Therapists in Newton, MA

Photo of Marwan El Khoury, Counselor, LMHC, MDiv, EMDR, KAP, HYPNO
Marwan El Khoury
Counselor, LMHC, MDiv, EMDR, KAP, HYPNO
1 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02464
Have you been struggling with uncontrollable negative thoughts, panic attacks, and anxiety? Do you have low self-esteem, low-confidence and low-body image? Did you lose meaning of life or even do not know why you exist? I know your goal! You want to be the most powerful and successful person in the world! Well, I can help you with that. My therapeutic philosophy focuses on Your freedom, power, strength, and responsibility to overcome Your distress through a positive goal-oriented approach and extreme empathy. We will both utilize integrative treatment uniquely designed for You to achieve personal growth and healing.
Have you been struggling with uncontrollable negative thoughts, panic attacks, and anxiety? Do you have low self-esteem, low-confidence and low-body image? Did you lose meaning of life or even do not know why you exist? I know your goal! You want to be the most powerful and successful person in the world! Well, I can help you with that. My therapeutic philosophy focuses on Your freedom, power, strength, and responsibility to overcome Your distress through a positive goal-oriented approach and extreme empathy. We will both utilize integrative treatment uniquely designed for You to achieve personal growth and healing.
(617) 420-6307 View (617) 420-6307
Photo of Raymond Feng, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Raymond Feng
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
1 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02464
“Never worry alone.” Mental well-being is essential to a healthy life and life’s challenges are lighter when shared with others. As a Chinese-Canadian who graduated Boston University School of Medicine with a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling & Behavioral Medicine, I believe that listening and understanding my clients’ cultures and worldviews are crucial for supporting them.
“Never worry alone.” Mental well-being is essential to a healthy life and life’s challenges are lighter when shared with others. As a Chinese-Canadian who graduated Boston University School of Medicine with a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling & Behavioral Medicine, I believe that listening and understanding my clients’ cultures and worldviews are crucial for supporting them.
(339) 331-1491 View (339) 331-1491
Photo of Beck Sloman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Beck Sloman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Newton, MA 02460
My practice is committed to empowering adults and couples to overcome the intense challenges of trauma, life transitions, and relationship struggles—whether it's loss, divorce, breakups, or parenting. I also take pride in working with men seeking support for their unique challenges. Together, we'll reclaim your priorities, break through negative thought patterns, and create stronger, healthier relationships. After our sessions, you'll feel more grounded, balanced, and aware of yourself, with a deeper sense of gratitude and connection to the world around you.
My practice is committed to empowering adults and couples to overcome the intense challenges of trauma, life transitions, and relationship struggles—whether it's loss, divorce, breakups, or parenting. I also take pride in working with men seeking support for their unique challenges. Together, we'll reclaim your priorities, break through negative thought patterns, and create stronger, healthier relationships. After our sessions, you'll feel more grounded, balanced, and aware of yourself, with a deeper sense of gratitude and connection to the world around you.
(617) 271-2910 View (617) 271-2910
Photo of Dr. Matylda Polkowski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LICSW
Dr. Matylda Polkowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LICSW
Newton, MA 02460
Matylda Polkowski, DSW, LICSW, helps individuals and families in Massachusetts navigate life’s challenges with warmth, insight, and evidence-based care. She provides a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where clients can explore their experiences, learn effective coping strategies, and build resilience for lasting emotional well-being. Matylda works with children, adolescents, and adults through individual, family, couples, and group therapy—helping clients address complex issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma with an integrative and compassionate approach.
Matylda Polkowski, DSW, LICSW, helps individuals and families in Massachusetts navigate life’s challenges with warmth, insight, and evidence-based care. She provides a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where clients can explore their experiences, learn effective coping strategies, and build resilience for lasting emotional well-being. Matylda works with children, adolescents, and adults through individual, family, couples, and group therapy—helping clients address complex issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma with an integrative and compassionate approach.
