Therapists in Bedford, MI

Photo of Rachel Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Rachel Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, validation, and a deep understanding of the ways in which trauma can impact every aspect of a person’s life. I am passionate about helping individuals heal and thrive after experiencing trauma, particularly related to intimate partner violence, sexual assault, stalking, relationship issues, childhood sexual abuse, family issues, and work-related trauma. I work with my clients to process through experiences, identify strengths, and develop strategies for coping and healing.
My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, validation, and a deep understanding of the ways in which trauma can impact every aspect of a person’s life. I am passionate about helping individuals heal and thrive after experiencing trauma, particularly related to intimate partner violence, sexual assault, stalking, relationship issues, childhood sexual abuse, family issues, and work-related trauma. I work with my clients to process through experiences, identify strengths, and develop strategies for coping and healing.
(734) 849-4405 View (734) 849-4405

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sha'hetia Marsh - Sha'Hetia Marsh, Counselor, MA, LLC
Sha'Hetia Marsh
Counselor, MA, LLC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I’m She’Hetia. I support teens and adults navigating anxiety, low self-esteem, identity exploration, mood regulation, self-doubt, trauma, and the quiet weight of feeling unseen in systems not built with them in mind. Over time, these experiences can shape how we see ourselves, wear down our confidence, and pull us further from who we truly are. Whether you’re stepping into therapy for the first time or returning after a pause, it’s completely natural to feel unsure of where to begin. Here, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Hi, I’m She’Hetia. I support teens and adults navigating anxiety, low self-esteem, identity exploration, mood regulation, self-doubt, trauma, and the quiet weight of feeling unseen in systems not built with them in mind. Over time, these experiences can shape how we see ourselves, wear down our confidence, and pull us further from who we truly are. Whether you’re stepping into therapy for the first time or returning after a pause, it’s completely natural to feel unsure of where to begin. Here, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
(734) 215-3332 View (734) 215-3332
Photo of Michael Thor Eisenberg - Desert Streams Christian Counseling, Counselor, MA, LLPC
Desert Streams Christian Counseling
Counselor, MA, LLPC
1 Endorsed
Battle Creek, MI 49015
God is giving me a great desire to help walk with struggling families, marriage, single parent homes, women, men, children, and teens, find identity and freedom from strongholds hindering God‘s promises in their life. My lived experience intertwined with the Holy Spirit and education are used to honor your time to attain growth, no matter the challenges, people face We are not meant to endure through this life alone. Weathering the storms of adversity is never easy, but beauty can be found through the ashes to empower each person as a new transformation in life just as diamonds are made under pressure.
God is giving me a great desire to help walk with struggling families, marriage, single parent homes, women, men, children, and teens, find identity and freedom from strongholds hindering God‘s promises in their life. My lived experience intertwined with the Holy Spirit and education are used to honor your time to attain growth, no matter the challenges, people face We are not meant to endure through this life alone. Weathering the storms of adversity is never easy, but beauty can be found through the ashes to empower each person as a new transformation in life just as diamonds are made under pressure.
(269) 431-3912 View (269) 431-3912
Photo of Alcione Vasconcelos Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW
Alcione Vasconcelos Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW
Kalamazoo, MI 49001
Are you feeling weighed down by the heavy layers of anxiety, depression, or a recent loss? Perhaps you are navigating the profound transitions of aging or end-of-life and find yourself searching for meaning amidst the pain. My ideal client is often someone standing at a crossroads, seeking not just relief from daily stress, but a deeper understanding of their own journey. You may be longing for a sense of harmony between your physical health and your spiritual self, wanting to feel whole, grounded, and understood as you face life’s biggest questions.
Are you feeling weighed down by the heavy layers of anxiety, depression, or a recent loss? Perhaps you are navigating the profound transitions of aging or end-of-life and find yourself searching for meaning amidst the pain. My ideal client is often someone standing at a crossroads, seeking not just relief from daily stress, but a deeper understanding of their own journey. You may be longing for a sense of harmony between your physical health and your spiritual self, wanting to feel whole, grounded, and understood as you face life’s biggest questions.
(269) 649-8871 View (269) 649-8871
Photo of Hailey Sponeman, Counselor, MS, LLPC
Hailey Sponeman
Counselor, MS, LLPC
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
Life can feel overwhelming, and reaching out for support is a courageous step toward growth. I work with teens and young adults facing challenges such as anxiety, life transitions, self-esteem struggles, and identity exploration. Many of my clients feel stuck or disconnected, unsure how to move forward. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to overcome obstacles. Together, we’ll tap into your inner strengths and develop practical tools for lasting change. I believe therapy should be a place where you can be your true self and feel genuinely supported.
Life can feel overwhelming, and reaching out for support is a courageous step toward growth. I work with teens and young adults facing challenges such as anxiety, life transitions, self-esteem struggles, and identity exploration. Many of my clients feel stuck or disconnected, unsure how to move forward. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to overcome obstacles. Together, we’ll tap into your inner strengths and develop practical tools for lasting change. I believe therapy should be a place where you can be your true self and feel genuinely supported.
