Therapists in West Loop, Chicago, IL
Dr. Carolyn Alter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand yourself and your unique story. Obstacles to self-awareness can continue unhelpful patterns, leading you to feel stuck, joyless, and disconnected from yourself and others. Sometimes what we need most is a non-judgmental, validating space to courageously share our stories, hopes, and fears out loud. This space can be a powerful catalyst for change and a path to your most authentic self.
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand yourself and your unique story. Obstacles to self-awareness can continue unhelpful patterns, leading you to feel stuck, joyless, and disconnected from yourself and others. Sometimes what we need most is a non-judgmental, validating space to courageously share our stories, hopes, and fears out loud. This space can be a powerful catalyst for change and a path to your most authentic self.
Nicole Chirillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
Nicole's therapeutic approach is rooted in an eclectic framework, which includes elements of attachment-based therapy, somatic experiencing therapy, ACT and EMDR. She tailors her approach to each client's unique needs, prioritizing the therapeutic alliance with an emphasis on a non-pathologizing perspective. Nicole prioritizes helping individuals navigate multi-systemic oppression while embracing their intersecting identities. She remains client-centered, but also embraces the opportunity to incorporate humor and insights when beneficial, fostering authenticity and connection.
Nicole's therapeutic approach is rooted in an eclectic framework, which includes elements of attachment-based therapy, somatic experiencing therapy, ACT and EMDR. She tailors her approach to each client's unique needs, prioritizing the therapeutic alliance with an emphasis on a non-pathologizing perspective. Nicole prioritizes helping individuals navigate multi-systemic oppression while embracing their intersecting identities. She remains client-centered, but also embraces the opportunity to incorporate humor and insights when beneficial, fostering authenticity and connection.
Erin Brewer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
I provide therapeutic care to individuals that are seeking growth, change, and alignment with their authentic selves. I work to build relationships full of warmth, compassion and non-judgement in which my clients can identify their values and move towards finding fulfillment in their lives.
I provide therapeutic care to individuals that are seeking growth, change, and alignment with their authentic selves. I work to build relationships full of warmth, compassion and non-judgement in which my clients can identify their values and move towards finding fulfillment in their lives.
Cheryl Nowak
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
Every person wants to live a healthy and happy life while being able to minimize stress and depression, but sometimes we don't know which way to turn; we find ourselves at a fork in the road while dreading the fact that a decision must be made. Don't worry, you are not alone. In me, you will find a confidant who is willing, ready, and qualified to help you navigate life's journey
Every person wants to live a healthy and happy life while being able to minimize stress and depression, but sometimes we don't know which way to turn; we find ourselves at a fork in the road while dreading the fact that a decision must be made. Don't worry, you are not alone. In me, you will find a confidant who is willing, ready, and qualified to help you navigate life's journey
Maria Lopez-Boada
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a therapist with 12 years of post grad experience, I work with people experiencing anxiety, OCD, perfectionism, shame, intergenerational trauma, body focused repetitive behaviors. I especially love to work with first generation young professionals and college students. I value humor, compassion, shared humanity, and committed action toward change in the therapy space. I also work to continuously learn and improve through continued learning and my own personal healing. Together we will explore your unique values, utilize mindfulness and somatic practice in session, and set action oriented goals that move you toward your values.
As a therapist with 12 years of post grad experience, I work with people experiencing anxiety, OCD, perfectionism, shame, intergenerational trauma, body focused repetitive behaviors. I especially love to work with first generation young professionals and college students. I value humor, compassion, shared humanity, and committed action toward change in the therapy space. I also work to continuously learn and improve through continued learning and my own personal healing. Together we will explore your unique values, utilize mindfulness and somatic practice in session, and set action oriented goals that move you toward your values.
Christine Aiello
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
I help individuals and couples with relationship conflict, sexual concerns, and adjustment to life transitions. Clients often come to therapy with some common issues: feeling disconnected in their relationship, having the same argument on repeat, unsatisfying sex, discomfort or awkwardness talking about sex and intimacy, mismatched desire, painful intercourse, wondering "is this normal?" and more. With advanced training in relationship and sex therapy, I’ll help you to identify your needs and goals, build skills and knowledge, and improve connection, trust, empathy, and intimacy in your life and relationships.
I help individuals and couples with relationship conflict, sexual concerns, and adjustment to life transitions. Clients often come to therapy with some common issues: feeling disconnected in their relationship, having the same argument on repeat, unsatisfying sex, discomfort or awkwardness talking about sex and intimacy, mismatched desire, painful intercourse, wondering "is this normal?" and more. With advanced training in relationship and sex therapy, I’ll help you to identify your needs and goals, build skills and knowledge, and improve connection, trust, empathy, and intimacy in your life and relationships.
