it.
(318) 232-4576 View (318) 232-4576
Photo of Joseph McMasters, MA, PLPC
Joseph McMasters
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monroe, LA 71203
I am a Provisional Licensed Counselor under the direct supervision of Dr. Kathy Eichelberger. I have experience in working with individuals, groups, and couples, dealing with a wide range of therapeutic issues including Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, and Sexual Addiction. I am also certified in PrepareEnrich for couples. I utilize a wide variety of approaches and techniques from therapy models such as, Cognitive/Behavioral, Solution Focused, and EMD. I work from a Christian worldview and view the counseling process holistically. I desire for my clients to heal emotionally, physically, and spiritually.
I am a Provisional Licensed Counselor under the direct supervision of Dr. Kathy Eichelberger. I have experience in working with individuals, groups, and couples, dealing with a wide range of therapeutic issues including Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, and Sexual Addiction. I am also certified in PrepareEnrich for couples. I utilize a wide variety of approaches and techniques from therapy models such as, Cognitive/Behavioral, Solution Focused, and EMD. I work from a Christian worldview and view the counseling process holistically. I desire for my clients to heal emotionally, physically, and spiritually.
(318) 353-8130 View (318) 353-8130
Photo of Hannah Gilbert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Hannah Gilbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Monroe, LA 71201
Not accepting new clients
Hello, I'm Hannah Gilbert, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (License No. 16830) based in Monroe, Louisiana. I obtained my Master's in Social Work from Louisiana State University. I have a strong passion for helping individuals of all ages overcome life's challenges and unlock their potential. My mission is to empower people to make significant changes in their lives, inspired by my own experiences and a dedication to continuous learning. I have experience in addressing a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, grief, trauma, addiction, adjustment problems, self-esteem, and more.
Hello, I'm Hannah Gilbert, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (License No. 16830) based in Monroe, Louisiana. I obtained my Master's in Social Work from Louisiana State University. I have a strong passion for helping individuals of all ages overcome life's challenges and unlock their potential. My mission is to empower people to make significant changes in their lives, inspired by my own experiences and a dedication to continuous learning. I have experience in addressing a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, grief, trauma, addiction, adjustment problems, self-esteem, and more.
(318) 536-3768 View (318) 536-3768
Photo of Mishema Jackson Boley, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Mishema Jackson Boley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Monroe, LA 71201
My name is Mishema Boley, and I am committed to your mental wellness journey. As a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S) based in Monroe, LA, I launched my private practice to focus on conducting mental health evaluations for individuals considering bariatric surgery. Over time, my services have expanded to include evaluations for bariatric candidates, supervision for PLPCs, anger management, substance abuse counseling, and theft prevention programs. I also provide personalized sessions tailored for adolescents and adults navigating life's challenges. My mission is to support and guide you towards a healthier you.
My name is Mishema Boley, and I am committed to your mental wellness journey. As a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S) based in Monroe, LA, I launched my private practice to focus on conducting mental health evaluations for individuals considering bariatric surgery. Over time, my services have expanded to include evaluations for bariatric candidates, supervision for PLPCs, anger management, substance abuse counseling, and theft prevention programs. I also provide personalized sessions tailored for adolescents and adults navigating life's challenges. My mission is to support and guide you towards a healthier you.
(318) 392-1348 View (318) 392-1348
Photo of Christian Specks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Christian Specks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Monroe, LA 71209
Are you a neurodivergent man or a woman struggling with a head full of dread? Fret not; we all have at some point in life. I've worked in the social work profession for over 19 years, specializing in mental health and special education, including with individuals with ADHD, autism, anxiety, and depressive disorders. I've worked with clients with complex needs to support interpersonal, family, and school relations. I am also the founder and owner of Grace Restored Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC. This faith-based private practice provides counseling and support services to individuals, groups, and communities with disabilities.
Are you a neurodivergent man or a woman struggling with a head full of dread? Fret not; we all have at some point in life. I've worked in the social work profession for over 19 years, specializing in mental health and special education, including with individuals with ADHD, autism, anxiety, and depressive disorders. I've worked with clients with complex needs to support interpersonal, family, and school relations. I am also the founder and owner of Grace Restored Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC. This faith-based private practice provides counseling and support services to individuals, groups, and communities with disabilities.
(318) 594-4892 View (318) 594-4892
Photo of Andrew B Dodson - Andrew B Dodson, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Andrew B Dodson, PhD
