Therapists in Plaza Midwood, Charlotte, NC

Cindy Pearson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, PCC
Plaza Midwood, Charlotte, NC 28205
Sometimes life falls apart loudly. Other times the signal is faint, a sense that something feels off or flat. You might feel deep disappointment, grief, or longing. You may notice yourself stuck in familiar patterns, reacting in ways you don’t fully understand, or wondering why life feels harder than it seems for others. You might feel weighed down or caught in loops, struggling to change your experience. You might simply feel unsettled or quietly dissatisfied. People come to therapy for many reasons, sometimes in a clear crisis like a divorce, loss, or life unraveling, and other times with a quieter sense that life could be more.
Sometimes life falls apart loudly. Other times the signal is faint, a sense that something feels off or flat. You might feel deep disappointment, grief, or longing. You may notice yourself stuck in familiar patterns, reacting in ways you don’t fully understand, or wondering why life feels harder than it seems for others. You might feel weighed down or caught in loops, struggling to change your experience. You might simply feel unsettled or quietly dissatisfied. People come to therapy for many reasons, sometimes in a clear crisis like a divorce, loss, or life unraveling, and other times with a quieter sense that life could be more.
(704) 457-7532 View (704) 457-7532
Natalie Inez Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFA, SEP
Plaza Midwood, Charlotte, NC 28205
Do you feel like trauma has hijacked your life? Are you experiencing depressive episodes/sadness, anxieties, negative thought patterns and relationship dynamics that tend towards being reactive or feel ineffective? People that work with me learn how to understand the impact and effects of trauma and grow their resiliency muscle. It's time to stop hiding wounds you can’t name and skipping out on many possibilities in your life because of internal fears, waning drive and a sense of inner defeat. I can help.
Do you feel like trauma has hijacked your life? Are you experiencing depressive episodes/sadness, anxieties, negative thought patterns and relationship dynamics that tend towards being reactive or feel ineffective? People that work with me learn how to understand the impact and effects of trauma and grow their resiliency muscle. It's time to stop hiding wounds you can’t name and skipping out on many possibilities in your life because of internal fears, waning drive and a sense of inner defeat. I can help.
(704) 459-7787 View (704) 459-7787
Asheville Center for Couples
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Plaza Midwood, Charlotte, NC 28205
You love your partner, but things are just so much harder now. You keep having arguments about stupid little things. And worse, there is the silence in between. Neither of you wants this and you both miss the fun, connection, and safety you used to feel with one another. TRULY, as awful as you feel, you are not unique. I work with couples like you all the time. The reality is, couples get stuck in cycles and just don't know HOW to do things differently, even if they want to.
You love your partner, but things are just so much harder now. You keep having arguments about stupid little things. And worse, there is the silence in between. Neither of you wants this and you both miss the fun, connection, and safety you used to feel with one another. TRULY, as awful as you feel, you are not unique. I work with couples like you all the time. The reality is, couples get stuck in cycles and just don't know HOW to do things differently, even if they want to.
(828) 903-8692 View (828) 903-8692
Shawna Cook
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Plaza Midwood, Charlotte, NC 28205
If you’re trying to rebuild after betrayal or navigating a major life transition that has shaken your confidence, you may feel overwhelmed, rejected, not “enough,” or unsure who you are anymore. Life changes such as divorce, marriage, motherhood, career shifts, empty nesting, or loss can leave you questioning your worth and direction. If you’re feeling rejected or unsure who you are anymore, healing is possible. Together, we’ll process the hurt, challenge negative beliefs, and rebuild trust, confidence & clarity. My approach is warm, direct and results-oriented, helping you move from surviving to thriving.
If you’re trying to rebuild after betrayal or navigating a major life transition that has shaken your confidence, you may feel overwhelmed, rejected, not “enough,” or unsure who you are anymore. Life changes such as divorce, marriage, motherhood, career shifts, empty nesting, or loss can leave you questioning your worth and direction. If you’re feeling rejected or unsure who you are anymore, healing is possible. Together, we’ll process the hurt, challenge negative beliefs, and rebuild trust, confidence & clarity. My approach is warm, direct and results-oriented, helping you move from surviving to thriving.
(980) 577-4245 View (980) 577-4245
Marah Stefanisko
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, MT-BC