Kiara Poole
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
Welcome! Congratulations on making strides to become a better you! As an African American woman, I understand how life challenges can directly impact mental health. We often face fear, self-doubt, shame, and trauma; although our strength is unmatched, even the toughest people need support and care. I am passionate about supporting and working with women seeking to overcome loneliness, depression, anxiety, overthinking, and low self-esteem. My experience has included working with individuals through life transitions, personal growth, parenting, family, and relational concerns.
Welcome! Congratulations on making strides to become a better you! As an African American woman, I understand how life challenges can directly impact mental health. We often face fear, self-doubt, shame, and trauma; although our strength is unmatched, even the toughest people need support and care. I am passionate about supporting and working with women seeking to overcome loneliness, depression, anxiety, overthinking, and low self-esteem. My experience has included working with individuals through life transitions, personal growth, parenting, family, and relational concerns.
Sade Stokes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
Therapy is a big step and if you are debating if you should do it just try it out.. at least once. You owe yourself that. Seeking to better yourself is never a step backwards and given today's world there are so many things to process like work related stress, identity, managing relationships both personal and professional, grief, low-self esteem, life transitions, race, ethnicity, graduating, marriage, divorce, giving birth, etc...just about anything that keeps you from showing up the way you would hope to in life is worth giving yourself a chance explore so you could find peace. Empower yourself to navigate the life you want.
Therapy is a big step and if you are debating if you should do it just try it out.. at least once. You owe yourself that. Seeking to better yourself is never a step backwards and given today's world there are so many things to process like work related stress, identity, managing relationships both personal and professional, grief, low-self esteem, life transitions, race, ethnicity, graduating, marriage, divorce, giving birth, etc...just about anything that keeps you from showing up the way you would hope to in life is worth giving yourself a chance explore so you could find peace. Empower yourself to navigate the life you want.
Rebecca Balch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60607
The ideal client for me seeks fresh insights, deeper comprehension, and is open to reshaping narratives, whether they pertain to themselves, others, or the broader world. I thrive when partnering with individuals who are eager to delve into their experiences, draw connections with their current challenges, and work together towards transformative change and relief.
The ideal client for me seeks fresh insights, deeper comprehension, and is open to reshaping narratives, whether they pertain to themselves, others, or the broader world. I thrive when partnering with individuals who are eager to delve into their experiences, draw connections with their current challenges, and work together towards transformative change and relief.
Roopa Pandya
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60606 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm so glad you're here. We are living in an ever changing world and the stressors that come with it. It's hard to be a person sometimes! I am here to meet you where you are and help you work through these difficult times to lead a healthier and happier life. I tailor each session to you and what you need and will support you without judgment!
Hi, I'm so glad you're here. We are living in an ever changing world and the stressors that come with it. It's hard to be a person sometimes! I am here to meet you where you are and help you work through these difficult times to lead a healthier and happier life. I tailor each session to you and what you need and will support you without judgment!
Kirsten Hall
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
As your therapist, I prioritize learning about you, I’m here to listen. Whether you’re looking to cope with a major life transition, grief, stress or coping skills to manage anxiety or depression, I customize my approach to meet your needs so we can work to create positive change. During difficult times, it is my hope to help you feel more connected, understood, and supported. Together we can work to find light among what may feel like dark times.
As your therapist, I prioritize learning about you, I’m here to listen. Whether you’re looking to cope with a major life transition, grief, stress or coping skills to manage anxiety or depression, I customize my approach to meet your needs so we can work to create positive change. During difficult times, it is my hope to help you feel more connected, understood, and supported. Together we can work to find light among what may feel like dark times.