(617) 674-0099 View (617) 674-0099
Photo of Natalie Rita Noonan - The Center for Pediatric Neurodiversity, Psychologist, PsyD
The Center for Pediatric Neurodiversity
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02459
The Center for Pediatric Neurodiversity specializes in neuropsychological assessments and therapy for children, with a focus on Autism, ADHD, and other developmental or learning concerns. Our team has experience evaluating children with complex presentations, including kids with subtle ASD, trauma, or exploring gender identity. We pair traditional neuropsychological assessment with on-site observations (school, home, community), comprehensive collateral information gathering, and thoughtful follow-up, ensuring a truly holistic evaluation experience. We are currently booking assessments in April 2026.
The Center for Pediatric Neurodiversity specializes in neuropsychological assessments and therapy for children, with a focus on Autism, ADHD, and other developmental or learning concerns. Our team has experience evaluating children with complex presentations, including kids with subtle ASD, trauma, or exploring gender identity. We pair traditional neuropsychological assessment with on-site observations (school, home, community), comprehensive collateral information gathering, and thoughtful follow-up, ensuring a truly holistic evaluation experience. We are currently booking assessments in April 2026.
(617) 380-4981 View (617) 380-4981
Photo of Stefani Stamper - Ellie Mental Health - Newton, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Ellie Mental Health - Newton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Newton, MA 02464
I aim to help clients ages 18 and up with adjustment disorders, life event challenges, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, LGBTQIA+ and grief/loss counseling as well.
I aim to help clients ages 18 and up with adjustment disorders, life event challenges, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, LGBTQIA+ and grief/loss counseling as well.
(339) 329-9890 View (339) 329-9890
Photo of Soo Jeong Youn - Soo Jeong Youn LLC, Psychologist, PhD
Soo Jeong Youn LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
I personalize treatment to you. Everyone is different and unique, and I believe that my job is to have all the tools at my disposal to provide a treatment that will be tailored to you, who you are, your experiences, and what you're going through. I'm looking forward to working together to achieve the life that you want for yourself.
I personalize treatment to you. Everyone is different and unique, and I believe that my job is to have all the tools at my disposal to provide a treatment that will be tailored to you, who you are, your experiences, and what you're going through. I'm looking forward to working together to achieve the life that you want for yourself.
(857) 340-6803 View (857) 340-6803
Photo of Buffy Sheff Ross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Buffy Sheff Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Online Only
Are you and your partner struggling to have a baby? Have you experienced a pregnancy loss or had to terminate a pregnancy for medical reasons? For the past seven years my clinical practice has focused on patients facing infertility, pregnancy loss and mood disorders during pregnancy and postpartum. We know 1 in 5 women struggle with a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder during pregnancy and postpartum. Postpartum depression and anxiety is treatable with talk therapy and medication management or a combination of both.
Are you and your partner struggling to have a baby? Have you experienced a pregnancy loss or had to terminate a pregnancy for medical reasons? For the past seven years my clinical practice has focused on patients facing infertility, pregnancy loss and mood disorders during pregnancy and postpartum. We know 1 in 5 women struggle with a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder during pregnancy and postpartum. Postpartum depression and anxiety is treatable with talk therapy and medication management or a combination of both.
(781) 776-5316 View (781) 776-5316
Photo of Dr. Rosa Khorshidi, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S
Dr. Rosa Khorshidi
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S
Online Only
I have worked with individuals, couples, and families since 1991 in Iran and America. Relationships, especially couple therapy is my focus. Holding a Ph.D. in couple therapy, I am the world's first Iranian/Muslim-certified EFT Therapist. EFT is a meta-cultural model based on Attachment Theory. Its success rate is up to %90. I am the only Muslim LMFT of MA and the only Iranian LMFT-S of New England, but I am open to any population.I work with Middle Eastern Muslims, immigrants, and especially Iranians, but more than half of my clients are out of that population.