5 Endorsed
Plaza Midwood, Charlotte, NC 28205
Hey there, thanks for clicking on my page. Life is full of various seasons and some are harder than others. If you find yourself questioning your relationships, sense of self, noticing patterns of over-functioning, or struggle with your relationship with your body, I see you and would be honored to help. As a therapist, I am passionate about offering a collaborative perspective to work with clients navigate these challenges and come out the other side with a deeper sense of self-knowing. Areas of my focus include relationships, anxiety, perfectionism, complex-ptsd, disordered eating, body image, self-esteem, and neurodivergence.
Hey there, thanks for clicking on my page. Life is full of various seasons and some are harder than others. If you find yourself questioning your relationships, sense of self, noticing patterns of over-functioning, or struggle with your relationship with your body, I see you and would be honored to help. As a therapist, I am passionate about offering a collaborative perspective to work with clients navigate these challenges and come out the other side with a deeper sense of self-knowing. Areas of my focus include relationships, anxiety, perfectionism, complex-ptsd, disordered eating, body image, self-esteem, and neurodivergence.
(828) 784-8005 View (828) 784-8005
Daniel De La Cruz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a bilingual Clinical Social Worker specializing in individual outpatient therapy for multicultural populations. I help clients navigate complex issues related to identity formation, interpersonal relationships, low self-esteem, and daily functional struggles. A core part of my practice is providing critical support to clients in integrating psychedelic experiences, offering intentional, non-judgmental guidance to safely assimilate powerful insights and promote authentic healing. My comprehensive therapeutic approach is firmly rooted in harm reduction principles, a dedication to social justice, and culturally informed care.
I am a bilingual Clinical Social Worker specializing in individual outpatient therapy for multicultural populations. I help clients navigate complex issues related to identity formation, interpersonal relationships, low self-esteem, and daily functional struggles. A core part of my practice is providing critical support to clients in integrating psychedelic experiences, offering intentional, non-judgmental guidance to safely assimilate powerful insights and promote authentic healing. My comprehensive therapeutic approach is firmly rooted in harm reduction principles, a dedication to social justice, and culturally informed care.
(336) 814-9205 View (336) 814-9205
Venus Kennedy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHCS
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Women face many challenges in life. We work hard to balance the expectations of our career, our home life and our relationships. As women we often put ourselves last as we focus on the needs of others. I am here to help you sort through these expectations so you can find a healthy balance, peace, and most importantly feel like yourself again. ​​If you are a woman and are experiencing anxiety, depression, shame or guilt - I am here to help. I enjoy helping women see their strengths, teach them tools and help them find hope and resilience.
Women face many challenges in life. We work hard to balance the expectations of our career, our home life and our relationships. As women we often put ourselves last as we focus on the needs of others. I am here to help you sort through these expectations so you can find a healthy balance, peace, and most importantly feel like yourself again. ​​If you are a woman and are experiencing anxiety, depression, shame or guilt - I am here to help. I enjoy helping women see their strengths, teach them tools and help them find hope and resilience.
(980) 270-1605 View (980) 270-1605
Sheena Beach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
11 Endorsed
Serves Area
We all imagine a life worth living. We hope to get up each and every day with a clear sense of purpose and self-worth. And sometimes, life becomes overwhelming. The day to day tasks of living may feel insurmountable, and we may even consider giving up or running away from it all. We are pulled in so many directions and feel out of the driver’s seat in our own lives. Relationships we once valued seem meaningless and activities that used to bring us joy no longer do. We need to be reminded of who we are and our value to this world. We all want to be heard, understood and validated.
We all imagine a life worth living. We hope to get up each and every day with a clear sense of purpose and self-worth. And sometimes, life becomes overwhelming. The day to day tasks of living may feel insurmountable, and we may even consider giving up or running away from it all. We are pulled in so many directions and feel out of the driver’s seat in our own lives. Relationships we once valued seem meaningless and activities that used to bring us joy no longer do. We need to be reminded of who we are and our value to this world. We all want to be heard, understood and validated.