15 Second Videos
Carolyn Alter
Esther DeCero
Eve Gottesman
Michelle Elijah
Nick Alder
Missy Williams
Grace Hicks
Lauren Daniels
Rae Schneider
Lily Counseling
Becky Beaulieu
Bella Pecyna
Julie Thomas
Catherine Meili
Samantha Skvaril
Aaron Graham
Kate Kelley-Schneider
Erica Haynes
Ashley Hunt
Brian Nickerson
Elizabeth Miller
Sarah Novak
Maureen D. Zigulich
Nancy Gardner
Kyra Ehrlich
Heather Bates-Denton
Marcus Leaks
Suzie Thomas
Caitlin Marie Shea
Mary Questad
Lindsay Sherman
Nikki Diaz
Lucy Steven
Camille Lester
Alyssa Steinke
Maribeth Germino
Courtney Forbes
Patricia Lutz
Cynthia Shaw
Wesley Walker
Kristi Machica
Christina Bell
Eliska Kostelny
Colby Bruner
David Chiha
Sarah Newhall Harty
Laura Elizabeth Foster
Nicole Meyer Klarich, LCPC & Associates
Terrez Gordon
Andrea Santiago
Esther DeCero
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60607
If you’re struggling with conflict in your relationships, friendships, and family I can help you navigate these feelings and offer a path forward. I am committed to helping individuals and couples develop insight into communication and behavioral patterns that are barriers to connection. Utilizing my Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 1 training, we strengthen connection and deepen your relationships in the therapeutic space. I connect with children, teens, and adults struggling with issues related to trauma, eating disorders, relationships, and anxiety.
If you’re struggling with conflict in your relationships, friendships, and family I can help you navigate these feelings and offer a path forward. I am committed to helping individuals and couples develop insight into communication and behavioral patterns that are barriers to connection. Utilizing my Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 1 training, we strengthen connection and deepen your relationships in the therapeutic space. I connect with children, teens, and adults struggling with issues related to trauma, eating disorders, relationships, and anxiety.
Avis Calhoun
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
My approach is to create a nurturing environment where you feel accepted and understood. Collaborating closely, I will focus on establishing a respectful and safe space, empowering you throughout your journey. I hope to support you to confidently navigating the thoughts and emotions that hinder your progress, drawing upon your inner strengths and values to foster meaningful and lasting change with autonomy.
My approach is to create a nurturing environment where you feel accepted and understood. Collaborating closely, I will focus on establishing a respectful and safe space, empowering you throughout your journey. I hope to support you to confidently navigating the thoughts and emotions that hinder your progress, drawing upon your inner strengths and values to foster meaningful and lasting change with autonomy.
Julia Tehovnik
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients, Telehealth Appointments Only: Do you feel anxious or have doubts that hold you back from achieving more in life? Perhaps you feel like a failure for not having met high expectations, those of yourself or of others. Maybe you have met those expectations and are doing all the "right" things, but still feel unfulfilled. Or maybe you've accomplished a goal and don't know what to do next, but feel like you're supposed to figure it out quickly so you don't fall behind.
Accepting New Clients, Telehealth Appointments Only: Do you feel anxious or have doubts that hold you back from achieving more in life? Perhaps you feel like a failure for not having met high expectations, those of yourself or of others. Maybe you have met those expectations and are doing all the "right" things, but still feel unfulfilled. Or maybe you've accomplished a goal and don't know what to do next, but feel like you're supposed to figure it out quickly so you don't fall behind.
Hannah Payne
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, EdS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
Beginning therapy and choosing a therapist can be scary and overwhelming, but I am excited that you are taking this step! As your therapist, I will empower you to reach your goals and be there for you through life's many stressors. I enjoy working with clients who are seeking support after experiencing adversity, processing current or past traumas, addressing beliefs and behaviors that no longer serve them, and exploring who they are and want to be. I believe in the importance of acknowledging and appreciating the many layers of my client's identities, and I aim to create a safe space to explore your unique context and experiences.
Beginning therapy and choosing a therapist can be scary and overwhelming, but I am excited that you are taking this step! As your therapist, I will empower you to reach your goals and be there for you through life's many stressors. I enjoy working with clients who are seeking support after experiencing adversity, processing current or past traumas, addressing beliefs and behaviors that no longer serve them, and exploring who they are and want to be. I believe in the importance of acknowledging and appreciating the many layers of my client's identities, and I aim to create a safe space to explore your unique context and experiences.
Dr. Briana Weisner
Psychologist, PsyD, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60601 (Online Only)
Starting therapy and finding the right therapist can feel like a daunting task. I congratulate you on taking the first step and am glad you are here! A quick peek into what sessions with me involve: an unbiased, nonjudgmental place to express yourself, building specific coping skills to deal with stressors, psychoeducation, identifying and restructuring negative thinking styles, changing maladaptive behaviors, learning assertiveness skills, identifying and working towards important values in your life, building insight into unhelpful cyclical patterns, increasing self-esteem and confidence, and recognizing your own strengths.
