Therapists in Slidell, LA

Photo of Ashton Gibson, MS, NBCHt, CCH
Ashton Gibson
Verified Verified
Slidell, LA 70458
Looking for something results-oriented? If you feel stuck in patterns you can't think your way out of, I help you rewire them at the subconscious level. Life does NOT have to feel this heavy! You already know what to do. You just can't seem to do it consistently. That's not a motivation problem- it's a subconscious pattern. I offer a calm, supportive space where you can slow down, exhale, and begin reconnecting with yourself. My approach is gentle and empowering, helping you address the root causes of what’s keeping you stuck and move past them. Together, we’ll build resilience, restore calm, and create meaningful, lasting change.
Looking for something results-oriented? If you feel stuck in patterns you can't think your way out of, I help you rewire them at the subconscious level. Life does NOT have to feel this heavy! You already know what to do. You just can't seem to do it consistently. That's not a motivation problem- it's a subconscious pattern. I offer a calm, supportive space where you can slow down, exhale, and begin reconnecting with yourself. My approach is gentle and empowering, helping you address the root causes of what’s keeping you stuck and move past them. Together, we’ll build resilience, restore calm, and create meaningful, lasting change.
(985) 236-0981 View (985) 236-0981
Photo of Lynne M. Hartmann - Lynne M Hartmann, Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC-S
Lynne M Hartmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC-S
Slidell, LA 70458
Life can be overwhelming and having the right support can make all the difference. With over 18 years of experience, I help clients navigate life changes with a specialty in trauma. I work with individuals and view counseling as a collaborative process grounded in respect and understanding. I utilize play therapy with younger clients and CBT, as well as cognitive processing with older clients. I am also accepting LPC supervisees (PLPC) in Louisiana and welcome recent graduates seeking a supportive and encouraging space to grown, focusing on skill development, case conceptualization, ethical practice and building confidence.
Life can be overwhelming and having the right support can make all the difference. With over 18 years of experience, I help clients navigate life changes with a specialty in trauma. I work with individuals and view counseling as a collaborative process grounded in respect and understanding. I utilize play therapy with younger clients and CBT, as well as cognitive processing with older clients. I am also accepting LPC supervisees (PLPC) in Louisiana and welcome recent graduates seeking a supportive and encouraging space to grown, focusing on skill development, case conceptualization, ethical practice and building confidence.
(504) 267-2326 View (504) 267-2326
Photo of Dr. Rashunda Miller Reed - Relationships Matter LLC I Rashunda Miller Reed, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT-S, AAMFT-S
Relationships Matter LLC I Rashunda Miller Reed
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT-S, AAMFT-S
Slidell, LA 70458
Not accepting new clients
Hiya, are you ready get the relationship and sex life you want? I love working with couples, especially when breaking up seems inevitable. I help with emotional regulation, parts, effective communication, deep hurts, infidelity, painful intercourse, desire discrepancies, erectile difficulties, premature ejaculation, challenges with orgasm, sexual anxiety, and more. All configurations and identities are welcomed. I can handle anything that you want to share. MY specialized approached include Internal Family Systems (IFS), Discernment Counseling, and Systems.
Hiya, are you ready get the relationship and sex life you want? I love working with couples, especially when breaking up seems inevitable. I help with emotional regulation, parts, effective communication, deep hurts, infidelity, painful intercourse, desire discrepancies, erectile difficulties, premature ejaculation, challenges with orgasm, sexual anxiety, and more. All configurations and identities are welcomed. I can handle anything that you want to share. MY specialized approached include Internal Family Systems (IFS), Discernment Counseling, and Systems.
(985) 265-7701 View (985) 265-7701
Photo of Ali Nolan, Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Ali Nolan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Slidell, LA 70458
Does your mind not stop? Can you not stop thinking the worst? Do you avoid situations or activities out of concern for how you’ll be accepted or judged? If anxiety or depression has become too much for you or your child to manage alone, there is hope. You can bring peace back to your life and home.
Does your mind not stop? Can you not stop thinking the worst? Do you avoid situations or activities out of concern for how you’ll be accepted or judged? If anxiety or depression has become too much for you or your child to manage alone, there is hope. You can bring peace back to your life and home.
(985) 231-0934 View (985) 231-0934
Photo of Wes Errington - Wesley E Errington, LPC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Wesley E Errington, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Slidell, LA 70458
Hello, my name is Wesley Errington and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have been working professionally since 2017 and have worked with a vast and diverse population ranging from children, adults, families, and couples. My ideal client is one that is seeking mental health growth through healing, exploration, and learning more of themselves and the role mental health has on their lives.
Hello, my name is Wesley Errington and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have been working professionally since 2017 and have worked with a vast and diverse population ranging from children, adults, families, and couples. My ideal client is one that is seeking mental health growth through healing, exploration, and learning more of themselves and the role mental health has on their lives.
(985) 265-7468 View (985) 265-7468
