Therapists in Apex, NC

Photo of Diane Schachtele, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane Schachtele
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
The healing journey begins with the desire for personal growth and a willingness to embrace change. Together, we can achieve this. The first question is, " Are you willing to take care of you now?" For most, this is a difficult commitment to make. For those who are willing, the rewards are immeasurable. Learning how to face problems fearlessly, improve work performance, develop healthy realtionships, or reach a state of peace and joy are within your grasp.
The healing journey begins with the desire for personal growth and a willingness to embrace change. Together, we can achieve this. The first question is, " Are you willing to take care of you now?" For most, this is a difficult commitment to make. For those who are willing, the rewards are immeasurable. Learning how to face problems fearlessly, improve work performance, develop healthy realtionships, or reach a state of peace and joy are within your grasp.
(919) 443-6550 View (919) 443-6550
Photo of Bethany Minster, MSW, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bethany Minster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Welcome! I am so glad you are here! My name is Bethany and I am an Outpatient Psychotherapist at Three Oaks Behavioral Health and Wellness. My hope is that you find a space to feel heard and understood. Whether or not you are new to therapy or not, I know it takes a lot of strength to reach out. I would love to support you in your journey whether navigating chronic illness ,life transitions, interpersonal conflict and setting boundaries, finding freedom from eating disorders/disordered eating, anxiety and depression.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here! My name is Bethany and I am an Outpatient Psychotherapist at Three Oaks Behavioral Health and Wellness. My hope is that you find a space to feel heard and understood. Whether or not you are new to therapy or not, I know it takes a lot of strength to reach out. I would love to support you in your journey whether navigating chronic illness ,life transitions, interpersonal conflict and setting boundaries, finding freedom from eating disorders/disordered eating, anxiety and depression.
(919) 276-8572 View (919) 276-8572
Photo of Marion Reeves Anderson, LPC, LCMHC, NCC
Marion Reeves Anderson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Hello! So glad you're here! Asking for help is one of the bravest things someone can do. In a world that tells us to be strong and push through, it can be hard to feel our emotions and say that we need help. Maybe you're struggling with feeling trapped by thoughts about food and your body. Maybe you're struggling with chronic overthinking, feeling down, or a feeling of not measuring up. Whatever it is, I'm here to help! We are not meant to go through life alone - I find it an honor to be trusted to hold so many stories and to walk alongside my clients through whatever is bringing them to my office.
Hello! So glad you're here! Asking for help is one of the bravest things someone can do. In a world that tells us to be strong and push through, it can be hard to feel our emotions and say that we need help. Maybe you're struggling with feeling trapped by thoughts about food and your body. Maybe you're struggling with chronic overthinking, feeling down, or a feeling of not measuring up. Whatever it is, I'm here to help! We are not meant to go through life alone - I find it an honor to be trusted to hold so many stories and to walk alongside my clients through whatever is bringing them to my office.
(919) 213-0276 View (919) 213-0276
Photo of Meredith Hanes, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meredith Hanes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
I'm currently able to place clients on a wait list with availability opening up in October 2024. If you are feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about life changes I'd like to help. If you feel like you’ve hit a stuck place and don’t know what to do next, you’ve come to the right place. Thank you for taking the time to consider me as your therapist. Finding the right person to share your story with can be a tough decision- let me share with you a bit about myself to help make your decision easier!
I'm currently able to place clients on a wait list with availability opening up in October 2024. If you are feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about life changes I'd like to help. If you feel like you’ve hit a stuck place and don’t know what to do next, you’ve come to the right place. Thank you for taking the time to consider me as your therapist. Finding the right person to share your story with can be a tough decision- let me share with you a bit about myself to help make your decision easier!
(919) 276-8251 View (919) 276-8251
Photo of Hugh Willard, MEd, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Hugh Willard
Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
Not accepting new clients
I am interested in working with individuals across a range of presenting concerns. I see my work with clients as a partnership. My focus is to listen and validate, and to offer feedback that may help the individual better recognize the patterns and experiences that are impeding growth and healing. I have an additional interest in supporting folks who are transitioning to, or fully in, retirement, addressing needs and concerns particular to this time of life.
I am interested in working with individuals across a range of presenting concerns. I see my work with clients as a partnership. My focus is to listen and validate, and to offer feedback that may help the individual better recognize the patterns and experiences that are impeding growth and healing. I have an additional interest in supporting folks who are transitioning to, or fully in, retirement, addressing needs and concerns particular to this time of life.
(919) 429-7735 View (919) 429-7735