Starting therapy and finding the right therapist can feel like a daunting task. I congratulate you on taking the first step and am glad you are here! A quick peek into what sessions with me involve: an unbiased, nonjudgmental place to express yourself, building specific coping skills to deal with stressors, psychoeducation, identifying and restructuring negative thinking styles, changing maladaptive behaviors, learning assertiveness skills, identifying and working towards important values in your life, building insight into unhelpful cyclical patterns, increasing self-esteem and confidence, and recognizing your own strengths.
Eve Gottesman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60607
Embarking on therapy requires bravery, and I'm here to support you every step of the way. Specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, and life transitions, I offer a blend of somatic-based, CBT, and solution-focused therapies. Whether you're a teen navigating the complexities of adolescence, an adult dealing with life's challenges, or a couple seeking to strengthen your relationship, my client-centered approach prioritizes your unique needs and goals.
Embarking on therapy requires bravery, and I'm here to support you every step of the way. Specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, and life transitions, I offer a blend of somatic-based, CBT, and solution-focused therapies. Whether you're a teen navigating the complexities of adolescence, an adult dealing with life's challenges, or a couple seeking to strengthen your relationship, my client-centered approach prioritizes your unique needs and goals.
Lisa A. Conway
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Do you have a sticky mind, and struggle with unwanted and intrusive thoughts, worries or memories? I can help you learn to be at peace with these uncontrollable experiences and move towards a life of meaning. I specialize in working with clients who talk about repeated urges, looping or spiraling anxieties and memories of stressful or traumatic events that will not go away. Similarly, many of my clients also talk about rigid ways of thinking, including high expectations of themselves and others and all-or-nothing thinking, which greatly limits flexibility in our lives.
Do you have a sticky mind, and struggle with unwanted and intrusive thoughts, worries or memories? I can help you learn to be at peace with these uncontrollable experiences and move towards a life of meaning. I specialize in working with clients who talk about repeated urges, looping or spiraling anxieties and memories of stressful or traumatic events that will not go away. Similarly, many of my clients also talk about rigid ways of thinking, including high expectations of themselves and others and all-or-nothing thinking, which greatly limits flexibility in our lives.
Bernadette Parfenoff
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you struggle to prioritize yourself? Are you having a hard time feeling accepted for your desires? Maybe you need an affirming space to explore yourself and your needs. Our therapeutic relationship can help you uncover parts of yourself you haven't been able to face, while giving you support to heal and grow. Additionally, as a sex-positive and kink informed therapist, I'm passionate about supporting individuals with alternative sexualities, erotic practices, and kink/BDSM interests. I believe in providing an accepting, compassionate therapeutic environment for all my clients.
Do you struggle to prioritize yourself? Are you having a hard time feeling accepted for your desires? Maybe you need an affirming space to explore yourself and your needs. Our therapeutic relationship can help you uncover parts of yourself you haven't been able to face, while giving you support to heal and grow. Additionally, as a sex-positive and kink informed therapist, I'm passionate about supporting individuals with alternative sexualities, erotic practices, and kink/BDSM interests. I believe in providing an accepting, compassionate therapeutic environment for all my clients.
Shanel Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, REAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
Perhaps you feel stuck, with no clear sense of purpose and don’t know the next steps to move forward in your life. Or your environment is not supportive, and you feel disconnected, frustrated and unheard in your relationships. Maybe you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or emotional wounds caused by racism, sexism, homophobia or other forms of oppression. And maybe you aren't even sure what the problem is, you just know things aren't working. I am here to support you in creating deep and meaningful change, so you can live the authentic and empowering life that you deserve to have.
Perhaps you feel stuck, with no clear sense of purpose and don’t know the next steps to move forward in your life. Or your environment is not supportive, and you feel disconnected, frustrated and unheard in your relationships. Maybe you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or emotional wounds caused by racism, sexism, homophobia or other forms of oppression. And maybe you aren't even sure what the problem is, you just know things aren't working. I am here to support you in creating deep and meaningful change, so you can live the authentic and empowering life that you deserve to have.
See more therapy options for West Loop, Chicago
Nearby Searches for West Loop, Chicago
- Greektown
- Little Italy
- Loop
- Near North Side
- Near West Side
- Noble Square
- Printers Row
- River North
- River West
- South Loop
- Streeterville
- University Village
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in West Loop, Chicago, IL
200+
Average cost per session
$160
Therapists in West Loop, Chicago, IL who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
79% | Relationship Issues |
78% | Self Esteem |
75% | Life Transitions |
71% | Stress |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
97% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
49% | Aetna |
40% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in West Loop, Chicago, IL see their clients
53% | In Person and Online | |
47% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
85% | Female | |
13% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in West Loop, Chicago?
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
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.
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.
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.