Therapists in Durham, NC

Photo of Genevieve Weiscovitz, PsyD, MT-BC, Psychologist
Genevieve Weiscovitz
Psychologist, PsyD, MT-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
My practice focuses on supporting clients improve the quality of their relationships, and therefore, their lives. I am a seasoned psychologist with advanced certifications in sex and couples therapy. Clients describe me as authentic, humorous, creative, non-judgmental and effective. Couples come to my practice seeking to improve communication, manage conflict resolution, parenting challenges, sexual issues, and recovery from ruptures and betrayal.
My practice focuses on supporting clients improve the quality of their relationships, and therefore, their lives. I am a seasoned psychologist with advanced certifications in sex and couples therapy. Clients describe me as authentic, humorous, creative, non-judgmental and effective. Couples come to my practice seeking to improve communication, manage conflict resolution, parenting challenges, sexual issues, and recovery from ruptures and betrayal.
(919) 343-9361 View (919) 343-9361
Photo of Allegra Ali-Martinez, Pre-Licensed Professional
Allegra Ali-Martinez
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27701
The period of time between childhood and adulthood can be stressful, confusing, and frustrating, sometimes combined with dismissal or invalidation. On the other hand, being an adult doesn’t exactly come with an instruction manual either, and it’s no easy task navigating the trials and responsibilities that come with being a “grown-up.” But sometimes when you’re feeling alone or unheard, the undivided attention and full support of one trusted person can make all the difference. That's where I come in.
The period of time between childhood and adulthood can be stressful, confusing, and frustrating, sometimes combined with dismissal or invalidation. On the other hand, being an adult doesn’t exactly come with an instruction manual either, and it’s no easy task navigating the trials and responsibilities that come with being a “grown-up.” But sometimes when you’re feeling alone or unheard, the undivided attention and full support of one trusted person can make all the difference. That's where I come in.
(984) 249-2455 View (984) 249-2455
Photo of Samantha Flynn, MSW, LCSW, CEDS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Flynn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling stuck or invalidated? Are you struggling with loving your body? Do you want to feel at home and safe in your body? Change is hard, and you deserve the support you need. My goal is to aid in guiding clients to creating the life they desire. I believe that therapy is a powerful tool, and the therapeutic alliance is crucial to change. I’m a licensed clinical social work associate. Before outpatient work, I worked as a primary therapist in a residential eating disorder treatment center. I practice through a Health at Every Size (HAES) framework and believe everyone should feel safe in their bodies.
Are you feeling stuck or invalidated? Are you struggling with loving your body? Do you want to feel at home and safe in your body? Change is hard, and you deserve the support you need. My goal is to aid in guiding clients to creating the life they desire. I believe that therapy is a powerful tool, and the therapeutic alliance is crucial to change. I’m a licensed clinical social work associate. Before outpatient work, I worked as a primary therapist in a residential eating disorder treatment center. I practice through a Health at Every Size (HAES) framework and believe everyone should feel safe in their bodies.
(919) 230-8464 View (919) 230-8464
Photo of Samara Bowser, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samara Bowser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27703
My interactions with clients are grounded in compassion, respect, empathy, and an understanding of cultural impacts. I consider the role of a therapist as helping to educate and empower clients so that they develop the insight and skills necessary to overcome their own personal and situational challenges. Many of my clients are dealing with transitions or difficult life events. My approach is gentle, supportive, inclusive, highly informed and effective.
My interactions with clients are grounded in compassion, respect, empathy, and an understanding of cultural impacts. I consider the role of a therapist as helping to educate and empower clients so that they develop the insight and skills necessary to overcome their own personal and situational challenges. Many of my clients are dealing with transitions or difficult life events. My approach is gentle, supportive, inclusive, highly informed and effective.
