Therapists in Vernon Parish, LA

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Photo of L Renee Leftwich-Render, Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, PLPC
L Renee Leftwich-Render
Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, PLPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Renee Leftwich-Render, and my clients describe me as a therapist who provides a safe and protective environment. I meet my clients where they are. Under my care, I will collaborate with you to cater to your specific needs, desires, and goals. I assist in the use of cognitive behavioral approaches, choice therapy, person-centered therapy, and somatic therapy. Please allow me to throw you a lifeline. I would love to partner with you, walk alongside you through the topsy-turvy of life, and discover a new path and newfound contentment and happiness.
Hi, I'm Renee Leftwich-Render, and my clients describe me as a therapist who provides a safe and protective environment. I meet my clients where they are. Under my care, I will collaborate with you to cater to your specific needs, desires, and goals. I assist in the use of cognitive behavioral approaches, choice therapy, person-centered therapy, and somatic therapy. Please allow me to throw you a lifeline. I would love to partner with you, walk alongside you through the topsy-turvy of life, and discover a new path and newfound contentment and happiness.
(337) 415-2254 View (337) 415-2254
Photo of Lexi Loudon, Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, PLPC, NCC
Lexi Loudon
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, PLPC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Leesville, LA 71446
Hi I’m Lexi and I work with individuals and couples who are looking to grow to better understand themselves and their past in order to move forward. I offer counseling to individuals and couples from various socioeconomic backgrounds & military-connected men and women who are experiencing trauma, anger, or relationship conflict. Reactions to traumatic events might feel like anger, depression, anxiety, or avoidance of feelings. If you are an individual or couple who is looking to move forward from past experienced childhood, sexual, physical, attachment-based, or military-related trauma, you're in the right place.
Hi I’m Lexi and I work with individuals and couples who are looking to grow to better understand themselves and their past in order to move forward. I offer counseling to individuals and couples from various socioeconomic backgrounds & military-connected men and women who are experiencing trauma, anger, or relationship conflict. Reactions to traumatic events might feel like anger, depression, anxiety, or avoidance of feelings. If you are an individual or couple who is looking to move forward from past experienced childhood, sexual, physical, attachment-based, or military-related trauma, you're in the right place.
(337) 329-9726 View (337) 329-9726
Photo of Melissa Thomsen, Pre-Licensed Professional
Melissa Thomsen
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Leesville, LA 71446
Hi, my name is Melissa Thomsen, and I am a counselor-in-training passionate about supporting individuals through life’s challenges with empathy, respect, and collaboration. In our sessions, you can expect a warm, trustworthy environment where you set the pace. Therapy with me is a collaborative and client-led process: there's no pressure to share more than you’re ready for. I believe in meeting each moment with openness and compassion, creating space for your authentic experiences to unfold without judgment.
Hi, my name is Melissa Thomsen, and I am a counselor-in-training passionate about supporting individuals through life’s challenges with empathy, respect, and collaboration. In our sessions, you can expect a warm, trustworthy environment where you set the pace. Therapy with me is a collaborative and client-led process: there's no pressure to share more than you’re ready for. I believe in meeting each moment with openness and compassion, creating space for your authentic experiences to unfold without judgment.
(337) 612-6973 View (337) 612-6973
Photo of Nina Bezpalko, Counselor, MA, PLPC
Nina Bezpalko
Counselor, MA, PLPC
1 Endorsed
Leesville, LA 71446
Hi, I’m Nina. As someone who’s experienced personal upheaval—divorce, single motherhood, immigration, and the trauma of war—I understand how difficult life transitions can be. Originally from Ukraine, I’ve lived through displacement, built a life in Germany, and now call the U.S. home with my two wonderful sons and loving husband. I know firsthand what it’s like to start over, blend families, and adapt to entirely new environments. I believe that you are the expert on your own life. My role isn’t to give you answers, but to walk alongside you as you discover them for yourself.
Hi, I’m Nina. As someone who’s experienced personal upheaval—divorce, single motherhood, immigration, and the trauma of war—I understand how difficult life transitions can be. Originally from Ukraine, I’ve lived through displacement, built a life in Germany, and now call the U.S. home with my two wonderful sons and loving husband. I know firsthand what it’s like to start over, blend families, and adapt to entirely new environments. I believe that you are the expert on your own life. My role isn’t to give you answers, but to walk alongside you as you discover them for yourself.
(318) 616-0114 View (318) 616-0114
Photo of Kimberly A Simms, Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT, MAC
Kimberly A Simms
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT, MAC
1 Endorsed
Leesville, LA 71446
Life can be incredibly challenging. Often we have visions of the life we want to live, but we can't figure out why we're unable to realize our dreams. Better health, better relationships, increased stability, less worry, more happiness- all of these things can seem just outside of our reach. Life can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be.
Life can be incredibly challenging. Often we have visions of the life we want to live, but we can't figure out why we're unable to realize our dreams. Better health, better relationships, increased stability, less worry, more happiness- all of these things can seem just outside of our reach. Life can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be.
(337) 329-9279 View (337) 329-9279
Photo of Julia Stevenson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Julia Stevenson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I am licensed in Louisiana with years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, sleeping disorders, & motivation, self esteem, confidence, etc. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
I am licensed in Louisiana with years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, sleeping disorders, & motivation, self esteem, confidence, etc. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
(225) 831-8361 View (225) 831-8361