Photo of Cherie L Spehar - Smiling Spirit Pathways - Cherie L. Spehar, LCSW, ACTP, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Smiling Spirit Pathways - Cherie L. Spehar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACTP, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
We’re all just walking each other home - Ram Dass. You find yourself standing at a crossroads, the weight of past traumas, daily stresses, and unspoken fears heavy on your shoulders. The voices of doubt and confusion echo in your mind, turning what was once a clear path into a tangled maze of uncertainty. Each decision feels monumental, each step forward feels shaky, contributing to a profound sense of overwhelm. It’s dark here, and the face in the mirror feels like a stranger, each day a battle with fear. Maybe you wake up each morning dreading the day ahead, gripped by a fear that’s both familiar and indescribable.
We’re all just walking each other home - Ram Dass. You find yourself standing at a crossroads, the weight of past traumas, daily stresses, and unspoken fears heavy on your shoulders. The voices of doubt and confusion echo in your mind, turning what was once a clear path into a tangled maze of uncertainty. Each decision feels monumental, each step forward feels shaky, contributing to a profound sense of overwhelm. It’s dark here, and the face in the mirror feels like a stranger, each day a battle with fear. Maybe you wake up each morning dreading the day ahead, gripped by a fear that’s both familiar and indescribable.
(919) 367-1958 View (919) 367-1958
Photo of Jamie Stashko, PsyD, Psychologist
Jamie Stashko
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
Dr. Jamie Stashko is returning to Peak City Psychology after spending the last few years raising her young family. She has undergone specialty training in the treatment of Postpartum Mood and Anxiety Disorders and advanced training in Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT). She is excited to support women experiencing challenges related to pregnancy, pregnancy loss, and mothering and partnering in the context of a new birth.
Dr. Jamie Stashko is returning to Peak City Psychology after spending the last few years raising her young family. She has undergone specialty training in the treatment of Postpartum Mood and Anxiety Disorders and advanced training in Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT). She is excited to support women experiencing challenges related to pregnancy, pregnancy loss, and mothering and partnering in the context of a new birth.
(919) 737-2098 View (919) 737-2098
Photo of Lee Bob Smith, MS, LMFT, CCSOTS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lee Bob Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCSOTS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27523
I am a systems-trained family therapist that has been in practice since 1992. I have extensive experience with a wide range of issues. I welcome calls to assess if I can be of service to helping you achieve the outcomes you desire.
I am a systems-trained family therapist that has been in practice since 1992. I have extensive experience with a wide range of issues. I welcome calls to assess if I can be of service to helping you achieve the outcomes you desire.
(919) 705-0641 View (919) 705-0641
Photo of Christina Cooper Leadership Coach | Speaker | Consultant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Cooper Leadership Coach | Speaker | Consultant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Are you in a season of your professional journey where you want more? Have you been living to please others and as a result are living your life on "empty". Are you sick of coming against the same challenges over and over again in your relationships, friendships, and work? Are you struggling to establish and maintain healthy relationships, but can't pinpoint why you're dissatisfied in the areas of your life that matter to you?
Are you in a season of your professional journey where you want more? Have you been living to please others and as a result are living your life on "empty". Are you sick of coming against the same challenges over and over again in your relationships, friendships, and work? Are you struggling to establish and maintain healthy relationships, but can't pinpoint why you're dissatisfied in the areas of your life that matter to you?
(919) 626-3379 View (919) 626-3379
Photo of McGeath Freeman, Pre-Licensed Professional
McGeath Freeman
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
There are so many things in your life that can cause stress, depression, anxiety, and leave you feeling overwhelmed. So many decisions to make! So many people to please. Whether it’s work, family, bills, a career change, or everything going on in the world around you, I want to help you sort through it all, gain more control, and feel better.
There are so many things in your life that can cause stress, depression, anxiety, and leave you feeling overwhelmed. So many decisions to make! So many people to please. Whether it’s work, family, bills, a career change, or everything going on in the world around you, I want to help you sort through it all, gain more control, and feel better.
(984) 223-8787 View (984) 223-8787
Photo of Dr. Hailey Krouse Perez, PhD, HSP-P, Psychologist
Dr. Hailey Krouse Perez
Psychologist, PhD, HSP-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Psychology is in my DNA. I have followed in the footsteps of my mother and grandmother, both of whom were psychologists. I am a Licensed Psychologist and Health Service Provider who specializes in ADHD, anxiety, autism, developmental disorders, giftedness, and intellectual and learning disabilities. I have worked in public schools for over 15 years and have extensive experience evaluating children and supporting families as they navigate neurodivergent learning and development. I provide children and families with psycho-educational evaluations, parent consultation and special education advocacy.