Photo of Christina Hunter She Her., Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Christina Hunter She Her.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Hi, I’m Christina, a licensed professional counselor specializing in supporting individuals—especially college, graduate students, and high functioning adults—living with chronic illness, anxiety, and high academic pressure. I help clients navigate people-pleasing, perfectionism, and identity development with compassion and care. My approach is collaborative, paced, and grounded in building self-trust and realistic, chosen joy. Don’t be a stranger and reach out today if you are ready to prioritize support in your life.
Hi, I’m Christina, a licensed professional counselor specializing in supporting individuals—especially college, graduate students, and high functioning adults—living with chronic illness, anxiety, and high academic pressure. I help clients navigate people-pleasing, perfectionism, and identity development with compassion and care. My approach is collaborative, paced, and grounded in building self-trust and realistic, chosen joy. Don’t be a stranger and reach out today if you are ready to prioritize support in your life.
(504) 502-1340 View (504) 502-1340
Photo of Dr. Charnetta Robinson, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC
Dr. Charnetta Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC
8 Endorsed
Slidell, LA 70458
Not accepting new clients
Congratulations, you have taken the first step! We all face challenges in life that bring a whirlwind of emotions and moving forward can often appear ambiguous and daunting. I will guide you in exploring patterns of thoughts and actions that can be impacting you in efforts to devise next steps. My style of counseling is integrative. I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Gottman Couples Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) depending on your presenting needs.
Congratulations, you have taken the first step! We all face challenges in life that bring a whirlwind of emotions and moving forward can often appear ambiguous and daunting. I will guide you in exploring patterns of thoughts and actions that can be impacting you in efforts to devise next steps. My style of counseling is integrative. I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Gottman Couples Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) depending on your presenting needs.
(985) 224-5576 View (985) 224-5576
Photo of Chanin Santini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chanin Santini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Slidell, LA 70461
Chanin is a dedicated and experienced clinical social worker with over 15 years of service primarily with the Department of Veteran Affairs, where she has developed programs and supported Veteran wellness. Chanin holds a Master of Social Work and a Master of Education from Widener University. In my clinical work, I foster a holistic, compassionate approach. One that blends emotional insight with practical, evidence-based, and informed interventions. She is an advocate for accessible care and has experience working with individuals, couples, and diverse communities.
Chanin is a dedicated and experienced clinical social worker with over 15 years of service primarily with the Department of Veteran Affairs, where she has developed programs and supported Veteran wellness. Chanin holds a Master of Social Work and a Master of Education from Widener University. In my clinical work, I foster a holistic, compassionate approach. One that blends emotional insight with practical, evidence-based, and informed interventions. She is an advocate for accessible care and has experience working with individuals, couples, and diverse communities.
(504) 429-3532 View (504) 429-3532
Photo of Sarah Steed, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Sarah Steed
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Slidell, LA 70458
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with Adults, Couples, and Families. I often work with issues such as relational issues, family issues, grief, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, spirituality, spiritual trauma, and adoptive/foster relationships.
I have experience working with Adults, Couples, and Families. I often work with issues such as relational issues, family issues, grief, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, spirituality, spiritual trauma, and adoptive/foster relationships.
(985) 260-8544 View (985) 260-8544
Photo of Sheryl Bernette Guitroz, Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor, PLPC, MA
Sheryl Bernette Guitroz
Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor, PLPC, MA
1 Endorsed
Slidell, LA 70461
I have always been passionate about the thoughts and behaviors of individuals as we are so unique. Knowing many who have experienced depression and anxiety, I understand the importance of seeking professional help, with counseling being one of the most effective ways to help people with mental health issues, as well as emotional growth. That means I am prepared to work with my clients to set expectations to help with improving one's ability to both make effective decisions, while learning new ways to cope. It is a safe space to express yourselves and receive the necessary support without criticism or judgement.
I have always been passionate about the thoughts and behaviors of individuals as we are so unique. Knowing many who have experienced depression and anxiety, I understand the importance of seeking professional help, with counseling being one of the most effective ways to help people with mental health issues, as well as emotional growth. That means I am prepared to work with my clients to set expectations to help with improving one's ability to both make effective decisions, while learning new ways to cope. It is a safe space to express yourselves and receive the necessary support without criticism or judgement.
(504) 732-1893 View (504) 732-1893
Photo of Dr. Kelli Busbee - Family Ties Counseling - Kelli Busbee, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC-S, NCC, AAt-I, PhD
Family Ties Counseling - Kelli Busbee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC-S, NCC, AAt-I, PhD
1 Endorsed
Slidell, LA 70461