Photo of Suzanne M. Palmer, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, NCC
Suzanne M. Palmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, NCC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
My ideal client is one suffering from feelings of inadequacy, shame, fear, anxiety, or guilt. I understand and can help overcome these issues with you. It's time to be good to yourself. I am experienced in working with persons in surviving grief, personal issues, PTSD, low self esteem, communication problems, and marriage issues. If you are thinking about making a change I would like to help.
My ideal client is one suffering from feelings of inadequacy, shame, fear, anxiety, or guilt. I understand and can help overcome these issues with you. It's time to be good to yourself. I am experienced in working with persons in surviving grief, personal issues, PTSD, low self esteem, communication problems, and marriage issues. If you are thinking about making a change I would like to help.
(318) 524-7825 View (318) 524-7825
Photo of Cady Pruitt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Cady Pruitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Cady Pruitt and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience in mental health care. With a compassionate approach, I am dedicated to providing support and guidance to those in need. My goal is to help clients navigate their challenges and find a path toward healing and wellness. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where individuals can openly explore their feelings and challenges. By offering tailored interventions, I guide clients toward building resilience, improving coping skills, and fostering hope for the future.
My name is Cady Pruitt and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience in mental health care. With a compassionate approach, I am dedicated to providing support and guidance to those in need. My goal is to help clients navigate their challenges and find a path toward healing and wellness. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment where individuals can openly explore their feelings and challenges. By offering tailored interventions, I guide clients toward building resilience, improving coping skills, and fostering hope for the future.
(225) 527-5768 View (225) 527-5768
Photo of John Murphy - J D Murphy Christian Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAT, MAC, CCTP-II
J D Murphy Christian Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAT, MAC, CCTP-II
Serves Area
Are you submerged in an ocean of depression? Are you struggling to beat addiction or substance abuse? Do you yearn to find peace and freedom from anxiety, fear, and compulsion? I offer you Christ-centered therapy based on biblical principles to help you become the person you truly want to be. It is both my honor and privilege to help people striving to escape spiritual and emotional bondage achieve true, meaningful joy. In therapy, you will find a place free from judgment and blame where you can explore the issues holding you back and discover how to overcome them.
Are you submerged in an ocean of depression? Are you struggling to beat addiction or substance abuse? Do you yearn to find peace and freedom from anxiety, fear, and compulsion? I offer you Christ-centered therapy based on biblical principles to help you become the person you truly want to be. It is both my honor and privilege to help people striving to escape spiritual and emotional bondage achieve true, meaningful joy. In therapy, you will find a place free from judgment and blame where you can explore the issues holding you back and discover how to overcome them.
(318) 759-7933 View (318) 759-7933
Photo of Shimika Daniels Turner, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Shimika Daniels Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Serves Area
Hello, I’m Shimika Daniels Turner, a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S) with over a decade of experience in the helping profession. I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families navigating anxiety, depression, family conflict, relationship challenges, and major life transitions—especially during young adulthood. Growing up, I witnessed my grandmother’s daily struggles with mental illness. That experience instilled in me a deep empathy and a calling to help others. I believe healing is possible and that everyone deserves to live a life that feels fulfilling and meaningful.
Hello, I’m Shimika Daniels Turner, a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S) with over a decade of experience in the helping profession. I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families navigating anxiety, depression, family conflict, relationship challenges, and major life transitions—especially during young adulthood. Growing up, I witnessed my grandmother’s daily struggles with mental illness. That experience instilled in me a deep empathy and a calling to help others. I believe healing is possible and that everyone deserves to live a life that feels fulfilling and meaningful.
(318) 232-6941 View (318) 232-6941
Photo of Andrew C. Duplechin, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Andrew C. Duplechin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Feeling disconnected or stuck in conflict? I’m an LPC at Lake Area Counseling, specializing in couples/marriage. With an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (2023) and 15 years in education, I help couples and individuals turn challenges into growth. Using the Gottman Method and Reality Therapy, I offer practical tools and empowerment to strengthen relationships and resilience. Whether it’s rejection, trust issues, or personal struggles, I’m here with empathy and evening/weekend availability (M-Th 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM or Fri-Sun 9 AM–9 PM). Call (337) 242-3860 to start building a better today—on the world’s softest sofa or online!
Feeling disconnected or stuck in conflict? I’m an LPC at Lake Area Counseling, specializing in couples/marriage. With an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (2023) and 15 years in education, I help couples and individuals turn challenges into growth. Using the Gottman Method and Reality Therapy, I offer practical tools and empowerment to strengthen relationships and resilience. Whether it’s rejection, trust issues, or personal struggles, I’m here with empathy and evening/weekend availability (M-Th 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM or Fri-Sun 9 AM–9 PM). Call (337) 242-3860 to start building a better today—on the world’s softest sofa or online!
(337) 242-3860 View (337) 242-3860
Photo of Candy Ann Vandevelde, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Candy Ann Vandevelde
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Online Only