(252) 888-7209 View (252) 888-7209
Photo of Becca Leifer, LCMHC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Becca Leifer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
To me, therapy isn’t a workbook or a road map that’s the same for everyone. Therapy is about meeting you where you are. I want to learn about your unique strengths, values, goals, and struggles. I strive to support you in navigating your struggles, and in making choices in alignment with your values as you work toward your goals. I am curious about what brings you fulfillment and exploring avenues to infuse joy into your days, with a strength-based, benefit-enhancement approach. I view therapy as a collaborative process, know that you are the expert on your own experience, and meet each client as the individual you are.
To me, therapy isn’t a workbook or a road map that’s the same for everyone. Therapy is about meeting you where you are. I want to learn about your unique strengths, values, goals, and struggles. I strive to support you in navigating your struggles, and in making choices in alignment with your values as you work toward your goals. I am curious about what brings you fulfillment and exploring avenues to infuse joy into your days, with a strength-based, benefit-enhancement approach. I view therapy as a collaborative process, know that you are the expert on your own experience, and meet each client as the individual you are.
(919) 823-7599 View (919) 823-7599
Photo of Elizabeth Christy, MSW, LCSW, CSE, GC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Christy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSE, GC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Hi there! My name is Elizabeth and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Sex Educator, and Grief Counselor. I utilize a strengths-based approach to collaborate with Patients to reach their goals and improve their overall well-being. I work with each Patient to develop individualized treatment plans that support in reducing the impact of emotional and mental challenges across environments. I deeply believe in the healing power of connection through therapy and welcome the chance to meet with you.
Hi there! My name is Elizabeth and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Sex Educator, and Grief Counselor. I utilize a strengths-based approach to collaborate with Patients to reach their goals and improve their overall well-being. I work with each Patient to develop individualized treatment plans that support in reducing the impact of emotional and mental challenges across environments. I deeply believe in the healing power of connection through therapy and welcome the chance to meet with you.
(919) 899-7791 View (919) 899-7791
Photo of Hannah Walker, PhD, Psychologist
Hannah Walker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
My clinical practice covers a range of mental and behavioral health challenges, including trauma exposure, depression, anxiety, interpersonal and behavioral issues, anger, substance use, and more. I have specialized training in the assessment and treatment of interpersonal trauma (e.g., abuse, combat) and trauma-related outcomes among both civilians and military personnel. Together, we can identify what’s currently keeping you from living the life you want to live and work on overcoming those obstacles. My priority is to ensure that therapy is a positive experience for all and to help each of my clients live a meaningful life.
My clinical practice covers a range of mental and behavioral health challenges, including trauma exposure, depression, anxiety, interpersonal and behavioral issues, anger, substance use, and more. I have specialized training in the assessment and treatment of interpersonal trauma (e.g., abuse, combat) and trauma-related outcomes among both civilians and military personnel. Together, we can identify what’s currently keeping you from living the life you want to live and work on overcoming those obstacles. My priority is to ensure that therapy is a positive experience for all and to help each of my clients live a meaningful life.
(984) 342-1874 x28 View (984) 342-1874 x28
Photo of Lisa Foss, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Lisa Foss
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Parenting children of any age is challenging in different ways, in the case of divorce, coparenting adds such complexity to your child's life and to the coparents. When you decide to have a child, we need resources, education, and support on what to expect and how to parent through stages of development. In divorced families, you switch from parenting together to coparenting and there is often high conflict between coparents as they attempt to navigate these unfamiliar life changes. Providing support and learning researched parenting and coparenting strategies can help give guidance to reduce conflicts and stress.
Parenting children of any age is challenging in different ways, in the case of divorce, coparenting adds such complexity to your child's life and to the coparents. When you decide to have a child, we need resources, education, and support on what to expect and how to parent through stages of development. In divorced families, you switch from parenting together to coparenting and there is often high conflict between coparents as they attempt to navigate these unfamiliar life changes. Providing support and learning researched parenting and coparenting strategies can help give guidance to reduce conflicts and stress.