Therapy provides the platform to grow physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. My counseling philosophy also rests on the principle that each individual and each relationship is unique. This means I will incorporate various counseling theories and techniques based on client's need. Counseling allows you to explore the past within the context of the present and provides a platform for healing, freedom and experiencing joy. It provides a place to learn about your true identity and gives you the opportunity to experience a change of heart and deep healing.
Therapy provides the platform to grow physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. My counseling philosophy also rests on the principle that each individual and each relationship is unique. This means I will incorporate various counseling theories and techniques based on client's need. Counseling allows you to explore the past within the context of the present and provides a platform for healing, freedom and experiencing joy. It provides a place to learn about your true identity and gives you the opportunity to experience a change of heart and deep healing.
(985) 718-4758 View (985) 718-4758
Photo of Cynthia Amie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Cynthia Amie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
2 Endorsed
Slidell, LA 70458
I'm committed to providing exceptional psychological services to the people of Louisiana. I feel that I am easy to talk to and down to earth. I am committed to helping you reach your full potential and will guide you to Building a Foundation for a Better Life.
I'm committed to providing exceptional psychological services to the people of Louisiana. I feel that I am easy to talk to and down to earth. I am committed to helping you reach your full potential and will guide you to Building a Foundation for a Better Life.
(985) 200-2103 View (985) 200-2103
Photo of Lauren Thibault, Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, PLPC, CTP, NCC
Lauren Thibault
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, PLPC, CTP, NCC
3 Endorsed
Slidell, LA 70461
You’re a high-functioning woman who appears to have it all together — yet internally you feel anxious, overwhelmed, and exhausted from overthinking. You may struggle with people-pleasing, perfectionism, self-doubt, or anxious attachment, and long for a therapist you don’t have to perform, mask, or be perfect with. Together, we’ll explore how childhood trauma and emotional neglect may still be shaping your emotions, self-worth, and relationships so you can understand your patterns with compassion, curiosity, and care — not shame.
You’re a high-functioning woman who appears to have it all together — yet internally you feel anxious, overwhelmed, and exhausted from overthinking. You may struggle with people-pleasing, perfectionism, self-doubt, or anxious attachment, and long for a therapist you don’t have to perform, mask, or be perfect with. Together, we’ll explore how childhood trauma and emotional neglect may still be shaping your emotions, self-worth, and relationships so you can understand your patterns with compassion, curiosity, and care — not shame.
(985) 317-5476 View (985) 317-5476
Photo of Yevonne M Baran, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Yevonne M Baran
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Slidell, LA 70461
If you want a credentialed, experienced, compassionate therapist, but don't want the hassle of insurance companies or the stress of costly fees, then I may be able to assist you. I offer Individual, Couples, and Family Therapy, as well as Teletherapy services. I am educated, trained, and experienced with Domestic Mediation, Parenting Coordination, and Supervised Visitation Services. My previous service as active duty US Air Force and as a civilian contractor with the US Navy have helped me appreciate the struggles of military life-style and I am therefore well-suited to work with service-members and their loved ones.
If you want a credentialed, experienced, compassionate therapist, but don't want the hassle of insurance companies or the stress of costly fees, then I may be able to assist you. I offer Individual, Couples, and Family Therapy, as well as Teletherapy services. I am educated, trained, and experienced with Domestic Mediation, Parenting Coordination, and Supervised Visitation Services. My previous service as active duty US Air Force and as a civilian contractor with the US Navy have helped me appreciate the struggles of military life-style and I am therefore well-suited to work with service-members and their loved ones.
(985) 718-0540 View (985) 718-0540
Photo of Matthew Robert Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Matthew Robert Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Slidell, LA 70458
Congratulations on deciding to work on the most important person in your life. You! I’m here to help facilitate that process. My goal is to help you become the person that you were destined to be. Unfortunately, many negative circumstances have gotten us off of that path, and now we’re living lives of quiet desperation. If you are suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, low self-esteem, parenting issues or feel that you just need some direction in your life, allow me to assist you on the path to finding your true self. It’s never too late to change!
Congratulations on deciding to work on the most important person in your life. You! I’m here to help facilitate that process. My goal is to help you become the person that you were destined to be. Unfortunately, many negative circumstances have gotten us off of that path, and now we’re living lives of quiet desperation. If you are suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, low self-esteem, parenting issues or feel that you just need some direction in your life, allow me to assist you on the path to finding your true self. It’s never too late to change!
(504) 233-6484 View (504) 233-6484
Photo of Shanique Harrison, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PLPC, CTP, NCC
Shanique Harrison
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PLPC, CTP, NCC
2 Endorsed
Slidell, LA 70461