If you are struggling and looking for help, you are not alone. Counseling is a safe place to begin your journey of positive change. I strive to create a welcoming, supportive, and safe environment to explore and process your unique experiences and help facilitate growth. We will work together to help you develop solutions to the problems you are facing. We will work together to help you accomplish and achieve your goals. With support, you can overcome life's obstacles and you can learn to embrace life's imperfections. You can learn the necessary coping skills to mange life’s most difficult moments and regain your happiness.
If you are struggling and looking for help, you are not alone. Counseling is a safe place to begin your journey of positive change. I strive to create a welcoming, supportive, and safe environment to explore and process your unique experiences and help facilitate growth. We will work together to help you develop solutions to the problems you are facing. We will work together to help you accomplish and achieve your goals. With support, you can overcome life's obstacles and you can learn to embrace life's imperfections. You can learn the necessary coping skills to mange life’s most difficult moments and regain your happiness.
(318) 269-5210 View (318) 269-5210
Photo of Carla Guillory, Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Carla Guillory
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Serves Area
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected in your relationships or personal life? You don’t have to face these challenges alone. As a provisionally licensed counselor, I’m dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s complex challenges with compassion, understanding, and practical tools for change. I believe growth occurs when we feel truly seen and supported. My passion is walking alongside clients as they work through difficult seasons-whether that’s rebuilding connection in a marriage, finding clarity and peace during a divorce, or learning healthier ways to cope with stress and change.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected in your relationships or personal life? You don’t have to face these challenges alone. As a provisionally licensed counselor, I’m dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s complex challenges with compassion, understanding, and practical tools for change. I believe growth occurs when we feel truly seen and supported. My passion is walking alongside clients as they work through difficult seasons-whether that’s rebuilding connection in a marriage, finding clarity and peace during a divorce, or learning healthier ways to cope with stress and change.
(318) 650-6655 View (318) 650-6655
Photo of Jeremy D Erwin, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Jeremy D Erwin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Serves Area
My practice is compassion driven and seeks to create a safe space free of any judgement in which people are able to freely share their problems and healing is possible. The environment at Transcend Counseling is one of empathy and understanding. Allowing client's to explore the issues that cause them to suffer. Shedding light into life valleys we can transform suffering/depression into understanding/peace and fear/anxiety into faith/love. I am passionate about helping people through difficult times and would love to assist you in this healing process.
My practice is compassion driven and seeks to create a safe space free of any judgement in which people are able to freely share their problems and healing is possible. The environment at Transcend Counseling is one of empathy and understanding. Allowing client's to explore the issues that cause them to suffer. Shedding light into life valleys we can transform suffering/depression into understanding/peace and fear/anxiety into faith/love. I am passionate about helping people through difficult times and would love to assist you in this healing process.
(337) 467-8653 View (337) 467-8653
Photo of Holli Jones, Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, PLPC
Holli Jones
Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, PLPC
Serves Area
Are you struggling to make sense of your current direction, where life has taken you or where you are wanting to go? If so, then together we can find that added peace, the new sense of direction and get you moving toward that new purpose in your life. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents and individuals navigate through life’s unfair challenges while helping them become the best version of themselves. I am dedicated to creating a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment and helping clients experience lasting healing.
Are you struggling to make sense of your current direction, where life has taken you or where you are wanting to go? If so, then together we can find that added peace, the new sense of direction and get you moving toward that new purpose in your life. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents and individuals navigate through life’s unfair challenges while helping them become the best version of themselves. I am dedicated to creating a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment and helping clients experience lasting healing.
(337) 573-1824 View (337) 573-1824
Photo of Kellie Rilling, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC, NCC
Kellie Rilling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist at Restoring Light Counseling, I am here to help you navigate life’s many challenges to find healing and personal growth. I am passionate about working with individuals from diverse backgrounds to cultivate safety and respect throughout the counseling process. I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming counselor and aim to create an inclusive, supportive space for all clients.
As a therapist at Restoring Light Counseling, I am here to help you navigate life’s many challenges to find healing and personal growth. I am passionate about working with individuals from diverse backgrounds to cultivate safety and respect throughout the counseling process. I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming counselor and aim to create an inclusive, supportive space for all clients.
(318) 712-3407 View (318) 712-3407
Photo of Christy Pennison - Be Inspired Counseling & Consulting, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Be Inspired Counseling & Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life is a journey we all take with no manual of what to do or how to navigate it. Many times we can get stuck or paralyzed by our feelings, thoughts or situations, without the ability to move forward. If you are feeling anxious or overwhelmed right now, just know things can get better.
Life is a journey we all take with no manual of what to do or how to navigate it. Many times we can get stuck or paralyzed by our feelings, thoughts or situations, without the ability to move forward. If you are feeling anxious or overwhelmed right now, just know things can get better.
(318) 232-4574 View (318) 232-4574