(269) 390-8710 View (269) 390-8710
Photo of Jessie Walker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Jessie Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Online Only
Hi, congratulations on taking the first step to a healthier you! My name is Jessie, and I am a Social Worker with a clinical license in Michigan and own Phoenix Tides Counseling Services, LLC. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable and safe being your authentic self, allowing you to make the progress you desire. I most often use EMDR to process trauma; however, I have training and experience in additional forms of trauma therapy. I combine trauma therapy with DBT and CBT in order to assist in developing strong skills and connecting thoughts with emotions and behaviors.
Hi, congratulations on taking the first step to a healthier you! My name is Jessie, and I am a Social Worker with a clinical license in Michigan and own Phoenix Tides Counseling Services, LLC. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable and safe being your authentic self, allowing you to make the progress you desire. I most often use EMDR to process trauma; however, I have training and experience in additional forms of trauma therapy. I combine trauma therapy with DBT and CBT in order to assist in developing strong skills and connecting thoughts with emotions and behaviors.
(540) 551-7565 View (540) 551-7565
Photo of Lindsay Page South, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S
Lindsay Page South
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S
1 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49024
Counseling provides a safe place for healing to occur. Children, teens and adults benefit from a private spot to sort out conflicting feelings, difficult life circumstances and relationship problems. Learning new ways of facing dilemmas present in everyday life produces energy. During therapy, many of my clients begin to experience an inner calm, increased self confidence and/or a clearer sense of self-concept, which in turn leads to a deeper sense of well being.
Counseling provides a safe place for healing to occur. Children, teens and adults benefit from a private spot to sort out conflicting feelings, difficult life circumstances and relationship problems. Learning new ways of facing dilemmas present in everyday life produces energy. During therapy, many of my clients begin to experience an inner calm, increased self confidence and/or a clearer sense of self-concept, which in turn leads to a deeper sense of well being.
(269) 359-3436 View (269) 359-3436
Photo of Amber Bradley, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Amber Bradley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
2 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49024
Counseling involves the sharing of personal problems, concerns, and stories with someone that is skilled at helping the client come to a resolution or solution about the situation. The general goals for the client are that he or she can identify the issues/s, develop a plan of action and then implement that plan. This is a very personal process and is educational and developmental by nature.
Counseling involves the sharing of personal problems, concerns, and stories with someone that is skilled at helping the client come to a resolution or solution about the situation. The general goals for the client are that he or she can identify the issues/s, develop a plan of action and then implement that plan. This is a very personal process and is educational and developmental by nature.
(269) 371-7704 View (269) 371-7704
Photo of Justice N Spearritt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, ADS
Justice N Spearritt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, ADS
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Not accepting new clients
Who are we kidding? Life is crazy and we all need someone in our corner! You are a unique person, and your challenges are too. I'm here to help you make sense of the craziness. I grew up frequently moving between my parents and family, and untimely ended up in the foster care system. With substance abuse in my family system, being a child and adult child of a dysfunctional family is something with which I am very familiar. I decided to pursue my education and help others instead of perpetuating the toxic family system.
Who are we kidding? Life is crazy and we all need someone in our corner! You are a unique person, and your challenges are too. I'm here to help you make sense of the craziness. I grew up frequently moving between my parents and family, and untimely ended up in the foster care system. With substance abuse in my family system, being a child and adult child of a dysfunctional family is something with which I am very familiar. I decided to pursue my education and help others instead of perpetuating the toxic family system.
(269) 386-6479 View (269) 386-6479
Photo of Carol Harvey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Carol Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49002
Helping people is my passion and I feel honored that God has placed me in a position to help those find hope and healing through the counsel I offer. I create a safe place for you to share your story and the challenges you face. My hope is that you feel compassion from me as I journey with you to healing and wholeness. It is a process and my commitment is to walk alongside you at your pace.
Helping people is my passion and I feel honored that God has placed me in a position to help those find hope and healing through the counsel I offer. I create a safe place for you to share your story and the challenges you face. My hope is that you feel compassion from me as I journey with you to healing and wholeness. It is a process and my commitment is to walk alongside you at your pace.
(269) 280-4088 View (269) 280-4088
Photo of Brooke McKenzie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, QIDP
Brooke McKenzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, QIDP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Taking the first step toward healing is often the hardest—and I want to start by saying I’m proud of you for being here. Choosing to begin therapy can be difficult, but finding the right therapist shouldn't be. My goal is to provide a safe, affirming, and inclusive space—however that looks for you—where you can process, heal, and grow at your own pace.