I have worked with individuals, couples, and families since 1991 in Iran and America. Relationships, especially couple therapy is my focus. Holding a Ph.D. in couple therapy, I am the world's first Iranian/Muslim-certified EFT Therapist. EFT is a meta-cultural model based on Attachment Theory. Its success rate is up to %90. I am the only Muslim LMFT of MA and the only Iranian LMFT-S of New England, but I am open to any population.I work with Middle Eastern Muslims, immigrants, and especially Iranians, but more than half of my clients are out of that population.
(857) 401-8099 View (857) 401-8099
Photo of Leah Philbrook, Counselor, MA, LMHC, CSTIP
Leah Philbrook
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CSTIP
Newton, MA 02468
One of the core reasons people come to counseling is that they feel a lack of connection. Sometimes that connection is to others in their life; loved ones, partners, friends, or co-workers. Just as often that lack of connection is to themselves; fear, trauma, sexuality or shame. Fostering those connections with transparency, brevity and compassion is something I love to do. Helping people gain understanding and to build coping skills that aren’t just instant gratification which drown out the real issues we’ve got (can feel good though). Skills and insight that’s more meaningful and effective than avoidance, or memes on Instagram.
One of the core reasons people come to counseling is that they feel a lack of connection. Sometimes that connection is to others in their life; loved ones, partners, friends, or co-workers. Just as often that lack of connection is to themselves; fear, trauma, sexuality or shame. Fostering those connections with transparency, brevity and compassion is something I love to do. Helping people gain understanding and to build coping skills that aren’t just instant gratification which drown out the real issues we’ve got (can feel good though). Skills and insight that’s more meaningful and effective than avoidance, or memes on Instagram.
(617) 431-1800 View (617) 431-1800
Photo of Benjamin Spencer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Benjamin Spencer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
The experience of navigating even just a day with anxiety, depression, or trauma symptoms can be daunting. Luckily, there's a solution. I provide therapy for adults of all genders struggling with trauma symptoms, anxiety, depression, and all aspects of adjustment to life changes. I also work with adolescent males with ADHD, oppositional defiance disorder, or other risky behavior-related conditions who have not responded to typical behavior-based treatments alone. I use a warm, compassionate, and patient approach with all my clients.
The experience of navigating even just a day with anxiety, depression, or trauma symptoms can be daunting. Luckily, there's a solution. I provide therapy for adults of all genders struggling with trauma symptoms, anxiety, depression, and all aspects of adjustment to life changes. I also work with adolescent males with ADHD, oppositional defiance disorder, or other risky behavior-related conditions who have not responded to typical behavior-based treatments alone. I use a warm, compassionate, and patient approach with all my clients.
(857) 290-1079 View (857) 290-1079
Photo of Siobhan Lamont Kuo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Siobhan Lamont Kuo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Online Only
It takes courage to seek support on your journey towards healing. Whether you're dealing with self-defeating patterns or seeking guidance in nutritional health, I offer a safe, nurturing space to explore and work through these challenges. As a Clinical Social Worker (MSW, LICSW) and Certified Integrative Health Coach, I adopt a holistic philosophy. I work with individuals experiencing common mental health challenges, such as self esteem, relationships, navigating life transitions and finding meaning in one’s self purpose.
It takes courage to seek support on your journey towards healing. Whether you're dealing with self-defeating patterns or seeking guidance in nutritional health, I offer a safe, nurturing space to explore and work through these challenges. As a Clinical Social Worker (MSW, LICSW) and Certified Integrative Health Coach, I adopt a holistic philosophy. I work with individuals experiencing common mental health challenges, such as self esteem, relationships, navigating life transitions and finding meaning in one’s self purpose.
(617) 676-2207 View (617) 676-2207
Photo of Dr. Virginie Patt - Center for Cognitive Testing, Psychologist, PhD
Center for Cognitive Testing
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02461
Are you struggling to keep up, noticing changes in your thinking and memory, or always felt that something was different about your brain style? The Center for Cognitive Testing specializes in neuropsychological evaluations that delve into how the brain functions. Whether you are concerned about cognitive decline or suspect a neurodivergent process like ADHD or autism, our assessments can provide insights into your unique profile of strengths and challenges. With this knowledge, you can move forward with targeted strategies tailored to your needs.