(919) 582-5997 View (919) 582-5997
Photo of Emily Morris, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
—Accepting New Clients!— When did life get this complicated? It feels like you're stuck replaying your toughest moments, grappling with unsettling memories and emotions that keep resurfacing unexpectedly. New experiences like adjusting to the pace of college or that new job are impossible to manage, and your relationships, studies, or career just don't feel right. You're craving a break from it all, but it's like you're constantly battling turbulent waves, unsure how much longer you can stay afloat. If any of this sounds familiar, know that you’ve found a safe harbor here.
—Accepting New Clients!— When did life get this complicated? It feels like you're stuck replaying your toughest moments, grappling with unsettling memories and emotions that keep resurfacing unexpectedly. New experiences like adjusting to the pace of college or that new job are impossible to manage, and your relationships, studies, or career just don't feel right. You're craving a break from it all, but it's like you're constantly battling turbulent waves, unsure how much longer you can stay afloat. If any of this sounds familiar, know that you’ve found a safe harbor here.
(919) 371-5455 View (919) 371-5455
Chris Carden
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
My approach to treating psychological distress is gentle and authentic as I help clients interrupt unhelpful patterns present in thought processes and interactions with others. My intention is for clients to have a different experience of themselves and others as they gain insight into and learn more about how to establish different/healthier patterns. I also believe in the importance of offering culturally sensitive and responsive care which is tailored to and provided to each client. As I work with clients, all identities are held in the highest regard while we explore together any aspect of self which might need examination.
My approach to treating psychological distress is gentle and authentic as I help clients interrupt unhelpful patterns present in thought processes and interactions with others. My intention is for clients to have a different experience of themselves and others as they gain insight into and learn more about how to establish different/healthier patterns. I also believe in the importance of offering culturally sensitive and responsive care which is tailored to and provided to each client. As I work with clients, all identities are held in the highest regard while we explore together any aspect of self which might need examination.
(984) 400-4470 View (984) 400-4470
Photo of Kimberly Azevedo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberly Azevedo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Kym Azevedo, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with 5 years of experience as a practicing therapist and an additional 3 years working in mental health support and group facilitation. I specialize in working with teens and young adults navigating life transitions, as well as adults facing mid-life and career changes. My philosophy of therapy is to help you better understand your personal narrative and express yourself through a positive and affirming story.
I am Kym Azevedo, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with 5 years of experience as a practicing therapist and an additional 3 years working in mental health support and group facilitation. I specialize in working with teens and young adults navigating life transitions, as well as adults facing mid-life and career changes. My philosophy of therapy is to help you better understand your personal narrative and express yourself through a positive and affirming story.
(984) 217-7264 View (984) 217-7264
Photo of Celynd Noel Malone, MA, LCMHCA, TCT, CSAT-C, NCC, Counselor
Celynd Noel Malone
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, TCT, CSAT-C, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705
I (she/her) work with adults and couples from a variety of backgrounds on all things sex, gender, and religious trauma. Issues include including gender diversity and transgender care, sexual health, sex addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, grief and loss, and issues of specific concern to the LGBTQIA+, kink, and polyamory communities. I also have experience working with religious trauma. My ideal client is ready to do the deep work, because we're going to dive right in!
I (she/her) work with adults and couples from a variety of backgrounds on all things sex, gender, and religious trauma. Issues include including gender diversity and transgender care, sexual health, sex addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, grief and loss, and issues of specific concern to the LGBTQIA+, kink, and polyamory communities. I also have experience working with religious trauma. My ideal client is ready to do the deep work, because we're going to dive right in!
(803) 360-0621 View (803) 360-0621
Photo of E. Porter, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
E. Porter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27705
Seeking support is a significant first step in listening to the need for growth or change. I create a space that is warm and accepting as we collaborate toward your therapy goals. The reasons for seeking therapy are varied and are always unique to your lived experience. I strive to hold the nuances and complexity of your individual experience as we work toward healing. Foundational to who I am as a clinician is building a affirming practice for clients from all faith backgrounds, gender expression/identity, sexual orientation, race, culture, class and ability status.