Taking the first step toward healing is often the hardest—and I want to start by saying I’m proud of you for being here. Choosing to begin therapy can be difficult, but finding the right therapist shouldn't be. My goal is to provide a safe, affirming, and inclusive space—however that looks for you—where you can process, heal, and grow at your own pace.
(269) 340-3372 View (269) 340-3372
Photo of Aubree Dospoy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Aubree Dospoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Aubree! My name is Aubree Dospoy, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I am based in North County, San Diego, and I work via telehealth with clients statewide in California. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I work with adults and adolescents using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to work toward goals and support growth. My approach to therapy is individual to the client. We will work together to explore your needs and decide what to focus on to get the most benefit from our time together.
Hi there, I'm Aubree! My name is Aubree Dospoy, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I am based in North County, San Diego, and I work via telehealth with clients statewide in California. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I work with adults and adolescents using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to work toward goals and support growth. My approach to therapy is individual to the client. We will work together to explore your needs and decide what to focus on to get the most benefit from our time together.
(269) 404-4155 View (269) 404-4155
Photo of Sheree McDaniel, Counselor, MA, LPC
Sheree McDaniel
Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Schoolcraft, MI 49087
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. It is my job to help individuals find the change they need to live the lives they desire. I am delighted to work with clients of all religious backgrounds, as well as those with none. I offer Christian counseling to those who desire to include a spiritual perspective in their counseling process. It is my goal to educate and empower my clients, providing them with the necessary tools to work through their most difficult challenges.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. It is my job to help individuals find the change they need to live the lives they desire. I am delighted to work with clients of all religious backgrounds, as well as those with none. I offer Christian counseling to those who desire to include a spiritual perspective in their counseling process. It is my goal to educate and empower my clients, providing them with the necessary tools to work through their most difficult challenges.
(269) 390-6152 View (269) 390-6152
Photo of Barbara W Gustin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Barbara W Gustin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
My compassion for all beings began long ago and has been the cornerstone of my personal and professional life. It is the compelling reason I practice counseling. I am profoundly aware of the vast amounts of suffering we all experience throughout our lives. Experiencing and releasing this pain is the goal. I believe in the emergence of self knowledge, positive energy and right action as fear and resistance are diminished. I prefer not to label conditions and symptoms ,but strive to fully understand and appreciate the individual sitting before me.
My compassion for all beings began long ago and has been the cornerstone of my personal and professional life. It is the compelling reason I practice counseling. I am profoundly aware of the vast amounts of suffering we all experience throughout our lives. Experiencing and releasing this pain is the goal. I believe in the emergence of self knowledge, positive energy and right action as fear and resistance are diminished. I prefer not to label conditions and symptoms ,but strive to fully understand and appreciate the individual sitting before me.
(269) 205-6658 View (269) 205-6658
Photo of Steve Silliman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, LPCC-S
Steve Silliman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, LPCC-S
1 Endorsed
Battle Creek, MI 49037
I believe everyone needs guidance in solving problems and healing pain at specific times in our lives. I will listen and help you to make sense of the problems you face in your daily life, while helping you to heal from any wounds from your past. My therapy style is compassionate and centered around your specific needs. We can discuss the benefits of various approaches and taylor therapy to best meet your needs.
I believe everyone needs guidance in solving problems and healing pain at specific times in our lives. I will listen and help you to make sense of the problems you face in your daily life, while helping you to heal from any wounds from your past. My therapy style is compassionate and centered around your specific needs. We can discuss the benefits of various approaches and taylor therapy to best meet your needs.
(269) 359-3269 View (269) 359-3269
Photo of Steven Ward, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Steven Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
My name is Steven Ward and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have been a therapist for over 10 years and an intermittent therapy participant for 30 years. I believe in therapy and its ability to help others become their best selves. I have known since the first time therapy made a significant difference in my life, that I wanted to devote my life, time, and energy to serving and helping others by becoming a therapist. I received an undergraduate degree from Spring Arbor in Management and Organizational Development and utilized this to work my way through my Masters in Counseling, also from Spring Arbor University.
My name is Steven Ward and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have been a therapist for over 10 years and an intermittent therapy participant for 30 years. I believe in therapy and its ability to help others become their best selves. I have known since the first time therapy made a significant difference in my life, that I wanted to devote my life, time, and energy to serving and helping others by becoming a therapist. I received an undergraduate degree from Spring Arbor in Management and Organizational Development and utilized this to work my way through my Masters in Counseling, also from Spring Arbor University.