(980) 243-4566 View (980) 243-4566
Heather L Douglas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Life can become overwhelming and take unexpected turns. I help people through difficult or challenging life transitions, specializing in women who are experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders as well as individuals affected by fertility issues, pregnancy loss, marital strain, parenting, career stress, trauma, and grief. It can be a daunting task to ask for help when challenges arise, but if you do, it can lead you down a path of hope and healing. I will empower you to regain a sense of well being and self-worth, bringing balance and harmony back into your life.
Life can become overwhelming and take unexpected turns. I help people through difficult or challenging life transitions, specializing in women who are experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders as well as individuals affected by fertility issues, pregnancy loss, marital strain, parenting, career stress, trauma, and grief. It can be a daunting task to ask for help when challenges arise, but if you do, it can lead you down a path of hope and healing. I will empower you to regain a sense of well being and self-worth, bringing balance and harmony back into your life.
(704) 228-4329 View (704) 228-4329
Jenny O'Brien Adorno
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, NBCC, RPT
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Jenny works with children, teens, and adults using Child-Centered Play Therapy (ages 2-10), Strengths Based Therapy (adolescents and adults), and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). She supports clients by helping them acknowledge and express their feelings, work through problems using tools such as Mindfulness and Cognitive Restructuring, and develop skills in and out of session. She believes that parents and guardians are essential to the healing process for children. She focuses on equipping clients with the tools, support and approach to help them live a life that is meaningful to them.
Jenny works with children, teens, and adults using Child-Centered Play Therapy (ages 2-10), Strengths Based Therapy (adolescents and adults), and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). She supports clients by helping them acknowledge and express their feelings, work through problems using tools such as Mindfulness and Cognitive Restructuring, and develop skills in and out of session. She believes that parents and guardians are essential to the healing process for children. She focuses on equipping clients with the tools, support and approach to help them live a life that is meaningful to them.
(704) 741-0592 View (704) 741-0592
Jenee Thorsell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that healing is a journey of self discovery, and my role is to walk alongside you as you uncover what's been holding you back. I specialize in working with adults navigating anxiety, depression, and life transitions particularly parents balancing identity with caregiving, professionals feeling stuck despite success, and anyone sensing their life needs to change but unsure how. Using evidence based techniques and holistic approaches, I help you understand your patterns, reconnect with your authentic self, and build a life that actually feels like yours.
I believe that healing is a journey of self discovery, and my role is to walk alongside you as you uncover what's been holding you back. I specialize in working with adults navigating anxiety, depression, and life transitions particularly parents balancing identity with caregiving, professionals feeling stuck despite success, and anyone sensing their life needs to change but unsure how. Using evidence based techniques and holistic approaches, I help you understand your patterns, reconnect with your authentic self, and build a life that actually feels like yours.
(704) 594-2458 View (704) 594-2458
Susan (Marchioni) Thistle, LMHC, LCMHC, PMH-C
Counselor, LMHC, PMH-C
Online Only
It is one of my greatest privileges to hold space for women as they navigate the profound transition into motherhood. This transition is referred to as "matrescence" - it encompasses a woman's shifting hormones, changing brain architecture, and a complete identity shift and lifestyle change. I work with expectant mothers, new mothers, and women whose journeys to motherhood have been marked by loss, uncertainty, and grief. In our work together, women often share their fears and vulnerabilities, as well as their hopes, dreams, and expectations for themselves and their growing families.
It is one of my greatest privileges to hold space for women as they navigate the profound transition into motherhood. This transition is referred to as "matrescence" - it encompasses a woman's shifting hormones, changing brain architecture, and a complete identity shift and lifestyle change. I work with expectant mothers, new mothers, and women whose journeys to motherhood have been marked by loss, uncertainty, and grief. In our work together, women often share their fears and vulnerabilities, as well as their hopes, dreams, and expectations for themselves and their growing families.