Seeking support is a significant first step in listening to the need for growth or change. I create a space that is warm and accepting as we collaborate toward your therapy goals. The reasons for seeking therapy are varied and are always unique to your lived experience. I strive to hold the nuances and complexity of your individual experience as we work toward healing. Foundational to who I am as a clinician is building a affirming practice for clients from all faith backgrounds, gender expression/identity, sexual orientation, race, culture, class and ability status.
(919) 756-5489 View (919) 756-5489
Photo of Keith Davis, LCMHCA, Counselor
Keith Davis
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a counselor, I believe the road to a better you starts with building a respectful and meaningful relationship with my clients. I feel the client is their own expert when it comes to their life. This is why the client is the guiding force in their mental health happiness. In order for happiness to be achieved, the client and counselor must work together. I provide an empathetic, caring and respectful environment that allows the client a safe place to start their positive mental health journey.
As a counselor, I believe the road to a better you starts with building a respectful and meaningful relationship with my clients. I feel the client is their own expert when it comes to their life. This is why the client is the guiding force in their mental health happiness. In order for happiness to be achieved, the client and counselor must work together. I provide an empathetic, caring and respectful environment that allows the client a safe place to start their positive mental health journey.
(984) 367-1684 View (984) 367-1684
Photo of Tonya D Armstrong - The Armstrong Center for Hope, PhD, MTS, Psychologist
The Armstrong Center for Hope
Psychologist, PhD, MTS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
We enjoy working compassionately with clients who seek to engage their spiritual questions and challenges in the midst of the therapeutic journey. Our clients come from a variety of life histories and family backgrounds, but share in common a desire to discover a more hopeful perspective on life, while exercising specific skills and practices to make hope concrete on a daily basis. Our therapists are accustomed to mutual collaboration to serve the needs of children, adolescents, and their families in one setting.
We enjoy working compassionately with clients who seek to engage their spiritual questions and challenges in the midst of the therapeutic journey. Our clients come from a variety of life histories and family backgrounds, but share in common a desire to discover a more hopeful perspective on life, while exercising specific skills and practices to make hope concrete on a daily basis. Our therapists are accustomed to mutual collaboration to serve the needs of children, adolescents, and their families in one setting.
(984) 207-3778 View (984) 207-3778
Photo of Ian Esmay, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ian Esmay
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
You're feeling stuck in your behaviors and patterns but don’t know how to break free from the cycle. Maybe you’ve made a few changes in life and you’re finding it difficult to fit into your environment because the people surrounding you aren’t supportive of your new self. We all want to be heard and supported — especially when we’re unsure of our next steps in life and grow as a person. You just want to be accepted for who you are. You are worthy to be seen, heard, and accepted for who you are in every stage of life. Schedule a consult today to take the next step of your healing process and self-exploration journey.
You're feeling stuck in your behaviors and patterns but don’t know how to break free from the cycle. Maybe you’ve made a few changes in life and you’re finding it difficult to fit into your environment because the people surrounding you aren’t supportive of your new self. We all want to be heard and supported — especially when we’re unsure of our next steps in life and grow as a person. You just want to be accepted for who you are. You are worthy to be seen, heard, and accepted for who you are in every stage of life. Schedule a consult today to take the next step of your healing process and self-exploration journey.
(919) 261-5078 View (919) 261-5078
Photo of Elijah Burner, MS, LCMHA, NCC, Counselor
Elijah Burner
Counselor, MS, LCMHA, NCC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27701
Therapy can feel tough and intimidating, or scary and vulnerable. Yet, it's also a space for empowerment, validation, and healing . While I may have extensive training and experience in the field of mental health, I will never have expertise in a life that is entirely your own. Rather, I am here to shape and adapt therapy to the needs of every individual through guidance, empathy, skills building, distress tolerance, and emotion/trauma processing. I am here to help in every capacity I can offer; therefore, I invite any and all looking for help, insight, and a willingness to work toward an improved well-being.