Are you struggling to keep up, noticing changes in your thinking and memory, or always felt that something was different about your brain style? The Center for Cognitive Testing specializes in neuropsychological evaluations that delve into how the brain functions. Whether you are concerned about cognitive decline or suspect a neurodivergent process like ADHD or autism, our assessments can provide insights into your unique profile of strengths and challenges. With this knowledge, you can move forward with targeted strategies tailored to your needs.
(617) 766-1805 View (617) 766-1805
Photo of Israela Holtzman - Israela Holtzman - Psychotherapy, Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Israela Holtzman - Psychotherapy
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Newton, MA 02459
I work with couples and individuals who are going through a difficult time, and/or looking to make a positive change in their life. My areas of expertise include: Couple Counseling, Relationships, Anxiety and Panic disorders, depression and mood disorders. I want to help you create the kind of life you want, your life can be changed! I individualize my intervention to your needs, while I am using different therapeutic modalities, I mainly use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and The Gottman Method that are based on relationships research. For more details check: "Israela Holtzman Couples Therapy".
I work with couples and individuals who are going through a difficult time, and/or looking to make a positive change in their life. My areas of expertise include: Couple Counseling, Relationships, Anxiety and Panic disorders, depression and mood disorders. I want to help you create the kind of life you want, your life can be changed! I individualize my intervention to your needs, while I am using different therapeutic modalities, I mainly use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and The Gottman Method that are based on relationships research. For more details check: "Israela Holtzman Couples Therapy".
(781) 304-8668 View (781) 304-8668
Photo of Susan L. Shoobe, Psychologist, PsyD
Susan L. Shoobe
Psychologist, PsyD
Newton, MA 02459
Welcome to my practice! As a licensed psychologist with over 15 years of experience, I assist individuals dealing with mood difficulties, stress related to life transitions, interpersonal issues, vocational challenges, parenting, fertility, phobias and trauma. I particularly enjoy supporting young adults as they develop their independent and professional identities.
Welcome to my practice! As a licensed psychologist with over 15 years of experience, I assist individuals dealing with mood difficulties, stress related to life transitions, interpersonal issues, vocational challenges, parenting, fertility, phobias and trauma. I particularly enjoy supporting young adults as they develop their independent and professional identities.
(617) 675-5287 View (617) 675-5287
Photo of Annique Caplan, Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Annique Caplan
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Newton, MA 02459
I am a psychologist who began my career as a dancer and then became an expressive therapist, which grounds my treatment in both psyche and soma. I love working with couples around relationship issues and sexuality. My work is both psychodynamic and cognitive, drawing on the integration of logic, philosophy, and emotion. The most crucial component of successful treatment is a good sense of humor. I work to create a safe space for exploring any emotion or pattern, no matter complex.
I am a psychologist who began my career as a dancer and then became an expressive therapist, which grounds my treatment in both psyche and soma. I love working with couples around relationship issues and sexuality. My work is both psychodynamic and cognitive, drawing on the integration of logic, philosophy, and emotion. The most crucial component of successful treatment is a good sense of humor. I work to create a safe space for exploring any emotion or pattern, no matter complex.
(617) 850-5233 View (617) 850-5233
Photo of Neil O Gladstone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MBA
Neil O Gladstone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MBA
1 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02468
Not accepting new clients
Drawing from many years of experience both as a psychotherapist and as a business professional (holding both an MSW and MBA), I bring a unique perspective to my work. I believe in dealing with each person's whole context and their 24/7 experience at home, at work, and in the outside world. Life brings many challenges. An effective psychotherapy experience can help you have more mastery of your life by building confidence and enhancing your relationships.
Drawing from many years of experience both as a psychotherapist and as a business professional (holding both an MSW and MBA), I bring a unique perspective to my work. I believe in dealing with each person's whole context and their 24/7 experience at home, at work, and in the outside world. Life brings many challenges. An effective psychotherapy experience can help you have more mastery of your life by building confidence and enhancing your relationships.