Online Therapists

Photo of Audria Musgrove, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Audria Musgrove
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Audria Musgrove is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S), Board Certified TeleMental Health provider (BC-TMH), and National Certified Counselor (NCC) with over a decade of experience helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. She is the founder and clinical director of Minden Counseling Associates, a fully virtual mental health practice committed to increasing access to quality care. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S), Board Certified TeleMental Health provider (BC-TMH), and National Certified Counselor (NCC).
Audria Musgrove is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S), Board Certified TeleMental Health provider (BC-TMH), and National Certified Counselor (NCC) with over a decade of experience helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. She is the founder and clinical director of Minden Counseling Associates, a fully virtual mental health practice committed to increasing access to quality care. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S), Board Certified TeleMental Health provider (BC-TMH), and National Certified Counselor (NCC).
(225) 399-7914 View (225) 399-7914
Photo of Karissa Humphries - The Center for Children and Families - Crowley, LA, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
The Center for Children and Families - Crowley, LA
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Crowley, LA 70526
We offer in-home, clinic-based, and school-based counseling in South Louisiana. Our highly trained and experienced mental health professionals are dedicated to walking alongside you and your family during challenging times, fostering hope and healing.
We offer in-home, clinic-based, and school-based counseling in South Louisiana. Our highly trained and experienced mental health professionals are dedicated to walking alongside you and your family during challenging times, fostering hope and healing.
(337) 340-9746 View (337) 340-9746
Photo of Carissa Dudzinski, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Carissa Dudzinski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
1 Endorsed
Shreveport, LA 71101
Have you been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward? Many people seek therapy when they sense change is possible but don’t yet know how to reach it. I help individuals and couples navigate difficult life moments by addressing conflict, improving communication, and strengthening emotional connection. Therapy with me offers a supportive, safe space to explore emotions, identify unhelpful patterns, and develop practical, effective coping strategies that promote healing and lasting change.
Have you been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward? Many people seek therapy when they sense change is possible but don’t yet know how to reach it. I help individuals and couples navigate difficult life moments by addressing conflict, improving communication, and strengthening emotional connection. Therapy with me offers a supportive, safe space to explore emotions, identify unhelpful patterns, and develop practical, effective coping strategies that promote healing and lasting change.
(318) 407-7026 View (318) 407-7026

See more therapy options for Vernon Parish

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Vernon Parish, LA

10+

Average cost per session

$85

Therapists in Vernon Parish, LA who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
94% Anxiety
82% Self Esteem
76% Anger Management
71% Relationship Issues
71% Grief
71% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

79% Aetna
79% Cigna and Evernorth
71% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Therapists in Vernon Parish, LA see their clients

71% In Person and Online
29% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Vernon Parish?

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.