Therapy can feel tough and intimidating, or scary and vulnerable. Yet, it's also a space for empowerment, validation, and healing . While I may have extensive training and experience in the field of mental health, I will never have expertise in a life that is entirely your own. Rather, I am here to shape and adapt therapy to the needs of every individual through guidance, empathy, skills building, distress tolerance, and emotion/trauma processing. I am here to help in every capacity I can offer; therefore, I invite any and all looking for help, insight, and a willingness to work toward an improved well-being.
(919) 647-7351 View (919) 647-7351
Photo of Elena Rael, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elena Rael
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
..Biweekly Availability: (updated 1/14/25).. When in session, I want to foster safe spaces where challenging conversations and vulnerable emotions can be explored and processed, and achievements are celebrated. When stress, anxiety, depression, grief, and other emotional distress occurs, I meet my clients where they are at. Just because we can do something alone, does not mean we have to. Whatever stage of life you are in, let's work through those personal transitions and obstacles. Thus, I believe the best clinical relationships come when both of us are open, curious, and eager for the growth to come from session-to-session.
..Biweekly Availability: (updated 1/14/25).. When in session, I want to foster safe spaces where challenging conversations and vulnerable emotions can be explored and processed, and achievements are celebrated. When stress, anxiety, depression, grief, and other emotional distress occurs, I meet my clients where they are at. Just because we can do something alone, does not mean we have to. Whatever stage of life you are in, let's work through those personal transitions and obstacles. Thus, I believe the best clinical relationships come when both of us are open, curious, and eager for the growth to come from session-to-session.
(984) 203-7596 View (984) 203-7596
Photo of Jennifer C Franklin, PhD, MACP, Psychologist
Jennifer C Franklin
Psychologist, PhD, MACP
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27705
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adult individuals and couples who wish to address any of the following: anxiety; mind-body issues like IBS, chronic pain, back pain, etc; stress and trauma; relationship difficulties, life transitions, cultural differences, or spiritual issues; and depression. Therapy is individualized, determined by each client's personal needs, interests, and goals. My aim is to support and guide each person through their own unique journey towards improved functioning and greater ease, health, wellness, wholeness, peace, satisfaction, and fulfillment.
I work with adult individuals and couples who wish to address any of the following: anxiety; mind-body issues like IBS, chronic pain, back pain, etc; stress and trauma; relationship difficulties, life transitions, cultural differences, or spiritual issues; and depression. Therapy is individualized, determined by each client's personal needs, interests, and goals. My aim is to support and guide each person through their own unique journey towards improved functioning and greater ease, health, wellness, wholeness, peace, satisfaction, and fulfillment.
(310) 421-2756 View (310) 421-2756
Photo of Brittnee Nikole Page, LCMHCA, ATR-BC, CCLS, Counselor
Brittnee Nikole Page
Counselor, LCMHCA, ATR-BC, CCLS
Verified Verified
Online Only
Human connection is essential to the healing process. My priority is to provide a space for you to feel seen in your whole authentic self. I will be a mirror to help reveal that you already have everything you need. I am a queer black therapist who recognizes the importance identity has on our everyday experience.
Human connection is essential to the healing process. My priority is to provide a space for you to feel seen in your whole authentic self. I will be a mirror to help reveal that you already have everything you need. I am a queer black therapist who recognizes the importance identity has on our everyday experience.
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How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Durham, NC

1,000+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Durham, NC who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
88% Depression
77% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
72% Stress
69% Coping Skills
67% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

85% BlueCross and BlueShield
83% Aetna
53% Cigna and Evernorth

How Therapists in Durham, NC see their clients

65% In Person and Online
35% Online Only

Gender breakdown

80% Female
17% Male
3% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Durham?

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.