Are life's demands leaving you feeling anxious, stressed and defeated? Are you feeling alone with no support or no one to talk to? You are having a hard time expressing your feelings and regulating your emotions. You're ready for change but taking the first step feels overwhelming. You're ready to understand your self better so you can be your best self. Most importantly, you are ready for personal growth and restoration.
Are life's demands leaving you feeling anxious, stressed and defeated? Are you feeling alone with no support or no one to talk to? You are having a hard time expressing your feelings and regulating your emotions. You're ready for change but taking the first step feels overwhelming. You're ready to understand your self better so you can be your best self. Most importantly, you are ready for personal growth and restoration.
(985) 531-8226 View (985) 531-8226
Photo of Samuel Edward Mckay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW BA
Samuel Edward Mckay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW BA
Slidell, LA 70458
My ideal clients are children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or the lingering effects of stressful or traumatic experiences. Many come in feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to manage their emotions or behaviors. They may be seeking relief from intrusive memories, irritability, sleep disruption, or the sense that their past is interfering with their present. Others are looking for support as they navigate developmental challenges, family stress, or major life transitions. What they want most is to feel more regulated, more grounded, and more in control of their lives—
My ideal clients are children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or the lingering effects of stressful or traumatic experiences. Many come in feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to manage their emotions or behaviors. They may be seeking relief from intrusive memories, irritability, sleep disruption, or the sense that their past is interfering with their present. Others are looking for support as they navigate developmental challenges, family stress, or major life transitions. What they want most is to feel more regulated, more grounded, and more in control of their lives—
(504) 414-6326 View (504) 414-6326
Photo of Lisa M Berkman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Lisa M Berkman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Many clients seek help to manage issues like communication problems, trust issues, conflict, and a lack of intimacy. They often want to stop negative feelings such as anxiety or depression and start experiencing positive ones like peace or confidence. People want to feel better about themselves and the world around them! You can book with me by clicking on my website: care.headway.co/providers/lisa-berkman
Many clients seek help to manage issues like communication problems, trust issues, conflict, and a lack of intimacy. They often want to stop negative feelings such as anxiety or depression and start experiencing positive ones like peace or confidence. People want to feel better about themselves and the world around them! You can book with me by clicking on my website: care.headway.co/providers/lisa-berkman
(985) 807-1399 View (985) 807-1399
Photo of Shaiyotta Winters - Intentional Hearts Health Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Intentional Hearts Health Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Online Only
When people experience trauma or life stressors, it is not uncommon for their lives to become unmanageable or feelings to cause adverse reactions. My passion as a Licensed Professional Counselor is to help those that need support with developing coping skills for life’s traumatic or stressful experiences.
When people experience trauma or life stressors, it is not uncommon for their lives to become unmanageable or feelings to cause adverse reactions. My passion as a Licensed Professional Counselor is to help those that need support with developing coping skills for life’s traumatic or stressful experiences.
(504) 420-7617 View (504) 420-7617
Photo of Stacy Diliberto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Stacy Diliberto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My name is Stacy Diliberto and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of Louisiana. I studied at Southern University in New Orleans for my Masters's Degree in Social Work and Southeastern Louisiana University for my undergraduate degree in Social Work, and have been a practicing therapist since 2008. I work with individuals dealing with a variety of issues using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Strengths Based Approach to help them meet their therapeutic goals. When I'm not practicing therapy, I'm spending time with my pup, Marley, attending concerts, taking road trips, or hanging out with family and friends.
My name is Stacy Diliberto and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of Louisiana. I studied at Southern University in New Orleans for my Masters's Degree in Social Work and Southeastern Louisiana University for my undergraduate degree in Social Work, and have been a practicing therapist since 2008. I work with individuals dealing with a variety of issues using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Strengths Based Approach to help them meet their therapeutic goals. When I'm not practicing therapy, I'm spending time with my pup, Marley, attending concerts, taking road trips, or hanging out with family and friends.
(470) 410-8386 View (470) 410-8386

See more therapy options for Slidell

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Slidell, LA

100+

Average cost per session

$120

Therapists in Slidell, LA who prioritize treating:

89% Anxiety
82% Depression
70% Self Esteem
62% Relationship Issues
62% Stress
61% Grief
59% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Aetna
69% BlueCross and BlueShield
69% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Slidell, LA see their clients

61% In Person and Online
39% Online Only

Gender breakdown

85% Female
15% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Slidell?

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.