Therapists in Portland, OR

View neighborhoods in Portland
Photo of Jessi Frothingham, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Jessi Frothingham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
Do you have a lot of insight about your trauma that doesn't lead to change? Are you starting to feel frustrated with having the knowledge yet still wrestling with the same triggers and symptoms time and time again? I hope you know that is so normal, especially with trauma. But it doesn't have to be this way. I can help you create more peace in your life and restore your previous functioning. Imagine if you experienced deep relief and didn't have to work so hard anymore - how would your life change? Imagine feeling secure in your relationships, calm in the face of previous triggers, and doing what you want with your life.
Do you have a lot of insight about your trauma that doesn't lead to change? Are you starting to feel frustrated with having the knowledge yet still wrestling with the same triggers and symptoms time and time again? I hope you know that is so normal, especially with trauma. But it doesn't have to be this way. I can help you create more peace in your life and restore your previous functioning. Imagine if you experienced deep relief and didn't have to work so hard anymore - how would your life change? Imagine feeling secure in your relationships, calm in the face of previous triggers, and doing what you want with your life.
(503) 751-8176 View (503) 751-8176
Photo of Chance Parker-Summers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Chance Parker-Summers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping individuals with trauma, anxiety, depression, and dissociation. My practice is centered on the belief that each person has a natural tendency towards healing, and my role is to support the realization of this potential in my clients. I view dreams as an invaluable tool for accessing the unconscious mind, which I believe holds crucial insight for growth and self-discovery. I encourage clients to explore their dreams as a means of discovering deeper layers of meaning in their lives, cultivating a more profound sense of purpose, and realizing their full potential.
I specialize in helping individuals with trauma, anxiety, depression, and dissociation. My practice is centered on the belief that each person has a natural tendency towards healing, and my role is to support the realization of this potential in my clients. I view dreams as an invaluable tool for accessing the unconscious mind, which I believe holds crucial insight for growth and self-discovery. I encourage clients to explore their dreams as a means of discovering deeper layers of meaning in their lives, cultivating a more profound sense of purpose, and realizing their full potential.
(971) 251-2978 View (971) 251-2978
Photo of Therapy, Altered LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Therapy, Altered LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, LICSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy, Altered best supports BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples, families, and groups who are healing from abuse, neglect, or psychological trauma, including racial/systemic oppression. Our clients know that hope is out there, and that they have the ability to heal and feel better. Most of our clients hold multiple marginalized identities while managing complex mental health challenges. Our clients come to us seeking culturally relevant services and authentic relationship with clinicians who share some of their lived experience.
Therapy, Altered best supports BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples, families, and groups who are healing from abuse, neglect, or psychological trauma, including racial/systemic oppression. Our clients know that hope is out there, and that they have the ability to heal and feel better. Most of our clients hold multiple marginalized identities while managing complex mental health challenges. Our clients come to us seeking culturally relevant services and authentic relationship with clinicians who share some of their lived experience.
(971) 256-8244 View (971) 256-8244
Photo of Adam Rodriguez, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Adam Rodriguez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience. I have a specialty in social justice themes and work heavily with the LGBTQ community, particularly with people of color. My approach to psychotherapy is warm, empathic, and compassionate. I treat each individual professionally and with respect and with acknowledgement of your individual strengths. I listen attentively to your thoughts and feelings, while also focusing on factors that are out of your conscious awareness (such as anxieties, values, and expectations) that can get expressed in relationships or through problematic patterns or symptoms.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience. I have a specialty in social justice themes and work heavily with the LGBTQ community, particularly with people of color. My approach to psychotherapy is warm, empathic, and compassionate. I treat each individual professionally and with respect and with acknowledgement of your individual strengths. I listen attentively to your thoughts and feelings, while also focusing on factors that are out of your conscious awareness (such as anxieties, values, and expectations) that can get expressed in relationships or through problematic patterns or symptoms.
(503) 616-5375 View (503) 616-5375
Photo of Christina H Irvine, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Christina H Irvine
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212
Dr. Irvine specializes in working with children and adolescents, and sees clients ages 5-17 only. She primarily utilizes cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and play therapy to address a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, ADHD, high-functioning autism, OCD, and emotional/ behavioral difficulties. She has experience working with highly gifted and "twice exceptional" children.
Dr. Irvine specializes in working with children and adolescents, and sees clients ages 5-17 only. She primarily utilizes cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and play therapy to address a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, ADHD, high-functioning autism, OCD, and emotional/ behavioral difficulties. She has experience working with highly gifted and "twice exceptional" children.