(617) 934-7745 View (617) 934-7745
Photo of Emily Hovey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Emily Hovey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Newton, MA 02459
Emily is the Clinical Director at ilearn wellness group. Emily is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with a strong foundation in clinical psychotherapy, specializing in work with adolescents, young adults, and families. She graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a Minor in Educational Studies from Siena College and then received her Master’s in Social Work from The State University of New York at Albany. Through comprehensive education and hands-on experience, Emily cultivated her passion for helping others.
Emily is the Clinical Director at ilearn wellness group. Emily is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with a strong foundation in clinical psychotherapy, specializing in work with adolescents, young adults, and families. She graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a Minor in Educational Studies from Siena College and then received her Master’s in Social Work from The State University of New York at Albany. Through comprehensive education and hands-on experience, Emily cultivated her passion for helping others.
(781) 776-5470 View (781) 776-5470
Photo of Julie Gardner Mandel, Psychologist, PhD, PC
Julie Gardner Mandel
Psychologist, PhD, PC
Newton, MA 02461
I am a seasoned, empathic, insightful and interactive therapist who will push you to grow and face necessary life challenges & transitions. People tend to suffer alone with Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Distress, Eating Disorders, Grief over loss & Life Transitions. I have over 35 years of clinical experience treating high-school to college age adolescents as well as adults of all ages in individual, group, and couples therapy. After 30 years of working as a Clinical Instructor - Harvard Medical School and Associate Clinical Psychologist - Massachusetts General Hospital, I moved my private practice from the Back Bay to Newton.
I am a seasoned, empathic, insightful and interactive therapist who will push you to grow and face necessary life challenges & transitions. People tend to suffer alone with Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Distress, Eating Disorders, Grief over loss & Life Transitions. I have over 35 years of clinical experience treating high-school to college age adolescents as well as adults of all ages in individual, group, and couples therapy. After 30 years of working as a Clinical Instructor - Harvard Medical School and Associate Clinical Psychologist - Massachusetts General Hospital, I moved my private practice from the Back Bay to Newton.
(339) 293-0044 View (339) 293-0044
Photo of Marielle Carpentier, Art Therapist, ATR-P
Marielle Carpentier
Art Therapist, ATR-P
1 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02464
Waitlist for new clients
Marielle Carpentier is clinically trained as an Art Therapist (ATR-P) with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health counseling with a focus in Art Therapy. She is an LMHC candidate on track to complete her licensure in 2026. She works with several modalities, specializing in LGBT informed care, DBT, CBT, and expressive arts therapeutic practices. She has worked in community health settings, outpatient day programs, and inpatient levels of care with adolescents and adults for both mental health and substance use disorders. She values a collaborative approach focused on allowing each client to build care that works best for them.
Marielle Carpentier is clinically trained as an Art Therapist (ATR-P) with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health counseling with a focus in Art Therapy. She is an LMHC candidate on track to complete her licensure in 2026. She works with several modalities, specializing in LGBT informed care, DBT, CBT, and expressive arts therapeutic practices. She has worked in community health settings, outpatient day programs, and inpatient levels of care with adolescents and adults for both mental health and substance use disorders. She values a collaborative approach focused on allowing each client to build care that works best for them.
(617) 618-5272 View (617) 618-5272

See more therapy options for Newton

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Newton, MA

900+

Average cost per session

$199

Therapists in Newton, MA who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
85% Depression
76% Relationship Issues
71% Self Esteem
64% Trauma and PTSD
63% Stress
56% Grief

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% BlueCross and BlueShield
59% Aetna
56% Harvard Pilgrim

How Therapists in Newton, MA see their clients

59% In Person and Online
41% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
21% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Newton?

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.