(617) 694-8752 View (617) 694-8752
Gabby Milando
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS-A, NCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. My goal as a therapist is to walk alongside you, process past experiences, shed light on patterns you are engaging in, and provide you with tools to improve your mental health. I aim to foster growth, introspection, and self-acceptance. I enjoy working with a range of ages and concerns, but I am particularly passionate about working with adults suffering from anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, and self-esteem issues
I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. My goal as a therapist is to walk alongside you, process past experiences, shed light on patterns you are engaging in, and provide you with tools to improve your mental health. I aim to foster growth, introspection, and self-acceptance. I enjoy working with a range of ages and concerns, but I am particularly passionate about working with adults suffering from anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, and self-esteem issues
(704) 937-2050 View (704) 937-2050
Philip Waugh
Pre-Licensed Professional
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences. I’m committed to helping each person move through difficulty, cultivate a meaningful life, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves in ways that enhance overall well-being. Whether you are facing new obstacles, working through longstanding struggles, or just trying to move through each day, your experience matters and there is value in approaching these challenges together. Through a collaborative process, we can clarify your goals, develop practical tools for daily life, and move toward a way of living that feels right for you.
I work with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences. I’m committed to helping each person move through difficulty, cultivate a meaningful life, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves in ways that enhance overall well-being. Whether you are facing new obstacles, working through longstanding struggles, or just trying to move through each day, your experience matters and there is value in approaching these challenges together. Through a collaborative process, we can clarify your goals, develop practical tools for daily life, and move toward a way of living that feels right for you.
(980) 825-4560 View (980) 825-4560
Stacey Surratt
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS, AADC, CCS
Online Only
My work is especially supportive for individuals healing from codependency, generational trauma, and Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACoA) patterns, as well as high-achieving adults (especially neurodivergent ones) who are tired of performing and long to feel genuinely free.
My work is especially supportive for individuals healing from codependency, generational trauma, and Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACoA) patterns, as well as high-achieving adults (especially neurodivergent ones) who are tired of performing and long to feel genuinely free.
(803) 927-8810 View (803) 927-8810
Kevin Richardson
Counselor, M.Ed., LCMHC, LMHC
Online Only
Years ago, I visited Ghana where I was introduced to a symbol called the “Sankofa.” The Sankofa translates to “go back and fetch” and symbolizes the importance of looking to the past in order to reclaim lost strength and wisdom. As a therapist, this deeply resonates with me. Often, parts of our past can feel too painful or overwhelming to revisit so we avoid them and do our best to “move on”. However, I’ve seen that even some of life’s most difficult experiences can also become sources of strength, growth, and a deeper understanding of ourselves.
Years ago, I visited Ghana where I was introduced to a symbol called the “Sankofa.” The Sankofa translates to “go back and fetch” and symbolizes the importance of looking to the past in order to reclaim lost strength and wisdom. As a therapist, this deeply resonates with me. Often, parts of our past can feel too painful or overwhelming to revisit so we avoid them and do our best to “move on”. However, I’ve seen that even some of life’s most difficult experiences can also become sources of strength, growth, and a deeper understanding of ourselves.
(980) 489-9048 View (980) 489-9048
Amanda L. Justice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Childhood comes with ups and downs for children and the parents who are figuring it out alongside them. Children show us their concerns through their behaviors. Sometimes difficult things occur that impact a child's behavior and your parenting. As a parent you may be unsure of what to do or say to help your child in difficult moments and sometimes your own childhood experiences may be interfering in your parenting journey. I support children and parents by helping them overcome traumatic situations together, manage anxiety, understand big feelings and behavioral reactions.