(971) 306-4365 x104 View (971) 306-4365 x104
Photo of Vanessa Knight, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Vanessa Knight
Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
I work with children and adults, with the goal of helping them find more peace, joy, and meaning within their lives. In addition to talk therapy, I also use play and art therapy with children to help them express themselves when they can’t yet find the words.
I work with children and adults, with the goal of helping them find more peace, joy, and meaning within their lives. In addition to talk therapy, I also use play and art therapy with children to help them express themselves when they can’t yet find the words.
(503) 479-4154 View (503) 479-4154
Photo of DeShawn Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
DeShawn Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes in joining with you as you embark upon new discoveries of yourself and those around you. I employ the idea of us working together and taking a journey that may appear to be rough in the beginning, but rest assured the rough places will soon be made smoothed. As we journey together in agreement there lies a hopeful, fulfilled, and enlightened road ahead. I am here to serve the worried well and worried heart. I will work to assist you in discovering new perspectives as you grow and restore balance in your life.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes in joining with you as you embark upon new discoveries of yourself and those around you. I employ the idea of us working together and taking a journey that may appear to be rough in the beginning, but rest assured the rough places will soon be made smoothed. As we journey together in agreement there lies a hopeful, fulfilled, and enlightened road ahead. I am here to serve the worried well and worried heart. I will work to assist you in discovering new perspectives as you grow and restore balance in your life.
(503) 616-2042 View (503) 616-2042
Photo of Jill Bergman, PsyD, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Jill Bergman, PsyD
Psychologist, MS, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
In my therapy practice, I have worked with all kinds of people from all walks of life. I initially helped those suffering from eating disorders—which led to underlying issues like depression; anxiety; other addictions; and all types of abuse (sexual, physical, mental and emotional) and, especially, PTSD. So I am experienced and knowledgeable in treating all those issues.
In my therapy practice, I have worked with all kinds of people from all walks of life. I initially helped those suffering from eating disorders—which led to underlying issues like depression; anxiety; other addictions; and all types of abuse (sexual, physical, mental and emotional) and, especially, PTSD. So I am experienced and knowledgeable in treating all those issues.
(503) 783-8540 View (503) 783-8540
Photo of Amelia O'Neil, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Amelia O'Neil
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
Please Note: The only type of OHP that I am able to take is CareOregon. If you are struggling with the impacts of trauma, abuse, or loss (no matter how far in the past), there is hope. Using a trauma-informed, client-centered, and strengths-based approach to counseling, we will create a safe space for collaborative work and healing. We can also use mindfulness, somatic, and creative therapies if you feel drawn to that kind of work. I have particular experience working with people who have been impacted by sexual trauma; PTSD that feels out of control; family/relationship issues; attachment wounding; and significant loss.
Please Note: The only type of OHP that I am able to take is CareOregon. If you are struggling with the impacts of trauma, abuse, or loss (no matter how far in the past), there is hope. Using a trauma-informed, client-centered, and strengths-based approach to counseling, we will create a safe space for collaborative work and healing. We can also use mindfulness, somatic, and creative therapies if you feel drawn to that kind of work. I have particular experience working with people who have been impacted by sexual trauma; PTSD that feels out of control; family/relationship issues; attachment wounding; and significant loss.
(503) 465-4624 View (503) 465-4624
Photo of Margeaux Wilkinson, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Margeaux Wilkinson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
Not accepting new clients
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with experience working in both community mental health and private practice settings. My practice is broad in scope, treating teens and adults from diverse backgrounds who are struggling with a variety of difficulties. From my years of work with kids and teens, I also provide consultation to help parents best support their child or teen through difficult life transitions or symptoms.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with experience working in both community mental health and private practice settings. My practice is broad in scope, treating teens and adults from diverse backgrounds who are struggling with a variety of difficulties. From my years of work with kids and teens, I also provide consultation to help parents best support their child or teen through difficult life transitions or symptoms.
(971) 252-5358 View (971) 252-5358
Photo of Ashleigh C Young, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Ashleigh C Young
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe that you have an inner wisdom that knows what you need to heal and feel whole. I'm glad you are listening to it and seeking support, which we all need. Here are a few things to know about me: Respect, curiosity, compassion, and depth are primary values in my work. My role in the therapy process is collaborator, an active participant by your side, holding space for emotions, listening for themes and patterns, asking questions to encourage self-exploration, and (with curiosity, respect, and perhaps some humor) challenging unhelpful or "stuck" patterns.