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Monroe, LA 71201
Dr. Dodson specializes in guiding individuals, couples and families through pivotal moments from a Biblical perspective. His work is rooted in aligning lives with deeper meaning and purpose, offering clarity and direction when the stakes are highest.
Dr. Dodson specializes in guiding individuals, couples and families through pivotal moments from a Biblical perspective. His work is rooted in aligning lives with deeper meaning and purpose, offering clarity and direction when the stakes are highest.
(318) 727-1941 x1 View (318) 727-1941 x1
Photo of Kelly Buxton Wise, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Kelly Buxton Wise
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Monroe, LA 71201
I am trained in EMDR.
I am trained in EMDR.
(318) 386-3527 View (318) 386-3527
Photo of Chelsea Russell, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC
Chelsea Russell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC
Monroe, LA 71201
For me, counseling is an exciting, yet challenging process with a goal of positive change. I will collaborate with you to establish appropriate and achievable goals to help you improve your life in a number of contexts. I believe that only you can choose your path. We will work together to achieve your goals through a variety of different interventions. I strive to maintain an open, honest, and empowering relationship to serve as a vehicle for change. It is my hope that counseling will provide you with a safe place for self-exploration. You are the expert in your life and I will help in finding the solutions that work best for you.
For me, counseling is an exciting, yet challenging process with a goal of positive change. I will collaborate with you to establish appropriate and achievable goals to help you improve your life in a number of contexts. I believe that only you can choose your path. We will work together to achieve your goals through a variety of different interventions. I strive to maintain an open, honest, and empowering relationship to serve as a vehicle for change. It is my hope that counseling will provide you with a safe place for self-exploration. You are the expert in your life and I will help in finding the solutions that work best for you.
(318) 257-8725 View (318) 257-8725
Photo of Sovichan E Scaria, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sovichan E Scaria
Marriage & Family Therapist
Online Only
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in both Texas and Louisiana, passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families find healing, growth, and deeper connection. My approach is rooted in Christian values and biblical principles, offering a space where clients can explore life’s challenges through both clinical insight and faith-based guidance. Whether you're facing relationship struggles, anxiety, grief, or spiritual questions, I aim to walk alongside you with compassion and clarity. I welcome clients who seek counseling that honors their Christian faith, while also respecting and working with clients from all back
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in both Texas and Louisiana, passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families find healing, growth, and deeper connection. My approach is rooted in Christian values and biblical principles, offering a space where clients can explore life’s challenges through both clinical insight and faith-based guidance. Whether you're facing relationship struggles, anxiety, grief, or spiritual questions, I aim to walk alongside you with compassion and clarity. I welcome clients who seek counseling that honors their Christian faith, while also respecting and working with clients from all back
(318) 203-5999 View (318) 203-5999
Photo of Constance Ash, Licensed Professional Counselor, Black, Female, Anxiety, Burnout, Stress
Constance Ash
Licensed Professional Counselor, Black, Female, Anxiety, Burnout, Stress
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Feeling trapped in cycles of anxiety, burnout, self-doubt, and constantly feeling like you're not good enough? Are you ready to throw deuces to anxiety, stress, and the pressures of balancing career, family, and social life? Are you READY to take off the "Superwoman" cape and learn simple, effective solutions to reconstruct your life? Well, help is on the way. If you're a high achieving, professional woman or college student, Therapist, Doctor, Nurse, Police Woman, Teacher, Professor, Mother, or simply a Woman who is tired of being sick and tired- Schedule your free 20-minute video consultation & let's get to work!
Feeling trapped in cycles of anxiety, burnout, self-doubt, and constantly feeling like you're not good enough? Are you ready to throw deuces to anxiety, stress, and the pressures of balancing career, family, and social life? Are you READY to take off the "Superwoman" cape and learn simple, effective solutions to reconstruct your life? Well, help is on the way. If you're a high achieving, professional woman or college student, Therapist, Doctor, Nurse, Police Woman, Teacher, Professor, Mother, or simply a Woman who is tired of being sick and tired- Schedule your free 20-minute video consultation & let's get to work!
(318) 353-8063 View (318) 353-8063

See more therapy options for Monroe

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Monroe, LA

90+

Average cost per session

$125

Therapists in Monroe, LA who prioritize treating:

86% Anxiety
83% Depression
77% Coping Skills
76% Stress
72% Relationship Issues
72% Self Esteem
61% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

83% BlueCross and BlueShield
81% Aetna
76% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Monroe, LA see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
20% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Monroe?

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.