Childhood comes with ups and downs for children and the parents who are figuring it out alongside them. Children show us their concerns through their behaviors. Sometimes difficult things occur that impact a child's behavior and your parenting. As a parent you may be unsure of what to do or say to help your child in difficult moments and sometimes your own childhood experiences may be interfering in your parenting journey. I support children and parents by helping them overcome traumatic situations together, manage anxiety, understand big feelings and behavioral reactions.
(980) 246-3474 View (980) 246-3474
Sequoya Hayes
LCSW Associate, LCSWA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Sequoya (she/her) is a Black queer identified, multi-state licensed social worker, registered yoga teacher, and multidisciplinary artist. She is proficient in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and expressive arts therapies such as narrative and bibliotherapy, all viewed through a liberation, black feminist, and relational cultural lens. Sequoya is a trained yoga teacher in the hatha yoga tradition, which has allowed her to integrate somatic healing approaches. Some of clients goals that may resonate for you include being able to identify and voice emotions, too create boundaries, and/or reconnect with creative practice.
Sequoya (she/her) is a Black queer identified, multi-state licensed social worker, registered yoga teacher, and multidisciplinary artist. She is proficient in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and expressive arts therapies such as narrative and bibliotherapy, all viewed through a liberation, black feminist, and relational cultural lens. Sequoya is a trained yoga teacher in the hatha yoga tradition, which has allowed her to integrate somatic healing approaches. Some of clients goals that may resonate for you include being able to identify and voice emotions, too create boundaries, and/or reconnect with creative practice.
(219) 292-4553 View (219) 292-4553
Emily C Holtzclaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
As a neurodivergent clinician, I understand how much effort it can take to move through a world that doesn’t always make room for different ways of thinking and being. In my work, I have experience with anxiety, trauma, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and related experiences such as intrusive thoughts, rejection sensitive dysphoria, and difficulties with emotional regulation. I also support clients navigating grief, relationship challenges, substance use concerns, and life transitions.
As a neurodivergent clinician, I understand how much effort it can take to move through a world that doesn’t always make room for different ways of thinking and being. In my work, I have experience with anxiety, trauma, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and related experiences such as intrusive thoughts, rejection sensitive dysphoria, and difficulties with emotional regulation. I also support clients navigating grief, relationship challenges, substance use concerns, and life transitions.
(980) 944-8865 View (980) 944-8865
Krystle Moxley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you ready to work through a traumatic event or looking to try EMDR? Perhaps you need to process through a loss or a new life transition. Please do not hesitate to reach out and ask any questions you may have. My approach to therapy is to create a space where you feel free from judgment and can work alongside your therapist to reach the goals you set. My therapy approach is direct yet compassionate. As a clinician who provides telehealth, I have the privilege of seeing clients who live across the entirety of North Carolina. Other areas include anxiety, depression, identity exploration, healthy boundaries and emotional regulation.
Are you ready to work through a traumatic event or looking to try EMDR? Perhaps you need to process through a loss or a new life transition. Please do not hesitate to reach out and ask any questions you may have. My approach to therapy is to create a space where you feel free from judgment and can work alongside your therapist to reach the goals you set. My therapy approach is direct yet compassionate. As a clinician who provides telehealth, I have the privilege of seeing clients who live across the entirety of North Carolina. Other areas include anxiety, depression, identity exploration, healthy boundaries and emotional regulation.
(910) 841-1586 View (910) 841-1586

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Plaza Midwood, Charlotte, NC

20+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in Plaza Midwood, Charlotte, NC who prioritize treating:

83% Anxiety
83% Social Anxiety
83% Health Anxiety
83% Driving Anxiety
79% Relationship Issues
75% Depression
75% Grief

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
87% Aetna
73% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Plaza Midwood, Charlotte, NC see their clients

54% In Person and Online
46% Online Only

Gender breakdown

88% Female
12% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Plaza Midwood?

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.