I believe that you have an inner wisdom that knows what you need to heal and feel whole. I'm glad you are listening to it and seeking support, which we all need. Here are a few things to know about me: Respect, curiosity, compassion, and depth are primary values in my work. My role in the therapy process is collaborator, an active participant by your side, holding space for emotions, listening for themes and patterns, asking questions to encourage self-exploration, and (with curiosity, respect, and perhaps some humor) challenging unhelpful or "stuck" patterns.
(503) 917-3326 View (503) 917-3326
Photo of Colleen Odell MS LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Colleen Odell MS LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Not accepting new clients
PLEASE NOTE: I AM NOT CURRENTLY TAKING NEW CLIENTS. I am an experienced psychotherapist specializing in treating individuals with relationship problems; depression; anxiety; trauma; and grief. I can provide you with a safe space and a trusting relationship with a caring mental health professional to resolve emotional pain, depression, worry or sadness. Our first step is to identify the core issues affecting your life; then we'll focus on making key changes to improve your life and relationships. You will find me to be caring, supportive, knowledgeable, and effective.
PLEASE NOTE: I AM NOT CURRENTLY TAKING NEW CLIENTS. I am an experienced psychotherapist specializing in treating individuals with relationship problems; depression; anxiety; trauma; and grief. I can provide you with a safe space and a trusting relationship with a caring mental health professional to resolve emotional pain, depression, worry or sadness. Our first step is to identify the core issues affecting your life; then we'll focus on making key changes to improve your life and relationships. You will find me to be caring, supportive, knowledgeable, and effective.
(503) 545-6312 View (503) 545-6312
Photo of Woodland Therapy Portland LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Woodland Therapy Portland LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
Hello! I am not currently accepting new clients, but am happy to put you on my waitlist. Please reach out for a free 20 minute consultation! I see people as unique and relational beings whose stories have been formed by the society they live in, the families they were raised by, and the stories they believe about themselves formed from their life experiences. I believe that the re-telling of these stories, and the language people use, form the realities people experience. I believe building strong and healthy relationships provides the support and community everyone needs.
Hello! I am not currently accepting new clients, but am happy to put you on my waitlist. Please reach out for a free 20 minute consultation! I see people as unique and relational beings whose stories have been formed by the society they live in, the families they were raised by, and the stories they believe about themselves formed from their life experiences. I believe that the re-telling of these stories, and the language people use, form the realities people experience. I believe building strong and healthy relationships provides the support and community everyone needs.
(971) 251-4441 View (971) 251-4441
Photo of Daniel C Donohue, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Daniel C Donohue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Life can be hard. We depend on others to live the life we have. Health in life is a combination of internal and external supports. I can help you explore your internal supports and identify those external supports which help you with trauma, stress, loss. My approach works as an external support to your internal support as you walk through difficult times and situations. I work with individuals, couples, families, adults, adolescents and children. I meet you in the situation and time you find your self by providing support for acceptance of where you are and support towards where you want to be.
Life can be hard. We depend on others to live the life we have. Health in life is a combination of internal and external supports. I can help you explore your internal supports and identify those external supports which help you with trauma, stress, loss. My approach works as an external support to your internal support as you walk through difficult times and situations. I work with individuals, couples, families, adults, adolescents and children. I meet you in the situation and time you find your self by providing support for acceptance of where you are and support towards where you want to be.
(503) 342-2787 View (503) 342-2787
Photo of Kristen Tryniszewski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Kristen Tryniszewski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
Everyone needs a little help sometimes. Moods fluctuate; every-day stressors pile up; we argue with loved ones, experience trauma and loss; and constant changes demand us to adapt. Basically, life is known to throw us curveballs and some of those can be quite daunting. The good news, though, is you don't have to go through it alone. If you're looking for support and encouragement, new skills to cope, a fresh perspective, solutions, or simply just someone to talk to, I'm here for you.
Everyone needs a little help sometimes. Moods fluctuate; every-day stressors pile up; we argue with loved ones, experience trauma and loss; and constant changes demand us to adapt. Basically, life is known to throw us curveballs and some of those can be quite daunting. The good news, though, is you don't have to go through it alone. If you're looking for support and encouragement, new skills to cope, a fresh perspective, solutions, or simply just someone to talk to, I'm here for you.
(971) 232-3688 View (971) 232-3688
Photo of Emily L Trum, Art Therapist in Portland, OR
Emily L Trum
Art Therapist, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
Waitlist for new clients
I love working with kids and teens. Whether its a play therapy session with a seven year old who is learning to build skills around emotional regulation or a teenager exploring their identity as an individual, it is wonderful. I also enjoy supporting kids and teens process life challenges that are impacting their quality of existence so that they can move through them and begin to heal. There is nothing like supporting an individual to see themselves through the light of their strengths and how they can take those strengths out into the world.