(616) 441-4808 View (616) 441-4808
Photo of Eric Stezowski, Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP, SPADA
Eric Stezowski
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP, SPADA
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I work with clients who have various types of trauma, and its effects on the individual and their environment. My experience in the field began with providing therapy for adults with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental heath disorders. I have worked with people who suffer with many different forms of trauma and traumatic experiences. I have also work with clients dealing with loss and grief. I have an extensive experience working as a first responder (firefighter, paramedic, and police officer) before I entered in to my career as a counselor. I also specialize in working with first responders and their unique needs.
I work with clients who have various types of trauma, and its effects on the individual and their environment. My experience in the field began with providing therapy for adults with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental heath disorders. I have worked with people who suffer with many different forms of trauma and traumatic experiences. I have also work with clients dealing with loss and grief. I have an extensive experience working as a first responder (firefighter, paramedic, and police officer) before I entered in to my career as a counselor. I also specialize in working with first responders and their unique needs.
(269) 716-2209 View (269) 716-2209
Photo of Kerry Ann Burkhart, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Kerry Ann Burkhart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49006
I am a licensed counselor specializing in grief, loss, addiction, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Drawing from both professional training and personal experience, I provide a safe, compassionate space to explore your feelings, process challenges, and begin healing. Together, we work toward hope, growth, and building the tools to navigate life’s difficulties with resilience and strength. “Compassionate counseling for grief, anxiety, trauma, and recovery—because healing begins with being heard.”
I am a licensed counselor specializing in grief, loss, addiction, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Drawing from both professional training and personal experience, I provide a safe, compassionate space to explore your feelings, process challenges, and begin healing. Together, we work toward hope, growth, and building the tools to navigate life’s difficulties with resilience and strength. “Compassionate counseling for grief, anxiety, trauma, and recovery—because healing begins with being heard.”
(269) 466-1306 View (269) 466-1306
Photo of Whitney Mae Pennington, Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Whitney Mae Pennington
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
7 Endorsed
Hastings, MI 49058
Caught in the stressful in-between of feeling anxious and afraid of what others might think of “the real you” and wanting to be your genuine self? People say you are too in touch with your feelings, but at the same time you are afraid to confide in your parents, friends or colleagues? You desperately want to feel better but aren’t sure how to get there...feeling like you've tried everything? Deep down you know you have high potential, but often feel like a disappointment to yourself and others. Your emotions feel like a burden and the last thing you want to do is share them with the people you care most about.
Caught in the stressful in-between of feeling anxious and afraid of what others might think of “the real you” and wanting to be your genuine self? People say you are too in touch with your feelings, but at the same time you are afraid to confide in your parents, friends or colleagues? You desperately want to feel better but aren’t sure how to get there...feeling like you've tried everything? Deep down you know you have high potential, but often feel like a disappointment to yourself and others. Your emotions feel like a burden and the last thing you want to do is share them with the people you care most about.
(616) 378-8608 View (616) 378-8608
Photo of Terri Ratliff, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NPT-C™, NCC
Terri Ratliff
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NPT-C™, NCC
Online Only
Life can change in a flash. Transitions are not always expected. Job loss, chronic illness, death of a loved one, a pandemic - not to mention those we do plan, such as moving, empty nest, retirement, and others. We often try to avoid transitions because change can be hard. Even a positive change can cause feelings of loss, anxiety, overwhelmed and often leads to anxiety or depression. Those suffering from emotional instability, trauma & loss, or other life stressors causing mental health disturbance, acquiring new skills through tools and meeting goals, will allow for greater self-understanding, offering an enhanced quality of life.
Life can change in a flash. Transitions are not always expected. Job loss, chronic illness, death of a loved one, a pandemic - not to mention those we do plan, such as moving, empty nest, retirement, and others. We often try to avoid transitions because change can be hard. Even a positive change can cause feelings of loss, anxiety, overwhelmed and often leads to anxiety or depression. Those suffering from emotional instability, trauma & loss, or other life stressors causing mental health disturbance, acquiring new skills through tools and meeting goals, will allow for greater self-understanding, offering an enhanced quality of life.
(269) 256-1536 View (269) 256-1536

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Bedford, MI

< 10

Therapists in Bedford, MI who prioritize treating:

100% Relationship Issues
100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Domestic Abuse
100% Grief
100% Sex Therapy
100% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Bedford, MI see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Bedford?

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.