Psychology is in my DNA. I have followed in the footsteps of my mother and grandmother, both of whom were psychologists. I am a Licensed Psychologist and Health Service Provider who specializes in ADHD, anxiety, autism, developmental disorders, giftedness, and intellectual and learning disabilities. I have worked in public schools for over 15 years and have extensive experience evaluating children and supporting families as they navigate neurodivergent learning and development. I provide children and families with psycho-educational evaluations, parent consultation and special education advocacy.
(984) 422-3296 View (984) 422-3296
Photo of Susan Sutton, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Sutton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
Is your family constantly on edge because of the daily arguing? Are you the parent of a teen that does not understand you? Do you feel that to get in touch with your teen you need to text or Facebook chat? Are you constantly fighting with your spouse over money, discipline and jeolousy? As a middle school counselor I have immersed myself into the lives of adolescents and know how to speak their language. As a parent of two teens I understand the challenges of being a parent and spouse. Are you ready for a positive change?
Is your family constantly on edge because of the daily arguing? Are you the parent of a teen that does not understand you? Do you feel that to get in touch with your teen you need to text or Facebook chat? Are you constantly fighting with your spouse over money, discipline and jeolousy? As a middle school counselor I have immersed myself into the lives of adolescents and know how to speak their language. As a parent of two teens I understand the challenges of being a parent and spouse. Are you ready for a positive change?
(919) 237-9971 View (919) 237-9971
Photo of Susan N Perkins, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan N Perkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27523
Are you and your partner struggling? Are you in that painful space where you try to communicate but keep misunderstanding and hurting each other? Is the love you have for each other harder to find as you navigate difficult times? When you feel stuck and lost, I will listen. I will collaborate with you to build relationships you value. I help individuals, couples, and families connect. We use skills, empathy, insight, activities, and values to work through conflict and differences. Ultimately, you can heal emotionally, reconnect, and live a life you value and enjoy.
Are you and your partner struggling? Are you in that painful space where you try to communicate but keep misunderstanding and hurting each other? Is the love you have for each other harder to find as you navigate difficult times? When you feel stuck and lost, I will listen. I will collaborate with you to build relationships you value. I help individuals, couples, and families connect. We use skills, empathy, insight, activities, and values to work through conflict and differences. Ultimately, you can heal emotionally, reconnect, and live a life you value and enjoy.
(984) 205-1964 View (984) 205-1964
Photo of Vivian Magariño-Gomez - Joyful Art Therapy LLC, MA, NBCT, ATR-P, LCMHCA, Art Therapist
Joyful Art Therapy LLC
Art Therapist, MA, NBCT, ATR-P, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
I am Vivian Magarino-Gomez and have a M.A. in Art Therapy/Transpersonal Counseling Psychology-which offers clients the best of both eastern and western psychology. With 12 years of mental health experience and 16 years as a public school educator, I offer individual, group, and family therapy for clients age 2-60+ with needs ranging from abuse, trauma, ADHD, gang involvement, PTSD, depression, anxiety, addiction, emerging sexuality issues, and neurodivergence. My past working in emergency services, school-based therapy, day treatment, group homes, and inpatient, fuels my holistic client-centered approach in outpatient art therapy.
I am Vivian Magarino-Gomez and have a M.A. in Art Therapy/Transpersonal Counseling Psychology-which offers clients the best of both eastern and western psychology. With 12 years of mental health experience and 16 years as a public school educator, I offer individual, group, and family therapy for clients age 2-60+ with needs ranging from abuse, trauma, ADHD, gang involvement, PTSD, depression, anxiety, addiction, emerging sexuality issues, and neurodivergence. My past working in emergency services, school-based therapy, day treatment, group homes, and inpatient, fuels my holistic client-centered approach in outpatient art therapy.
(919) 343-5479 View (919) 343-5479
Photo of Sarah Rathbun, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Rathbun
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
Do you feel lonely in your current season of life right now? Perhaps you feel frustrated that things have not worked out and question if there is something wrong with you. You have not felt accepted and that you belong in so long that you have forgotten what it feels like to be known and loved. You are not alone, and I am here to help. I have been there myself and I too needed help and support.
Do you feel lonely in your current season of life right now? Perhaps you feel frustrated that things have not worked out and question if there is something wrong with you. You have not felt accepted and that you belong in so long that you have forgotten what it feels like to be known and loved. You are not alone, and I am here to help. I have been there myself and I too needed help and support.
(984) 266-3745 x105032 View (984) 266-3745 x105032
Photo of Maggie Powell, MS, CRC, LCMHCA, Counselor
Maggie Powell
Counselor, MS, CRC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I am a DBT-informed and psychodynamically-oriented therapist working at Lifescapes Counseling Associates. My first priority is the quality of my relationships with my clients. I care deeply about our trust and rapport and know that a positive clinical relationship is necessary for therapy to be successful. I am currently taking continuing education courses at the Psychoanalytic Center of the Carolinas where I am working through an intensive psychoanalytic psychotherapy training program. These courses will allow me to increase the depth of our sessions and improve my understanding of you.