I love working with kids and teens. Whether its a play therapy session with a seven year old who is learning to build skills around emotional regulation or a teenager exploring their identity as an individual, it is wonderful. I also enjoy supporting kids and teens process life challenges that are impacting their quality of existence so that they can move through them and begin to heal. There is nothing like supporting an individual to see themselves through the light of their strengths and how they can take those strengths out into the world.
(971) 363-5383 View (971) 363-5383
Photo of Carl Jensen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Carl Jensen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
"...Psychotherapy...is as varied as human individuals. Treat every patient as individual as possible...the solution of the problem is always an individual one," wrote CG Jung. While living our lives we all go through periods of struggle and difficulty. From time to time help is needed in the form of counseling to assimilate and integrate the problems, and/or otherwise painful emotions. My approach to therapy is humanistic and client centered. I value each person as an individual. I will work collaboratively with you to nurture and support the healing and changes you envision for yourself.
"...Psychotherapy...is as varied as human individuals. Treat every patient as individual as possible...the solution of the problem is always an individual one," wrote CG Jung. While living our lives we all go through periods of struggle and difficulty. From time to time help is needed in the form of counseling to assimilate and integrate the problems, and/or otherwise painful emotions. My approach to therapy is humanistic and client centered. I value each person as an individual. I will work collaboratively with you to nurture and support the healing and changes you envision for yourself.
(971) 803-3641 View (971) 803-3641
Photo of Allison (Gallo) Kennedy - Accepting New Clients!, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Allison (Gallo) Kennedy - Accepting New Clients!
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, EdS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97203  (Online Only)
Taking this leap to seeking therapy services and placing value on your mental health takes an immense amount of courage, and I am glad you’re here. I believe that all individuals have the ability within themselves to find their path to hope and healing, and I would be honored to walk that journey with you. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor enthusiastic about helping adult individuals to better their mental health in plenty of life areas. It is my passion to empower folks to become the healthiest version of themselves.
Taking this leap to seeking therapy services and placing value on your mental health takes an immense amount of courage, and I am glad you’re here. I believe that all individuals have the ability within themselves to find their path to hope and healing, and I would be honored to walk that journey with you. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor enthusiastic about helping adult individuals to better their mental health in plenty of life areas. It is my passion to empower folks to become the healthiest version of themselves.
(971) 260-4476 View (971) 260-4476
Photo of Meg Craig, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Meg Craig
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
Life can be unpredictable, for better or for worse, and sometimes a little extra support is needed to get by. At especially challenging times, I offer warmth and compassion, in an effort to assure clients that they do not walk alone. Although therapy can sometimes be a messy process, I feel that the end result is worth every hectic moment.
Life can be unpredictable, for better or for worse, and sometimes a little extra support is needed to get by. At especially challenging times, I offer warmth and compassion, in an effort to assure clients that they do not walk alone. Although therapy can sometimes be a messy process, I feel that the end result is worth every hectic moment.
(503) 964-6701 View (503) 964-6701
Photo of Phoenix McCulloch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Phoenix McCulloch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am here to honor the uniqueness of you. My practice focuses on trans, nonbinary, and gender diverse adults who are facing hardships related to trauma. I offer a validating and accepting space where you can gain a deeper understanding of how life challenges have impacted the mind and body, and develop tools to love and accept yourself. I am neurodivergent affirming and create a treatment environment that honors the neurodivergent experience. I treat adults struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, chronic health conditions, relationships, and identity.
I am here to honor the uniqueness of you. My practice focuses on trans, nonbinary, and gender diverse adults who are facing hardships related to trauma. I offer a validating and accepting space where you can gain a deeper understanding of how life challenges have impacted the mind and body, and develop tools to love and accept yourself. I am neurodivergent affirming and create a treatment environment that honors the neurodivergent experience. I treat adults struggling with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, chronic health conditions, relationships, and identity.
(503) 213-6082 View (503) 213-6082

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portland, OR

3,000+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
73% Trauma and PTSD
70% Stress
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

54% PacificSource
47% Aetna
38% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Therapists in Portland, OR see their clients

57% In Person and Online
43% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
21% Male
4% Non-Binary

FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portland?

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.