Hello! I am a DBT-informed and psychodynamically-oriented therapist working at Lifescapes Counseling Associates. My first priority is the quality of my relationships with my clients. I care deeply about our trust and rapport and know that a positive clinical relationship is necessary for therapy to be successful. I am currently taking continuing education courses at the Psychoanalytic Center of the Carolinas where I am working through an intensive psychoanalytic psychotherapy training program. These courses will allow me to increase the depth of our sessions and improve my understanding of you.
(919) 804-0348 View (919) 804-0348
Photo of Tequila Sanford, LCSWA, LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tequila Sanford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
I believe in exploration and facilitating an understanding of the connection between mind, body and soul to achieve deep healing with my clients. I will incorporate humor, as appropriate, which has yielded great results, as it allows my clients to feel more relaxed. Serious challenges don’t have to be addressed in a stringent, cold manner. I am accepting new clients for telehealth sessions and am available for evening appointments. Please reach out to Brinkley Brown Mental Wellness PLLC to schedule. You may call 919-355-9792 or go to our website and complete the "contact us" form to get started.
I believe in exploration and facilitating an understanding of the connection between mind, body and soul to achieve deep healing with my clients. I will incorporate humor, as appropriate, which has yielded great results, as it allows my clients to feel more relaxed. Serious challenges don’t have to be addressed in a stringent, cold manner. I am accepting new clients for telehealth sessions and am available for evening appointments. Please reach out to Brinkley Brown Mental Wellness PLLC to schedule. You may call 919-355-9792 or go to our website and complete the "contact us" form to get started.
(984) 422-3912 View (984) 422-3912
Photo of Cole Solomon, LCMHC-A, NCC, Counselor
Cole Solomon
Counselor, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Accepting New Patients! I have just joined Brinkley Brown Mental Wellness and have openings right away! I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship/marriage issues, substance use (addiction), trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), grief, life transitions, etc.
Accepting New Patients! I have just joined Brinkley Brown Mental Wellness and have openings right away! I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship/marriage issues, substance use (addiction), trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), grief, life transitions, etc.
(919) 367-1169 View (919) 367-1169
Photo of McKenzie Elizabeth Bossert, MA, LCMHC, NCC, CEDS
McKenzie Elizabeth Bossert
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, CEDS
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27523
Not accepting new clients
Welcome, friend! I am so glad you found your way here. Recognizing that you need help along your journey toward healing and wellness is one of the hardest yet bravest steps, so I invite you in this moment to be proud of yourself. Perhaps you have landed on this site because you feel disconnected—disconnected from your emotions, your body, your relationships, the world itself. Maybe your existence feels smaller because you find yourself consumed by unhelpful thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors. Maybe you notice a disconnection between the life you want and the life you are living. You are not alone.
Welcome, friend! I am so glad you found your way here. Recognizing that you need help along your journey toward healing and wellness is one of the hardest yet bravest steps, so I invite you in this moment to be proud of yourself. Perhaps you have landed on this site because you feel disconnected—disconnected from your emotions, your body, your relationships, the world itself. Maybe your existence feels smaller because you find yourself consumed by unhelpful thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors. Maybe you notice a disconnection between the life you want and the life you are living. You are not alone.
(919) 289-1284 View (919) 289-1284
Photo of Christina Dovel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Dovel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
Immediate availability for new clients both in person and via telehealth! Whether you’re facing challenges or seeking personal growth, having someone to talk to can be invaluable. My approach is grounded in empathy and understanding, ensuring that each session is tailored to your unique needs and paced according to your comfort level. I’m dedicated to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and to help you navigate your journey with understanding and respect.
Immediate availability for new clients both in person and via telehealth! Whether you’re facing challenges or seeking personal growth, having someone to talk to can be invaluable. My approach is grounded in empathy and understanding, ensuring that each session is tailored to your unique needs and paced according to your comfort level. I’m dedicated to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and to help you navigate your journey with understanding and respect.
(919) 434-6398 View (919) 434-6398
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Apex, NC

300+

Average cost per session

$148

Therapists in Apex, NC who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
88% Depression
78% Self Esteem
76% Relationship Issues
76% Coping Skills
69% Stress
66% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

87% BlueCross and BlueShield
82% Aetna
51% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Apex, NC see their clients

77% In Person and Online
23% Online Only

Gender breakdown

87% Female
13% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Apex?

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.